As much as I love fall—the cozy knits, pumpkin spice everything, and the beautiful change in scenery—it can also be a bit of a challenge when it comes to our wardrobes. Every season, there’s a slew of new trends, and while they look fabulous on the runway or in fashion blogs, sometimes it’s hard to know which ones work for us—and more importantly, which ones are worth buying.
I’ve heard from so many of you that it’s frustrating to purchase the latest trends, only to have them sit in your closet with the tags still on because you can’t figure out how to style them or it just don’t blend with what you already own, especially those of you who focus on capsule wardrobes or curating a wardrobe with timeless pieces.
Some of you have felt left out because the fashion influencers on the social media platforms seem to encourage our buying into all of the popular trends. I have good news you don’t have to incorporate trends into your wardrobe, the most important thing is that you curate your own unique style. You have the power to determine which of the current trends will make it into your wardrobe, and how you plan to incorporate the different pieces.
Today, I’m going to share my tried-and-true tips for incorporating fall trends into your everyday wardrobe, without breaking the bank or wasting money on things you won’t wear.
1. Do Your Research and Get Inspired
Start by watching a few trend videos, Fashion Week, or reading articles in fashion magazines on what’s hot this season this is a great way to see what the fashion industry is focusing on. You don’t have to dive into every trend, but it helps to see what’s out there and what might resonate with your style. As you consider trendy pieces, be sure to consider your body type, and whether any of the trends fit into your everyday style. This is my favorite part of the journey. As a young girl, fall was my favorite time of year. I’d go to the magazine counter and purchase thick fashion magazines and pour over them looking for the key elements of each season’s trends and styles.
Ask yourself: What inspires you? Are there certain colors, patterns, or styles that stand out? Are there any statement pieces that will make your wardrobe sing? Maybe you love the rich jewel tones that are trending this fall, or you’ve noticed that classic plaid is back in a big way. Make note of those trends that catch your eye and get you excited. It’s ok at this point to think outside your comfort zone–you haven’t bought anything yet–this is simply the imagining/planning phase. When I was young, I had to be very selective, firstly, there was no way I would be able to afford what I considered my ideal wardrobe, so I had to figure out which items would be the most versatile and what would be a great addition to my wardrobe. Often I would have to make pieces from scratch or adapt pieces I already owned to more closely fit the trends.
Next, head to your closet and pull out pieces that align with these trends. You might be surprised at what you already own! Perhaps you have a great pair of leopard print pants or a plaid scarf that would look great with this season’s little black dress tucked away. Start styling those pieces to see what works, and you’ll quickly identify any gaps in your wardrobe and whether adding a trendy item will fit into your wardrobe. If you have a capsule wardrobe, you might consider building out a complementary colorway or adding a print that works with the key pieces in your wardrobe. I learned that classic styles in neutral colors were the foundation of my wardrobe, but to develop a unique look, I had to be very resourceful.
2. Check your closet for similar items already own
Go through your wardrobe and pull similar colors and pieces you already own. See how far you can go creating trend-inspired outfits without purchasing anything. Then, figure out the gaps in your wardrobe and focus on finding those exact pieces. I eliminate trends and clothing pieces that I can’t style in different ways with my existing wardrobe, or pieces I can’t imagine wearing for a long time.
3. Shop With Purpose
Once you know have accessed your current wardrobe, you can shop with intention. Look for items that fill those gaps, but here’s the key: Style them with your wardrobe as soon as you get home. It’s the best way to ensure the new styles you have brought into your wardrobe will work and once you see how many outfits you can make, you are more likely to keep the item in your outfit rotation. Purchasing versatile pieces is key to having a wearable wardrobe that expresses your unique style.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve bought something, convinced it was perfect, only to get home and realize it doesn’t go with *anything* I own. By trying it on immediately with your existing pieces, you can see how it blends, and it increases the likelihood that you’ll actually wear it.
And remember, just because something’s trendy doesn’t mean it’s right for your lifestyle or wardrobe. Be sure to shop for things that *you* will enjoy wearing, not just because it’s “in.” An additional note here, don’t be afraid to take your time trying things on if you are at the store, and don’t be afraid to return items that don’t work–I know most people today aren’t afraid to return things, but I used to be nervous about returning things.
4. Think About Longevity
One question I always ask myself before buying into a trend is, “Will I wear this after the trend passes?” If the answer is yes, it’s worth investing in well-made pieces at a higher price point. Think timeless styles with a modern twist—those pieces will stand the test of time in your wardrobe. If I love one of the latest fashion trends but know it won’t stand the test of time, and I still really want it, I will look for it at a lower price point or check the thrift stores to see if I can find the item at a lower price point. That said, I am more interested in long-term investment pieces, as it is not only more cost-effective, but it is a sustainable way to build a signature style.
On the flip side, if you know that something will only be in style for a season, consider going for a more affordable version or skipping it altogether. Trends can be fun, but there’s no need to break the bank on something you’ll wear once.
I once purchased a classic blouse with a beautiful pleated sleeve. The sleeve was unique, and I knew that once the trend passed, it would make for a unique detail for future outfits. I still have and wear the blouse, and get comments on it every time I wear it–even though I have had it for almost ten years. Be on the lookout for this type of piece.
5. Focus on Small Updates
You don’t have to overhaul your entire wardrobe every season to feel fresh and stylish. Small updates can go a long way. If the idea of trendy clothing feels a bit much, why not update your accessories or makeup instead? Add a pop of color, statement jewelry, a new pair of shoes, or one of this season’s geometric patterns
Maybe you love this season’s color palette but don’t want to invest in a whole new wardrobe. Try adding a scarf or handbag in a trendy fall shade like burgundy or deep green. Even something as simple as switching to a richer lipstick or nail polish color can give you that feeling of being on-trend without the hassle (or the cost) of new clothes.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Opt Out
Lastly, remember that trends are just suggestions. If this season’s trends don’t speak to you, it’s okay to opt out! Fashion is meant to be fun and expressive, not something you *have* to do. If nothing excites you, consider skipping the latest styles altogether and just stick with what makes you feel good. You can always focus on classic pieces or update your look with accessories as I mentioned earlier. Some women incorporate vintage pieces in their wardrobes, creating their own unique style, rather than following seasonal fashion trends. I have done this numerous times. Sometimes the color palette for the season doesn’t suit me or doesn’t work with my capsule wardrobe. Other times it seems like everyone is wearing a trend, and I don’t want to follow the crowd. At times the clothes are too skimpy, think the sheer blouses of recent seasons, or the micro shorts and skirts. There is no way that this 65-year-old is going to wear those things.
I love French style, choosing clothing that goes with your unique shape, coloring and, and style rather than following the crowd and wearing a carbon copy of what everyone else is wearing.
Incorporating fall trends doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive–take them in small doses. The key is to focus on what you love, shop with purpose, and always keep your personal style in mind. Whether you’re adding a trendy statement piece, playing with a new color palette, or simply refreshing your accessories, make sure whatever you choose fits into your wardrobe and your lifestyle. Fashion should enhance your confidence and bring out the best in you—so enjoy the process and have fun with it!
If you would like to see how I incorporate trends, I’d like to invite you to visit my YouTube channel, where I show how I update my current style, experiment with different combinations, and create everyday outfits while incorporating small bites of high fashion trends and current fashion trends. I hope you will enjoy the videos, and that you will be able to breathe new life into your old clothes.
Do you have any fall trends you’re excited to try this year? Or maybe you’ve got a go-to way of incorporating new trends into your wardrobe? Let me know what you think of this blog post in the comments below, and let’s chat about it!
