Fall is finally here, and if you’re like me, you can’t wait to wear all your fall favorites. And if you’re also like me, you’re excited to check out the stores to see what’s new for the season - but will you buy into the latest trends?
That’s a great question, with a complicated answer. As we all know, fashion trends are created and marketed to make us feel like we need something new every few months. Stores and online sites are inundated with new styles seasonally (if not weekly!), so if you’re an avid shopper or follow fashion closely, there’s always something fresh in front of you, eagerly trying to catch your eye.
Here’s what I tell clients when they’re contemplating seasonal trends: First, SEE what’s out there - do your homework and check out what the fashion world has to offer before you make any big decisions. Then, FILTER the trends down into what you actually like - after all, it’s silly to just wear something because it’s on trend, right? And lastly, EDIT this selection into what works for your lifestyle and body type, and (most importantly) what you can afford. Because even if you’d love to have model proportions and a supermodel’s salary, odds are that you don’t - so don’t pretend that you do.
When you’re combing through the stores, online magazines and bloggers’ Instagram feeds, look for trends that are easy to wear, as well - styles that can transition into your current closet, ones that don’t require a new wardrobe to wear, pieces that function for work and play, and items that fit and flatter your figure.
As a quick first pass, I’ve rounded up what I feel are the most wearable fall trends this season - styles that can work for many different lifestyles, body types and preferences, that you can (most likely) find at a range of price points. So, check out my top trends for the season - and let me know what you’ll be wearing in the comments!
ANIMAL PRINT
Generous doses of animal print were all over the fall runways, but how can you translate this feline fantasy into your life?
Go for leopard with a main item in your look, like a leopard print top - and then amp up the animal attraction with snake print shoes. Or grab a leopard print skirt for date night - add a barely-there cami, leather jacket and killer heels and get ready to prowl.
If you’re not ready to commit to a leopard item in your clothing wardrobe, how about an accessory? Leopard print shoes, bags and belts are timeless, so even though they’re ‘on trend’ right now, they’ll never be out of style.
Runway images from Popsugar
PINK-A-HOLIC
Hot pink is an of-the-moment hue, with many designers showing it head-to-toe. How can you embrace this season’s ‘it’ color without buying a whole new wardrobe?
Think pink in layers! Start with a pink sweater, add a pink blazer, and then ground the rest of your outfit in neutrals. It’s a look that’s sure to turn heads, but it’s comprised of styles that you can wear a multitude of ways.
And if you’re not a fan of pink next to your face, how about a pink skirt or pants? It’s an unexpected color on your bottom half, and (again) by basing the rest of your outfit in neutrals, you’ll turn up the volume on your outfit to a fashionable (but not overwhelming) level.
Runway image from Valiram
PLAID ON PLAID
You can easily channel Cher Horowitz with combinations that walked down the runway - bold plaids in varying colors and scales all tossed onto one outfit. Or you can tone it down it down a bit so that you still look stylish, but not altogether ‘clueless’.
Go for an overall plaid look, but keep it neutral. Yes, you’re taming the trend by removing the color, but you’re still committing to a head-to-heel plaid look, so no one will doubt your fashionista status.
And if you dare to go for color, do a plaid mash-up by pairing a plaid item in your outfit with a plaid accessory. It’s a fun variation that still feels attainable and not over the top.
Runway image from Harper’s Bazaar UK. Street style image from Pinterest.
SPARKLE AND SHINE
Can you wear fall’s sparkle and shine trend without looking like a disco ball? YES!
An allover sequined top is a timeless favorite - wear it for daytime in place of a blouse, or use it as your nighttime standby any time you want to shine. Or you can balance a sequined skirt with a man-tailored blouse, for a little juxtaposition and a dose of masculine edge.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
And if you’re looking for some sparkle that will take you right through the holidays, nothing’s better than a sequined jacket. Take your cue from Pop of Style and wear one over your LBD at your next formal event - and then wear the same jacket over a silk top and jeans for girls’ night out!
Runway image from Edited. Street style images from Pinterest.
STATEMENT COAT
You can make a statement in a statement coat this fall. Whether you choose a bold print, loud color, oversized shape or fuzzy texture, be sure to select your statement wisely.
If you’re going for an oversized shape, don’t forget to watch your proportions. Drama is great, but you don't want to look like the coat is wearing you! And if you’re bold enough to choose an attention-getter, remember that bright colors and prints are a super fun way to stand out when everyone else is buttoned up in black wool - just make sure the coat is wearable in your wardrobe, and not a one-hit wonder.
Do you need help filtering all the fall trends into what works for you and your lifestyle? Click the button below to schedule a free phone consultation, where we can chat about what you’re looking for and I can tell you all the ways we can work together.
Runway images from Popsugar. Street style images from Pinterest.