No offense to New Year’s Day, but when it comes to fashion, fall is the perfect time to hit refresh. From powerful looks to edgy florals, the top fall 2017 fashion trends will have people seeing red—in a good way.
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Pantsuit Nation
Election 2016 was anything but polished, but its effects on the fashion world have been. Suiting is huge in women’s wear this season, something stylist and Pulse fashion contributor Shandi Alexander sees as a nod to the heightened focus on feminism inspired by the likes of Hillary Clinton and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. “Fashion is obviously tied to anything going on politically and socially, even economics,” Alexander said. “I think this is something in the air with these strong female leaders. The future is female.”
If suiting is in your future, there are several ways to rock it. Alexander suggested oversized for a tomboy look “but if that’s not quite you, you don’t have to do a full suit. You could do a feminine blouse and pair of tailored slacks.” Or take a cue from Jill Sanders and Celine and rock a skirt suit. Try it with a silky blouse or starchy white shirt by day, then slip into a lacy camisole for date night.
Go for the Gold
Silver and gold aren’t just for holidays, red carpets and opulent nights out. This fall, feel free to sport it running errands or even at the office—just keep it refined to avoid venturing into costume territory (because that is just for Halloween). “I wouldn’t do it head-to-tie, especially at the office. It could be just a touch, a hat or a bag or shoes.” Alexander recently bought a pair of gold Nikes and loves metallic stilettos. Of course, if your Saturday night calls for glitter and glitz, go ahead and make like Jessica Biel at this year’s Academy Awards and have your moment.
Cool Coats
When the temperatures dip to an ungodly number, outerwear serves as a life saver. “We basically live in our coats in January and February,” Alexander laughed. But outerwear can be equal parts functional and fashionable. Alexander saw three major trends on runways: puffers, shearlings and furs. She’s a bit partial to the puffer. “Balenciaga has super-humongous oversized puffers. It’s almost like a sleeping bag…That’s the extreme version. You could also do a more fitted…version.” If the coat is oversized, any bottom will do “but if it’s more of a fitted say Moncler type puffer then more fitted bottoms. Keep it sleek.”
Shearling may evoke woodsman vibes, but it’s gotten an edge recently as evidenced by Alexander McQueen’s leather and shearling jacket. Fur, on the other hand, went bold this year as designers like Miu Miu showed coats in pastels, kelly green and blue. If you want to walk on the wild side, Alexander recommended choosing wisely. “We’re not talking about something we’re going to wear every day. This is something fun to throw on to go out.”
Red Hot
Givenchy turned heads with an all-red collection during fashion week. Alexander doesn’t dissuade people from wearing the season’s hot color head to toe—“As long as the red doesn’t wear you,” she said—but it can also be used as the cherry on top of an outfit. “It’s a good trend because you can pull it off through accessories. It could be a shoe or great belt.” She loves the idea of a woman in a black coat with red leather gloves. “In a fantasy world, I think that’s so chic and great.” Jackets and blazers are also a good way to get in on the trend. Going for the all-red look? Break it up with a neutral toned belt, Alexander suggested.
Fall Florals
Don’t put that flouncy floral frock into hibernation just yet—florals are a thing this fall. “I feel the whole trend has to do with Gucci. They set a precedent with past collections.” Alexander recommended balancing a sweet look with an edgy accessory, like a corset belt, especially during cooler months. Be wary of wearing it top to bottom, especially if it’s large. “You have to be careful or you’ll end up looking like a sofa.”
For cover to cover fall fashion 2017 inspiration, be sure to check out the September issue of Pulse, out Aug. 28.