The needle is dropping on the thermostat and there’s a distinct chill in the air, confirming what we suspected was true all along: autumn is here. Sweater weather is fast approaching, and along with pumpkin spice lattes, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot and a sudden appetite for soup comes the seasonal desire to upgrade our wardrobes. Luckily, we’ve got Tanya Apsega, a buyer at fashionable womenswear boutique Andrews, to give us a head start on all the major trends for fall.
Investment Pieces
While sustainable fashion might not be a “trend,” Apsega says we’re seeing a shift towards investing in quality pieces that will last a lifetime. These “forever pieces” transcend age, time and even trends themselves. Take the Max Mara teddy coat, for instance: “You could be 18 or 60 years old and still look amazing in this coat,” says Apsega.
Max Mara teddy coat and Max Mara wool cashmere coat, available at Andrews.
Strong Suits
Menswear-inspired tailoring for women continues to be one of the strongest (and longest-running) trends of the season. “We’re seeing a lot of double-breasted blazers paired with wide-leg trouser bottoms, which I love,” says Apsega. Eat your heart out, Annie Hall!
Circolo 1901 Blazer, available at Andrews.
The New Neutrals
Classic neutrals like black, grey and navy are taking a backseat to warmer shades of camel, butterscotch, almond and amber. Apsega suggests layering these delicious-sounding shades head-to-toe to create a fresh, monochromatic look.
LINE cardigan and sweater, Cambio vegan leather leggings and Longchamp bag, available at Andrews.
Statement Sweaters
Whether featuring a vivid pattern, an eye-catching colour or a conspicuous cut, bold sweaters that can form the foundation of an outfit are a key item for fall. “You can throw them on with a skinny or wide-leg pair of jeans or a pair of trousers, but [the outfit] is really all about the sweater,” Apsega says. This shocking-fuchsia style by Autumn Cashmere more than fits the bill.
Autumn Cashmere sweater, available at Andrews.
Flash Points
Sequins aren’t just for New Years. Apsega suggests amping up an everyday look by infusing a little glitz into the mix. “You can dress up [sequins] with a great heel and a silk camisole, or you can wear them with a t-shirt and a pair of jeans,” she says. In the words of the immortal John Lennon, this season, “We all shine on.”
Alice & Olivia sequin pencil skirt, available at Andrews.
