If fashion had a favorite season, it would definitely be fall. Following a long, hot summer, the weather finally starts cooling down, making way for us all to experiment with new design shapes, moodier color palettes, and—perhaps most importantly—the return of oh-so-luxurious tall boots. Additionally, the cooler temperatures provide ample opportunity to explore creatively layering old pieces, as well as mixing and matching classic patterns in fresh ways. This year, we’re seeing older color trends like cherry red taking on a life of their own, while summer’s favorite maximalist bag charms are riding into autumn alongside other statement accessories. Ahead, see eight of the biggest fall fashion trends this season, complete with expert insights and our top product picks.
Meet the Expert
All-Out Oxblood
We’re not reinventing the (color) wheel this autumn, but there’s still plenty of creativity. Variations of deep red, maroon, and burgundy might trend every fall, but content creator and stylist Yola notes that a distinct shade of red is taking the lead this year: oxblood. This warm, brownish-red exudes confidence and refinement (a.k.a. the perfect combo for quintessential fall ensembles).
Reimagined Skinny Scarves
Love it or hate it, allow us to break the news: Ultra-teeny neck scarves are making a nostalgic return. The variations on this trending style run the gamut from kitschy, boho-inspired designs to pared-back chiffon variations—so there’s lots of playfulness to explore here. Try pairing this ‘90s throwback with a plunge, boat, or off-the-shoulder neckline for maximum drama.
Pretty in Polka Dots
Yola is excited about the resurgence of polka-dotted patterns, especially heading into the cooler months. Simultaneously sophisticated and playful enough to walk a delicate balance between retro aesthetics and chic modern flair, polka dots are proving to be an unexpected staple for this fall. For a sultry date night look, consider styling a semi-sheer dotted top with dark wash jeans, an on-trend handbag, and dainty kitten heels.
Dramatic Faux Fur
We noticed a modern take on “mob wife” style on the runways earlier this year, and the trend looks set to come to fruition. As fall goes on, plus-size fashion stylist and content creator Aysia B. notes that we’ll likely see an uptick in fur and faux-fur textures—especially on hats, accessories, and outerwear. We’re also looking forward to trimmed cardigans, voluminous coats, and statement accessories that feel tailor-made for going out. If you needed any more convincing, look no further than Sabrina Carpenter’s bold, neon look in her “Please Please Please” music video.
“Furs are forever, but I’m excited to see [them in] a range of different colors,” Aysia B. explains. “Brown and taupe are the standard, but I can envision a bold pop when combining it with some of the top colors of the season.”
Posh Pinstripes
The hotly debated “office siren” aesthetic arrived at the start of 2024, bringing a heavy-handed dose of buttoned-up classics and even a bit of online controversy over what constitutes work-appropriate attire. This fall, however, we’re drawing inspiration from Da’Vine Joy Randolph’s high-glam Met Gala look.
Try exploring the more wearable side of this design with pinstripe dresses, wide-leg trousers, and going-out tops with plunge necklines. This look plays well with an after-work martini in hand (at least, in our humble opinion).
Gradient Grays
Aysia B. would argue that gray is one of the most under-appreciated neutrals (and we’d readily agree). From light heather to deeper charcoal shades, it’s a color range that holds versatility for layering during the cooler months. To keep things fresh, we’d recommend prioritizing interesting shapes and textures in your outfits—like a foldover waistline, asymmetrical neckline, and menswear-inspired details.
Maximalist Bag Charms
Maximalist accessorizing stands as one of fall’s emerging trends, especially when it comes to handbags. Keychain strings filled with darling charms, baubles, and other accessories bring a quirky yet sophisticated flair to otherwise standard fall outfits. “It has a sort of youthfulness, reminiscent of arts and crafts at a summer camp,” Yola says. “That also makes it so easy for everyone to participate. I created mine using stuff from a random drawer.”
Soft Baby Blues
As brands’ resort-ready collections fade into moodier autumnal palettes, we’re expecting to see mellow shades of blue across lounge sets, handbags, footwear, and belts. Looking for a delicate way to experiment with the trend? Try reaching for a powder blue pair of floral lace tights. This playful color is especially primed for mixing with the season’s other hot shade—deep red—for an unexpected spin on fall dressing.