I'm Nordstrom's Associate Fashion Director—These Are the 8 Fall Items I Think Are Staples

Building that fall shopping list may be top of mind for you with the seasonal switch fast approaching. We’ve shared a range of key fall trends for the season and wanted to expand on that for further inspiration. Enter Linda Cui Zhang (center above), associate fashion director at Nordstrom.

As a key member in Nordstrom’s fashion office, guiding trends and style direction for the retailer, Cui Zhang has a critical eye and pulse on what matters in fashion. On that note, she has a shopping list filled with the key fall trends and items she deems as essential for a chic wardrobe.

Keep scrolling for Cui Zhang’s fall edit, complete with shopping and visual inspiration.

Separates and Accessories in Shades of Brown

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“Warm, earthy neutral colors is a softer alternative to black. From cognac to espresso, there’s a shade of brown for everyone. I recommend focusing on outerwear, a bag, or boot to integrate this ‘new neutral’ tone into your wardrobe.” — Cui Zhang

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Lilysilk

V-Neck Ultra-Fine Merino Wool Sweater

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Madewell

Francine Ballet Flats

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NYDJ

High Waist Slit Front Corduroy Maxi Skirt

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FRAME

Fair Isle Alpaca Blend Sweater

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Prada

Triangle Logo Loafers

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WAYF

Charlie Mock Neck Sweater

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JW PEI

Joy Faux Leather Shoulder Bag

Knee-High Boots

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“Enhance an outfit with a pair of tall boots. A tall boot extends the line of your leg, offering a sleek complement to skirts and creating a streamlined silhouette.” — Cui Zhang

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Sam Edelman

Sylvia Knee High Boots

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Schutz

Mikki Up Knee High Boots

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Franco Sarto

Martin Pointed Toe Knee High Boots

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Khaite

Marfa Suede Knee High Boots

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Preppy Pieces

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“Whether it’s a laid-back stripe polo or sophisticated patterned separates, the preppy look is cool and suitable for multiple occasions.” — Cui Zhang

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Sporty & Rich

Hilary Tipped Short Sleeve Sweater Dress

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Grey Lab

Stripe Cotton Blend Polo Shirt

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Sporty & Rich

Cable Polo Sweater

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Madewell

Dedham Stripe Polo Sweater

Pretty Heels

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“Refine your style with a classic ladylike heel to sharpen your outfit. It brings a dash of femininity to professional attire and a polished finish to occasion dressing.” — Cui Zhang

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BETZÁBE

Lola Pointed Toe Slingback Pumps

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Schutz

Ciara Slingback Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pumps

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Sam Edelman

Bianka Slingback Pumps

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Saint Laurent

Hacker Pointed Toe Slingback Pumps

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Valentino Garavani

Vlogo Pointed Toe Satin Slingback Pumps

Romantic, Flowy Pieces and Boho-Chic Finds

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“Embrace the free-spirit style with flowing, romantic pieces paired with bold accessories and denim. Chemena Kamali at Chloé has masterfully revived the boho-chic sensibility trend.” — Cui Zhang

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Free People

Best of Me Lace Tie Waist Shirt

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Chloé

Marcie Leather Bucket Bag

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BP.

Boho Ruffle Trim Maxi Skirt

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ELOQUII

Elastic Detail Top

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Chloé

Small Mony Leather Tote

Sneakers

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“Go for a sporty yet minimalist vibe with ultra-low-profile sneakers. They’re perfect for adding an athletic touch to your everyday style.” — Cui Zhang

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adidas

Gazelle Indoor Sneakers

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Shearling/Suede Items

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“Texture and tactile fabrications like suede and shearling add dimension to your wardrobe. A suede jacket or shearling coat can top off your fall look. I’m eyeing ones from Vince, Saks Potts, and Toteme. Small pops in a suede bag or shearling shoe brings a cozy touch to your outfit.” — Cui Zhang

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Free People

Blair Faux Suede Jacket

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Toteme

T-Lock Curved Leather Top Handle Bag

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Saks Potts

Moss Genuine Shearling Coat

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Steve Madden

Riya Faux Suede Midi Skirt

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Thread & Supply

Faux Shearling Crop Jacket

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BLANKNYC

Franklin Rib Cage Faux Suede Carpenter Pants

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Avec Les Filles

Padded Shoulder Belted Faux Shearling Collar Crop Jacket

Ankle Boots

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“Find the perfect balance with an ankle boot that toes the line, literally. The multipurpose style can elevate a casual look or add a touch of edge to a formal ensemble.” — Cui Zhang

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