FOLLOWING THE RIGHT FALL FASHION TRENDS
Autumn set to bring cool weather, cooler clothes
During daylight saving time, fashionable folks may want to set their clocks way, way back, because 1970s styles are one of this season’s top trends, said Robert Montalvo, owner of Montalvo Interiors and Apparel in Benton.
Shoppers had their first taste of this groovy garb this spring, when florals were in full bloom, and the pretty prints are set to continue their reign into fall, he said.
“Floral looks remain very important,” he said. “Coming through the summer and going into fall, we continue to see these patterns with different coloration.
Blue jeans with floral embellishments have been hitting the stores and runways, he added. When selecting florals for fall, keep an eye out for designs that incorporate autumn colors, such as olive, brown, rust, gold and purple.
Men looking to warm up their wardrobes can look sharp and feel cozy in throw-back tracksuits on the weekends and shawl-collar cardigans at the office. Bring a tracksuit into the 21st century by selecting a style in navy blue, royal blue or jade green, which Montalvo named as some of this fall’s most fashionable colors.
Similarly, guys can pair an old-school cardigan with of-the-moment skinny jeans to stay fly and avoid dated ensembles. More conservative men might opt for quilted or anorak jackets.
“Outerwear continues to be sporty and practical,” he said. “Something warm and good looking will always work. Anorak jackets are simple and timeless. You can’t go wrong with this classic jacket.”
Women can give a nod to the flower-child era with suede vests and jackets, and since Montalvo said that women’s Western wear was the fall fad that surprised him the most, a suede piece might be a worthy investment to take a gal from hippie chic to cowgirl fleek whenever the mood strikes.
Bolder gals might pick up a glittery pair of disco boots, which are trending for fall, he added, but don’t put away those summer wedges just yet.
“Ladies shoes will continue this season to feature wedge heels, and chunky ones,” he said. “Peep toes and booties will be a favorite of almost everyone.”
Women who look a little further into the past might be tempted to rock this season’s vintage-inspired furs, day clutches and micro bags. Capes are also big this season, he said, and women can add bling to the garment with a bejeweled brooch.
When drawing inspiration from the past, bring an outfit into the present with more modern accessories. Montalvo named chunky jewelry and handbags with statement straps as two of this season’s hippest accent pieces.
When purchasing clothes for the season, he added, it is best to remember which garments will stay in style and which pieces might be dated by spring.
“Classics continue year after year. Trends come and go quickly,” he said. “More expensive purchases should be placed in the first category. For trendy items, you may want to invest less money.”
Whether an individual hopes to channel Janis Joplin’s far-out fashions, Nancy Sinatra’s song-worthy footwear or even Bruce Lee’s punchy ensembles, this fall’s trends offer a chance to play pretend.