Fall fashion fuses runway trends with affordable options and sales

Retailers and runways are setting the tone for fall style this season with a mix of runway-driven trends and a wave of affordable merchandise designed for travel and everyday wear. Nordstrom has introduced a capsule of new arrivals priced under $100, while broader clearance events at major retailers are trimming items by as much as 70 percent through late September, giving shoppers multiple low-cost ways to refresh wardrobes for cooler weather.

Nordstrom’s new under-$100 lineup emphasizes travel-ready fabrics and versatile layers, with pieces that editors say can move from the airport to dinner. Featured items include suede wide-leg and straight-leg pants, a satin midi skirt, a mini sweater dress, a slouchy bucket bag with crossbody strap, and a striped oversized knit priced around $50. Many of the pieces prioritize texture and easy layering: a burgundy oversized blazer, pintuck-organic-cotton wide-leg pants designed for comfort in transit, a chunky sleeveless turtleneck for transitional days, and a wool clog with a cushioned sole. Prices in the collection start near $40, making fall staples more accessible to budget-conscious shoppers.

At the same time, fall sales across...