This post is sponsored by Nordstrom and ShopStyle.
At some point, when you reach a certain age, fall trends start to go the way of spring trends: completely predictable. Just like we know florals are for spring, plaids are for fall, as is menswear, jewel tones, and some sort of reworked black they pass off as NEW (punk-bohemian, witchy lace, or full-body leather — we’ve seen it all).
It’s pretty rare for a fall trend to hit and really feel like something new and fresh (other than just being a break from all of those spring florals and pastels). White boots were one of those trends, a few years back, something that really did feel different. So I was excited when I saw a new trend emerging. Something that’s fresh, unexpected, and — best of all — easy to wear. A trend that has enough…fluidity that it can be interpreted in different ways (something, I think, that speaks to its longevity).
There’s not really a great name for this trend (at least not yet), but I’ve been referring to it as Romantic Juliet.
And by Juliet, I mean Capulet, of course.
This trend has an undoubtedly romantic twist — all flattering bustlines and collarbones…but I love that this trend can go EITHER full-on Juliet with puffed sleeves and bodices…OR become a scaled-back, 1960s French girl with a square neckline and minimalist shapes.
They sound different…but aren’t really. They’re just two interpretations on opposite sides of the spectrum that is Romantic Juliet. Pics below to prove it.
Also, Nordstrom is carrying the full spectrum of this trend — tops and dresses in tons of patterns and silhouettes — so I rounded up my favorites at the end. Get excited — it’s some really good stuff. (And many pieces will satisfy that whole top-and-jeans outfit need we crave.)
Full On Romantic Juliet: Puffed Sleeves & Sweetheart Necklines
This silhouette is a joy to wear. Romantic, sure, but chic and flattering, too. It suits so many different body types. If you’re busty, it flatters. Flat? It enhances. Thicker through the middle? It’ll create a waist. Have some curves? It shows off that waist. (And this particular dress comes in plus size, too.)
dress (size 4) | shoes (these PAIGE shoes are every bit as comfortable — even on cobblestones — as I had hoped) | similar bag
on boys: Raines’ shirt | similar striped shorts | knot shorts | sandals
Scaled Back Juliet: Square Necklines & Simple Silhouettes
Less isn’t always more, but in this case, less is no less impactful, if ya know what I mean. But the vibe is still very much Romantic Juliet. Even with shorts.
tee (xs) | similar shorts | woven bag | similar sandals
Shop Puffed Sleeves & Sweetheart Necklines
I’m partial to the dress version (if I’m going full-on Romantic Juliet I’m GOING FULL ON ROMANTIC JULIET)…but the tops are a really versatile option. Try with a skirt for something unexpected…or with distressed denim. High-rise flares are another good choice.
And let me put a plug in for the Reformation brand: the pieces tend to be a bit pricier, but they’re made in the US, and are focused on reducing the resources needed to make clothing (their linen, for example, uses basically no water in the fabrication, and has a quarter of the carbon footprint of cotton).
Shop Square Necklines
Much more casual, but still SO GOOD.
OK, gang – this is my fav trend for fall. What’s yours?
xo,
S
A huge thank you to Nordstrom and ShopStyle for sponsoring this post! I always love talking trends, especially when one pops out as fun (and flattering) as this one. Your selection of spot-on brands makes my job easy. As always, all product choices, thoughts, and opinions are my own. And readers, thank you for your continuing support. It doesn’t go unnoticed, and is so very much appreciated.
