Is there a better season than fall for fashion? We think not. From cozy sweaters to sleek boots, there’s so much to have fun with as soon as the temperatures begin to drop. Each year, we count down the days until we can pull out a blazer and a scarf. And we’re not above pretending 70 degrees is cool enough for cashmere.
And, while fall is a season where classic looks reign supreme, there are always new trends, as well as some that are cycling back in style.
Want to spruce up your closet with a few new buys? Here are the fall style trends two Northern Virginia stylists and one shop owner say they’re adding to their wardrobe.
Modern Prep
Style is headed back to school this fall, with academic-inspired sweaters and professor chic blazers taking center stage. Catherine Calabrese Bushera, owner and wardrobe stylist at Style By Cat, is calling it “modern prep,” and she’s loving this updated, fresh take on old favorites. “Think polished but not stuffy: crisp button-downs, pleated skirts, loafers, and updated blazers. It’s Ivy League with a twist, more ‘cool professor’ than old-school uniform,” says Bushera.
Fashion stylist Naina Singla adds, “Preppy is back this season and we are seeing lots of polo neck sweaters. With its collared neckline and clean lines, this knit strikes a nice balance between polished and relaxed.”
She recommends pairing the look with tailored trousers or wide-leg denim for a modern look. “I just added this cashmere one to my wardrobe from Vince. You can wear it to the office, style it casually on weekends, or use it as a layering piece for transitional weather. It’s one of fall’s most wearable and fresh wardrobe additions,” says Singla.
Town & Country
Dreaming of weekend afternoons out in Loudoun County? You’ll definitely want to jump on this fall trend. Town & Country blends that hunt country timeless style with a sophisticated edge. Bushera says, “It’s a little bit equestrian, a little bit après-hunt (without the hunt). I’m loving tailored tweeds, riding boots, quilted jackets, and luxe knits that feel equally at home in Georgetown or wine country.” Throw on a suede skirt with a pair of riding boots or invest in a splurge-worthy barn jacket.
Elevated Athleisure
This fall, athleisure is no longer reserved for Pilates and errands. It’s getting an elevated look that is suitable for running around town, meeting up with friends, and staying comfortable through the chaos. Track pants get an uptown look, while sporty jackets take on a chic silhouette. “Real life calls for comfort!” says Bushera. “Matching sets in cozy fabrics, sleek sneakers, and oversized coats that make even a coffee run and school drop off look intentional. The key is fit and fabric — casual can still feel polished.”
Sumptuous Textures
Fall is the season for layering, and layers are made infinitely better when they involve sumptuous, must-touch textures, like soft corduroy and buttery leather. “Fall is all about textures this year,” says Kaley Carillon, owner of Monkee’s of Fairfax. “Leather, corduroy, and suede are everywhere from dresses to blazers and booties. Find many of these trends in the ‘it colors’ of the season, like chocolate brown and burgundy.”
Singla echoes that sentiment. “Suede is one of the biggest trends of the season, bringing a rich, tactile element to fall wardrobes. The texture feels modern yet timeless, and it adds instant depth to any look.”
Singla recommends starting with accessories if you want to try out the trend, and Mansur Gavriel’s suede tote is one that’s on her wish list this season.
Romantic Lace
“Romantic yet modern, lace trim is emerging as one of fall’s most refined details,” says Singla. “This season it’s less about overt femininity and more about creating subtle contrast. Think soft, delicate edges paired with structured or cozy layers.”
One of her favorite pieces is this silk skirt from Reformation, which is opening soon in Tyson’s. It blends chocolate, which is a must-have color this season, with satin and lace details. She suggests pairing it with a soft, cozy cashmere knit and sophisticated black boots. “Finish the look with an oversized black leather bomber. I love the softness of lace played against an edgier layer with the leather jacket,” says Singla.
Feature image courtesy Catherine Calabrese Bushera
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