These 7 Fabulous Fall Fashions Are Essential For 2024

You may already own many of the items that will be on trend.

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Published August 29, 2024
photo collage of fall fashion items, fall fashion, clothes
AARP (Getty Images, 7)

It's hard not to be slightly melancholy when the summer season ends. As the days get shorter, we are reminded that the most social, carefree time of year is ending. Before long, we'll be grabbing a jacket when we head out the door as cooler weather heads our way.

But while we have to say goodbye to BBQs and pool parties, the arrival of fall means we can indulge in cozy fall fashion. It's time to pack up the shorts and sundresses and break out the cardigans, scarves and booties.

“The first place to shop for fall clothing should always be in your closet,” says Janie Medley of Medley Style. “If you buy a lot of classic pieces, you probably own a lot of great items that will be on trend this fall.”

Some trends to look out for this fall include:

1. Fringe

Call it the Beyoncé effect because ever since she released her album Cowboy Carter last March, Western style has become more popular than ever. Medley says, "I don't recommend going head-to-toe Western wear in your everyday life if that's not your usual style, but I do like the idea of some nod to Western wear, like a fringe skirt, top or accessory."

2. Full Skirts

Harper's Bazaar partially credits the mini-series Feud: Capote vs. the Swans for the return of ladylike dressing, specifically the full skirt. Don't worry that a full skirt will make you look fuller. "It's about the right proportions and styling," explains Medley. "Everyone at any size or age can wear a full skirt. Depending on your lifestyle, you can wear [it] with a high boot, bootie, a flat or even socks with sneakers."

3. Peacoats

"This is a style I already own from 10 years ago, and I am ready to break it out again," says Medley. Peacoats are back in a big way, with designers such as Prada, Saint Laurent and Gucci showcasing this perfect transitional piece in their runway shows.

4. Feather and Fur

If you aren't afraid to make a little statement with your fashion choices, how about wearing feathers? We aren't suggesting an all-out bird costume, but subtle accents such as on the hem of a pant leg or blouse are fun options, especially on a Saturday night. Also, consider adding furry pieces to your wardrobe. There are great faux options in jackets, coats and vests. Bonus — they’ll keep you warm and cozy on those chilly fall days.

5. Back to Basics

"In the summer, I always buy a new white button-down, and for fall, I invest in a new black turtleneck," says Medley. Like a white shirt in the summer, a black turtleneck can be dressed up or down from work to dinner. It's a versatile basic and a closet workhorse. (If you don't like the feel of a turtleneck, a V-neck or crew can serve the same role in your wardrobe.)

6. Autumnal Tones

Being green this year is easy, especially in olive or khaki shade. Or consider buying a handbag or jacket in burgundy, oxblood or deep maroon. These deep autumnal tones (think the color of fall leaves) are perfect for adding a pop of rich color to your wardrobe and will pair well with that basic black turtleneck sweater.

7. Embrace Your Animal Instincts

While animal prints such as leopard and zebra never entirely go out of style, designers like Marni and Versace showed these prints in a big way in their Fall 2024 collections. While head-to-toe animal prints are probably too much for everyday life, consider wearing them with a neutral backdrop. Great combinations include a leopard-print blouse with tan pants or leopard-print ballet flats with black pants. When it comes to fall fashion and trends, the most important thing is to wear what you like and what feels right to you. "Good fashion is all about confidence," says Medley. "You aren't too old or heavy for any clothing you feel good in. A woman over 60 can wear a short skirt if she feels comfortable and likes how her legs look. My only hard rule is that you need to like it — don’t let a friend or salesperson talk you into buying or wearing something that you don’t feel works for you.”

Medley's other advice is to make whatever you wear your own. "I'll see people wear items with the exact accessories or styling shown in the catalog or on the floor model, and it doesn't look right," explains Medley. "We are all individuals. Truly fashionable people put their own spin on a look. Whether it's pushing up the sleeves, adding a bright accessory, or wearing interesting jewelry, you want to make your outfit come alive by being you."

 

What clothing item do you just love to wear once the weather starts to get cooler? Let us know in the comments below.

Randi Mazzella is a freelance writer and journalist. Her work has appeared in numerous online and print publications The Washington Post, Next Avenue, Your Teen for Parents, SheKnows and New Jersey Family. She writes about a wide range of topics including parenting, mental health, wellness, pop-culture, teens, finance and midlife issues. She is a wife and mother of three children who inspire her every day. To read more of her work, go to randimazzella.com.