As we approach the fall season, transitioning your wardrobe can often be a challenge. The fluctuating temperatures can leave you feeling unsure about what to wear. As Katy Perry aptly puts it, “you’re hot but you’re cold,” encapsulating the struggle of finding appropriate attire for this unpredictable weather. After months of carefree outfits consisting mainly of T-shirts and shorts, selecting the right clothing for fall can feel daunting.
Fortunately, navigating fall dressing doesn’t have to be complicated. By steering clear of some common pitfalls, you can effortlessly transition into the cooler months while looking stylish. This involves choosing the right clothes and avoiding over-reliance on inappropriate items. Being strategic with your fabric choices is key, but style should never be compromised.
In this article, we’ll explore some typical fall style mistakes that many make year after year and provide helpful tips on how to avoid them.
Cold-Weather Denial
Velasca
At the onset of autumn, a common sight is individuals resistant to give up their summer wardrobe. You’ll notice some shivering in shorts and neglecting appropriate outerwear, as if they are stuck in September.
The solution is straightforward: dress for the weather you experience, not merely for what you wish it to be. Always check the forecast, and plan your outfit accordingly. Breaking free from dressing habits can be daunting, but there’s no shame in opting for trousers and a jacket before the cold truly arrives.
Waterproof Confusion
Peregrine
It’s all too common for people to mistakenly assume their coat is waterproof, only to find themselves soaked when the rain starts. The rule is simple: if the label doesn’t explicitly say ‘waterproof,’ it’s likely not. For heavy rain, ensure your coat is truly waterproof, not just water-resistant or water-repellent.
However, heavy-duty waterproofs can seem excessive for everyday outings. To maintain style without sacrificing functionality, consider a trench coat or waxed-cotton jacket and carry an umbrella for unexpected showers.
Summer Sneakers
Salomon
Some sneakers are simply not equipped to handle the rain and grime of fall. While your favorite white canvas shoes might have been perfect for summer strolls, it’s essential to switch to sturdier options as the weather changes.
Look for sneakers that are versatile, have good grip, and are constructed from materials that are easy to clean or less likely to show dirt when shopping for autumn and winter footwear. The recent gorpcore trend offers functional footwear options featuring Vibram soles and wipe-clean materials from brands like Keen, Hoka, and Salomon.
Poor Material Choices
Percival
After a summer of seeking comfort, it’s time to reevaluate your material selections. As the chill sets in, prioritize layers that can be worn alone or paired with heavier fabrics like fleece or knits. You may also want unlined outer layers in fabrics like denim, corduroy, or wool to provide versatility.
Don’t overlook texture, as the cooler months present a wonderful opportunity for layered looks that incorporate various tactile elements, enhancing both depth and visual appeal.
Lack Of Layering
Todd Snyder
When considering layers, remember not to overlook the art of layering itself. Simply throwing a bulky coat over a T-shirt is easy but lacks creativity.
A more stylish alternative involves layering a T-shirt with a knit sweater, a quilted vest, and an overcoat. This approach not only keeps you warm but also adds interest to your outfit, allowing you to adjust layers based on changing weather conditions.
Premature Big Coat
Wax London
It’s tempting to reach for heavy outerwear as soon as the temperature starts to drop. However, it may not be cold enough for such thick coats yet, and you could find yourself feeling overheated and uncomfortable throughout the day.
Again, layering becomes essential. Instead of diving into the big coat too soon, opt for lightweight, adaptable layers.
White Socks With Everything
London Sock Co
While white crew socks are a classic, they shouldn’t be your only choice. As the temperature drops, embrace fall-appropriate color options that are more visually appealing. There are countless alternatives that can add a unique flair to your outfits.
Brands like Anonymous Ism and RoToTo from Japan produce stylish socks in a range of colors and textures, from simple knits to intricate patterns and tie-dye styles, perfect for elevating your autumn wardrobe.
Overzealous Layering
Wax London
While layering is an effective strategy, overdoing it can create clutter. Focus on wearing lighter layers that can be combined, making it comfortable and easy to adjust for warmer days or temperate conditions. Choose items like overshirts, lightweight jackets, and knitwear to maintain a stylish yet practical look.
Bad Colour Coordination
Wax London
With more layers come more colors, which can easily lead to mismatched outfits. When in doubt, stick to a neutral color palette featuring navy, dark green, and monochromatic shades.
However, adding in touches of autumnal colors like burnt orange, deep browns, burgundy, and gold can enliven your look. Incorporate these shades strategically to celebrate the season without overwhelming your outfit.
