I Swapped My Go-To Neutrals for Stripes This Fall—Here’s Why You Should Too

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As soon as the cool breeze of fall hits, I’m climbing into my neutrals, but after surveying the scene at fashion month, the idea of introducing something that feels just a bit different this season sounds enticing. One morning this week, I threw on a striped sweater instead of my usual cream knit in a rush to get dressed and felt something inside of me shift. It instantly made my outfit feel more alive—as if I’d spent more time getting ready even though I truly hadn’t. It’s been the easiest way I’ve upgraded a simple look so far this season.

Stripes are having a major moment this season on and off the runways, but not in the obvious way you might expect. Sleek knits, unexpected color combinations, and even crisp shirting have given this classic print a grown-up twist. Here’s why I’ve fully converted and how you can fall in love with stripes too.

Ellie Delphine in striped polo.

This rugby-inspired sweater paired with tailored shorts is a master class in transitional dressing. It’s equal parts sporty and chic, making it ideal for those unpredictable in-between days.

Sara in a striped sweater.

It doesn’t get more classic than this. A cozy striped knit, straight-leg jeans, and kitten heels create that perfect mix of relaxed and polished. It’s the kind of outfit you throw on for a Central Park day and somehow look impossibly chic.

Amy Lefevre in stripes.

This look highlights my favorite way to wear stripes this season—with a mix of punchy colors. The combination of yellow stripes and cherry red feels fresh and retro at once. The ideal color palette would always be this fun.

Emili in stripes.

Layering a bold red corset over a classic striped long-sleeve tee is the kind of styling twist that instantly wakes up your wardrobe. It’s playful, unexpected, and proof that stripes can be just as statement making as they are timeless.

Nikki Chwatt wearing a striped sweater.

Stripes get an office-to-outing upgrade with a crisp button-down layered over a wrap skirt or sleek leather trousers. It’s giving “fashion editor dashes out to lunch” energy in the best way.

Shop my favorite striped pieces:

Staud Phare Top

Staud Phare Top

Ordering this while it’s still warm enough to wear it.

New Premium-Weight Classic Rugby Shirt

j.crew New Premium-Weight Classic Rugby Shirt

I love a polo.

Le Bop Eloise Striped Tee

Le Bop Eloise Striped Tee

I’m obsessed with this color combination.

La Ligne Mini Marin Sweater

La Ligne Mini Marin Sweater

It’s the bell sleeves for me.

Stripe Cotton T-Shirt

MANGO Stripe Cotton T-Shirt

The definition of retro.

Refined Rib Long-Sleeve T-Shirt With Button Cuffs in Stripe

j.crew Refined Rib Long-Sleeve T-Shirt With Button Cuffs in Stripe

The ultimate layering piece.

Stripe Sunwashed Organic Cotton Top

Faherty Stripe Sunwashed Organic Cotton Top

This top and jeans are all you need to look cool.

Seven Wonders Donna Long Sleeve Knit Top

Seven Wonders Donna Long Sleeve Knit Top

I love a matching set.

Polo Ralph Lauren Stripe Cable Cardigan

Polo Ralph Lauren Stripe Cable Cardigan

All the vintage vibes.

Moon River Striped Collar Pullover Sweater

Moon River Striped Collar Pullover Sweater

This polo might be the best thing I’ve seen all day.

Lene Striped Twill Tie

THE FRANKIE SHOP Lene Striped Twill Tie

Throwing in a tie here because why not?

Wales Bonner Reflect Polo

Wales Bonner Reflect Polo

The corduroy collar is a nice touch.

Oversized Striped Wool-Blend Sweater

STELLA MCCARTNEY Oversized Striped Wool-Blend Sweater

My dream sweater, cute.

Featherweight Cashmere Relaxed Crewneck Sweater

j.crew Featherweight Cashmere Relaxed Crewneck Sweater

This tied around the waist would be perfection.

Embroidered Striped Ribbed-Knit Cotton Sweater

VALENTINO GARAVANI Embroidered Striped Ribbed-Knit Cotton Sweater

Valentino knows how to do a good knit.

Kearney Stripe Stretch Cotton Rib Polo

Veronica Beard Kearney Stripe Stretch Cotton Rib Polo

I’d wear this from the office to dinner and everywhere in between.

The Rugby Stripe Sweater

THE GREAT. The Rugby Stripe Sweater

This color combination is everything.

Featherweight Cashmere Cardigan in Stripe

j.crew Featherweight Cashmere Cardigan in Stripe

This just arrived at my doorstep.

Gia Striped Wool and Silk-Blend Sweater

PROENZA SCHOULER Gia Striped Wool and Silk-Blend Sweater

I’m so here for this.