How to Style Fall Outfits 2012
Mix It Up: 10 Essentials, 10 Outfits, Infinite Seasonal Cool
Like any seasoned styling pro, you know that a well-curated selection of wardrobe essentials affords infinite outfit opportunities. In effect, it's fashion basics 101, and for this Fall's forecast, we're looking to a rich autumnal palette, sophisticated day-to-night silhouette, and a skilled raid into your own arsenal of accessories to ace this particular styling equation. We've scouted the two pair of jeans (a waxed iteration and an awesome '70s-inspired flair) that should top your shopping list, a silky cream-hued blouse that goes with just about everything, and a heeled Chelsea boot that can easily take you from boho to polished. With our 10 no-fail pieces, it's time to workshop a series of Fall outfits worth wearing all season. Whether it be an Ali MacGraw in Love Story combo or a bold interpretation on Western wares, see just what staples your wardrobe needs now — and how to style them 10 ways.
Why it makes the cut: Black jeans are pretty much guaranteed to get you through any season, but for Fall, we're looking to a slicked-up version that doesn't quite break the bank. As a leather alternative, the coated look is perfect for giving your day-to-night denim approach a polished edge.
J Brand Denim 901 Waxed Low-Rise Leggings-Style Jeans ($195)
Why it makes the cut: When it comes to all-season staples, this silk-wrap blouse pretty much takes the cake. Dress it up or dress it down, the billowy luxe finish and creamy hue prove a sophisticated win-win.
Why it makes the cut: This heeled ankle boot reminds us slightly of another Fall shoe we're lusting after: the Chelsea boot. Thus, a hybrid seems like the ideal go-between for both dressed-down and dressed-up occasions.
Steve Madden Lambii Boot ($130)
Why it makes the cut: In yet another interpretation of military chic, Karl Lagerfeld's second release of Karl gives us real reason to want to wear cam print. Whether you style this easy dress with a more structured blazer or wear it with a chunky knit sweater, it will add instant dynamic to the mix.
Karl by Karl Lagerfeld Davin Camo-Print Twisted Jersey Dress ($185)
Why it makes the cut: A classic black pump will never let you down — seriously, we're not exaggerating. This simple silhouette will elongate your legs and with its four-inch heel, you'll add considerable length to your frame.
Aldo Romelia Pump ($90)
Why it makes the cut: This is just the beginning of our outerwear must haves, albeit the best place to start. This particular tweed blazer provides a classic-meets-structured take on more textured toppers, it cuts close to the figure, and pairs well with just about anything.
Mango Tweed Blazer ($90)
Why it makes the cut: One of the main Fall mantras we live by: you can never have enough cozy sweaters. Fulfilling this prophesy — in a sophisticated cobalt blue shade — is this slightly oversized iteration, perfect for layering with collared blouses, dresses, and tweedy skirts.
Why it makes the cut: We instantly fell for this season's must-have color — oxblood red — juxtaposed against a full ladylike skirt. With opaque tights and lace-up booties, you'll nail that Ali MacGraw in Love Story vibe to a T.
Why it makes the cut: Higher necklines have prevailed for Fall and in this rich topaz hue, you're positively dripping in jewel-tone perfection.
Why it makes the cut: We're totally feeling the '70s-inspired silhouette — in moderation, of course. No crazy bell-bottoms here, just a sexy flare to accentuate your heeled booties.
With just a few punched-up additions, you can turn a waxed jean-and-blouse ensemble from tame to totally covet-worthy. For this look, we couldn't resist a bold Western-inspired bag to provide the color and quirky print, with statement earrings and a bracelet to supplement that boho feel. Sure, the pumps and top remain the classics here, but we're all about pouring on the eye-catching charm via riskier accents.
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Who would have thought a camouflage print could be so utterly refined? To follow suit, try on a tweed jacket and pair it with a plum-hued clutch and suede pumps.
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Channel your schoolgirl chic via Ali MacGraw-inspired essentials. First, opt for autumnal tones that will appeal to the back-to-school set. Then, pair the look with printed socks (scrunched), thick frames, and a cocktail ring for just a hint of flair that clearly extends past the classroom.
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An off-duty outfit has never been easier than this one — a croc-inspired belt in a contrasted hue will set off the shades of blue and an edgier bag will provide the dynamic.
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For a work-to-date night transition, simply add a gorgeous necklace into the mix. We fell in love with this sleek nature-inspired iteration that will not only draw attention to the decolletage, but to the Fall-themed proportions of pleats, a draped neckline, and a tweedy topper.
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We call this "our everyday uniform," and all you have to do is look to the strategic juxtaposition of a slick finish vs. cozy layers to see why. This kind of laid-back ensemble needs only the most classic accents to finish it off — we've called upon a matte coral red lip, knotted gold stud earrings, and a menswear-inspired doctor's bag to do the trick.
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When it's not exactly cold outside, but you're still looking to invoke the coolness of Fall, try making the most out of the season's hues and key accessories. Case in point: a green camouflage print is the perfect complement to a knitted beanie and bold necklace.
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We were going for a '70s babe meets cocktail-hour savant here; thus, a slicked-up pair of jeans and turtleneck combo gets the statement treatment via a patchwork-style clutch and ruby-hued earrings.
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Add funkier pieces á la arrowhead jewelry, studded leather wraps, and a chain-strap bag for an elevated take on the downtown girl vibe. The draped top and Chelsea boots will take care of the rest.
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Put a polished spin on the flared-jean look with two simple accessory additions: an eye-catching satchel and hoop earrings. You don't need much in the way of layers or arm candy — it's all about easy sophistication here.
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