Fall 2013 Style Preview: Ideas, Trends

Fall 2013 Style Preview: Ideas, Trends

Fashion designers and retailers tend to play it safe in tougher economic markets. It’s why we often see a return of items or trends, colors, shapes, etc., year after year. It helps reduce risk, and hopefully, increases the chance of sales. But before this seems like a negative thing, for fashion shoppers it can be a positive. Buys last longer, prices become more budget-friendly. Everybody wins.

But it doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of new things to update your closet this fall.

The ankle boot has circled back again for another return. This year, it’s pared down and simple, which makes it a good investment for virtually any closet — classic, trendy, casual, etc. That’s not to say that the elaborate aren’t widely available, but if buckles, studs and ornate details aren’t your kind of thing (or you’ve already got it down in your closet), it’ll likely be a good season to buy. Favorite pick is Joie’s entire collection, which has a range of styles ($295, at Singer22.com)

Speaking of footwear, you’ve likely seen the oxford bouncing around. It’s super-sized and often in patent or metallic, though you’ll find plenty of streamlined and simple shapes and colors. Zara’s got a few pairs that are budget-friendly enough to play with the trend without making a major investment. Pumps have been trending a while — this season they shift into prints, particularly floral.

After two years of leather moto jackets, the coat has come back around. Most notably is the “boyfriend coat,” oversized, in a classic cut and timeless wool or cashmere. Topshop has a great option for under $200. Boxy knits are everywhere also — in pullover styles, as well as cardigans, shawls and sweater coats. DKNY’s draped cardi ($545, at Net-a-Porter.com) pulls in the trend along with a dip-dye vibe, which is still hot at the moment.

We’ll likely see the maxi skirt make a big appearance this winter, worked with oversized, cozy knits and closed-toe footwear. There is also a return of camouflage, this time around incorporated into more sophisticated pieces — silk pants, silk tops, silk scarves. Though skirts, jackets and denim are everywhere with it as well. Depending on your taste and style, there’s something for everyone with this trend.

When it comes to accessories, gloves detailed with trim of all kinds are replacing the classic and nubby knits. Think bows, ties, prints, etc. Mini shoulder bags, which arrived earlier this year, have returned back in full force. Gryson’s Circle Pocketbook ($325, at Scoop NYC) is a popular favorite. With jewelry, one statement is more than enough. Serpent Sea’s woven bracelets are made of used marine rope from Nantucket and so unexpected and chic ($65, SerpentSea.com)

To check out more fall 2013 style trends, visit Condiment here