As a picky fashion editor, I'm always on the lookout for the latest trends, but I'm just as passionate about avoiding outdated pieces that no longer have a place in our wardrobes. This fall, it's time to say goodbye to certain items that we once associated with the season but are leaving in the past. The obvious answers might be overly distressed denim that feels more dated than daring and bulky statement necklaces that scream 2010 rather than 2024, but I decided to ask my coworkers and fellow fashion editors to see what I might be missing here.
They convinced me that I should go for timeless elegance and investment pieces instead of clinging to these outdated trends. This fall is going to be all about embracing a more refined, polished aesthetic, so I'm making room for new pieces, keeping their notes in mind.
Skip: Pops of Red
Adopt: Elevated Animal Print
I'd say that the bright pops of red are starting to feel a bit overdone. I'll definitely be keeping red in my wardrobe, and I'll never stop wearing it, but I am just shifting my focus from it. Instead, if I want to make a statement, I'll grab an elevated animal-print moment.
Skip: Oversize Blazers
Adopt: Hourglass Silhouettes
"This fall, I won't be updating my collection of oversize blazers. Instead, I will be looking for fitted blazers with cinched waists that create an hourglass shape. These styles were showcased on the fall 2024 runways at shows such as Jil Sander, Bottega Veneta, and Toteme. Since I typically opt for black, I am interested in adding vibrant red and deep brown versions to my wardrobe."
Skip: Wide-Leg Pants
Adopt: Cigarette Trousers
"Believe me—I've worn my fair share of wide-leg pants, but the shape doesn't much appeal to me these days, especially during the fall when I want to wear boots with everything. Instead, I'm only buying bottoms with a more fitted, straight silhouette. They look better, in my opinion, with fitted-ankle boots but also any sort of loafers, flats, or kitten heels."
Skip: High-Rise Sneakers
Adopt: Low-Rise Styles
"This fall, I won't be shopping for high-rise sneakers. I've been loving all the cool, low-rise sneaker styles that have been popping up. I think they have a more elevated feel and can be worn with a variety of items, including jeans, sleek trousers, maxi skirts, and so much more."
Skip: Moto Jackets
Adopt: Funnel-Neck Styles
"Moto jackets are one quintessentially fall item that won't be on my shopping list this season. In their place, I'm interested in the funnel-neck styles that we spotted all over the fall 2024 runways, from the glossy cape versions in Chemena Kamali's debut Chloé collection to Burberry's canvas-trench-coat iterations. I can't help but be drawn to how chic these high-neck silhouettes look with just about anything, and I know adding one to my closet will make for the perfect fall topper."
Skip: Suede Over-the-Knee Boots
Adopt: Block-Heel Boots
"I'm not a fan of suede over-the-knee boots. Instead, I'll be looking for block-heel leather boots that hit below the knee, like Reformation's Frances Boots ($498). (Side note: Don't sleep on Reformation's excellent shoe section.) I'll be styling the boots with everything from floaty dresses to straight-leg jeans."
Skip: Collarless Coats
Adopt: Funnel-Neck Coats
"One of my favorite things about fall is that you can finally embrace outerwear, and there's plenty to be excited about. While there have been some incredibly sophisticated trends that I've been obsessed with over the past few seasons, I find myself ready to part ways with collarless coats. The more minimal silhouette doesn't excite me, especially when compared to dramatic funnel-neck coats. I love this trend because adding a higher neckline makes even the most basic jackets feel bolder. Refer to Burberry's, Ferragamo's, Proenza Schouler's, and Bevza's F/W 24 collections as proof."
Skip: Red Tights
Adopt: Column Skirts
"My red tights had a good run, but I'm ready to move on to a more elegant trend: column skirts. I plan to wear them with oversize sweaters and pointed-toe flats and kitten heels."
