Fall fashion arrives with wide discounts and versatile layering

As the fall season arrives, major retailers and online marketplaces have unveiled wide-ranging seasonal collections and steep promotions, offering shoppers everything from classic knits and trench coats to trend-focused boots and travel-ready luggage. Retailers are pitching both affordable basics and midrange staples, with many pieces positioned as easy layering items for fluctuating autumn weather.

Target this month has stocked a broad assortment of knits and sweater staples priced under 40, including cardigans, crewnecks, sweater vests and sweater skirts meant to pair with jeans, tights or boots. Shoppers have been quick to buy: more than 2,000 people purchased one popular sweater vest this month, and reviewers called it flattering and well suited to layering. One shopper described a sweater mini skirt on offer as "classic, elegant, and won't go out of style," noting its elastic waistband for convenience.

Amazon vendors and its outlet section are also leaning into budget-friendly fall wardrobes. Editors highlighted pieces starting as low as 7 and outlet discounts up to 78 percent on overstock items, including oversized turtleneck sweaters and wrinkle-free trousers. The outlet...