Who sets fashion trends? Your grandma? Me? Designers at Prada or someone at Old Navy?
Well, the answer is none of the above exactly set the trends, though you never know, even the little old lady next door might be the next trend setter. The way trends are set is a somewhat complex and roundabout process involving a lot of people over a fair amount of time. Runway shows aren’t exactly real life, but they play a role in influencing street fashion. Magazines find some key items used in high-fashion and toss those ideas out to the public and to retail stores. Another, newer way that we see trends come into being is through social media. TikTok is a huge player in the advance of new trends along with other sites like Instagram and Tumblr.
Now that we know who or what sets the trends, let’s take a look at some major ones for this fall.
For the gals you’ve options galore when dressing. Nostalgic fashion is all the rage. This style pulls from the 60s to early 2000s. WandaVision anyone? Some key pieces are white tall boots, popularized by the gogo dancers of the 60s, and they are back just in time for school. Wide leg pants are also in. While you’re at it you might add some cool patches for a personalized look. Fashion windbreakers –– useful and stylish — are a fun layering piece for cooler weather. Fringe bags — the boho inspired style — and fringes in general give a fun 70s vibe.
Ultra-feminine fashion, with influences from cottage and angelcore is a style that is back. Decorative corsets and corset-look shirts are a major player with this style, and they look pretty too. Flowers! Those of you who like florals will have a fun time with this. Anything frilly will look perfect. Channel your inner Anne of Green Gables and find some puffed sleeves, not too puffy though, or it might drag through your food! Oddly enough, Pantone’s color of the year is a shade of yellow, and so, a yellow purse has become quite the accessory.
For the girls who aren’t a fan of fancy frills, this fall neo-military fashion is also trending. With reinvented military jackets and trench coats, you’ll be warm in the winter with this style. Leather is also a big hit with this trend. Try out your local thrift store for a cheaper and more sustainable alternative to a new leather item. And of course, square toe shoes or boots will finish off the look for those of us that don’t have a sword to strap to our belts!
Now for the guys, this fall, sport inspired-fashion is a leading trend. It’s practical and comfortable and looks pretty neat too. Varsity jackets are a must have. Channel your inner football player and layer this over jeans and a t-shirt. Gorpcore?! Hiking fans rejoice, that puff jacket you bought in hopes of hiking up Mount Everest will have another use this year. The name of the trend comes from a slang term for trail mix — gorp. Core meaning a fandom or following. Bermuda shorts have come back and are making quite the appearance in the fashion scene. From street fashion to high fashion, Bermuda shorts are the way to go. One thing that’s out of favor this year is having your bare ankles show between your shoes and long pants, so pick up some longer socks next time you’re at the store.
As with many other trends, guys are following the girls, or vice versa if you like. Neo-Military will be a hit for you as well. Time to head to a thrift store and pick up a green or tan trench coat for a cool look. Add white t-shirt, chinos and desert shoes to complete the look. Remember to pay attention to details: tuck your shirt in and make sure your boots are polished. In terms of accessories, aviator sunglasses and a nice watch will pair well.
It’s back to days of yore here as well, or rather back to the days of Pac-Man and Pong. Nostalgic fashion is a must this fall. Dig some graphic tees out of your older brother’s or dad’s closet and pair it with faded jeans and some chunky tennis shoes. Bucket hats have also come into favor along with anything colorblocked.
Trends this fall are nostalgic, neo-military and floral feminine or more sporty masculine for guys and girls respectively. While these trickle down from a variety of sources and many people have widely different opinions on what to wear, ultimately you want to pick something that you like and are comfortable in.