Animal Motifs, Leather and Layers: Achieve a Fashion Forward Fall

by Kerri Cooke

It’s time to start thinking about fall! Though it’s still hot outside, you can observe the change of season by assessing clothing inventory at your favorite department store or boutique. Be on the lookout for these cold weather trends.

Green has been a dominant color in 2024 and will continue to gain momentum in fall and winter collections. While green has been synonymous with Brat summer, lime-green, olive and other muted shades across the spectrum will emerge as the air gains a chill.

Animal prints never go out of style. Leopard print specifically will hold us in its clutches during the colder months. Don’t be afraid to clash patterns.

Fur jackets and coats, whether it’s faux fur or real hair, will be at the top of buying lists as the market benefits from the popularity of the mob wife aesthetic. Think rich European wife who is a boss and travels whenever she wants. Expect coats to also be available in shearling and yarn-based materials.

Layering, or rather faux-layering, is a trend that will make itself known this fall and winter. Clothing with built-in layering will give the illusion of layers of fabric. Expect bulky sweaters with contrasting layers of fabric sewn together.

Sets continue to be popular but will be available in knit material for the change of season. Knits are cozy and warm, perfect for a day sipping hot chocolate while reading or working from home. Victoria Galaviz, owner of Ladies of the Lake, says she has begun stocking up on knitted sweaters and two-piece sets. “Shoppers love a fashionable yet comfortable set they can dress up or wear for an easy, lounging day.”

2024 has taken the most definitive step against skinny jeans that we have seen in many years. Wide-leg pants are available everywhere. Pair some wide-leg slacks with a neutral blazer and you have an elegant and effortless outfit.

Leather jackets are as popular today as they were twenty years ago. Everyone deserves to own at least one black leather jacket. The moto jacket is a timeless piece and can be styled in numerous ways. Grab a cropped jacket or outerwear with a structured, elegant fit and you’ll ooze class.

Statement collars will add drama to wardrobes this fall. Funnel neck coats are returning to popularity, as are ruffle and shawl collars. A bold collar will stand out in a crowd.
Tweed, herringbone, and plaid are timeless must-haves for any fashion-forward collection. Tweed is reminiscent of a classic Chanel suit, while herringbone and plaid are patterns synonymous with fall and winter.

Ski wear offers effortless chic style. Princess Diana was famous for donning it. Expect Fair Isle sweaters to be all the rage. And don’t forget to break out a graphic sweater with the phrase “apres ski” printed, embroidered or knit into it.

’60s inspired dresses a la Jackie O will hit shelves and offer an effortlessly feminine approach to your winter wardrobe. Add a pair of statement gloves and you’ll be ready for a glamourous date night.

Put The Prep In Your Step

Must-Have Shoes for Autumn

by Kerri Cooke

An outfit isn’t complete without the perfect shoes. As we transition into fall, a wide range of retro styles are back in fashion.

Chunky sneakers have been at the height of popularity the last few years but skinny sneakers are entering the arena again. With the soaring popularity of the sleek Adidas Sambas, retro and preppy sneakers are dominating trend reports.

Loafers are comfortable, elegant, and can be worn for work or play. They can even give you a boost of height if you buy platforms.

Mary Janes continue to be popular. The silhouette is showing up in heel and flat forms. Grab a pair of bright red Mary Janes this fall and you can channel Dorothy from OZ while viewing “Wicked” in theaters.

Mesh flats have already hit the streets. Perfect for a day out on the town, mesh flats can be simple or bedazzled. They offer comfort and effortless style.

Thong heels are a high-class alternative to summer’s flip-flops. The lift of the heel and the skinny straps lengthen the legs and slenderize the foot. This style looks especially chic in a range of basic and neutral colors.

Tall and mid-length moto boots are perfect for pairing with a leather biker jacket on a cold day. Moto boots are masculine in silhouette. If you love the utility trend, motos are a necessity.

You can never go wrong with a pair of thigh high boots. Whether the shoe is made of patent leather or suede, these leg-framing shoes are more feminine than the moto boot alternative.

In SWLA, Cowboy boots are popular every year regardless of the season. With the rise of cowboy fashion, which received a boost due to Beyonce’s country album earlier this year, owning an intricately detailed pair of cowboy boots has become all the more hip.