During the summertime, we depend on cotton as much as we depend on sunscreen. The lightweight fabric ensures we don't overheat during the morning commute, and it packs effortlessly for beach getaways. Luckily, as summer transitions into fall, we don't have to put our cotton garments into the save-for-next-summer pile. Rather, we can start getting creative about the ways we layer the material: maybe it's layering the white t-shirt you wore all summer with a similar long-sleeve version underneath or adding an airy trench coat atop your denim and camisole combination.
As you start to think about your fall wardrobe, our editors have rounded up the cotton pieces that your wardrobe may be missing. Need some great transitional weather layers? We've got you covered! Need some accessories to break up the bulk? We've got picks galore.
Shop The Most-Coveted Cotton Pieces For Fall
Outerwear
Outerwear is a no-brainer essential for the fall. With cooler temperatures, we have to layer up—and cotton outerwear pieces are the perfect choice for the transitional season. They're lightweight enough to wear all day long, even in the middle of the day when it's extra warm. Our picks are classics you can depend on this season and beyond; they're on-trend yet timeless (aka, exactly what we like to hear when shopping).
Fear of God Full Zip Work Jacket
A work jacket is one of those closet additions you didn't know you needed—and then, once you have one in your rotation, you're unsure how you lived without. They're great options for daytime, and when made entirely with cotton, they'll remain breathable enough for even the hottest afternoons.
Burberry Hayfield Jacket
Hear us out: what's more classic that a Burberry jacket in the fall? And this pastel pink one will bring that summer feel into the season. Styled with jeans and a white t-shirt, you've created a classic look that can never be accused of being boring.
Barbour Navy Royston Cotton Harrington Bomber Jacket
Barbour's lineup of outerwear always captures our attention during the fall. The reason? The pieces from the brand are dependable and stylish; ones you can turn to again and again no matter the temperature.
Isabel Marant Beige Adelys Jacket
A cropped trench coat is the ultimate transitional weather staple, and this one from Isabel Marant captured our attention for its cinched waist. Made with soft, breathable cotton, it's your go-to for days where the temperature fluctuates.
Denim
Would it be fall without cotton denim? We wouldn't dream of it! While we gravitate towards white or cream options during the warmer months, the fall offers an opportunity to grab denim in classic blue washes. Whether you're looking for a tried-and-true denim jacket to wear all season long or a pair of straight-leg jeans you can wear with almost everything, we've pulled together the best denim pieces for the season. The best part? They’re all made with cotton so you know these jeans will last into the next season.
PAIGE High Rise Laurel Canyon Jeans
Fall is the perfect time to spice up your denim collection, and this deep blue pair from Paige adds an unexpected twist to classic skinny jeans. This pair is made with breathable cotton denim so you can wear them all day long without any discomfort.
EB Denim Low Rise Straight
A pair of low-rise jeans will go miles in your wardrobe—the versatility is unmatched. Paired with a T-shirt or satin camisole, you've created an effortless ensemble for any occasion.
Veronica Beard Digby Pant
Wide-leg jeans? Yes, please! This dark wash pair from Veronica Beard is the perfect wide-legged option for fall, and made with 100% cotton for extra breathability.
Citizens of Humanity Lindz Low Rise Easy Straight Jeans
A pair of 100% cotton chocolate brown jeans and fall go hand-in-hand. The hue pairs perfectly with other shades of the season: burnt orange, olive, navy, the whole works. This pair from Citizens of Humanity sits at the top of our editors' wishlists.
Basics
Cotton Citizen Tokyo Crop Tee
A simple, cotton t-shirt is always a good addition to your closet, especially a classic cropped version. We love wearing a cropped tee with statement bottoms—think cargo pants or wide-leg trousers—to create balance.
Vuori Heavyweight Cotton Easy Pant
These easy, breezy cotton pants will take you everywhere this fall, from quick jaunts in the neighborhood to a road trip for your next getaway. The stretchy waistband makes them comfortable for all day wear.
Sold Out NYC Iconically Soft Perfect Tee
Want to spice up your white t-shirt rotation? Add a 100% cotton gray one into the mix. This soft, cotton option will add a new hue to your uniform, with the same versatility as the options you wear all day.
Alo Yoga Cotton Cropped Real Deal Long Sleeve
Basics don't have to be boring, and this red cotton top from Alo Yoga is proof. It's playful, yet wearable for everyday, and made with 100% cotton for a true breathability.
Layering
DONNI The Cotton Knit V-Neck Sweater
A v-neck sweater is the ultimate layeirng piece, and this brighr red Donni option will become your most worn fall companion. Styled with jeans or tied around your waist, it adds a pop of color to a minimalist look.
WAO Poplin Button Up
Button-down shirts are a classic for summer, but they always deserve a spot in your fall wardrobe. With a turtleneck underneath or a blazer on top, a poplin button down fits perfectly in with your fall layers.
Sold Out NYC The Favorite Crew Sweater
While stripes are often reserved for the summer season, you can bring them into your fall wardrobe with this cotton crewneck sweater from Sold Out NYC. It's thick enough to last all season long, yet breathable enough to layer on top of a t-shirt.
Bobi Pullover
A turtleneck sweater is a fall essential every closet needs. This one from Bobi is made with cotton and has a thickness to it that makes it great for styling on its own or beneath a button-down shirt.
Accessories
Eterne Classic Rib Socks
A pair of cozy cotton socks will be a workhorse in your fall wardrobe. No matter how the temperature changes throughout the day, you'll be comfortable.
Miu Miu Head Scarf
A head scarf is the fashion girl accessory as of late, and this Miu Miu one is destined to turn heads. The breathable cotton material is perfect for cooler mornings and warmer afternoons.