As the first chill of fall swept through the city, I realized something: my closet and my life had one thing in common — they both needed layers. Fall isn’t just a season; it’s a runway. Suddenly, we swap summer’s slip dresses for chunky knits, and iced lattes for pumpkin-spiced… well, everything. But as I zipped up my first pair of boots, I couldn’t help but wonder is fall fashion really about staying warm, or about turning up the heat?
On a recent girl’s trip to Chicago, I decided to do what I always do: mix business with pleasure and scope out what’s trending in the Windy City. The weather was a perfect 70 degrees, sunny skies, and everyone seemed to be in a good mood along the river and under the shadow of those iconic skyscrapers.
Of course, the classics made their appearance. Corduroy and knee-high riding boots strutted down the streets after all, would it even be fall without them? Chicago has a way of keeping its fashion smart and polished, and I loved seeing sweaters draped casually over shoulders, layered with collared shirts and vests. Transitional dressing at its finest.
But what really caught my eye? Mesh long-sleeve, off-the-shoulder tops. This was a refreshing departure from the predictable fall uniform. And then there was the dark chambray, nothing groundbreaking but styled to perfection.
I’m predicting we’ll be seeing plenty of leopard print this season, riding the coattails of last year’s western trend, only this time with unexpected color pairings like mustard yellow, warm browns, and deep navy. It’s refreshing to see fall palettes expanding beyond the usual burgundy and olive.
So, is this the season we finally stop playing it safe? From where I’m standing, the girlies are showing up to shine, rewriting the rules of fall fashion one outfit at a time. Whether this moment becomes a fleeting trend or a new seasonal staple, I, for one, can’t wait to see how it all plays out.