You can smell it in the air, slowly overtaking the scents of sunscreen and hot dogs: Pumpkin spice is coming back. The herald of all things fall is making its way back into your morning cup of coffee — and let’s be real, everything else in your home. Fall will be here before you know it. But are you prepared to embrace the autumnal?
All kidding aside, fall does require some serious shopping. You’ve got to have clothes that will keep you warm, without roasting alive inside your turtleneck (let’s not rush into winter). For many families, there’s also back to school shopping. Oh, and decor — you need seasonal decor that makes your home feel like a lovely sip of, well, pumpkin spice.
But where do you find all these goodies for a great price? Target, of course.
Target
JanSport Cross Town Plus 17″ Backpack: $39.99
This modern take on the classic JanSport isn’t your mother’s backpack — heck, it probably isn’t even yours. It’s updated to include a padded laptop sleeve that will fit a 15″ laptop, as well as a front utility pocket with an organizer that helps make the morning frenzy so much easier on everyone, especially your kids.
In addition to its organizational prowess, this backpack is also built for comfort. With its fully padded back panel and straight-cut padded shoulder straps, it will get your little, or not so little, one through the school day with ease.
It also comes in several stylish patterns, from sleek black or faded sage to the pink bow patterned number or the equally elegant magnolia mirage. There’s also a fluid floral choice for the groovier kids among us.
Women’s Oversized Hooded Jean Jacket – Wild Fable™: $38
If there’s one piece of attire that belongs to fall, it’s the jean jacket. Warm, but not too warm. Perfectly paired with a casual look or even slightly dressed up, this unique hooded jacket can take you from an afternoon at the pumpkin patch to a night out with friends.
Made to have an oversized fit, this jacket maximizes comfort and warmth, down to its oversized sleeves. But best of all — it has pockets. Multiple pockets! What more could you ask for?
Target
X RAY Mens Cardigan Sweater: $23.99
The other big staple of fall fashion is undeniably the sweater. The comfier, the better. And this cardigan is very comfortable, with its soft, cozy fabric. It’s also beautifully made, with a classic design that lets you dress it up or dress it down, depending on your tastes — or your schedule.
Target
Aria Jelly Decorative Basket – Brightroom™: $2.80
Fall is back-to-school season, but for college kids decorating their dorm rooms, it’s also back-to-cool season. OK, no more bad jokes. Seriously, this decorative basket fits easily into any dorm room, giving college students added storage space that also brings style. Hey, when you’re in a dorm, items with dual functions are practically priceless.
This easy-to-use, easy-to-move basket comes in a variety of styles, including a black that gives a more classic look, bright pink, blue or even a lovely, muted green. For only $2.80 on sale, you could get one of each without breaking the bank.
Target
Nordic Ware Wildflower Loaf Pan: $36.50
Once that first crisp chill hits the air, baking season commences for many people. Why not make your grandfather’s famous cinnamon apple cake look as gorgeous as it tastes? This wildflower loaf pan molds elegant wildflowers onto your desserts or snacking cakes, turning each sweet treat into a work of art.
Created with pure cast aluminum, this pan has a premium nonstick interior and six-cup capacity that makes baking easy and satisfying. It can become your go-to pan as you wow everyone at those autumn potlucks with your artistry.
Editor’s note: Pricing is accurate as of Aug. 18, 2025. Pricing and availability are subject to change.
