For most women, runway looks are just not reality.
Jobs, kids, errands and basic everyday life can keep us from trying seasonal trends. But we’re here to tell you: they shouldn’t. With a little creative thinking, you can easily incorporate many high-fashion looks into your daily routine. We’ve scoured the runways to highlight fall’s biggest trends and show you how to make them work for your everyday life.
1. CAPES
Thanks to designers like Zac Posen, capes are making a comeback. Many of his fall gowns featured beautiful train-like capes. They added such an elegance, and the effect was downright breathtaking. This trend can easily be infused into your everyday dressing—and you don’t even have to wear a gown! Say hello to the cape coat. This Vince Camuto version can be worn in place of a suit jacket, or as light fall coat. It adds instant polish to your jeans and tee. Errands never looked so good.
Vince Camuto Notch Collar Cape Coat, $120
2. MIDI SKIRTS
Midi skirts are really having a moment. DKNY, Michael Kors and Rebecca Taylor all had versions of this calf-grazing beauty in their fall shows. The best thing about this skirt is that it looks great on a variety of body types. Because it’s meant to be worn at the natural waist, it’s surprisingly slimming. The length could prove to be tricky on petite frames, so just make sure to style it with a heel instead of flats. This faux leather version by Leith is right on trend—and on budget! Pair it with a cropped sweater, or simply with a tucked-in chambray shirt. The possibilities are endless, which is perfect because you’ll want to wear this one all the way through winter.
3. CHUNKY KNITS
This was one of the more practical runway trends for fall. Chunky knits were spotted at the Marc Jacobs and Michael Kors shows, and we couldn’t be happier. Pulling off this look is all about proportion. Because this style will likely add bulk up top, you want to make sure you pair it with a slim-cut pant. Add a long pendant necklace to help anchor the look, and you’re ready to rock. Or to run carpool.
Vince Cable Knit Turtleneck Sweater, $316
4. GINGHAM
It’s not just for tablecloths. Especially since Oscar de la Renta had versions of it all over his runway. Making this look work for you is surprisingly easy. Worn as a button down, this Spring 2015 trend is so accessible and easy to work into your fall wardrobe, too. This ASOS shirt looks great right now with black jeans, and even better with white jeans come spring. (Bonus points if you tuck this shirt into the faux leather midi skirt!) So swap your stale stripes for this fresh pattern, because gingham is sticking around for awhile.
ASOS Blue Check Oversized Shirt
5. FRINGE
Fringe is tricky. Wear too much of it, and you could end up looking like an aging flower child. Kaelen’s show featured many beautiful skirts and dresses with fringe detail. This is a prime example of how runway looks just don’t translate to real life—but don’t rule it out altogether. Worn in small doses, such as this Tory Burch bag, fringe can look super chic and modern.
Tory Burch Shoulder Bag – Fringe Adjustable, $495
6. PLUNGING NECKLINES
Dazzle them with your décolletage! Designer Tracy Reese featured many plunging necklines in her collection, but this look might not work for everyone. Bigger busted woman should tread lightly with this trend because too much plunge can leave you feeling a bit flashy. Smaller bosoms will look stunning in this DVF dress. It’s equal parts elegant and sexy. Just don’t forget the fashion tape.
