Pre-Fall Fashion Finds: What to Shop Now Before It Sells Out

As August rolls in, the fashion world begins its seasonal shift—from breezy summer linens to the luxurious textures of fall. This transitional period, known as pre-fall, is more than just a teaser of what’s to come; it’s a prime shopping moment filled with limited pieces that often sell out before the leaves even begin to turn. At High Society Resale Boutique, we know exactly what to look for during this crucial fashion window—especially if you're shopping designer for less.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-have pre-fall fashion finds, how to style them, and why now is the time to shop them before they disappear.

 

Why Pre-Fall Is the Smartest Fashion Investment of the Season

Pre-fall collections are created by designers to fill the gap between summer and fall. These pieces aren’t as heavy as full-on fall fashion but introduce the textures, tones, and silhouettes we’ll be seeing all season long. That means you're getting first dibs on trends that will dominate September through November—and often at a better price when you shop resale.

Plus, many luxury labels release capsule pre-fall collections in limited runs, which makes resale one of the only places to find those pieces later. So when we say these finds go fast, we mean it.

1. Lightweight Outerwear: Blazers, Leather Jackets & Cropped Trenches

Think layering without the weight. Early August is still hot, but indoor AC and cooler evenings call for transitional outerwear.

What to Look For:

• Oversized blazers in neutral shades like camel, khaki, or charcoal

• Leather jackets with minimal hardware or a cropped shape

• Trench-inspired pieces in lightweight fabrics

These pieces layer perfectly over dresses or tank + denim combos and immediately elevate a look to feel more “fall-forward.”

Styling Tip:

Pair a vintage Burberry trench with high-rise jeans and a tucked-in graphic tee. Throw on gold hoops and heeled booties, and you're set for brunch or a gallery stroll.

2. Earth-Tone Dresses: The Perfect Summer-to-Fall Bridge

Dresses are often overlooked in pre-fall shopping—but they're key to making a seamless seasonal transition.

Trending Colors:

• Olive green

• Rust and burnt sienna

• Mustard yellow

• Mocha or chocolate brown

These tones feel autumnal, but the silhouettes can remain summery—think spaghetti straps, midi lengths, or cutouts.

Styling Tip:

Take that rust-hued slip dress and add a boxy blazer plus sneakers or mules. Once September hits, just swap in tights and a leather jacket.

3. Statement Shoes: Loafers, Mules, and Transitional Boots

Pre-fall is when summer sandals give way to more structured, fashion-forward footwear.

Must-Have Styles:

• Chunky loafers (especially in patent or croc-effect leather)

• Designer mules with pointed toes

• Ankle boots in lighter colors like beige, taupe, or ivory

These shoes signal a wardrobe upgrade without fully committing to cold-weather fashion.

Styling Tip:

Loafers with frilly socks and a mini skirt are Gen Z approved and resale-friendly—style meets savings.

4. Knitwear You Can Actually Wear in August

No need to wait until October to break out your favorite knits. Pre-fall is full of breathable options that still feel cozy.

Best Picks:

• Lightweight cardigans for layering

• Cropped or sleeveless sweater vests

• Short-sleeve or open-stitch knit tops

Keep an eye out for designer knits in classic cuts—these are staples that won’t go out of style, and shopping resale means getting luxury fiber blends for a fraction of the price.

Styling Tip:

Layer a sleeveless knit vest over a white tee with trousers or a denim skirt. Add a resale designer belt to finish the look.

5. Luxe Denim in Fall-Friendly Fits

Good denim is a year-round staple, but pre-fall is when we start seeing updated washes and cuts designed for cooler weather.

Watch For:

• High-waisted wide-leg jeans

• Raw hems or slit details

• Dark-wash or colored denim (olive and burgundy are huge)

Pre-loved designer denim (think Frame, Mother, or AGOLDE) flies off our racks quickly in August.

Styling Tip:

Style wide-leg denim with a fitted knit top and mules for an effortlessly modern look.

6. Bags That Bridge the Seasons

The best pre-fall bags are timeless, neutral, and versatile. They should pair with both summer whites and fall flannels.

In-Demand Styles:

• Mini shoulder bags (the Y2K aesthetic is still strong)

• Structured totes in tan or espresso

• Crossbodies with gold hardware

A resale boutique like High Society is your best bet for scoring a gently-loved Coach, Gucci, or Prada piece that would otherwise break the bank.

Styling Tip:

Opt for mixed materials—canvas and leather combos are perfect for transitional dressing.

7. Jewelry and Accessories with Fall Flair

Don’t overlook how accessories can pre-game your fall wardrobe.

Trending Now:

• Chunky gold earrings

• Layered chains

• Hair accessories in velvet or tortoiseshell

• Scarves (especially silk or vintage designer)

Even if you’re not changing your whole wardrobe, these add-ons give an instant seasonal refresh.

8. Pre-Fall Trends Worth Resale Hunting

According to early Fall/Winter 2025 trend forecasts, these are the pieces fashion insiders are already eyeing:

• Burgundy and oxblood hues

• Dramatic collars and oversized buttons

• Western-inspired accessories (think cowboy boots and concho belts)

• Denim maxi skirts

• Tailored vests and co-ords

• Fringe and texture details

Lucky for you, most of these trends are cyclical—making them prime resale finds if you shop smart.