Much to my wallet’s dismay, I’m always willing to splurge on all things cozy. But this year, I want to make sure that I’m only adding the best of the best to my travel wardrobe: quality-made clothes, supportive shoes, functional purses, and more that will stand up to my travel needs. For such a task, I turn to Nordstrom, which always has a carefully curated, seasonal storefront I can rely on. 

Needless to say, the Nordstrom’s secret fall fashion essentials storefront is bookmarked on my computer, and I’ve been referencing it like a catalog of everything I need to travel comfortably and stylishly for the season. Keep scrolling to see which items made it out of my cart and into my closet. (Hint: there are cozy finds from Birkenstock, Free People, and Madewell starting at $59. 

Birkenstock Boston Genuine Shearling-lined Clogs

These classic shearling-lined clogs keep your feet warm without the hassle of needing to lace up a pair of bulky boots, which comes in handy when you’re quickly stepping out to run errands or waiting in line at TSA security. Their sturdy rubber soles, earthy suede-hued uppers, and stylish buckle details hide the fact that they’re basically comfy slippers. 

Free People Hailee Waffle-stitch Matching Set

If the matching set trend doesn’t have you excited, odds are that you haven’t found the right one yet. I have high hopes for this Free People sweater set, which comes with a perfectly oversized cardigan and matching joggers to help you pull off an effortlessly cool monochromatic look. If being too matchy-matchy isn’t your thing, you can wear the pieces separately to double your fall travel outfit possibilities. 

Free People Briella Floral Side-slit Dress

Another no-brainer Free People closet addition, the Briella Floral Side-slit Dress is available in three autumnal patterns and makes the ideal one-and-done cold-weather ensemble with its maxi length, quarter-length sleeves, and crew neckline. Unlike its frumpy counterparts, the body-skimming dress adds intrigue with its ruched bodice, puff sleeves, open back, and side slit. 

Astr the Label Crop Polo Sweater

Here, the classic polo sweater gets a stylish refresh for fall with a cropped silhouette and oversized collar. The loose fit and wool material guarantee sweatshirt-level warmth when you’re on long flights, bus tours, and sightseeing excursions in chilly temps — while keeping your wardrobe fresh and tasteful. 

Madewell The ’90s High-waist Straight Leg Jeans

Most shoppers forget that Nordstrom can be a hack to find discounts on top designers and brands. These Madewell jeans, for example, are a rare 35 percent off, a discount that brings their price tag below $100. Denim critics will even find this pair comfortable; it’s got a relaxed fit that offers flattering structure, and the jeans adapt to your body over time and get comfier with each wear. 

Franco Sarto Giselle Knee-high Boots

I regret donating my riding boots from the 2010s now that they’re back in style, but luckily I came across these discounted Franco Sarto Knee-high Boots to fill their missing spot in my closet. Available in four versatile colors, the luxe boots give your favorite outfits a level of elegance and sophistication without exposing your feet to hours of discomfort thanks to the 1.75-inch heels and supportive midsoles. 

Sam Edelman Sweater and Plissé Skirt Set

The most challenging part of dressing up in the fall and winter is finding the balance between warmth and style (and the will to brave the cold, but that’s an entirely different issue). Taking a cue from the rise of matching sets, Sam Edelman did the work for shoppers with its sweater and plissé skirt set, which takes the guessing out of building the perfect cold-weather formal outfit. It’s basically like having a professional stylist, and the best part is that both pieces work together and separately with other items in your closet. 

Bernardo Quilted Faux-leather Trim Recycled Nylon Jacket

I welcome any and all outerwear deals this time of year, and I didn’t waste a moment adding this Bernardo jacket to my cart. It serves the purpose of any lightweight, leather jacket, only it gives your wardrobe extra style points with its quilted exterior, boxy silhouette, and unexpected point collar. It’s the perfect layer for anyone looking for versatility without buying something that looks like something that everyone else already has. 

Edikted Jessy Oversize Cotton Cable Stitch Sweater

No fall fashion roundup is complete without a roomy cable-stitch sweater, and I think I just found the perfect one. Oversized for comfort but drapey for a flattering fit, this Edikted sweater brings cozy texture to your travel outfits with its 100 percent cotton construction and cable stitch pattern. Snuggle up in it on that early morning flight, long sightseeing tour, or chilly outdoor lunch. 

Open Edit Luxe Sculpt Maxi Skirt

Knit maxi skirts are a surefire way to transition the warm-weather staple piece into the fall and winter. Instead of opting for a bulky sweater skirt, you can achieve the look with a lighter-weight option like this Open Edit Luxe Sculpt Maxi Skirt, which is made with a fine-gauge knit material for coziness and warmth for the season. It’ll also take up little room in your suitcase and keep its shape thanks to its compressive midsection that creates a smoothing effect. 

Wayf Knit Button-up Shirt

What can I say? Collars are in. Say hello to your fall-winter button-up shirt, made with a plush polyester-elastane knit blend to keep the chill out. Wear it buttoned up or open, this versatile top is a comfy layer that you’ll always want close by. And, it’s available in five neutral fall colors that will add a fun pop to your wardrobe.

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