Fall Thrift Store Checklist: 15 Wardrobe Staples I Always Hunt For

SkyeChanel
Nov 5
3 min read

Fall is my Super Bowl for thrifting. The textures get richer, the colors get moodier, and all the fun stuff—blazers, boots, cozy knits—finally hits the racks. Instead of walking in and feeling overwhelmed, I like to shop with a checklist based on my personal style: a little preppy, a little rebel, lots of color, prints, and personality.

Here’s exactly what I’m hunting for this season when I walk into a thrift store.

1. Statement Blazers

A woman wearing a plaid jacket and black top stands outdoors with autumn trees in the background. She looks calm and confident.

Think chocolate brown, plaid, or something a little extra in the buttons or shape. Oversized is perfect for layering over minis, jeans, and slip skirts.

2. Fun Graphic or Band Tees

Woman with long hair in a white shirt with red text, "BORN RAISED ON THE TURF," stands in a sunlit forest, evoking a serene mood.

Perfect for that “Chic Rebel Energy” vibe—tucked into a skirt, layered under a blazer, or worn with wide-leg trousers.

3. Denim Midi or Maxi Skirts

Woman in a white top and blue skirt sits on a chair in an autumn setting, with white boots among fallen leaves. Warm, serene mood.

A-line or panelled denim skirts give instant “Countryside Royalty” energy when you pair them with boots and a blazer.

4. Plaid Mini Skirts

Person in a black sweater and plaid skirt holds a black purse. Autumn leaves on the ground, creating a warm, cozy setting.

If I see a good plaid—especially rust, brown, or navy—I grab it. These are amazing with tights, boots, and chunky knits.

5. Chunky Knits in Rich Colors

Person wearing an orange patterned sweater touches their face, set against a blurry autumnal background with warm, golden tones.

I look for deep burgundy, forest green, chocolate, or cobalt. Bonus points if they have interesting details like cables, contrast trim, or fun buttons.

6. Lace or Sheer Tops

Close-up of a woman wearing ornate black lace and intricate earrings with a face design. Autumn leaves in the blurred background.

Anything with lace sleeves, sheer panels, or pretty necklines is a yes. I layer them under cardigans or slip dresses for that “Luxe Lace Layers” and “Sheer Confidence” moment.

7. Brown Everything

Woman in a suede coat and cardigan with a necklace stands in an autumn park setting. Orange leaves create a warm, serene mood.

Cardigans, trousers, leather jackets, bags—if it’s a good shade of brown, it’s probably coming home with me. Brown really is still the new black.

8. Animal Print Pieces

Woman in zebra-pattern top sits on autumn leaves, wearing jeans. Background shows golden foliage, evoking a serene mood.

Leopard skirts, zebra blouses, snakeskin boots, even a fun animal-print bag. I treat animal print like a neutral and let it be the star with simple basics.

9. Longline Coats & Trenches

Person in a beige trench coat over a knit sweater stands amidst colorful autumn leaves in a forest setting. Warm, cozy atmosphere.

Camel, chocolate, black, or even a bold color—these instantly make any outfit look expensive and pulled together.

10. Riding Boots or Tall Heeled Boots

Purple high-heeled boots are raised among fallen autumn leaves, set against a warm, blurred background of orange foliage and sunlight.

I love a classic riding boot for country-chic looks and a sleek heeled boot for dressier outfits. I always check leather quality and soles first.

11. Statement Belts

Close-up of a brown leather belt with silver buckle and black stitching on a dark pleated skirt. Warm-colored fabric in the background.

Wide vintage belts, embossed leather, or bold buckles. They cinch in blazers, sweater dresses, and coats and make everything look intentional.

12. Quirky Knitwear & Cardigans

Woman in a white lace dress and beige knitted sweater in an autumn setting with fallen leaves. She looks serene, wearing pearl jewelry.

Dog-print sweaters, novelty patterns, contrast trims—if it looks like it has a personality, I’m interested. These are perfect for those “surprising color mashup” outfits.

13. Structured Top-Handle or Shoulder Bags

Person in a white shirt holding a black bag over their shoulder, standing amidst autumn leaves with several trees in the background.

Think ladylike shapes, interesting hardware, or rich textures like suede and faux croc. Great for dressing up denim or balancing an edgier look.

14. Slip Dress in Satin or Silk

Woman in a dark green dress stands among falling autumn leaves. Background features orange foliage and a warm, serene setting.

Burgundy, chocolate, black, or jewel tones. They work with lace tops, chunky sweaters, and tall boots all season.

15. Gold-Tone Jewelry

Woman wearing gold jewelry; rings and necklaces highlighted. Background shows autumn foliage with warm colors. Elegant and poised mood.

Chunky hoops, vintage watches, and fun earrings that feel a little artsy. I use these to tie my outfits together—especially when I’m mixing prints or bold colors.

How to Use This Checklist

Fall fashion checklist on a blurred autumn background. Items include blazers, knits, and jewelry. Mood: cozy and stylish.

Before you go: Screenshot this list and keep it in your notes.
In the store: Start with coats/blazers, then shoes, then skirts and knits. Accessories last.
Ask yourself:
- Does this fit into at least one of my fall moods (chic rebel, countryside, color mashup, lace, brown core, sheer)?
- Can I style it three ways with pieces I already own?

You don’t have to find everything in one trip. The fun of thrifting is the slow build. One amazing blazer here, a pair of boots there—and before you know it, your fall wardrobe feels intentional, personal, and totally you.

Until next time, skyechanel

SKYECHANEL