The Fall shows abounded in variety, with a broad range of options to suit the goth and the poetry lover, sartorialists and hopeless romantics. Plenty of fodder, in other words, for building wish lists. Here’s something to do while you’re waiting for these clothes to hit Web shops and store racks: Experiment with the ways they were worn on the runway. Is the air-conditioning in your office dropping to Arctic lows? Try the twinning knitwear trick—only with cotton pullovers rather than wool ones. No cabana service at the beach? Never mind, the glint from the sparkling pin on your sun hat will communicate that you’re a star.
Many of these tweaks can be made actionable with pieces already in your closet. By giving them a test run, you can shop more responsibly come Fall.
Layer a Hoodie Under Your Dressy Coat
Save a ladylike look from becoming saccharine; pair fancy materials like feathers and faux fur with the iconic symbol of street cred: a hoodie.
Peg Your Pants—But Not Permanently
You might have traded your skinny pants for more full-legged ones, but tapering remains an option if you make like the models at Gucci and use your shoestrings to gather your hems around the ankle.
Twin Your Sweaters
When it comes to knitwear, plan to buy in bulk. We’re not talking about twin sets but about buying two identical pullovers. Worn wrapped around the neck or at the waist, this is an easy way to evoke après-ski or grunge chic, respectively. (NB: Try this trick with cotton sweaters to combat the overzealous air-conditioning in offices and public transportation.)
Make Use of Keyhole Necklines
Unlock the potential of a skin-bearing cutout by filling it with a flash of jewelry.
Try a Turtleneck for Evening
A slip dress over a turtleneck has quickly become accepted office wear; high necks for evening are less common. Designers from Christian Dior’s Maria-Grazia Chiuri to Richard Quinn suggest you give the look a spin. Added bonus: This is a nifty way to wear a warm weather look when the mercury drops.
Stack Your Belts
Designers doubled down on waist-focused fashion by extending the idea of stacking from bracelets and watches to belts for Fall. (You can achieve a similar effect by wrapping a long belt twice around your middle.)
Tuck In Your Blazer
Ready to move on from the intentionally misbuttoned jacket? Try tucking in your blazer instead.
Decorate Your Hat
There’s nothing old-fashioned about bedazzling your beanie or beret with a sparkling brooch.
Paper Bag It
The everyday shopping bag gets an elevated makeover for Fall. Give the look a spin with a paper version.
Test-Drive a Little Latex
Dip your toe into Fall’s BDSM trend with latex socks.
Watch: 39 Can’t Miss Moments From the Fall 2019 Fashion Shows:
