How To Avoid Buyer's Remorse This Fall

With fashion month stirring from its slumber in Copenhagen, and September rapidly approaching, it's time to start drafting your fall wardrobe. Unlike summer, when you can get away with barely-there sandals and featherweight dresses, fall's heftier staples demand more of an investment, which is often accompanied by buyer's remorse. It's all too easy to get swept away with the novelty of new arrivals, and to buy deep in trends that you may not feel so strongly about when the temperatures do actually start to drop. (It's also worth pointing out that many brands now parcel out their arrivals into drops, promising newness throughout the season, which is sometimes worth waiting for.)

But how to proceed with caution, without feeling left behind? The answer lies in embracing less committal trends, and starting small. Instead if buying all of your big ticket purchases right now, sprinkle in a few nods at the seasons' trends while training your eye on the larger picture. That way you won't have blown your budget before the leaves start to turn. So what, then, are a few good purchases to kick start your season? Well firstly, they should be items you can wear immediately — unlike those leather trousers you've had your eyes on. Secondly, they should be on the affordable end of the spectrum. Here are five recommendations, all of which are available in the Box of Style subscription box, which costs less than $100.

A Thick Chain Necklace

Thick chain necklaces have arrived to usher out the delicate jewelry era. They've been creeping into our feeds this summer and promise to be a permanent fixture this fall. The look is easy to style with summer staples like tanks and tees but will also look great with fall's suiting and chunky knits. Whet your appetite with Dannijo's gold-plated Elisa Necklace, which has an adjustable chain and an eye-catching metal pendant.

A Minimalist Bag

The beaded, raffia styles of summer, while joyful, won't have a place come fall. Instead, buttery-smooth leather styles in simple, classic silhouettes are the style you'll want to reach for on the daily. See: the meteoric rise of Bottega Veneta's simple pouch bag's popularity. If you're unsure of the investment style you're plumping for this season, or perhaps that European jaunt cleared a little more than anticipated from your bank account, try a more affordable style like this Ivy Leather Crossbody in a rich, camel leather. The adjustable strap lends the style to being worn as a simple saddle bag, which elevates off-duty outfits and workwear alike.

An Updated Wallet

Fall is inarguably about getting back to business, so anything that helps adjust your mindset from carefree barefoot bohemian to city dwelling boss is a plus. Upgrading your wallet, the item you reach for almost as much as your phone, is a great way to achieve this without breaking the bank. Try downsizing to a sleek card case or top-flap croc embossed leather style and carry only the absolute necessities with you. It does wonders for clearing your head.

A Fresh Lipcolor

Before launching headlong into fall's moody beauty palette, dip a toe in the cooler color family with a swipe of mauve brown gloss. The high-shine trend continues to feel fresh, and a buildable, sheer color you can also use on eyes and cheeks is a great way to reset your look with minimal effort.

A Flawless Face

No matter how religiously you've applied sunscreen this summer, chances are there is some sun damage. Slough off the damage, even skin tone and minimize lines by introducing a retinol into your regimen. Shani Darden — the esthetician to the likes of Rosie Huntington Whiteley and January Jones — created her own gentle retinol serum that's ideal for newbies.

So enjoy your early fall pieces with the knowledge you'll be primed to purchase the boots, coats and trends you're most excited about when the time comes, minus the early season buyer's remorse and the sign up for the Box of Style here.