I’m Skipping These Fall Trends—Here’s What I’m Shopping Instead

As much as I get super jazzed about all the fun things happening on the fashion scene, and while I can (almost) always see the merit of new-season trends, I know by now that many of them won’t ever make it into my closet. Half the reason is that my closet is located in New York City, and unfortunately there’s just not the room to indulge in every new-season thing that tickles my fancy. On top of that, I’m just getting a little pickier in my old age—I still like to experiment and get a bit weird, but by now I’ve got a pretty good handle on what’s going to be wearable and work for my personal style.

Now that this autumn’s key trends are both well-established and shoppable, I’m figuring out what’s worthiest of adding to my fall wardrobe. It’s way too easy to get overexcited with all the new collections dropping before NY’s temperatures even dip into the 60s, so I’m concentrating on just a couple of updates to start. From suede accessories to animal prints to fall footwear, here’s how I’m navigating the trend landscape this season.

Passing On: Too Much Burgundy

I’ve already invested in some burgundy staples over the past couple of years, from a boxy shoulder bag to a really great leather jacket. If I’m going to stay true to my supposed mantra of “fewer, better things,” then I really need to avoid giving in to the temptation to accumulate more just because it’s currently so buzzy. Instead, I am shopping fall essentials in deep shades of brown—the chocolate things I bought over summer got loads of wear, so I’m looking to find fall-ready pieces in similar hues.

Passing On: Boho Dresses

(Image credit: Zara)

My early 20s involved a very heavy investment in boho fashion, so I tend to take it easy when it comes to the Chloé aesthetic. I’m opting for blouses over dresses to give more opportunity to offset flounce and ruffles and dramatic sleeves with some sharp tailoring, denim, and structured accessories.

Passing On: Leopard Print

I really keep trying to find something leopard print (maybe jeans or a pair of flats?) that I like enough to buy. I actually just rounded up some great animal-print picks that are tempting me still! But none have made it out of my cart just yet—I think ultimately, my happier place is subtler texture added by way of luxe-looking mock-croc accessories.

Passing On: Suede Jackets

Suede is obviously going bananas this season, and I’m really into the breadth and depth of what’s on offer. It means the aesthetic isn’t limited to that Ralph Lauren “urban cowboy” energy (which we love, but you know, we also love options). I’m skipping out on suede jackets, mainly because every one I’ve seen that tickles my fancy has either been thousands of dollars or has sold out immediately. Instead, I’m getting into the suede-bag game—from totes to shoulder bags, I’m in.

Passing On: Chunky Loafers

I know, I know, who am I to argue with Prada and Loewe? And look, if anyone locates a style that doesn’t feel like wearing my Bala weights all day, I’m open. Until then, it just feels right to keep things a little more minimal south of my ankles, including (but not limited to) softer, more glove-like styles and slingbacks that I’ll keep wearing even when it’s winter.