All four seasons come alongside their own unique set of fashion questions that need to be answered. For instance, summertime is all about staying (and looking) cool in every setting, from the beach to the neighborhood pool party, while winter finds us pondering the most fashionable ways to stay warm and cozy.
Fall finds us trying to make the transition between the two. The air is starting to have a bit of a chill to it, but it's still relatively balmy out as well. That can make choosing the right outwear challenging. You want to stay warm, comfortable, and protected against the elements without feeling completely bundled up. Outerwear options that are cool, crisp, and contemporary are just the thing.
What Makes Outerwear Picture Perfect for Fall?
As is the case with your footwear, choosing the right seasonal outerwear is all about striking the right balance between form and function. The following are some of the characteristics that make a given piece of outerwear particularly perfect for fall.
Not Too Thick or Heavy
Fall is arguably one of the most enjoyable of all the seasons, because temperatures tend to be just about right. It's no longer muggy and hot, but we've still got plenty of time before we really have to worry about freezing temperatures. Save the thick, heavy options for winter. The best fall coats are sleek and streamlined, not bulky and cumbersome.
Practical Material
Now that summer is over, we're done with pool parties and beach getaways for a while. However, we're ready for an entirely new set of fun activities. (Think apple picking, hiking, hayrides, and pumpkin patch visits.) You want outerwear that's in step with everything you might find yourself doing this fall, so it has to be practical. Look for stylish options in fabrics like cotton, tweed, light wool, or supple leather.
Versatile and Stylish
Speaking of fall activities, most of us also do a lot of visiting, road-tripping, and last-minute traveling this time of year. That said, the best fall outerwear options are as versatile, easy to pack, and effortless to wear as they are protective. Look for jackets and coats that look fantastic with a variety of different looks, and which will be appropriate for everything from Thanksgiving dinner at your folks' house to that awesome haunted house trek you look forward to every Halloween.
Don't forget to take your fall footwear into consideration when considering your outerwear for the season. Try pairing a posh looking trench coat with this season's best in wide-calf tall boots or stylish booties. Turn the dial up on your favorite leather options with jeans and a statement-making option like the Cybele from B.O.C. Mix, match, and experiment to find the perfect combination for you.
Spotlight on Our Favorite Fall Looks
Truly classic looks never go out of style, but there's no mistaking the "wow" factor attached to some of the following options. Pick your favorite and knock 'em dead!
Quilted Jackets
Nothing says "I'm totally ready for fall" and "I'm stylish" quite like quilted jackets. They're certainly warm and cozy enough to keep you warm all day when outdoors, but they're still crisp and sleek enough to really deliver in the style department as well. Choose options that are comfortable and easy to move in so that you're raring to go wherever the day may take you. Stick with basics like black and tan, or go expressive with an alternative in hunter green, rust, or plum.
Military-Inspired Outerwear
If you're looking for outerwear that manages to be appropriate for every season, look no further than military-inspired coats and jackets. Classics in shades like navy blue and army green pair well with everything. Use them to add a casual touch to a skirt ensemble, or pair with your favorite pair of jeans. Check out the Ciao Milano Tess Anorak jacket for an interesting spin on this classic.
Ponchos
Not a big fan of jackets or coats? Looking for something a little outside the box, but not too far outside it? Fall options like ponchos might be just what you've been searching for. Ponchos are super cozy and comfortable, so they're just right for fighting that fall chill. However, they're dramatic enough to make a real statement. Perfect for anyone who can't imagine not looking epic in every last one of those apple picking photos!
The key to finding a piece of fall outerwear that you're sure to love is to make sure it's practical while also remaining uniquely you. When in doubt, go for classics instead of overly trendy pieces. Finally, make choices that complement the rest of your wardrobe.
