My 2023 Fall Fashion Staples

For a long time, I felt like my fall and winter wardrobes were pretty set, and I didn’t change my looks very often. This fall feels different, and I think much of it has to do with the fact that I moved this year, meaning that I got rid of a lot of clothes I no longer wore. Also, this is the first fall that in addition to being a student, I am also working in an office. Over the past few weeks, I’ve noticed that my fall fashion is rooted in layers, neutrals, and loose silhouettes.

Layers

Layers for fall? Groundbreaking. We all know it’s that weird time when you can go from feeling hot to cold in minutes, and layering is a great way to combat the up-and-down temperature battle. Whether it’s a thin turtleneck under a crewneck, or a denim jacket over a sweater, layering is the way to go for fall, and I’ve found myself playing around with this idea. One of my favorite looks has been pairing a striped blue, red, and orange long-sleeve (that definitely gives Rory Gilmore vibes) with an oversized red crewneck. The long sleeve pokes out of the crewneck at the wrists and neck, giving a cozy, relaxed, and visually interesting look to an otherwise basic crewneck. Not only is layering like this cute, but it also allows me layers to keep on if I’m cold or take off if I’m warm!

Neutrals

I’ve found that much of my wardrobe has transitioned to neutral colors as I’ve gotten older, but I’ve been gravitating toward neutrals even more so this autumn. I recently bought a pair of brown Lululemon Align leggings that I love pairing with a beige crewneck and tan and white sneakers. Combining neutrals, whether brown, black, gray, tan, or white, can create a clean, put-together base that allows you to play with accessories. The neutrality of your outfit can make a patterned headband or unique earrings pop. Neutrals also allow for colors to stand out. Another favorite outfit has been soft khaki pants, a gray sweater, tan and white sneakers, and an oversized denim jacket. The neutral beige and gray allow the soft blues in the denim to stand out.

Loose Silhouettes

In talking about both layering and neutrals, I mentioned oversized pieces. This fall I have been wearing many outfits with loose silhouettes– wide-leg pants and oversized sweaters and crewnecks. Looks like these are comfortable, which is important to me since my days are full of sitting at a desk or going from one job straight to the next, working anywhere from 9am to 7pm, making loose silhouettes functional and practical for me and my everyday life.

There is, however, the dilemma of some oversized pieces coming across as too casual or making you look like you’re walking around in someone else’s clothes. There’s a fine line between cute oversized and looking like you don’t know what size clothes to buy oversized. Much of how you elevate a loose silhouette comes from how you accessorize, being mindful of your shoes, jewelry, and even your hair and makeup. A simple hairstyle or makeup look can really elevate a casual and cozy outfit!

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Autumn is a great time to experiment with clothes and fashion. Comment below any looks you’ve been rocking this fall!