Want to get in the mood for fall? Not easy in these scorcher, dog days of summer. Once the designers are unfolding their latest collections I start to get excited and anxious to begin planning the newest additions to my wardrobe. At first glance I was tempted to call this season “Fashion Impossible.” The photos feature exaggerated silhouettes and a homage to the eighties! Many appear outlandish, even comical. However, if you can filter through the drama and the over-the-top need to capture headlines, you can identify trends that are noteworthy and will find their way into wearable, buyable designs, particularly designs that are made with the Prime Woman in mind: pieces that reflect the elegant, essential person you are, no filter necessary.
Savvy customers are hungrier than ever for classic, luxurious styles with an emotional component that extends beyond the hyped up, high-gloss theatrical. You may have to do a little digging to find a style that fits your needs, but with a little perseverance you will discover a wide range of choices that are eye-catching and remarkably comfortable. I’ve highlighted 6 of the key trends for fall.
Enjoy comparing the catwalk fashions to the on the street interpretations you will be seeing this fall.
Street Style Statement Coats
Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Givenchy
It doesn’t matter whether you prefer a crazy, ornate print, something fluffy, or a design that’s wildly colorful. These one-and-done statement coats dominated the runways, whether layered or standalone. All you really need is a pair of boots to finish the outfit.
Animal Prints
Proenza Schouler, Victoria Beckham, Michael Kors
Animal prints never die. They may go into hibernation, but faithfully return every fall. This season saw the revival of classic leopard coats, but we were also introduced to tiger print, and these patterns could be spotted from a mile away when worn down to the shoes. It’s a throw-on-and-go, eye-catching outfit for the new season.
The Fire in Your Eye
Tibi, Oscar de la Renta, Sally La Pointe
This monochromatic look is fiery, slimming and oh, so chic. When you work varying tones from your head down to your toes, the result is actually quite pretty, and you’ll surely catch an admiring eye.
80s Redux
Calvin Klein, Zimmermann, Tibi
Take the exaggerated shoulders, kitten heels, and statement earrings that made a big return to the 80s a few seasons ago, and mix in Western accessories—think snakeskin booties, cowboy prints, and fringe—and don’t forget jeans. You’ve got a happy meeting of two very different yet appealing vibes.
Shearling Madness
Proenza Schouler, Tory Burch, Coach
This season was all about layering. A jacquard dress topped with a fuzzy vest clearly calls for just a little more texture, so introduce a shearling coat into your wardrobe, and make sure it’s the final statement piece.
A Plethora of Plaid
Derek Lam, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs
While you’re obviously familiar with check print, we’ve graduated from the return of the simple tartan coat to unexpected pairings and plaid worn in new ways — like asymmetrically across a dress or from head to toe in varying shades. This season, try mixing your plaids, not just by color, but by material (think wool scarves with nylon tote bags). Beyoncé is sporting Burberry’s latest plaid for her on stage performance!
Shop the Fall Fashion Trends
Sam Edelman Lior Genuine Calf Hair Loafer, $139.95
RtA, Jameson Leopard-print Coat, $655
Lord & Taylor, Knit High-Low Pullover, $80
1901, Stretch Wool Blend Sweater Blazer, $119
Ralph Lauren Double Knit Jersey Austine Dress, $600
Kuhl, Dani Sherpa Jacket, $228
Ralph Lauren Faux Shearling Moto Jacket, $280
Tibi Lavender Faux Shearling Jacket, $695
Tahari Plaid Jacket and Pantsuit, $129
Avec Les Filles Double Face Plaid Wool Blend Coat, $299
Michael Kors Geuine Calf Hair Elbow Patch Tartan Sweater, $850
