For fall, fashion is breaking out of its typical trend cycle and embracing individuality. It’s a refreshing concept that seems to celebrate a smattering of styles rather than just one set of rigid standards.
It’s the opportunity to “go your own way” and try mixing it up, sticking to tried-and-true classics or maybe a bit of both. Anything goes this season, and you can wear and interpret the trends as you want and still be in style.
Here are several standout themes from the runway to provide inspiration when building your fall wardrobe.
Patterned hosiery
A play on traditional fishnets and graphic patterned tights puts a new twist on heavy fall pieces.
Who did it best: Rodarte, Proenza Schouler and Tommy Hilfiger.
How to wear it: Let the tights be the sole statement item. Pair them with understated, neutral items such as a gray or black skirt and black oxfords or closed-toe heels or ankle boots.
Mod
A-line miniskirts, skintight turtleneck tops, pointed-toe Chelsea boots and graphic acid bright prints are reminiscent of the edgy 1960s look, but with a modern-day spin.
Who did it best: Louis Vuitton, Jonathan Saunders and Fendi.
How to wear it: A little mod goes a long way, so temper an A-line skirt or dress with more contemporary pieces. If wearing acid bright shades, pair them with solid black or camel, and keep makeup minimal and neutral rather than cat eyes and matte lipstick to ensure you don’t teeter into costume territory.
Bold prints
From acid bright color blocking to leopard, plaid and strong stripe prints, graphic, eye-catching graphics are everywhere this season.
Who did it best: Dior and Miu Miu.
How to wear it: As eclectic and unexpected as possible (if you dare). On the runway, prints were all mixed together. Try blending animal prints with stripes, or plaid with something textured.
Luxe knits
Sumptuous sweaters done in drapey and cozy silhouettes are perfectly practical for fall weather.
Who did it best: Victoria Beckham and the Row.
How to wear it: With leather pants or sleek trousers to add some structure to the loose shape.
Romantic Victorian
Check out ruffle-neck and bow-neck blouses; long, full skirts, and rich fabrics with a purely romantic edge.
Who did it best: Alexander McQueen and Alberta Ferretti.
How to wear it: Light flourishes work best. Choose one detail, such as the long skirt or a ruffle neck or sleeve, to avoid looking like a character from a period piece.
The pantsuit
Slim or flowing, tailored and double-breasted, the season’s new suit is part dandy and part traditional and the perfect uniform for fall.
Who did it best: Prada, Dior and Chloe.
How to wear it: With a nod to the ’60s, meaning bold hues, pointed lapels and cropped pants. Keep the blazer buttoned up, so the waist remains cinched in and sleek. Feminine footwear such as a pointed-toe flat or ankle boot tempers the masculine silhouette.
Goth
Prepare to take a walk on the dark side with all-black ensembles, dark and heavy fabrics and even long black gloves that feel traditionally goth but far from gloomy.
Who did it best: Givenchy, Alexander Wang and Marc Jacobs.
How to wear it: Drop the solemn vibe by making sure fabrics aren’t head-to-toe heavy. All black is totally acceptable but not when done in an overwhelming way.
Global tapestry
Boho is back (again). The “gypset” (jet-setting gypsy) look is in full swing with patchwork patterns, embroidered details and globally inspired outerwear.
Who did it best: Burberry Prorsum and Tory Burch.
How to wear it: This boho look isn’t subtle. Fringe, tassels, texture and maxi lengths are all major trends.
