If you’ve been following the fashion world, you may have noticed that this year’s fall female fashion “trends” are…well….all over the place. The typical hallmarks of Fall are there – dark wool skirts, rich tan boots – but they’re competing for space with pastel pink separates and matching ladylike bags. Hardcore leather pieces and black lace Victorian-era tops are making a strong showing, alongside minimalist, drapey knits. Whoa.
(photo credits: Prada, Michael Kors, Victoria Beckham, Givenchy)
InStyle’s coverage of Fall Trends was my hands-down favorite. They managed to group the assortment of “trends” into, uh, general themes. Their chosen themes are both genius and hysterical. “Lady Danger!!” is one, complete with an epic quote from the director of Givenchy:
“I was inspired by the dark and poetic spirit of Victorians juxtaposed with the aesthetics of chola gangs.”
Um, OK.
“Arty Eccentric” is another. As far as I can tell, this refers to a mish-mash of prints. To further elaborate on this theme, InStyle urges us to “never forget the power of being a muse!”
Got it. Muse = YES. #falltrend #writeitdown #musemoment
I almost yearn for the days when magazines would issue predictable proclamations like, “black is the new black!” and show a two-page spread of Safari-inspired clothing which we all knew just meant cargo pants were back in style. Again.
But truth be told, that old way of thinking is attractive only because of sleep depravation. JUST TELL ME WHAT TO WEAR, PEOPLE! Ain’t nobody got time for that! But it’s boring, too. Predictable. Like a gravitational constant, Fall = oxblood, Spring = florals, G = 6.67 x 10^-11.
But maybe These All-Encompassing Fall Trends of 2015 are merely a reflection of…a larger shift of fashion consciousness. The fashion game is changing! We’re wearing white after labor day, black and brown and navy are best friends, and to the continued horror of my mother, “good” clothes are being worn with “play” clothes. Even the old “dress to flatter your figure” paradigm is being turned on it’s ear. Case in point? Boyfriend jeans, denim rompers, mumus, overalls – all completely valid style choices for 2015…but these aren’t pieces you reach for when you want your butt to look good. These are the pieces you reach for when you want to feel cool. And in 2015, cool trumps skinny.
Instead of an army of Fashion Girls All Marching Along in the season’s “new black” and cargo pants and dressing to hide their hips, people are finding their own path to style. Now, more than ever before, we’re using fashion to communicate something about who we are in that particular moment. We’re using clothing choices to convey a mood, a phase of our lives, something about ourselves we believe to be true. Something that goes beyond tiny waists and long legs. We’re trying on different personas, testing each identity to see if it fits. Of course, it can all change in a blink, the overalls left in a heap on the floor as we reach for a bit of pink tulle.
“I see you’re wearing your beret. Who are we spying on tonight?”
It’s liberating!! Feel liberated from the confines of style-based judgement!! Go on a journey of self-discovery with fashion as your guide!! Never forget the power of being a muse!!!!!!
Here’s where I’ll pause, waiting for applause. Go ahead and clap.
No?
I know what you’re thinking – style liberty is all well and good, but what – EXACTLY – does this mean, especially for the sleep deprived? For the vast majority of people who do not spend copious amounts of time pouring over blogs and mags and runway shows, who are not planning on taking any trips of self-discovery via denim underwear, thank you very much – what about us? How about some simple tips that would help freshen our look? Something to distract from the dark circles, something easy to pull on in the craziness that is school morning drop-off?
In other words, “blah blah blah, S – give us some damn rules already!”
Ok. If you’re looking for a little Fall style inspiration, and you’d like something more definitive than “the power of being a muse”, here’s where I’d start:
The New Rules* For Fall
(*I hate rules. Feel free to break them all.)
1. Crop Your Denim
Whether your denim of choice is skinny, bootcut, or flare, try cropping it to right above your ankle bone. You can hem it, but hacking it off with scissors a la 1996 works too. This is the best way to show off cool shoes. Which brings me to my next point….
2. Statement Flats. DO IT.
Everyone needs at least one pair of drool-worthy (yet still comfortable and walkable) flats. Lace-up flats are having a huge moment, leopard prints flats are always on point, or find a pair with cool embellishment: studs, fringe, something. These are the flats you reach for when your outfit is dying of boredom . If this totally isn’t your thing (or doesn’t fit your lifestyle), know what else fits into this category? Statement sneakers. Yes. (Shop my fav sneaks here and my favorite statement flats here.)
3. Dare to Flare
Flares are having a big, HUGE moment. If you haven’t invested in a pair, the time is now (here are my faves). The key for 2015? A high waist. So naturally, I must point out….
Madewell Flea Market Flares | Shopbop Cocoon Cardigan (on sale!) – size XS
4. Think Twice Before Buying Another Pair of Low Rise Jeans
I still have a few pairs of slouchy boyfriend jeans that I can barely keep on my hips. And yeah – I won’t be giving them up anytime soon. But NOW is one of those times jean silhouettes are shifting, and the high waist is where we’re headed. You’d be shocked at how modern even a pair of bootcut jeans can look when done in a truly high rise. They’re like the most flattering, 70’s inspired flare ever. So if you find yourself at the store, contemplating a low-rise jean purchase….put it down….back away slowly….and run! They may be on sale for a reason.
5. Tuck in Your Top
Tucking is having a major, major moment. How else can you show off that high-waist pant? This, I think, will be one of those polarizing trends that will take a while to seep in. Remember belting at the waist? It’s like that – they’ll be early adopters, and then, as we get used to seeing a different silhouette, it’ll be everywhere. If you aren’t much of a tucker (I’m so short-waisted I get that this is tricky), try the half-tuck. It’ll show off a high-rise pant without making your boobs appear to be resting directly on your waist.
BTW – this proportion is hard to pull off with skinnies and ankle boots. You can see why in this old article.
6. Wear Tall Boots With Something Other Than Skinny Jeans
The whole tall-boots-over-skinny-jeans thing is tired, you guys. It’s really, really tired. You’re much better off rocking those skinnies with moto boots, over-the-knee boots, sneakers – heck even a $30 pair of chucks are a fresher choice.
But you have the tall boots, right? They’re already in your closet. Freshen them up by pairing with skirts – midi, mini, denim, maxi, pencil – anything goes! Extra points for a button-up front. If your tall boots are somewhat slim, slide them under a pair of cropped bootcut or cropped flares when it’s cold for a completely modern look. (Shop my fav cropped jeans here). Or bust out your tall boots now with short-shorts and fringe bags for a 70’s inspired boho look.
But the tall boots and skinnies? Give ’em a break.
7. Think Beyond The Typical Statement Necklace
If your go-to accessory is still a blingy statement necklace, it’s time for an upgrade. Instead, try layers of delicate chains or sculptural chokers. Look for a statement necklace in fabric and leather, or find one with a really unexpected (read: funky) color palette.
Or swap the necklace out completely for a scarf. Oh….the scarves. Go super skinny or hugely oversized. Nothing in between. Rock an old-school bandana. Wrap one around your neck, or tie it on your wrist, your bag.
Arm parties are still a thing, but extend the party to your fingers. Layer delicate rings and bracelets with a few chunky pieces for a totally personalized look.
And the earring game! It has completely changed in the last few years. If you don’t know what crawlers, cuffs, or jackets are you’re in for a treat.
All of my favorite accessories can be found in the newly updated Accessories Shop.
8. Wear Over-The-Knee Boots Like It’s No Big Thing
Over-the-knee boots are no longer the shocking, Pretty Woman inspired footwear they once were. The flat ones are darnright practical – warm, comfortable to walk in, and so insanely chic. Throw them on over your workout leggings on your way to Barre class, slip them on with leggings and mini dresses all winter. Most will work with skinny jeans, too – even those pairs you’ve cropped, and are a much fresher option than tall boots. (Our top picks are coming!)
9. Swap Your T-Shirt For a Real Blouse
Don’t worry, I’m not about to give up my tshirts. But every once in a while, swap out your tee for a grown-up shirt: The Blouse. Peasant blouses, chambray, lace tops, off-the-shoulder, Victorian-inspired ruffled collar shirts, crazy patterns, plaid, shirts with a bow – something. My current favorites can be found in our new Fall Trends Shop – Shirts and Blouses.
10. Get a Major Knit
Knits have gone nuts, and this is one crazy-train you want ON. Look for a cool cardi with faux-fur trim, or unusual details. Try a unique shape – ponchos, capes, kimonos, blanket scarves – these can be used in place of your basic cardigan. Find something that doubles as a chic jacket – or heck!! Find a chic, soft jacket and wear it as a cardigan. The point is that you want something swoon-worthy. (And still “you”.) Our favs coming soon.
11. Pop A White Collar Under Everything
Boring sweater, meet white button-down shirt. Together you will go from snoozefest to a gamine sort of schoolgirl chic. Keep the collar buttoned, and extra points for either lipstick and major glasses, or loads of eyeliner. (Pick one.)
TUXE Bodywear Silk Top c/o – size XS | Everlane Short Sleeve Sweater c/o – size XS
12. Figure Out How To Wear Short Boots With Bare Legs
One of the easiest ways to elevate your style right now is to wear short boots with shorts, skirts or dresses. In other words…bare legs. Not all short boots are created equal, but I’ve had the most luck with sock boots (more on that here), tough moto boots, or ankle boots where I spoof a sock boot like below (black smartwool socks were key to making this look work).
13. Denim Isn’t Just For Jeans
Go beyond jeans with rompers, overalls, denim dresses, or denim skirts (of any length). I covered this trend in depth here. Also of note? Denim jackets. The traditional one, yes, but also look for trench coats, wrap coats, and peacoats all done up in denim. And those chambray shirts are still coming on strong – double denim isn’t going anywhere.
14. Modernize Your Color Palette
Push the boundaries by combining colors that may not necessarily “go”. The rule I use is that as long as there’s at least two pieces of any one color in your outfit, it works. The “it” colors are always changing, but in general, mixing up some uncommon color combos is a good way to keep your wardrobe fresh. For this fall, I’m especially loving army green with red (oxblood or true red), and tonal variations of the same shade (oxblood and red together, for example, or mint green with deep emerald green), and everything with rust orange.
Too scary? Try oxblood, navy and army green – it’s foolproof.
Corey White Poet Top (size XS)
15. The Rule For Everything: Pattern or Texture or Interesting Detail
My personal pet peeve is when a blogger posts something to Instagram with the caption, “It’s all in the details!”
GAH.
It’s not that they’re wrong – they’re so right it hurts – I’m just sick of reading that phrase. But there is a reason that this phrase has become a blogger-cliche: It IS all in the details, darn it. You’ll get more milage out of pieces that are special. You’ll have an easier time just throwing something together in the morning if you have a few outfit-makers hanging in your closet. Whether your definition of “interesting” means faux-fur or extra-long sleeves with thumbholes or an insane print….you’ll be happier wearing it.
That’s it! Snort. If you are still reading this Fall Trend Novella, I congratulate you (or offer my condolences). And may your year be filled with allll sorts of #musemoments.
xo!
S
ps. I’ve been working my butt off rounding up all of my Fall favorites. You can find them in the newly revamped shop menu – Shop Fall Trends. I have several trends up now (statement flats, cropped denim, accessories), and more coming soon. Any special requests? I’m currently working on Major Knits and OTK boots….
