Fall is such a fun time of year to update your wardrobe. With the ever-changing weather, each day is a new opportunity to layer and get creative. As the temperatures (finally) start to lower and the nights get cooler, nothing is more exciting than scooping up some transitional pieces that will work through the winter and add some updated colors to your closet! Here are our favorites…
ANYTHING-BUT-BASIC BLAZER
A chic high-quality blazer works perfectly for an early fall outer layer and a tailored look for later in the season. We love the latest colors from Ann Taylor Loft, including this neutral toned glen plaid with tortoise buttons and the classic camel with brass buttons. While it’s warm, cuff the sleeves and wear yours over a camisole with cropped slacks and a breezy open back mule loafer. As temperatures cool, consider pairing your blazer with jeans and a vintage tee or even a fitted cashmere mock-neck sweater and booties!
FUNCTIONAL — AND FASHIONABLE! — SCARVES
What works as an accessory this fall becomes a must-have this winter when you opt for a scarf that mixes trendy prints with cozy construction. We love Forever 21 Red’s huge assortment of fall and winter scarves, which are knitted for maximum warmth, and designed for maximum style. Try a preppy herringbone print like this one to add a sophisticated layer to your work look now, and then wear it with your prettiest pea coat this winter. For extra style points, pair a cheetah print over a light bomber jacket when the fall winds pick up.
MOCK TURTLENECK
There’s something so stylish about a fitted mock-turtleneck! From the slimming effect of the long sleeves and high neck to the totally practical warmth they provide, nothing says fall like a turtle! Forever 21 Red has tons including this ribbed mustard mock and this super soft burgundy option! Tuck into a pair of high-waisted skinny or relaxed fit jeans this fall, then add under layers of soft thermals and button-downs this winter. Pro tip for the turtle: try pulling hair back away from your face in a clip or pony and adding a statement earring as a way to elevate this conservative cut!
THE ULTIMATE COZY SWEATER
From high-pile knits to ultra soft merino and cashmere influences, and every rib and bauble and weave in between, we are calling 2019-2020 the winter of the sweater. Start now with a lightweight knit in a beautiful fall hue over a pair of light-weight cropped jeans or even a midi skirt! When the weather gets serious, mix your prints by layering any sweater over warm flannel or denim button-down shirts. Francesca’s has a great assortment, including this fun bordeaux and burnt orange cheetah crop, and this adorable beige sweater with heart details on the sleeves.
ATHLEISURE
Athleisure is still having its major moment and we are here for it! I mean, who doesn’t love the idea of being comfortable while actually looking put together at the same time? Whether you’re actually hitting the gym, running errands or experiencing all the fun activities around town, this look never fails – and it all starts with the leggings. Nike Outlet has a huge selection of leggings and tights that smooth, flatter & stay put; perfect for any marathon — whether it’s a holiday fundraiser run or just Netflixing on the couch! We love these pumpkin-colored seamless leggings the most. For early fall, top your leggings off with a pullover which will provide all the warmth you need until winter arrives. Then, consider layering your teddy bear soft pullover like this one we got at Express under an all-weather running jacket to complete the look and keep you warm on your way!
THE ORIGINAL LAYERING SWEATER + JACKET COMBO
If Tommy Hilfiger didn’t invent the lightweight cable knit sweater, they made it famous with their signature logo on the chest and their rainbow assortment of colors. Each year they change up the look just a little and add fresh new hues to their collection. This year is no exception, and the Tommy Hilfiger Outlet is currently rolling out multiple colors and styles for everyone’s favorite cable. We adore this warm oatmeal hue but you can never go wrong with a pop of color (especially red in Chief’s country, are we right?) Don’t forget to layer with the classic Tommy Hilfiger jean jacket for a timeless fall and winter look. Start with cuffed sleeves and a brightly colored chino and finish the year off with boots, black denim and a fun scarf to enjoy these pieces throughout the seasons!
LIGHTWEIGHT LEATHER THAT LASTS
When it comes to fall, nothing is more timeless and trendy at the same time as a staple leather jacket. Wilson’s Leather has a myriad of ultra-high quality leather jackets, including these lightweight options in all the hottest colors, like hunter green, blush pink, and of course, black. For fall, leave unzipped and work the leather alone over a tank or your favorite floral dress. As things chill out, start experimenting with layers underneath to add warmth to your natural wind-breaker. We love the look of a zippered hoodie peeking out the neckline of these sleek styles. A fuzzy sherpa-style jacket can also add unlimited warmth and a soft and cozy balance to your tough exterior.
BOTTOM LINE: Look for all the latest colors in some of your go-to styles to make this fall feel fresh and new. Then as we get closer to the holidays, start piling on the layers! It’s a great way to showcase multiple pieces at a time and it’s truly your best bet against our blustery midwest winter!
