Now that fall has officially begun, the time has come to retire those jean shorts, T-shirts, and tube tops. Gone are the days of flip-flops and summery linen pants, as Berkeley’s weather transitions to foggy, overcast and occasionally rainy. You don’t need to break the bank trying to buy an entirely new wardrobe. Instead, here are the items that will upgrade your outfits from slightly frumpy sweats to effortlessly chic and fall-coded, with just a few rotational clothing items in your closet. Curated for the sweaty uphill treks back from campus and dreadfully cold nighttime classes, let’s get this transformation started!
1. UGG look-alikes
Looking for a cozy pair of shoes without spending more than $100? Check out Crossroads Trading on Shattuck Avenue for secondhand shoes from a variety of popular brands. Keep an eye out for a pair of UGGs or a similar style to keep your feet warm during the chilly Berkeley mornings. Nothing screams fall like a cozy pair of furry UGGs. Pulling literally any outfit together, looking spectacular with blue jeans and staying comfortable even when making the 20-minute trek from Moffitt Library to Edmonds’ Café, these slippers — I mean shoes — are the perfect addition to your fall wardrobe.
2. Baggy jeans
Get ready to look stylish and put together — while feeling like you’re wearing sweatpants — when you pull up to the East Asian Library or the Golden Bear Café. If you want to continue to shop in Berkeley, check out Slash Denim on College Avenue. It has a wide array of options, ranging from vintage to more contemporary styles, and carries everything from vintage Levi’s to denim brands such as Mavi Jeans. Make sure to look through its selections for a relaxed, baggier fit that can be perfect for fall. A tight pair of jeans never fails to make a fashion statement, but there’s something about a baggier set of jeans that fits the fall vibe. You can even layer a pair of thin leggings under your jeans for additional warmth. Let’s prioritize comfort this coming season!
3. Scarves
When facing the dry Berkeley air and fierce daily winds, don’t forget to visit Personal Pizazz on College Avenue for some cozy fall accessories. This local boutique carries scarves, hats and jewelry, making it a great place to look for a scarf to add to your fall wardrobe. Don’t forget to check out its discount rack for a bargain scarf find. There’s nothing that pulls an outfit together like a chunky, cozy scarf. Feel free to get whatever color you like, from more fall-coded colors such as brown and burgundy to fun pops of color such as pink and light blue. You can also tie it multiple ways and switch up the types of knots you do.
4. Fluffy fleece jacket
I know that when I wake up for my 8 a.m. classes, the last thing I want to do is put on a scratchy cardigan or tight long-sleeve. A fleece jacket is the perfect mix of aesthetic and “ready to combat that fall Berkeley chill.” While you’re shopping for those UGG look-alikes at Crossroads Trading, see if you can also snag a fluffy fleece jacket to go with it. The store carries a wide selection of secondhand clothing from popular brands, so keep an eye out for a cozy fleece jacket from brands such as Patagonia or The North Face. Making you feel like you’re walking around in a soft blanket, fleece is perfect to keep you warm and add a seasonal twist to your outfit.
5. Beanie
You might have had to retire that beloved baseball hat, but let’s replace it with a stylish and fall-coded beanie! For a fall accessory that’s both practical and cute, check out Anastasia New & Vintage Clothing on Telegraph Avenue. This local vintage shop carries a wide selection of clothing and accessories at a range of prices. Browse through the store for a cozy knit beanie to keep you warm on your walks back from class. When daylight saving time occurs, and you have to walk back from class at 8 p.m. in pitch-black darkness, a beanie will be a lifesaver.
6. Layering
When all else fails, one of the most useful tips for upgrading your fall wardrobe is to layer. Start with a tank top or thin long-sleeve, add a hoodie and finish off with a thin jacket to go over everything. During the walk up Bancroft Way to International House, when the 45-degree angle trek is absolutely grueling, you can take off a layer or two as you go to regulate your temperature. Prioritize a warm, darker color palette for your fall clothes, such as rich shades of burgundy, gray and brown.
Now, with a guide to upgrade your fall wardrobe in just a few quick ways, you’ll have a list to go off of when you’re on your next shopping spree. Make sure to check out these places and items so you can walk around campus in a cozy, fall-coded and effortlessly chic outfit.