Move over, earth tones: Fall fashions are all about being bold.
Neon, jewel tones and bright prints are taking over. And don’t be afraid to clash! Some of the season’s most popular looks play up contrast.
“A couple of years ago you would rather have drunk poison than worn colors that didn’t match,” but that’s one of this season’s biggest trends, according to Arlene Goldstein, Belk vice president of trend merchandising and fashion direction.
But with such fearless trends, is it possible to be stylish and professional?
Brilliantly Bold:
Bright, intense colors from the whole color spectrum are a must. Some looks pair complementary vibrant tones or mix in new neutrals like gray and navy. Others combine vivid colors that clash for an edgy, modern take.
Left: The bright “autumn glow” shade of this Premise skirt, $24.99, is accented by the geometric print in a flowy Analee + Hope shirt, $29.99, from Stein Mart. Accent almost any pattern with an always-in-style animal print accessory, like this studded fold-over clutch, $45, from Swoon.
Right: An electric blue Goddess London dress with side ruffle accent, $59, gets a pop of contrast from a coral bubble necklace, $49. From Swoon.
Can’t Miss Accessories:
When it comes to jewelry, the bigger, the better. Choose statement pieces in vivid shades, stack multiple bracelets or necklaces for a combination look, and don’t be afraid to mix metals.
“Sunny Delight” is a fitting name for the vibrant Ark & Co. top, $47, accented with a green color-shifting mirrored necklace, $35, from Swoon. Complete the look with St. Marx black pant, $39.99, Coach and Four KK Elizabeth bootie, $49.95, and a bright blue Rosetti bag, $29.99, from Stein Mart.
Comeback Classics:
Soft, feminine looks hark back to the 1920s and ’30s, with modest and fitted hemlines that are office-appropriate. Wool, silk, satin and lace textures work well with low heels, booties, satchels, fedoras and fur accessories as the weather gets colder.
Left: A textured lace West 36 Tea Time skirt, $35, complements the natural feel of this Sugar Lips Grass People top, $39, with nude tank, $10. Kayleen Take a Bow wedges, nude, $39. From Swoon.
Right: Menswear-inspired style can be ultra feminine when pairing Ark & Co. In Class high-waisted wide-leg pants, $52, with Fate Mrs. Tux white blazer, $55. Add a dash of edge with an animal print, like this October Sky cheetah top, $25. From Swoon.
Pattern Play:
Stripes, plaids, florals, polka dots — mix and match! Go all out with a skirt and top in different prints, or keep it subtle with a patterned accessory. For work, choose prints with a color in common to tie the look together.
For subtle pattern combos, pair one bold piece, like this MSK Petite teal and olive striped wide-sleeve dress, $29.99, from Stein Mart, with a hint of print from simple polka dot tights. Rampage Milla black patent stacked pumps, $49, from Swoon.
Where to Shop
Swoon Boutique
2112 Werrington Drive, Holly Springs
(919) 586-7003
heartswoon.com
Stein Mart
240 Crossroads Blvd., Cary
9529 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville
steinmart.com
