As the weather cools and the leaves change, tank tops turn into sweaters and familiar fashion trends reemerge. Autumn is a season that feels like embracing familiarity, and while slightly different stylistic choices are present, certain trends seem to remain constant through the changing of the leaves.
Despite the fast-paced atmosphere that is the fashion world, with crisp air comes an array of flannels. They can be styled in a variety of ways, from a grunge, thrifty look to having them classically tied around the waist. The flannel, baggy jeans and Doc Martens combination has become a popular option, mixing a trendy aesthetic with the comfort and functionality of the flannel. The flannel has yet to fail to bring about a sense of simplicity and enjoying the little things in life, a mindset embodied by the slowing down of life during this time of year.
The sweater is a staple of the season, leaning into the coziness that the chill air inspires. The versatility that comes with a sweater is nothing to sweat at. An oversized sweater is perfect for comfort and akin to the warmth of a hug. It can be styled with baggy pants for a casual, relaxed vibe, or it can be dressed up with an elegant skirt. Along with sweaters comes cardigans, a garment that has been popularized in the last couple of years. Cardigans are an optimal way to stay warm while also showing off the clothes underneath. They can keep you warm, without making you sweat too hard while walking to class.
Like with summer motivating bright and airy colors such as yellows, reds and turquoise, autumn brings about its own array of colors. It is as if the volume of colors is turned down a couple notches, leading to a quieter, yet sophisticated palette. Darker greens, reds and oranges are optimized, along with browns, olives and chestnut-colored items. These shades reflect the quiet comfort of watching the sun set earlier, and the beauty of the changing environment.
Nostalgic film characters such as Bella Swan, Elena Gilbert and Rory Gilmore’s outfits remain iconic and continue to inspire autumnal looks. The layering of fitted long-sleeve shirts over lacy camisoles remains a sought-after look, despite “Vampire Diaries” ending eight years ago. Elena Gilbert embraces rich, romantic hues, such as a deep burgundy or a dark, royal blue. The academic, girl-next-door ensemble that Rory Gilmore wears, inspired by the early 2000s, feels almost timeless. Bella Swan’s ability to appear comfortable and effortless, yet incredibly cute and on theme for the season, influences the apparel of this time of year. She leans into the earthier tones of the season, reflective of her grounded and sensible style. The thing that these three characters have in common is the emphasis of fall in their world, and the impact of that on their wardrobe is clear. Their repeated appearance on fall fashion Pinterest boards is indicative that many relate to and aspire to dress similarly.
As with the other seasons, every style has its way of conforming to fall. The preppy look invites people to lean into plaid and collared shirts under sweaters or crewnecks. Cottagecore, while favoring the spring season, can be utilized in the fall with loose silhouettes and patterns of florals and ginghams. Grunge outfits are set up for success, as the cooler days position jeans, t-shirts, beanies and flannels well.
Fall fashion is about being reunited with the familiar and embracing comfort like an old friend. Each year, we are met again with the same patterns, textures and colors, presented in a variety of ensembles. Whether it’s through the warmth of a sweater, the nostalgia of a flannel or the cinematic influence of characters we grew up with, autumn flair reminds us to slow down, embrace simplicity and find beauty in the fading light of the season.
Macy Gilbert can be reached at [email protected]
