New Season, Fresh Look
It's All About Layering
Layering adds warmth and sophistication to skin-baring pieces when a crisp chill enters the air. Extend the versatility of slip dresses, shoulder baring tops, and lightweight jumpsuits by layering them over tees, thin turtlenecks, and button-downs. Take that summer sarong and use it as a scarf, shawl or cleverly tied top. Summer shirt dresses can be worn as unbuttoned dusters over simple layers like jeans and a tee. Change out your straw fedora for a wool blend or cotton bucket that can be tucked in your bag. Continue to wear your favorite summer dress by incorporating tights or leggings. And sub the sandals for stylish flats as the days become cooler.
Integrating Summer Colors in Fall Looks
While your peak summer uniform may have involved bright colors and punchy florals you should opt for a more neutral palette for fall. You can start by incorporating darker neutrals in with some of the brighter colors you are still wearing by layer them over, for instance a bright pink shirt underneath a dark beige cardigan. Wearing more monochromatic combinations is also a good way to still wear some of your favorites like white wide-leg trousers. Add a cream cotton knit sweater and some light beige accents to keep the palette neutral.
The color trends for this fall are still highlighting some bright colors. The Barbie pink trend isn't over yet. Bright reds, peppery orange, pale yellows and greens from lime to olive are on-trend also. Grays, coffee and caramel browns, and classic winter whites will be the most popular in terms of neutral colors. Curating a few outer layers in a fresh neutral color palette can be a great way to start.
Fall Fabric Elements
Incorporating knits into your daily outfit rotation is key in transitioning seasons. If it's still warm where you are start with gauzy and loose knits that allow for a lot of breathability. They are also fun for layering as you can style contrast colors underneath for a multi-dimensional look. Sweater dresses are on trend for this fall so you can start with a loose knit style that can layer over leggings if needed.
If wool or cashmere feels too heavy, try blended yarns instead. Cotton-cashmere blends have become easier to find and they feel lighter on the skin. Silk-cashmere is a luxe and light way to add some cozy without sacrificing style. Cotton-linen blends are also wonderful and they can be more affordable options while providing warmth and promise no itchiness for those sensitive to wool based yarns. And there is no need to let go of linen completely. Heavier weight linen fabrics can be great transition pieces, for instance in a long sleeve button up in a lovely caramel color.
Velvet always says 'I'm stylish and cool'. A chic velvet blazer is a classic closet staple that you can rotate in for years to come. Stick to neutral colors to avoid a more holiday look. Corduroy is also quintessential for fall and subbing a pair of cord pants for your summer denim can be a great way to look autumnal. Try grey corduroy for an updated on trend look.
Plaids and tartans are on trend for this fall and is pattern that can be subtly blended into your wardrobe. A plaid flannel thrown over a slip dress is a 90's grunge look that still screams cool girl chic. A plaid shawl is a classic accessory that you can wear in future seasons to come.
Fall Style Elements and Details
Update your look by incorporating unique style details along the neckline and sleeves. As the air cools, move away from an open or deep v neckline and instead try a boat neck in a long sleeve tee or sweater. Mock turtle necks are a fun retro look without going full neck coverage. Nehru collars can offer a more minimal look in a button up. A 3/4 sleeve is great for fall as it keeps away the chill but you won't overheat as easily. As you move into wearing a blazer or light jacket, long ruffled sleeves that peak out at the wrists are a stylish detail that can really elevate your look.
Structured looks are on trend for this fall. This works well with menswear detailing, like a boxy oversized blazer. Exaggerated shoulders, dramatic lapels, and double-breasted buttons add depth and detail to this look. For a more feminine version, 80's inspired pencils skirts and cinched waist blazers are a great throwback.
Changing seasons is an exciting time of new beginnings that we can emulate through color, pattern and style. It's a wonderful time to re-invent yourself.
-by Mary Vukovic'