Everyone’s favorite season is arriving. Leaves begin their colorful transformation, the air turns crisp and pumpkin spice makes its annual return to menus. With that fall breeze comes the perfect excuse to bring out those cozy layers and fresh fall fits.
Here on campus, we’ll be seeing tons of different variations of outfits: flannels, combat boots, oversized hoodies, clogs and more. This year, it’s all about building a small but versatile wardrobe that can be mixed and matched for every campus setting. From 8 a.m. lectures to fall activities, these essentials will carry you stylishly and comfortably throughout the season and semester.
Every fall outfit starts off with the perfect top, and lucky for us, the list is never-ending. Basic long-sleeve tees are perfect for layering or wearing on their own. Whether you’re strolling through a pumpkin patch or attending a fall fest, fitted or cropped long sleeve tees are the way to go.
Now is the time for your favorite hoodie to come out of retirement. Fall offers the best opportunities to wear oversized sweaters and hoodies that you never want to take off. Flannels can be worn with practically every outfit and turtlenecks amplify a layered look.
One trendy fit that has been gaining popularity during the fall season are the two-piece sets. Things like comfy lounge sets, workout sets or knit sweater and skirt sets are seen all over campus. They’ve become quite the popular fall essential, taking the stress out of deciding on an outfit. Effortless, versatile and comfortable, these sets have quickly become a fall staple.
With fall comes the perfect opportunity to wear any sort of bottoms you can pull out of your closet. From straight-leg to wide-leg jeans, cargo pants, leggings and midi skirts, each bottom piece ties the look together in its own unique way.
Jeans can be paired with a variety of outfits. Although they offer a diverse color scheme, light and dark wash are the most favored. Since the straight leg offers a clean, polished aesthetic, you can pair it with a fitted knit or cropped sweater, turtleneck or a regular long-sleeve tee. With the baggier jeans, you can go either two ways for your top: fitted or loose. Slim-fitted tops or cropped sweaters finalize the look.
The options are endless for styling cargo pants. From layering bomber jackets to rocking a graphic tee, each combination holds its own signature look. Leggings hold the same value of versatility, effortlessly shifting from cozy to chic depending on how they’re styled. From oversized knits to flannels, leggings also serve as a fall fashion staple.
Skirts, especially midi skirts, are a vital piece of fall fashion. Their length adds warmth with a hint of elegance that is perfect for your early morning class or enjoying the cool breeze. Pairing them with a cozy sweater, a leather jacket or a cardigan adds the finishing touches to this fall fit.
Stepping into this season calls for an upgraded shoe game. Crunch the leaves under chunky sneakers, stride through campus in Timberlands or slip to class in UGGs; fall footwear offers endless routes for style and comfort.
Clogs and mules, which are easy to slip on for class, provide that snug and relaxed feel.
Taking a trip down memory lane, leather loafers and Mary Janes portray a nostalgic, preppy elegance. Whether paired with a pleated skirt, high crazy socks or wide legged pants, these shoes reflect schoolgirl vibes, similar to something Rory Gilmore would wear in the fall favorite TV show, “Gilmore Girls.”
Boots are an iconic autumn piece. No wardrobe is complete without owning at least one pair. You have the ankle boots that go with just about all fall outfits. Chelsea boots pair great with trousers. Combat boots set an edgier tone often paired with leggings and dresses. Knee-high and over-the-knee boots are perfect for your tailgating outfits. Boots add on that spice allowing you to make your mark with each step you take.
The base outfit is complete. It’s time to show off your sense of style through layering. Trench coats, blazers and denim jackets are popular outerwear essentials that deliver a unique elevation to the look. And don’t forget the accessories. A well-placed scarf, a beanie or layered jewelry can transform a look from simple to stylish.
Specifically for the guys on campus, it’s time to retire the tank tops and gym shorts, although they’ll still make an appearance. Spice up your clothing rotation by adding a rugby shirt. Everyone loved the polo tee in the summer, it’s only right to bring rugby shirts into fall. The striped aesthetic is perfect for any occasion, allowing a versatile style for weekend hangouts like fall bonfires or the infamous guys night out.
My favorite thing about fall and overall fashion is how there is no right or wrong way to dress. Some students lean into the more cozy, basic style with their oversized hoodies, leggings and UGGs. Others embrace their sense of creativity with styling bold layers.
Either way, any style works which is the beauty of it all. Fall fashion isn’t about following specific rules and guidelines, but expressing yourself through different pieces. I can’t wait to see all the creative outfits across campus!