Fall fashion: 10 essentials for mom under $75!

The chillier days of autumn have arrived and that means transitioning your closet from warm-weather gear to jeans and cozy knits.  Can’t bear the thought of parting with your shorts and sundresses? We’ve rounded up 10 style staples for fall 2013 that are sure to make the change a little easier on you and your pocketbook.

Read more: 8 cute outfits for picture day (all under $50!)>

Leather (both real and faux), is a HUGE trend for fall going beyond just outerwear.  Everyday basics are getting sleek makeovers with the addition of leather details like the trim on this otherwise simple A-line skirt.

Where to buy?

Joe Fresh skirt, $39

Jewel tones are a perennial fall favourite that will never go out of style. To update your favourite emerald, sapphire, and ruby-red pieces for 2013, pair them with a bold print or invest in a new piece with edgy details like the zippered pockets on this wine blouse.

Where to buy?

Jacob blouse, $70

Adding anything plaid to your wardrobe this season will establish you as somebody with serious style savvy. Tartan is cropping up on everything from pants, to sweaters and skirts. A jacket in the bold pattern is a good option for moms because it can go from the office to the playground by simply swapping your pencil skirt for jeans.

Where to buy?

Boohoo tartan jacket, $65

The bleached-out, light-wash, ripped jeans of summer have given way to a sophisticated, indigo version for fall 2013. The bonus? A uniform, dark wash visually slims the body, creating a longer, leaner line. Choose a cut that flatters your figure but the rule of thumb is that the subtle flare of a boot-cut is universally flattering.

Where to buy?

Old Navy “The Flirt” Boot-cut jeans, $40

Now this is a trend moms can get on board with! Sweats have come out of the gym for fall. If you don’t feel comfortable wearing sweatpants proper in public, opt instead for one of the many incarnations out there (same shape, but in more refined fabrics like silk or tweed). Or pair a simple, grey sweatshirt like the one pictured here, with a bejeweled statement necklace for a smart-casual — and comfortable — day look.

Where to buy?

Gap sweatshirt, $40

If you buy just one shoe this season, make it an ankle boot. Not only are they at the peak of style right now, but they win the award for most versatile footwear. Wear them with everything from jeans to skirts and dresses, giving you great value for your money. Buckle embellishments will have you looking like a fashion heavy-hitter.

Where to buy?

Winners ankle boot, $50

A great bag is always in season. For fall, choose something roomy with lots of hardware — not only is it on-trend but it’s a stylish way to carry around all of those toys, snacks, and wet-wipes you tend to accumulate as a mom.

Where to buy? Aldo bag, $70

Move over maxi and mini — there’s a new skirt in town! At a length that falls about halfway between the knee and ankle, midi skirts rule for fall and are popular in both full and slim silhouettes. Wear this sleek version with anything from a t-shirt to a bow-blouse but choose footwear with at least a bit of a heel to prevent the in-between length from looking dowdy.

Where to buy?

H&M midi skirt, $40

A heavy-gauge knit is the penultimate fall garment. This cable-knit pull-over does double duty, looking just as good with jeans and Wellies for a day spent apple picking, as it does layered under your blazer at the office.

Where to buy?

Smart Set sweater, $49

In Canada we wear coats for most of the year so investing in a few different styles is key to avoiding the mid-winter wardrobe slump. Breathe new life into your collection of outerwear with this lightweight, mixed media coat featuring Aztec-print sleeves contrasted with edgy, leather panels at the shoulder. The ¾ length provides a barrier between you and the cold car seat for those particularly brisk fall mornings when you have carpool.

Where to buy?

Forever 21 coat, $58

What to wear to your baby shower>  These fashion tips will keep you looking good while opening gifts, playing games, and eating cake at your baby shower.