By Lauren Zazzara
Contributing Writer
From what my weather apps are saying, it looks like this week is going to bring fall-like weather with highs in the ‘60s. Some may be mourning the end of summer, but I am eagerly awaiting being able to turn off my fan and cuddle up in blankets while drinking hot apple cider. My favorite part about fall, however, is the fashion. During the fall, especially at the beginning, there are so many options. You don’t need to put your summer clothes away just yet. Instead, you can mix them with cozier items that will prepare you for the windy and falling leaf-filled days ahead.
I love sweaters. I just can’t get enough of them. During the fall and winter (and admittedly even in the summer) whenever I go thrift shopping, I go straight to the sweater section to see what I can find. At the mall, I cannot pass up a cute and oversized knit. Patterned, solid, cropped, long, whatever – as long as it is slightly oversized and keeps me warm—I can’t resist. These sweaters go with everything. You can easily throw one on over a summer dress or with a skirt of any length. You can also pair them with skinny jeans or denim shorts. When I dress mine up with a dress or skirt, I like to throw on either a lightweight infinity scarf or a statement necklace. If it’s chilly, a pair of tights and boots will keep you warm. With jeans or shorts, try layering a few necklaces to add some interest and pair with sandals or Converse sneakers. Guys can easily wear sweaters with a pair of cargo or colored shorts and transition them to colder temperature days with a pair of straight leg jeans.
I consider the most versatile item to be a pair of jeans. Denim is always in style, especially during the fall. I prefer mine to be a vintage-style fit with a higher-rise and a skinny leg. With jeans you can wear anything on top. A summery tank top or flowy blouse is good for those days when it’s still pretty warm outside, but when it’s cooler, a sweater or thicker long-sleeve shirt will work well. I love skinny jeans in particular because they allow your shoes to stand out. I also like wearing sandals such as Birkenstocks with skinny jeans on warmer days. When it’s cooler outside, I roll my jeans up above a pair of booties. For the guys, jeans with a button-down or thin sweater always looks great. Finish off with a pair of sneakers or desert boots.
Outerwear appears in all of the stores in the late summer and early fall as retailers anticipate customers searching to keep warm and layer up during the coming months. During the winter, it’s necessary to wear a thick winter coat to keep warm. During the fall, there are so many options for outer layers. For example, you can choose a big grandpa-style cardigan to wear over a dress, a skirt or a tank top knotted at your waist. A denim jacket works well with jeans of a different wash or a maxi dress. Perhaps try a leather jacket to add a little edge to an otherwise feminine outfit. I’m currently on the search for a big olive-colored anorak to add a laid back vibe to dressy outfits. For guys, a leather jacket or zipper hoodie can add warmth. You can try wearing both types together to conserve even more heat. I find that Forever 21 usually has great options for fall jackets for reasonable prices.
I hope you all have a fashion-filled week and fall season!
