Earth tones make a resurgence every fall, and no fabric seems to fit into nature and the changing leaves as well as corduroy does. Known more simply as "cords," the 18th-century English fabric is soft and warm and has been a cold-weather staple for generations thanks to those qualities. But the old school fabric is feeling pretty fresh for 2018.

While more traditionally known as the unofficial outwear of classic countryside oil paintings, today's brands have applied the classic look to more updated pieces so you won't resemble a tenured philosophy major. What should you look for when on your own hunt? Check for the "wale," which refers to the thickness of the fabric's cord, calculated by how many wales appear per inch (11 being standard). Thicker cords with lower wale counts are less formal, but a fair trade-off considering they'll be a touch warmer.

Corduroy partners well with "work wear" pieces like denim, henleys and textured sweaters, so build around the staples you already own. Below are some of our favorites in stores now to help keep you warm when you're done washing sand off your feet and start peeling leaves off your boots instead.