The New Season: Fashion's Fall Facade

September 9, 2008 2:26 PM
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[Article Written by Bridgette Prentice]

It’s around this time of year when the rest of our country recognizes the season’s change and begins to get ready for the fall. Designers release their latest creation of the double-breasted coat or leather boot. Stores fill their windows with the newest runway looks and the in-the-know shopper follows suit. However, in a city with an average temperature of 80 degrees, inhabited by fluorescent fashions, scantily clad fashionistas and greasy looking dudes: When does summer end and how does fall begin? Due to this ever pressing matter we have compiled a choice list of fall purchases, for both girls and guys, without having to completely change your wardrobe.

The Plaid Shirt: This is a fall staple. Male or female, you can wear the plaid shirt; a button-down in cotton or flannel. To beat the heat, just roll the sleeves and pair it with shorts. This pattern also comes on t-shirts or in variations such as the check or houndstooth. It is everywhere and on everything. Find it at Urban Outfitters, Marc by Marc Jacobs or Gap.

Layered Chains: This accessory is for girls, but looks great on daring guys too. Take multiple chains, preferably silver and layer them at different lengths and sizes. Pair them with a simple v-neck instead of the turtleneck, as seen on the runway. Find them at ForLove21, Givenchy, bblessing.com or your mom’s jewelry drawer.

The Beanie: Channeling the 90’s grunge era - the knit beanie is back! Wear it big, tight, loose or lopsided. Get it in grey for more versatility and wear it with that v-neck and those layered chains. It’s a nice replacement to the straw fedora. Find it at freepeople.com, Alexander Wang, Nordstrom, or knit one yourself.

The Ankle Pant: This trend is a cool European import. It’s been more common for girls to wear pants that end just above or on the ankle, but now we see it all over guys. Purchase a pair already tailored, roll them yourself, or cut your own. They are a fun alternative to the boring pant and look great with loafers or Keds. Find them at IdolRadec.com, 3.1 Philipe Lim, or Zara.

Booties: Incase you hadn’t noticed the bootie isn’t going anywhere, but with the new season comes some changes. The toeless bootie and biker boot are great. Look-out for metal detailing and a mean tread. Also, don’t forget the classic converse. Most of us already have a classic pair, but do you have high-tops? Find all of these at converse.com, Steve Madden, Oak and Urban Outfitters.

Shades: Sunglasses never go out of style and had to be mentioned. They shield from the chilly wind or the warm sun. Go for ones in autumn tones: brown, olive and burnt orange. Find them at Initium Eyewear, Oliver Peoples and Chloe Eyewear.

Oscar Wilde once said, “A fashion is merely a form of ugliness so unbearable that we are compelled to alter it every six months.” Whether you agree with this statement or not, we are constantly moving from one trend to the next. Hopefully the above trends will get you through the fall, without a complete makeover of your summer closet. Some pieces you may already own and others might be a stretch, but change is good. So, it’s time to put down the neon and pick up the plaid!