It’s fall, and you know what that means: pumpkin spice, Halloween treats, and cute and cozy fall outfits.
You may be excited to pull out your favorite boots and comfiest chunky knits.
But what if your fall style is more frumpy than it is fashionable? Make sure you look put-together even on chilly days by avoiding these eight common mistakes with fall fashion.
1. Lacking Creativity
There’s one outfit combination that almost everyone wears during fall: the basic knit-sweater-and-jeans outfit. You may also be familiar with another similar style, pairing jeans and a long cardigan with a t-shirt or basic top underneath.
While these outfits can be practical, they lack creativity. A simple sweater and jeans say nothing about your personal style.
If you’re guilty of repeating the same basic outfit every day in the fall, try getting creative by layering. This way, you can still stay cozy, while looking cute.
Layer leggings or tights under your summer skirts. You can even layer hosiery under shorts for a cool and casual look.
Another on-trend option is to wear a knitted vest over a fitted top, such as a turtleneck top.
Look to your wardrobe, and come up with some different layering formulations. And as for that sweater and jeans outfit, save it for just one or two days each week.
2. Shapeless Outfits
Clothes for fall weather tend to be thick and oversized. And after a summer of wearing little tops and shorts, baggy fall clothes can feel like a cozy blanket in comparison.
But your fall outfits don’t need to be shapeless. Some people make the mistake of wearing everything oversized, from a cardigan that is a couple of sizes too big, all the way down to the chunky boots on their feet.
If this sounds like you, remember that oversized is okay (and it’s often a fall fashion trend). However, oversized pieces should still be styled to show your shape.
Cinch your waist with a belt to create an hourglass effect, wear leggings that show off your long legs, or tuck in your top to define your waist.
And while big boots are always a fall favorite, they can actually add width to your legs and make you look shorter. Instead, opt for fashionable shoes that add personality, not bulk.
3. Forgetting Texture
After the dog days of summer, fall is the time when you can finally bust out different types of fabrics. But sometimes, we forget the variety of textures available to try.
Give your cotton and basic wool a break. Try experimenting with leather, suede, tweed, and soft cashmere. For example, add a faux leather skirt to your outfits for the fall, or wear a matching tweed blazer and skirt set.
Accessories can also add texture and interest to an outfit. Recent bag trends involve a lot of texture, from soft sherpa to industrial chains. Velvet jewelry can add a little glamorous texture to your fall outfit accessories. You can even try furry shoes, which have been popular in recent years.
4. Going Too Dark
When the weather cools down, many people gravitate towards dark, moody colors. But you can still embrace bright colors just like you did in spring and summer.
Look for rainbow prints and layering pieces in cheery colors.
And on that note, don’t be afraid to wear white after Labor Day. White can perfectly complement fall outerwear and footwear, which tends to be dark.
If you prefer to wear darker shades for fall fashion, try deep jewel tones instead of black and browns. Dark purple, emerald green, and crimson can add color without being overly saturated.
Remember, just because fall marks the death of summer does not mean you need to dress for a funeral.
5. Ignoring Proper Sizing
While this can be said for any season, it’s important to keep in mind that our bodies change. It’s natural! And your body may have changed since last fall.
When you switch your wardrobe from summer to fall essentials, be sure to check the fit of your clothes. Don’t be afraid to size up or down if needed.
If something needs to be altered, alter it at the start of fall so you can wear that garment in the coming months. This is especially important for tailored pieces like blazers and light coats, which should never look ill-fitted.
6. Not Changing Your Accessories
You might have a whole stash of chunky jewelry, hats, and scarves that you couldn’t wear during the hot summer months. Now is the time to bring them out!
Dainty summer jewelry can often get lost in the thicker fabrics and warm layers worn in fall. Swap out smaller jewelry and accessories for heavier and more eye-catching pieces.
Bold earrings or a toasty wide-brimmed hat can add some fun interest to your outfit and make a statement.
7. Repeating the Same Outerwear
When you’re out on chilly autumn days, people will see your outerwear more than what’s underneath. If you wear the same jacket or coat every day, then, your look can quickly become stale.
Change up your outerwear, ideally having at least three outerwear options for your outfits for the fall. It’s best to have one jacket or light coat that is casual but cute, one that can be worn on active and outdoorsy days, and one that is more polished and sophisticated.
If you have room in your fall fashion budget, avoid cheap outerwear from fast fashion stores. High-quality outerwear can be worn again and again each year, without needing to worry about it looking worn out or outdated.
8. Overlooking Garment Care
Fall and winter clothes often need special attention. Make sure you’re washing your knits properly or taking them to the dry cleaners if needed. Don’t make the mistake of forgetting to iron pieces like blazers and pantsuits.
Also, consider buying a fabric shaver to remove unsightly pills from sweaters and other knits.
Avoid These Mistakes With Fall Fashion
Fall marks the beginning of cozy, warm outfits, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look put together.
There are several mistakes with fall fashion that can leave you looking bland and boring. But with these tips, avoid looking frumpy and show off your best autumn outfits!
For styling tips for all seasons, check out our other articles on fashion and outfit inspiration!
