Based on current runway trends and TikTok favorites, here are the latest fall and winter trends to invest in before the season is over.
This season is all about blending effortless sophistication. Fall/winter fashion this year embraces a balance between practicality and elegance.
Whether you’re escaping the city or perfecting your street style, these trends bring warmth, polish, and personality to every wardrobe.
Flowy minimalism
The overarching theme of this fall season is maximalism within minimalism. Just as this summer had its fair share of boho chic, this energy is being carried into the fall season. With large chains like Zara pushing long, flowy skirts and tops to the public this season, this trend is hard to miss. However, the focus remains on the business casual refinement of minimalism, which we have seen in the past two seasons. It also combines with the fabric and shapes of the maximalist wardrobe.
Escape from the big city
The “town and country” look has been prevalent this season, featuring dark, earthy plaids, layers, and a focus on functionality. Think sturdy wool coats, a tartan bag, or working boots, bringing in a little bit of the English countryside to your urban living. Here are some staples worth investing in:
Ponchos
The poncho has made its return; an item that was once left dusty in your mother’s closet is now on every fashion lover. In my opinion, the resurrection of this item may be due to the popularity of the scarf jacket, originally produced by Totême and later redesigned in multiple ways, which could have possibly led to the poncho’s comeback.
Trench coats
The trench is a forever fall favorite, and if you don’t have one already, it’s a great idea to invest in one. If a floor-length trench isn’t your thing, then you can pivot to a cropped trench. I have one of each, and both serve their purpose while looking stylish. Brands like Zara and H&M both have great options for each length, and if you’re feeling like treating yourself, a classic Burberry trench will last you forever. I have a cropped Zara trench and a classic long Burberry, and both have served their purpose and looked great.
Hunter boots
In terms of footwear, a Hunter boot is the king of functionality and rural chicness. With eternal options and colors, whether you’re trekking through the London rain or NYC snow, it’s the perfect outerwear to get the job done and keep socks dry. I personally prefer the short ones, but with so many styles and colors, finding one that suits you perfectly will be ideal.
Lacy blouses
In terms of inner garments, skirts, dresses, and tops with lace were featured on multiple models in the Fall/Winter Ralph Lauren show, and who else does country chic better than Ralph Lauren? Bringing that boho chic aesthetic into the fall creates a lovely vintage feel, nodding to holidays of the past.
Faux fur
Before we have to break out the heavy coats as the fall chill increases, a faux fur is the chicest way to elevate your wardrobe. Explore your favorite vintage market, and you might find a gorgeous vintage faux fur. Since they have been all the rage for a while, finding one at your favorite retailer is possible.
It’s also great for a conversation starter, for a night out, or an easy accessory to throw on with a pair of sunglasses after a long night out with your friends (that’s my favorite way to wear it). Either way, it’s an effortless elevator of any look. Additionally, a fur coat is as much a winter staple as it is a fall staple. But the real divas know they can stretch it into the spring season as well.
Trousers
Although jeans are a staple in my everyday rotation for morning wear, pairing a simple pair of trousers with a sweater is a combination that has stood the test of time. Both functional and chic, a caramel trouser definitely brings out the fall energy.
Colors
Where monochromatic once stood, now creating an outfit with different variations and shades of the same color is in, such as different shades of brown or black, to add dimension within the outfit. The Wardrobe Consultant refers to this as “color washing.” However, it’s not about throwing an outfit together without thought; it’s intentionally adding different shades to create interest within an outfit.
For example, a royal blue sweater, light-wash jeans, and navy blue shoes or boots is a great way to intentionally break up an outfit while nodding to a monochromatic look in a nuanced and everyday way.
What colors are trending for this season?
Earthy tones — As mentioned above, darker tones were seen all over the runway this season, from Burberry to Louis Vuitton. One can see patterns and plaids in shades of brown, black, and forest green.
Red — Just as last season, red has made itself a spot in the fall wardrobe. A complement of red, like a cardigan, shoes, or bag, is a perfect accessory to elevate your autumn outfits.
White — Using a pop of white to break up an outfit is a must in every season, but extra important in fall. We don’t want our outfits to always be as grey as the weather, so sticking to a white basic or two really helps keep the style eye-catching yet fun and light.
As the leaves continue to fall and the days grow cooler, fall fashion provides the perfect excuse to experiment with layers, textures, and timeless staples. Whether you’re slipping into a lace blouse, wrapping up in faux fur, or pairing your favorite trousers with a cozy sweater, this season is all about feeling confident and effortless. So grab that latte, throw on your poncho or trench, and step into the season in style.
