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Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
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How to transform your fall wardrobe

The 6 must haves to stand out this fall

The annual transition from summer to fall is officially here and it seems to be arriving faster than in years past. If you find yourself wearing the same outfit every day during these colder months, let these six pieces elevate your everyday look.

Burgundy shoes

The classic deep red is one of the most popular shades in fashion this year, just as classic ballet flats and Mary Janes have resurfaced as trendy wardrobe staples — put the two together and you have the perfect way to dress up the simplest of outfits. Whether you’re pairing them with a plain brown skirt and sweater or a dark pair of jeans, burgundy shoes are a fall essential.

Leather boots 

As the temperatures drop and the 8 p.m. sunsets are traded for 5 p.m. darkness, flats sometimes just won’t cut it.

Boots have always been a fall staple, but this year, distressed boots are in. If you have a well-loved pair hiding in the back of your closet, now is the perfect time to pull them out. Pair them with a denim skirt and leather jacket for an edgier look, or with a cable-knit sweater to bring in those cozy fall vibes.

Lace

Incorporating lingerie-inspired pieces into everyday wear is nothing new, but something about a dark lace top or a skirt with a delicate lace trim feels well-suited for fall. Maybe it’s because Halloween is just weeks away, or maybe it’s because lace adds an elevated feel to an otherwise simple outfit. Either way, lace deserves a place in your fall wardrobe.

Polka dots

Out of all the prints that have cycled in and out of style this year, polka dots remain one of the most enduring. The pattern has existed since the mid-19th century, but this year it feels fresh again. After TikTok’s “clean girl” craze, which leaned on muted tones of beige, white and black, pops of color and pattern feel refreshing. That’s not to say that clean girl outfits don't have a place, but polka dots can add variety to your wardrobe. 

Maximalist accessories

This fall is the time to go all out with the accessories — especially true if you tend to repeat outfits during colder months. The right bag, necklace or belt can take an everyday look to skyscraper heights and spice up the gloomier days.

Big slouchy bags like the Polène Cyme, or the Anthropologie Sonia are perfect for carrying your books and your hand cream for when the cold starts to take its toll, while still looking put together. Other accessories like large boho-inspired necklaces, rings and bracelets can also elevate a simple black long-sleeve and jeans into a model-off-duty outfit. Another underrated tip: belts with unique buckles, which you can often find at the Georgetown Flea Market.

Animal print

Finally, animal prints are trending, with cow, zebra and leopard among the top picks for fall.  Whether it’s a cow-print Coach bag, a zebra-print H&M skirt or Adidas leopard-print Sambas, these prints are an easy way to refresh your fall and winter wardrobe without a full shopping spree. 

This article was edited by Sydney Hemmer, Jessica Ackerman and Walker Whalen. Copy edited by Sabine Kanter-Huchting and Emma Brown.

style@theeagleonline.com


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