She’s back. My intrepid hill staffer of a friend who cannot be named, but who has some words to share on how she’s approaching fall weather on a public servant’s budget.

Somewhere along the pathway to adulthood, fall becomes the season to fall in love with.

Between the search for the perfect cup of coffee, walking to work to enjoy the nip in the air, apple picking, and devouring the September Issue – I put together a few of my favorite fall fab finds.

Fall is the season when I crawl back in to my comfort zone of black and neutrals. I take fewer risks. I look for cozy and comfortable but not sloppy and ill-fitting. Chelsea would never let me get away with that.

Fashion Trend, ikat. I wasn’t a fan of this print in bold colors that littered every store this summer but I like this black and cream version as a more subtle way to incorporate this trend in my wardrobe. And for less than $20, if it doesn’t work I’m ok with that.

A pair of black skinny jeans are a must have and a great substitute when you need something a little sturdier than leggings. Old Navy’s Rockstar Super Skinny jeans are perfect (don’t be intimidated by the name).

Cozy sweaters are synonymous with the season – bold stripes from Zara can be dressed up or dressed down, swap out heels for flats or add a bold necklace and easily go from day to night. This folksy cardigan from urbanog is exactly what I would throw over jeans and a white tee to wear to Sunday brunch or pumpkin picking. I’m a sucker for a hood (not a hoodie).

Keeping basic black interesting takes some effort. This skirt from Jennifer Lopez for Kohls is the right way to go because not only does she know how to cut clothes to flatter a woman’s body, she gets creative with details like faux leather and zippers. I also mix up the black with deep jewel toned jewelry. Both pieces here are from forever21.com. I just bought them both for $16.

And I leave you with the wedge. Chic. Classic. Comfortable.

Now only if the fall weather would return.