Welcome to The Great Try-On. We’re gearing up for fall, and that includes freshening up our wardrobes with some new pieces. We got to try on some of the best fall pieces from some of your favorite brands and documented it all from our at-home dressing rooms so that you can see how they actually look IRL. We hope that our photos and candid reviews will help you shop for fall wardrobe builders and trend-forward pieces that you’ll wear over and over this season and beyond.
From sixth grade until high school, Abercrombie was practically the only place where I shopped. Moose-emblazoned polo shirts, denim miniskirts, and leg warmers were frequented more than I’d like to admit. Hell, it’s even where I bought my first pair of skinny jeans, which I proceeded to wear every day for the better part of two years. Then, seemingly overnight, I stopped shopping there entirely, opting instead for brands offering pieces that felt more adult at the time, such as Zara, Urban Outfitters, and Free People.
Even so, Abercrombie played a crucial role in my sartorial journey, so when I began hearing mutterings on TikTok that it was making a comeback, my ears immediately perked up. But TikTok videos are one thing. Whether or not Abercrombie really had stepped up its game since it ruled my middle-school wardrobe could only really be determined with an IRL test. So that’s exactly what I did. Ahead, read my in-depth reviews of seven fall pieces from the brand.
My review: It’s true. I’m a sucker for a good slip dress. Versatile, easy, and comfortable, the style works for practically all occasions. So naturally, when I saw this option in Abercrombie’s dangerously pretty online dress selection, I jumped at the chance to see if it held up in person. It did. The satin fabric feels wickedly expensive and silk-like, which I honestly wasn’t expecting given how many satin slips I’ve had high hopes for and been disappointed by. It also features the most gorgeous cowl-back detail and a bra-like clasp that keeps you feeling secure in the chest area without taking away from the daring nature of the low back. Arguably the most impressive aspect of this dress is the way it falls on the body. It’s very drapey yet fitted, making it perfect for dressing both up and down.
My review: Though the options for trousers are endless when you look at the market as a whole, I actually find it extremely difficult to find a pair that looks and feels good. Either the length is too short, the legs are too baggy compared to the waist, or the pockets sit awkwardly. Because of that, I’m always game to test out pairs when I see ones with promise. After all, you never know when that perfect style will surprise you. These really did. I love the thick waistband and the way it sits right atop your hips. My only qualm would be that the fabric feels slightly jersey-like, whereas I like something a little more breathable and classic.
With these puddly trousers, I added a ruched bralette and an oversize bomber jacket, both of which I’m now obsessed with. I usually hate underwire bras because I’m pretty small-chested, and they feel uncomfortable and never seem to fit right. This one, however, gave the illusion that I did have a chest in a subtle way. The material is also incredibly soft, and I barely noticed the underwire. The bomber is just the right amount of oversize and will be hearty enough to wear throughout the fall and into the early winter.
My review: Given how wildly viral this dress went on TikTok, I simply had to check out what all the hype was about. Let’s just say I get it. From the double straps to the corset-like V-waist, it’s pretty much the perfect summer or vacation dress. Just like TikTok creator Symphani Soto noted in her own review of the dress, it’s giving “Amalfi Coast during an August holiday” vibes. I think what makes it so good is the way that it fits and how it hugs your bodice before flowing out in a very effortless and billowy manner. Unfortunately, with millions of views on the Gen Z–favorite app, this dress cannot seem to remain in stock. My suggestion? Check daily. Abercrombie is adding new sizes and colors very regularly.
My review: Given that this is a fall review, I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to test out a knit, my favorite aspect of autumn’s arrival. I’ve been obsessed with super-wide-collar knits ever since ACNE Studios started making them, so of course, I selected this double-zip option from Abercrombie. I love how adjustable it is. It can become a cardigan or turtleneck with just a few quick changes. It’s also soft without being too soft (if that makes sense), so it’s not super warm, which can deter me whenever it’s not 20ºF in NYC. I love it paired with those same trousers from above and these low-key ballet flats.
My review: When I need to look put-together in the fall and winter, my first choice is always a rib-knit dress because it feels like loungewear but has an inherent elegance about it. This chocolate-brown midi style is no exception. My favorite details on it are the clasps down the front and the polo collar, but the high side slit certainly doesn’t hurt the dress’s cause. The material feels very luxe and heavy as well, which I always regard as a sign of top-tier quality.
Coming up: This $88 Abercrombie Dress Went Viral on TikTok Thanks to a Chic 61-Year-Old