Ten fashion tips to “fall” back on
September 21, 2016
As you were sweating in the 89-degree weather on the way to class, it probably didn’t cross your mind that today is the first day of autumn. Despite the unseasonable heat, fall and fall fashion are on the way. But fear not if you haven’t done any shopping yet — many trends from the summer are continuing into the new season.
Before you do a total closet overhaul, read these fall fashion tips to see how some of your summer staples can be layered with those trusty cardigans and flannels in the chillier months.
1. Off-shoulder tops
Baring your shoulders was the hottest look of the summer, and it is here to stay through the fall. Simply trade in the short sleeves and light colors and fabrics — think long-sleeve tops in olive green and burnt orange or a snug off-shoulder sweater dress. Disclaimer: You may get that cold shoulder.
2. Statement chokers
I’ll admit, it took me a while to jump on the choker bandwagon. At first, all I could associate them with was Britney Spears’ popstar style in the ‘90s and the 25 cent rainbow version I got out of a gumball machine capsule in first grade. But finally I caved after seeing the choker trend done tastefully a la Kendall Jenner and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. A thick silk version is currently on my wishlist.
3. Tan
Keep it classic in camel this fall. The warm, toffee-colored hue looks good on anything ranging from sweaters, leather bags and watches, suede shoes and more. I love wearing a tan crewneck sweater with pearl earrings, dark skinny jeans and matching tan booties.
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4. Over-the-knee boots
Lately, it seems that every fashion blogger and celebrity is flaunting a pair of those coveted Stuart Weitzman over-the-knee suede boots. Luckily, this style is trending, and they are now available in every price range. Yet as a girl who is 5’3 on a good day, this is a trend that I may not be able to pull off. But for all you girls out there with lanky legs, get to the shoe store ASAP and rock this trend for me. Not to mention that extra coverage can help keep you warm during your next bonfire or tailgate.
5. Fall florals
Bring on the drama: I am obsessed with this dark, romantic take on the traditional, girly print. InStyle says the smaller the flower, the bigger the statement when it is on dark fabrics. I am especially loving this trend as an easy transition between warm and cool weather.
6. Ruffles
Normally, ladylike ruffles scream spring and summer, but designers like Jill Stuart and Christian Siriano brought them into fall with a bit of edge in fabrics like black satin and textured chartreuse. I plan on styling my ruffled skirt with a chunky knit sweater and lace-up leather boots.
7. White sneakers
Good news for lazy college students: athleisure is here to stay. Whether it be bomber jackets, track pants (tempted to get my Juicy Couture sweatsuit from middle school out of storage) or baseball caps, you can’t go wrong with these cool-girl staples. My favorite take on the trend is a pair of shiny, white leather sneaks juxtaposed with nicer dresses or fabrics like satin.
8. Puffer coats and vests
This trend is as functional as it is fashionable. Featured in Vogue, puffer outerwear is a great way to add a sporty vibe to your look. Obviously, this trend will keep you comfy and toasty on your dreaded walk to class, but don’t have any shame in wearing your coat or vest with that cocktail dress for your fall formal. After all, puffers were paired with evening gowns on the runways of Sonia Rykiel and Stella McCartney.
9. Deep reds and purples
Anyone who knows me (or read my fall fashion guides in 2014 and 2015) understands my never-ending love for these rich, jewel tones. Nothing screams fall to me more than a wine-colored suede dress or a deep purple manicure.
10. Velvet
According to Elle, this fall is all about traveling back in time to the Renaissance with rich velvet, preferably in the style of corsets and wide sleeves. This trend adds a dressy, luxe and literally soft touch to any outfit, especially in the form of a slinky LBD for the upcoming holiday season.