We may be in the thick of summer, but stores are already filling up with fresh trends geared toward fall. While you’re steadfastly reaching for your breeziest dresses, lightweight tops and billowing skirts in the heat, it’s smart to start thinking about how your warm-weather hero pieces can transition into autumn. Similarly, for any newly acquired items, it’s wise to ensure they’re the type that can easily work now but also adapt to fall’s cooler temperatures. That’s where the latest trends come into play.
While feeling entirely fresh, fall’s newest looks are largely a continuation of styles that have been major in recent months (yes, that means a lot of ’80s and ’90s inspiration are carrying over), with items like puffy-sleeve tops, romantic dresses and square-toed shoes remaining at the top of the list. Updated even further for fall, these stylish staples (plus a few new ones!) are perfect for balmy nights and sunny days, which is why we’re all about wearing them now with summer accessories and a glowing tan.
Ahead, scroll on as we break down seven key items that will play a major role in your wardrobe come fall, yet still work perfectly in the present seasonal heat. We know you’re all about staying ahead of the trends, so here’s the savviest way to do so whilst incorporating your favorite pieces of the moment.
Fall Trends To Wear Now
Animal Print
From leopard to zebra, animal print is undoubtedly fall’s biggest trend. Start now with a chiffon wrap dress and pair with a straw bag and sandals. Come fall, swap for boots and layer on a chunky knit.
A Pop Of Neon
Electric shades made a huge mark on the fall runways, both as head-to-toe ensembles and subtler accents. For a polished approach to the trend, go for a ladylike piece like a blouse or midi skirt and balance with neutral extras.
A Puffy-Sleeve Top
Is there a single fashion girl who isn’t into puffy-sleeve tops right now? We think not. For fall, exaggerated sleeves continue, particularly via prim styles that can be worn to work and for casual occasions.
A Prairie Dress
We’re all about a bohemian maxi dress in warm weather, and fall’s version comes with romantic updates á la the Old West. That mean voluminous sleeves, feminine necklines and billowing skirts. This floral-printed version is as perfect with lace-up sandals as it is with chunky boots.
Square-Toe Shoes
It doesn’t get more '90s than square-toe shoes and fall is ushering in a wave of styles from kitten heels to pumps. Right now, strappy sandals are our preferred version for off duty looks but, at the office, a closed-toe mule is stylish with sophisticated pieces.
Tartan Checks
Checks and plaids feel decidedly fall and the newest iterations read very Cher Horowitz in Clueless. Take the trend for a spin in summer by opting for a cropped high-waist pant with a midriff-baring top. Come fall, swap for a cardigan and coat layered on top.
A Maxi Skirt
Midis have been ruling the skirt scene for several seasons but, for fall, lines are going longer and expanding into maxi territory. In the heat, style yours as a coverup with swimwear or with a tank and gold jewelry for a night out. Come fall, weightier tops and boots will replace your sunny essentials.
