I test clothes for a living, and these are the only styles I’ll be wearing this fall.

As a child, I had only one dream – to work in the fashion industry. I never had a plan B. So, there is no doubt that little me is smiling now knowing that my dream has come true and I can work in the fashion industry in many different forms. I prefer writing about my favorite fashion items to my previous job in fashion design. The experience has given me a deeper understanding, but being on the receiving end of the best styles on the market is a great perk. That being said, I had the opportunity to try out over 20 fashion items this month, but six stood out from the likes of Madewell, J.Crew, and Everlane. The best part is that prices start at just $13.

Editor’s Top 6 Fall Fashion Picks:

What fashion item would you trade in for your favorite jeans? In my opinion, it’s a midi-length denim skirt, specifically the Dana Front Slit Denim Midi Skirt by Petal & Pup. I plan to pair this breezy skirt with a tank top or t-shirt and sandals while it’s still warm, and with an oversized sweater and knee-high boots in the fall. It comes in a light blue wash, sizes 2-12, and is made from 100% cotton. It has a high waist, a straight fit away from the body, and a front slit for ease of movement.

I rarely wear jeans in the middle of summer, but now that the weather’s cooler, I’ve started wearing them almost daily. My most popular pair at the moment are Madewell’s Perfect Vintage Wide Leg Jeans. They come in petite, standard, plus and tall sizes, and have a high waist and easy fit that flares out around the ankles. The denim is super soft to the touch and has plenty of stretch to move with you.

One of my least favorite things is ill-fitting pants. I hate gaps around the waist, so I have no choice but to either have them tailored or wear an uncomfortable belt. I love being fitted, but my weight fluctuates and I’m stuck with no room. Then I discovered Suosdey’s No-Buckle Elastic Belt, which became a game changer. I adjusted them to fit my waist, slipped them through the belt loops, fastened the first two snaps, and poof, no gaps! Plus, I don’t have to worry about undoing the buckle when I go to the bathroom.

I try to be minimalist (more as an aesthetic than a capsule closet), and with that said, I have more white button-up shirts than I could ever want. But not this Everlane Boxy Oxford Shirt (I say that all the time). I love that the material is sturdy and perfect for fall, yet not too heavy so you won’t get too hot in the summer. The design features an oversized fit, two exaggerated pockets on the front, and a side slit. Plus, it comes in six solid and striped options and sizes from 2XS to 2XL.

I have over 15 cardigans, but as the weather cools, I wash and re-wear this crew neck cardigan from J.Crew. It’s perfect for transitioning between seasons because it can be worn as a long sleeve top or open over a tank top. It’s lightweight, stretchy, and super comfortable. It has a form-fitting cropped fit and a high neckline when buttoned all the way up. The pocket cardigan comes in four colors — blue, orange, black, and beige — and sizes 3XS to 3XL, and it’s on sale right now.

For fall, upgrade your classic summer ballet flats with Vivaia’s square-toe Mary Janes. The knit shoes offer a little more coverage, and the insoles make you feel like you’re walking on clouds, making walking those NYC blocks a pleasure. Available in 20 colors and patterns(!) and sizes 5 to 11, the square-toe styles feature adjustable buckle straps, anti-blister padding at the back of the heel to minimize chafing and wear, and rubber treads for extra grip on slippery surfaces.