I’m not one to follow fashion magazines or runway reports closely. Instead, I rely on a few favorite fashion bloggers who do the research and curation for me. After reading several posts and watching a lot of styling videos, three fall fashion trends stood out that I genuinely like and can see myself wearing this season.
- The Shearling Vest
Shearling and faux-shearling vests are a practical and stylish choice for cool autumn days. The soft, textured lining and structured exterior create an instant cozy, layered look without excessive bulk. To style a shearling vest, try layering it over a fitted sweater or a long-sleeve tee, add a slim scarf if it’s windy, and finish the outfit with ankle boots for a balanced silhouette. Earth tones—camel, chocolate, olive—pair beautifully with denim and plaid, while a black or gray shearling piece can act like a neutral jacket that elevates basic basics.
Beyond style, shearling vests are functional: they keep your core warm, allow for easy arm movement, and layer well under a coat when temperatures drop. For a modern twist, pair one with boot cut jeans and a lightweight knit, or wear it over a plaid shirt to blend classic and contemporary elements.
- Plaid
Plaid is a perennial fall favorite, and this season it appears everywhere—from blankets at the stands to shirts, shoes, and handbags. The enduring appeal of plaid lies in its versatility: a plaid shirt has instant casual charm, while plaid accessories add visual interest to an otherwise simple outfit. When wearing plaid, keep the rest of your look streamlined—choose one dominant color from the pattern and echo it in your top or accessories to create cohesion.
Mixing patterns can work if you balance scale and color: pair a larger plaid with a small-scale stripe or a solid textured piece. Plaid flannel jackets and shirts are especially practical for transitional weather—layer over a tee or under a jacket for warmth and easy style.
- Boot Cut Jeans
The silhouette shift toward boot cut and flare jeans offers a welcome alternative to skinny styles. Boot cut jeans provide a more relaxed fit through the leg and a slight flare at the hem, which helps create a proportional, elongating line—especially when paired with low or mid-heel boots. They work well with tucked-in tops, longer tunics, or a slightly cropped jacket so the waistline remains defined.
When shopping, pay attention to rise and inseam: a “short” or cropped boot cut can be a lifesaver if you prefer not to alter hems. In terms of wash, medium indigo and dark rinse jeans are the most versatile for fall wardrobes.
Rather than rush out to buy every new trend, I prefer to work with what I already own and style it in fresh ways. Reimagining your closet is both budget-friendly and creative: swap accessories, layer differently, or mix textures to give familiar pieces a new life.
This is the outfit I put together after noticing the shearling vest trend and experimenting with pieces I already had. I love how a single statement layer can change the whole feel of an outfit.
I purchased this Woolrich vest years ago and it survived several closet purges—it’s one of my all-time favorites. Its soft lining mimics the faux shearling look and adds comfort while still feeling polished. For warmth and texture, it’s a go-to piece I reach for every fall.
The boot cut jeans I’m wearing were a last-minute purchase in the spring. They come in a “short” length that fits me perfectly—no hemming required, which is always a relief. Shorter inseams or petite fits can save time and keep the clean line of the boot cut intact, especially when worn with ankle boots or a low-heeled shoe.
Styling tips to try this season:
- Layer a shearling vest over a fitted sweater and add a plaid scarf for contrast.
- Pair boot cut jeans with ankle boots and a tucked-in top to maintain shape.
- Use plaid as an accent—shoes or a bag—to introduce pattern without overwhelming your look.
- Mix textures (wool, fleece, denim, leather) to create depth while keeping colors harmonious.
These three trends—shearling vests, plaid, and boot cut jeans—offer a mix of comfort, warmth, and timeless appeal. Whether you buy one new piece or remix what’s already in your closet, small changes can make your fall wardrobe feel refreshed and intentional.
