The days are getting shorter. You’re starting to get tired of drinking rosé. You have to wear a sweater at night. Yup, we’re in the final stretch of summer, which means it’s nearly time to swap your summer dresses for a more substantial fall wardrobe. But before you do that, familiarize yourself with some of fall’s biggest trends. We scoured the runways to discover what you should wear over the next few months and narrowed it down into just seven major sartorial moments. From the color of the season to an unexpected jacket silhouette, here’s what you should be shopping for fall (and, BTW, you can get started ASAP).
These 7 Trends Will Be Huge This Fall & You Can Shop Them Now
Superwoman Capes
We don’t have to remind you that women are the actual superheroes of 2019. So why not wear a warm layer that only goes to prove that point? Instead of your usual trench, select a sleek cape that communicates your superpowers—whether it’s through chic feathers or tried-and-true camel.
Zara ($90), COS ($115), Rosie Assoulin ($379), Isabel Marant ($845), Marc Jacobs ($2,900)
Leopard As A Neutral (but Really)
We’re not kidding when we say there’s a leopard print for every personality this fall. Like to keep things monochrome? There’s a black-and-white blazer for you. More of an abstract type? Select an XL version of the pattern on a sequin frock. And then, of course, the purists can take their pick of classic leopard on every item of clothing possible to welcome the print as this season’s best staple.
H&M ($18), Velvet by Graham & Spencer ($147), Proenza Schouler PSWL ($595), L’Agence ($650), Retrofête ($685)
Take A Bow
This autumn we also recommend adopting a whole new mentality: When in doubt, put a bow on it. It can be a drastically oversized neckline detail (à la Erdem’s droopy knot) or a sweet, extra touch (like the black accoutrement on the sunny yellow Rodarte frock). Plus, this easy off-the-runway trend will make your average blouse feel that much more exciting, without veering too far from your signature style.
Zara ($18), J.Crew ($75), & Other Stories ($129), Endless Summer ($189), La Vie Rebecca Taylor ($250)
The New Power Suit
You wore short suits all summer long, so the next logical step is to transition that professional look for cooler weather. Skirt suits were all over the fall runways, but these were certainly not the frumpy versions of yore. Instead, look for versions with built-in waist-cinching belts, non-traditional blazers and unexpected fabrics (hello, leather). And instead of channeling Working Girl, consider wearing your 2019 suit with a no-nonsense pair of flat leather boots. Now you’re a lady who means business.
Suistudio Jacket ($419) and Skirt ($180), House of Holland Jacket ($605) and Skirt ($250), Alessandra Rich Jacket ($1,710) and Skirt ($530)
Minty Fresh
We can all agree that millennial pink had its moment (and a good one, at that), but the hue that’s going to be huge this season is a pale, minty green. Not only does the shade exude freshness (and the tingly feeling of mouthwash), but it’s also surprisingly versatile. Pair an oversize mint blouse with crisp blue jeans or use the hue as an accent, tying back your locks with a pastel scrunchie. And yes, definitely wear this shade to every fall wedding on your calendar.
Jennifer Behr ($98), Asics ($174), Staud ($215), Tibi ($375), Rejina Ryo ($415), Danse Lente ($430), Bernadette ($992)
Grown-up School Girl
Quite unlike the plaid skirt you were forced to wear from K-12, this trendy skirt has no undertones of a school uniform. Today’s iteration is served up in funky color schemes and updated cuts and can be worn with, well, any top you’d like. But if you want your tartan to really feel modern, pair it with an oversize coat or vest and a grungy T-shirt. Just don’t forget to finish the look with a polished pair of leather laceup boots.
1901 ($89), Vince Camuto ($99), Redvalentino ($420), MM6 Maison Margiela ($555), Ralph Lauren ($1,690)
Neon For Fall? Groundbreaking
If it feels like neon has been a trend forever, well, that’s because it has. But unlike the fluoro hues of spring and summer, these bright pops are deeper and more pigmented than before. And they’re also worn from head to toe. Is now the time to invest in a Day-Glo jacket? Absolutely. And can you really get away with an evening gown in a flash of neon? The answer is, “duh.”
Chimi ($146), Schutz ($180), Helmut Lang ($295), Retrofête ($670), Balenciaga ($995), Prada ($1,840)