Depending on where you are located, it may or may not feel like fall is in the air. Here in Dallas, it decidedly does not. However, we will remain hopeful for cooler temperatures and begin planning our fall wardrobes, nevertheless.
Before we get into my personal recommendations, let’s look at the general trends of the season beginning with color.
Top Trends
A Color Story
There are tons of neutrals this season with autumn shades leading the pack: rusty reds, deep golden tones, and dark olive. As if to perk us up, designers also gave us bright colors including hot pink, poppy red and marigold. If I had to pick a color of the season, it’s cinnamon (like the color I’m holding in the photo above). If warm tones don’t work as well with your coloring, do smaller pops of it with a handbag, a boot or a belt.
Knits
Knitwear is everywhere. You’ll see lots of cozy sweaters, sweater tops, vests, dresses, skirts and coats. If you live in a warmer climate like me, you might opt for something that is 100% cotton. Cable knits remain popular, as well as slim cashmere and Fair Isle sweaters.
Take up Space
Oversized outerwear is also a hot trend, as well as statement sleeves and ruffles. You will see a lot of bomber jackets and puffer coats this fall. Every sleeve seems to have volume or a statement cuff. The spring romance has bled into fall with tiered dresses and delicate fabrics.
Boots
The statement boot continues as a strong trend. Pick your poison. It’s all “in,” especially any boots with a platform sole. There are over the knee, lug soles and even boots that look like armor.
Tailoring
The boxy, strong shoulder blazer in a plaid or a texture is the hottest third piece this season. Pair it with a beautifully draped pair of trousers.
Cinched Waistlines
Although the outerwear is big, waistlines are visible in high-waisted jeans and trousers. There were a lot of belts on the runway. Check yours to see what needs an update.
Fashionista’s Favorite Collections
To get a visual on some of these trends, take a quick look at Fashionista’s favorite collections of Fall 2021.
My Recommendations
A Sweater Knit
One can never go wrong with a simple third piece that you can throw on over anything. This season is all about a sweater vest. This one (photo above) from Madewell can be worn alone, over a t-shirt or over a blouse as needed. A close runner up is a short-sleeved sweater that can be worn alone while it’s warm and under a blazer once it cools down. For more coverage and warmth, here’s a super fun rainbow-colored sweater cardigan by Farm Rio. Try this Madewell simple long cardigan for the office.
Casual Jacket or Vest
I love all jacket styles, but my #1 choice this season is a lightweight bomber jacket. The reason I favor a bomber is there’s extra room to wear it over your sweaters, and it has a chill, relaxed vibe. The Athleta Brooklyn bomber (photo above) is sporty, but you can dress it up with a blouse, jeans and heels. For something more casual, I love the Everlane Cinchable Chore Jacket. And this rosy colored chore jacket by Madewell is also great.
A vest is great for a warmer climate like Dallas, but you can wear it over a cashmere sweater in cooler climates, too. A vest has a tough vibe to it. I’m still crushing on this vest by Bernardo. I have this Barbour vest in navy, and it’s one of my favorite third pieces.
Slip on Boots
I like ease with my clothing, and there’s nothing easier than a slip-on Chelsea boot. I prefer a lug sole like these from Nordstrom Rack or these from Madewell. However, Chelsea boots come in all varieties like this dressy block heel (photo above) by Madewell. Get an ankle rain boot before you need it. You’ll be thanking me during a winter downpour. I like these from J. Crew Factory and these from LOFT.
Loafers
I’ve been trying to convincing just about everyone that they need a heeled loafer. I know they aren’t for everyone, but I sure love mine. Preppy dressing is super hot this season. Wear loafers with jeans and your favorite crisp top, and you’re done. Franco Sarto makes a nice one for a good price (photo above). This gray wedge style by Clarks is funky yet cool. If you’re ready to go “out there,” this Tory Burch loafer with shearling on top of the loafer is great.
One Great Top
Your Zoom meeting tops need a refresh. As I was explaining in a recent Instagram post, I love blouses. They go well with jeans for a girls night or tucked into a pencil skirt for a dressy, sexier vibe. Ann Taylor is giving us some nice options like this crew neck with a heart print. This pleated satin blouse is a looser fit for those who like their tops to flow over their midsection. This cheetah print top by Rails is subtle.
Silk Scarf
Right now is a great time to wear a silky scarf to add interest and color to your outfit without adding a heavy layer. Remember it can double as a face mask in a pinch! I like mine tied to my handbag. I love this one by Kate Spade (photo above) and this one by Ann Taylor.
Fall Shopping Catalog
Don’t forget to check out the fall catalog I created recently. Although I can’t guarantee all the items are still in stock, it’s a great place to look for ideas. There are many more great options in the catalog beyond my recommendations above, so do check it out.
What I’ve Bought
So far, I’ve bought these sneakers, these boots and this belt. Two tops from Zara are on the way, this pink poplin shirt (part of their #joinlife collection) and this oversized floral one-shoulder top (photo above; it is presently sold out).
A friend recently tie dyed a silk blouse for me. Stay tuned for its unveiling. I bought a few pieces at the end of the winter season earlier this year, including the blue sweater above. Suffice to say, I’m set for fall/winter. How about you?
Need Help?
I’m here to make your wardrobe transition to fall smooth and easy. I know shopping can be stressful and working with your current wardrobe can be confusing. What to wear? Let me help! Send me an email: bethany@bethanysiggins.com or send me a message through my website. Let’s get your wardrobe working for you!
Wishing you a wonderful start to your fall season!
