I'm telling you: shopping for wallet-friendly fall-ready pieces can soothe imminent-grind stress. Take for example: the $100 made-for-layering leopard print fleece, below, this puff-sleeve sweater, these spot-on leather loafers, this faux fur jacket, this English Factory trench, this balloon-sleeve cardigan (40% off!--I'd size up for a more stylish fit) and cute (also on sale), plus this statement windbreaker (the best under a winter coat or jean jacket).

*If you'd rather splurge than save to mitigate stress--trust me, I can relate!--take a cue from Katie Holmes, above, who went all out (sexy! sophisticated!) in (also ) and combo in NYC today. Yes, please.