Welcome to Same Same, But Different. As Gen Z and millennial fashion editors, respectively, we know a thing or two about shopping—for all ages, and especially our demographics. As we find the best products for you, we can’t help but do a little shopping for ourselves and build our personal (age-appropriate) wish lists. And now, we’re sharing them with you. Ahead, check out what’s in our hearts and in our carts lately.
Dale: Now that Hot Girl Summer (2022) is firmly in the past, it’s time for a whole new vibe. Although I have to be honest: As much as I love a good Pumpkin Spiced Latte moment, I’m not really into Christian Girl Fall. However, I do resonate with Meg Ryan Fall, especially given how big ’90s-inspired trends are right now. So I beg to ask: As a fellow Meg, what does Meg Ryan Fall mean to you?
Meg: Thank you, Dale, for asking this poignant question. Personally, every fall is Meg Ryan Fall. The way I see it, she’s less of a character to copy and more so the autumnal spirit personified. I might not create any of her exact looks piece by piece, but I will channel her fall-filled spirit with a variety of neutral tones and plaid touches, as any good fall girl would do. What about you? What’s your fall vibe?
Dale: Ugh, so true. Hot Girl Summer, Meg Ryan Fall, Coastal Grandmothers, each of these are about the essence rather than the actual ‘fits. In my heart of hearts, my fall vibe is all about knitwear. I usually stock up on cozy knits like I’m prepping for hibernation and build a wardrobe around those. All in all, though—my fall ensembles tend to be comfort-first. That looks like wide-leg jeans, easy sneakers, and ultra-soft sweaters. That said, this year I think I’ll be incorporating some more menswear-inspired pieces into the mix…just to shake things up.
But tell me now and tell me true, neutral tones, plaid touches, and all, what are you eyeing this season?
Meg: I’m right there with you when it comes to menswear-inspired items. Suit sets are very chic right now and definitely something I’m incorporating into my wardrobe.
While I don’t believe our fair leading lady wore overalls in any of her iconic flicks, these are the item I’m most jazzed about this season. And if I do say so, I think she’d appreciate the ’90s aesthetic they offer. I probably own more overalls than the average person, but I’m also very critical about my dungarees. They were perfectly worn-in and flexible as soon as I got them. No stiff denim here. I’ll be pairing mine with mock neck shells and slinky tops, like the Meg top from M.M. LaFleur. (All Megs, rise!)
Dale: The nice thing with sweaters is that they’re pretty versatile! I think of knitwear as a more polished version of sweats. I’m partial to turtlenecks (which I think Ms. Ryan would easily approve of) because they look great underneath jackets, like Overland’s ’70s-inspired Celestine Jacket—I know we’re discussing Meg Ryan, but dare I say it’s giving Penny Lane in Almost Famous? Usually though, when I’m living my best autumnal life, I’ll sport it with a cute midi skirt, cozy tube socks, and my tried-and-true Birkenstocks (can’t stop, won’t stop). To top it off, I’ll add an oversized scarf. The one I’m wearing this season isn’t floral, but it really reminds me of the one Meg Ryan wears at the end of Sleepless in Seattle.
Meg: Yes to Penny Lane. Yes to Birks. Yes to scarves. I admit I’m still eyeing that Acne one even though its fad has probably passed…
Anyway, inquiring minds want to know—what’s your favorite Meg Ryan movie? Mine is without a doubt You’ve Got Mail. I could go on a tangent about how that and Sleepless in Seattle are the same movie, but I digress. (Those two make me think of the dueling Spiderman meme, LOL).
Dale: I’m a sap for the “will they, won’t they” arc, which makes me a When Harry Met Sally gal for life! That said, the scene from SIS of Meg Ryan peeling an apple in one strip lives rent-free in my head. Regardless I’ll be cozying up for a Meg Ryan flick soon. Until next time!
Meg Donohue is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Her passions include spicy foods, sustainability, and the Y2K remake of Charlie’s Angels. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.
Dale Arden Chong is the Senior Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Previously, she was an editor at MensHealth.com and has written for Who What Wear, GLAMOUR, The Coveteur, and more. She loves fashion, food, and art, among other things—but her greatest love is K-pop idol V of BTS.