Runway fashion often seems inaccessible to average people because of sky-high price tags and avant-garde sensibilities. And who could blame them, when Dior is hawking $700 “We should all be feminists” T-shirts and fashion industry insiders are somehow able to keep a straight face when looking at whatever this nursing-bra-and-purse-shoes look is?
Bra top at new @HELMUTLANG by @shayneHBA pic.twitter.com/cXTASspHb7
— Booth Moore (@Booth) September 12, 2017
But as Miranda Priestly famously scolded us in “The Devil Wears Prada,” bits and pieces of what seems outlandish on the runway trickle into the options that end up on the racks at malls and boutiques across America. So why not get a jump start at picking out the trends you love (and hate) first, before the J. Crew rep does it for you?
1. Red on Red on Red
The color of the season is undoubtedly red—and plenty of it! Designers like Fendi, Victoria Beckham, Jason Wu sent monochromatic looks down the runway. This confidence-building style is easy to duplicate at your local mall.
How to Get This Look for Less
Sloan-fit red pant from Banana Republic ($48).
This 12-hour block-heel pump at Banana Republic ($76.60) has the benefit of actually being super comfy, hence the “12-hour” claim.
J. Crew cashmere turtleneck in “fiery sunset” ($90 on sale—grab it while you can).
2. Remixed Business Suits
Whether it’s cool-girl versions of the ’80s power suit or the application of houndstooth and plaid checks to eveningwear, business suiting is getting a serious remix this fall. Hermes, Max Mara, and Stella McCartney showed deconstructed suits, while Ralph Lauren proved they would be a long-lasting trend by unveiling sparkly houndstooth-studded gowns at this year’s New York Fashion Week. So buckle in, and keep your suiting pieces around for next fall as well.
How to Get the Look for Less
Houndstooth pleated skirt on sale at Banana Republic for $70.80.
Checked dress ($49.90) with menswear-inspired jacket ($69.90) at Zara.
3. Brightly Colored Furs
Fur, even faux fur, is nearly impossible to find at a reasonable price. And if the average woman were to splurge on one, she’d likely want to get a more classic color than pastel yellow (Marni) or hot pink (Sies Marjan). So, for this trend, renting is a great option!
How to Get This Look for Less
Rent the Runway baby blue faux fur jacket (four-day rental for $55).
Rent the Runway navy coat with fun, sparkly applique details (four-day rental for $110).
Looking for something a little less extreme? Try this cozy faux fur vest from Amanda Uprichard (four-day rental for $50).
4. Midi Skirts and Dresses
For a few seasons now, high necklines and low hemlines have been trending on the designer runways. Could modesty be making a comeback? Victorian collars aren’t the only fall trend taking a turn for the demure, however. The midi length (between knee and ankle) was popular among designers for both skirts and dresses. Unless you’re blessed with model height, these calf-sweeping pieces are probably best worn with pumps or heeled boots to lengthen leg proportions.
How to Get This Look for Less
Silky bias-cut skirt in wine or black at Banana Republic’s new Olivia Palermo collab ($78).
Pleated metallic skirt at H&M ($24.99).
Ribbed midi dress at Forever 21 ($14.90).
5. Velvet
Luxe velvet is a perennial fall trend and 2017 is no exception. This season’s spin is velvet on unusual pieces like over-the-knee boots and bomber jackets, as well as the usual suits, dresses, and blouses (Dior).
How to Get This Look for Less
Over-the-knee velvet block-heel boots at Zara ($69.90).
Velvet fringed scarf at Zara ($19.90).
J. Crew velvet bomber jacket ($150).
6. Fall Florals
Think flowers are just for April through July? This fall, dark romance is taking floral patterns back from the warmer months, using black backgrounds to make roses pop (Dolce and Gabbana), or embroidering flowers on denim or wool (La Perla).
How to Get This Look for Less
Black velvet ($119) or denim ($89.90) jackets with contrasting embroidered flowers at Zara.
Fit-n-flare floral dress with long sleeves from American Eagle Outfitters (on sale for $19.98), or black rose high-necked dress at Revolve (on sale for $41).
7. Statement Pants
This season’s it-girl is the previously humble pant! Statement pants are a stayover from summer but easily adapted for fall. Wide-leg, paper bag-waisted, bright-colored, and even ruffled—this season’s pants are meant to give your skinny jeans a rest and be the pop in your outfit.
How to Get This Look for Less
Dusky pink bow-belt trousers at Mango ($79.99).
Ruffle-flare cropped pant at ASOS ($32).
Splurge: wait for these smoking-jacket ready, velvet-trimmed, wide-leg pants from J. Crew collection to go on sale ($248).
The author has no financial relationship with any of the brands referenced in this article.
