Fall into Fashion

    It happened fast. You woke up one morning and noticed there was a chilly wind and chose your leggings over your norts. There was talk of the return of pumpkin spice lattes and harvest festivals. Just like that, summer is gone and fall is here. And with the new season, comes the need for a new wardrobe. Here are some of the trends that I have noticed from the social media sites of some of my favorite places to shop:

1) It's All About Boots

Photo courtesy of Red Dress Boutique's Facebook page

Short boots, long boots, riding boots, cowboy boots, combat boots. This season boots are EVERYWHERE. You may be thinking, "I've been wearing boots during the fall for forever, why is this different?" That's because this season, you'll be seeing a lot less of flats than usual. Knee-high boots have always been a fall staple but booties and combat boots are on the rise for this season. I for one was always scared to try the more trendy bootie due to my shortness and the army-chic combat boot but these styles are easier to pull off than you might think. Pair a bootie with a dress and tights to help transition you into being comfortable enough to wear them with jeans or even shorts. And wearing combat boots does not mean you have to go all out retro. Instead try wearing them with jeggings, piko shirt and a bulky scarf. Your normal prep look can be easily modified to include combats.

American Eagle Knit Jeggings

American Eagle Jegging Sweater

2) Burgundy is the Hot Color

American Eagle is one of the few major chain stores that I still shop at (although that might be because I also work there). The store is known for taking classic closet staples and giving them a new twist or updated look to fit new trends. Their new fall floor sets so far have included a LOT of burgundy. Most likely inspired by the color of changing leaves, burgundy is a great rich color that will flatter everyone, much like navy or black. The knit jeggings would look great paired with a white or cream lace top and chambray button up. The jegging sweater is made to be long and therefore would look fantastic with some leggings, boots, and a scarf or necklace. Both of these items can also carry into winter to help out your cold weather closet.

3) Florals

Photo courtesy of Dress Up Boutique's Facebook Page

Don't give up on your bright summer floral prints just yet! It looks like the trend is continuing into fall fashion. The colors are more muted and the clothing offers more coverage so as to keep you cozy as the weather changes. Tribal and geometric patterns seem to be continuing as well. Add a floral top with some jeans and flats and take a typical drab fall outfit to fab. Just because summer is over doesn't mean you have to let go of fun prints and colors.

4) Crops and Hi Rise

Photo courtesy of Entourage's Facebook Page

Your crop tank and high waisted shorts of summer is undergoing a transition for fall. The early 1990s throwback look is still in with new crop tees and tops as well as high rise jeans. Paired together, even the most modest girl won't have to worry about showing her midriff. Being short, I personally love this look as it balances out my short legs but longer torso. The look can also be made to look boho, prep or a combination of both if you so choose.

You can take inspiration from these fall fashion trends or start your own. The most important rule of style is to make something your own and be confident in what you wear. And if you're ever in need of more help, I guarantee that your favorite retailers provide a lot of great content and outfit inspiration on their social media sites. So get ready for Fall, it's going to get colder before you know it!