Your Fall Fashion Refresh: Effortlessly Stylish & Sustainable Trends
As we finally step into Fall, it’s the perfect moment to hit refresh on your wardrobe. A new season always invites creativity, and what better way to express your individual style than with pieces that feel good, look amazing and perhaps, are sustainable? It’s all about balance—choosing high-quality, timeless items that allow you to feel both stylish and responsible, while still having fun experimenting. Think prints, patterns, layers and textures.
Here’s how you can step into Fall with confidence, dressing with creativity and consciousness.
Key Fall Fashion Trends with a Sustainable Twist:
Let’s talk about Fall trends because yes, you can be on-trend and eco-friendly at the same time. Here are some of my favorite looks for Fall that will elevate your style without compromising on quality.
Oversized Layers: Think big, cozy sweaters that you can just sink into. The beauty of oversized layers is they’re timeless and versatile. Invest in pieces that can stick with you for years, made from recycled wool or organic cotton, or even find the perfect vintage piece secondhand.
Color: This Fall is all about rich, grounded tones like mossy greens, deep reds & burgundy, as well as chocolate brown. But don’t be afraid to mix things up—add a splash of unexpected color or a playful print to keep your look fresh. Earthy tones are perfect for layering, which we’ll get to in a bit!
Textures & Fabrics: Texture is key this season—think ribbed knits, soft organic cottons, and sustainable leather alternatives. But don’t stop at fabrics—try mixing textures like corduroy, denim, or even a chunky knit with a sleek, recycled leather skirt for contrast. Experimenting with texture gives dimension to your outfits while still feeling polished and stylish.
Prints & Patterns: If you’ve been playing it safe, Fall is the perfect time to experiment. Plaids, stripes, and even bold florals and animal prints are trending. The trick to working with prints and patterns? Start with one standout piece and pair it with more neutral or classic items in your wardrobe. That printed scarf or plaid coat can bring new life to an outfit without overwhelming your look.
Accessories: Don’t underestimate the power of accessories to instantly elevate your look. This season, accessories are all about practicality and personality. Try handbags made from interesting and contrasting materials, or layer up your favorite pieces of jewelry to add interest. Even a simple outfit (think jeans and a t-shirt) can feel complete with the addition of a bold belt, chunky boots, or a vintage scarf. Accessories are an easy way to switch things up without buying a whole new wardrobe, and they add that personal touch to any outfit.
Building a Capsule Fall Wardrobe:
A capsule wardrobe for Fall? Yes, please. It’s all about finding those core pieces that can mix and match easily—without the overwhelm. Here’s what I’m loving this season:
The Classic Trench Coat: A forever piece that works in any season, but it really shines in Fall. Play with lengths and proportions on this one, as there are various options now available.
Tailored Blazers: A blazer is perfect for those days when it’s not too chilly, but you still need a polished layer. Great for those of us on the west coast! Look for quality tailoring and fabrics that will last, but here’s where the fun comes in—why not choose a plaid blazer or even a bold color that speaks to your personality? The RealReal is a great source for second hand, designer pieces (search both in womens and mens!).
Layering Knits: Stick to neutral or earthy-toned knit sweaters that can be worn on repeat. Don’t be afraid to layer multiple pieces—think a turtleneck under a chunky sweater or layering a vest over a blouse. Layers not only add warmth but also dimension, giving you the opportunity to play with textures and colors.
The Barn Coat: Adding in one more outwear piece here, the barn coat. This workwear basic has officially left the farm and become a really stylish staple for this Fall season. The best barn jackets combine all of the usual rustic details you would expect, with more updated colors and modern fits.
Playing with Prints, Patterns, and Layers:
Fall is the perfect season to get experimental with layering and mixing prints. This is where I encourage a playful and personal approach. Here’s how you can do it in a sustainable way:
Prints as Accents: If you’re new to prints, start small. Add a statement print with accessories—a scarf, a bag, or even patterned socks peeking out. It’s a great way to inject a little personality without over-committing. Stripes, florals, and animal prints can be balanced with more neutral staples like a classic coat or solid-colored layers.
Mixing Patterns: Ready to step it up? Try pairing prints, but keep them within the same color family. For example, a plaid blazer over a subtle striped top can create visual interest without looking chaotic. When in doubt, keep one print more subdued, and let the other be the star. A good rule of thumb is to find a matching color thread with mixing prints or patterned pieces together, so that it looks intentional.
Layering for Dimension: Layering isn’t just for warmth—it’s an easy way to add depth to your outfit. Try a monochrome look by layering different shades of the same color (think camel tones or grays). Or play with contrasts—pair a chunky knit over a flowy, patterned dress for a mix of structure and movement. Layering gives you the chance to remix your wardrobe in unexpected ways.
Shopping Sustainably This Fall:
We’ve all been tempted by those quick trends or fast-fashion deals, but when it comes to Fall fashion, it’s better to think long-term. Some sustainable shopping tips:
Go for Quality Over Quantity: Pretty sure I say this in every post! Instead of grabbing a bunch of “trendy” items, focus on a few high-quality pieces that will last you several seasons. A well-made wool coat or leather boot is going to be with you for years.
Secondhand Finds: Thrift stores and vintage shops are gold mines for unique, quality pieces that add character to your wardrobe. Plus, buying second hand is one of the most sustainable choices you can make.
Do Your Research: If you’re buying new, look into brands that prioritize ethical practices and eco-friendly materials. Many brands are now transparent about their production processes, so you can shop consciously while staying on trend.
When looking for sustainable clothing, check clothing tags for keywords like "organic cotton," "recycled polyester," "tencel," "hemp," "linen," "bamboo," and certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Fairtrade, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) which indicate the materials were sourced and produced sustainably throughout the process; also, look for information about the manufacturing practices and social responsibility of the brand on their website or packaging, as tags can still unfortunately be misleading.
Caring for Your Clothes to Make Them Last:
Sustainability doesn’t stop at what you buy—it’s also about how you care for your clothes. A few simple tips can make all the difference in keeping your wardrobe looking fresh:
Wash Less, Wear More: The less you wash your clothes, the longer they’ll last. And when you do wash, use cold water and eco-friendly detergents. Bonus points for line drying—better for the clothes and the planet.
Mend, Don’t Toss: Instead of getting rid of a piece when it’s torn or needs a button replaced, try your hand at mending it or taking it to a tailor. It’s an easy way to extend the life of your clothes.
Fall fashion is about more than just trends—it’s about feeling good in what you wear and making choices that reflect who you are. By focusing on timeless pieces, playful prints, sustainable shopping, and caring for what you own, you’ll step into the season looking chic and feeling confident, all while staying true to your values.
I’d love to see how you’re styling your Fall looks! Share your favorite vintage finds or your capsule wardrobe in action by tagging me on Instagram @carexelm
Need help building your perfect Fall wardrobe? Let’s chat—I’m here to help you express your authentic style, creatively and responsibly.
