Every September, fall fashion takes over. The runways,Instagram feeds, and even the racks at Target are suddenly full of “must-haves”that promise to be the next big thing. But here’s the truth: not every trenddeserves a place in your closet.

As a stylist, one of the biggest things I hear from women ishow overwhelming it feels to keep up with what’s in style. You don’t want towaste money on something you’ll only wear for a season, but you also don’t wantto look outdated. My job is to help you filter through the noise so you canfocus on what’s actually wearable, timeless, and confidence-boosting.

So let’s break it down — which trends are worth theinvestment, which ones are fun to play with, and which you can skip altogether.

The Trap of Fast Trends

Fashion loves a moment. Micro-trends pop up constantly —think of how quickly things like “cold shoulder” tops went from everywhere tonowhere. They burn bright, then burn out. The good news? You don’t have tochase every single one to look stylish. Instead, focus on pieces that alignwith your personal style, work for your lifestyle, and will last beyond justthis season.

Worth the Investment: Trends with Staying Power

These are the fall 2025 updates that will serve you wellthis year and in seasons to come:

• Chocolate Brown – The “it” neutral this fall. Softer and more universally flattering than black, it’s a forever shade you’ll wear long after the trend cycle cools.
• Structured Outerwear – Longline coats and tailored blazers instantly elevate an outfit. These never truly go out of style.
• Quality Footwear – Loafers, block-heeled boots, Mary Janes. Comfortable, versatile, and polished.
• Luxe Knits & Cardigans – Elevated sweaters and cardigans in fabrics like merino or cashmere. Timeless, cozy, and endlessly mixable.
• Polished Handbags – Structured, neutral bags that pull an outfit together. A smart place to splurge, since you’ll carry it daily.

These investments aren’t just “trendy” — they’re practical,versatile, and worth their cost per wear.

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Fun to Play With (But Don’t Overspend)

There are always a few fun touches that can update yourwardrobe without a major commitment. I recommend:

• Statement Jewelry – Earrings, chunky rings, or bold necklaces can breathe new life into your basics.
• Pops of Color from Your Best Palette – Add a blouse, scarf, or handbag in one of your most flattering shades. It’s the quickest way to look vibrant and polished.
• Layering Textures – Sheer, mesh, or other unexpected layers that add interest. A little goes a long way.

These pieces should feel like “spice” in your wardrobe —playful and fun, but not where you sink most of your budget.

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What to Skip (or Approach with Caution)

Here’s where my stylist experience comes in: some trendsjust don’t have the same staying power. If you’re building a wardrobe you canrely on, these may not be the best places to invest.

• Barrel Jeans – A fun shape and very of-the-moment, but not as practical as straight, bootcut, or wide-leg jeans. If your denim collection is missing the classics, start there first. Barrel jeans can be a fun add-on, but they won’t last as long in the trend cycle.
• Western Theme – Cowboy boots, fringe jackets, bolo ties — it’s everywhere right now. But head-to-toe western has a short shelf life. If you love it, dabble in a suede jacket or a boot with a subtle western nod. Just don’t     overbuild around it.
• Ultra Low-Rise Pants & Skirts – They’ve been all over the runways (Prada, Miu Miu) and youth-focused retailers, fueled by Y2K nostalgia. But let’s be honest: they’re not wearable for most women, especially in professional settings. Skip unless you truly love it.
• Extreme Cuts & Details – Oversized shoulders, balloon sleeves, or exaggerated shapes. They make a statement but date quickly. Stick to classic tailoring with subtle updates instead.

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Shopping Smart: Tips and Local Favorites

Here’s the empowering part — trends are tools, not rules.Use them to inspire, but don’t let them overwhelm you. When you shop:

• Always start with a plan. Know your wardrobe gaps, lifestyle needs, and best color palette.
• Think cost per wear. A great coat you wear for five years is worth more than three trendy tops you wear twice.
• Mix investment pieces with more affordable fun trends to keep things fresh.

And if you live in the Colorado Springs area, youdon’t have to go far to find timeless, elevated pieces. Some of my favoritelocal boutiques include:

• What to Wear
• Eve’s Revolution
• The Love Shop
• Rosa Della Moda
• Colorado Co-op
• Yobel
• Terra Verde
• Rutledge’s (for men)

Each of these shops carries unique, high-quality pieces thatalign beautifully with a timeless fall wardrobe.

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Final Thoughts

Fall fashion doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You don’t needto chase every micro-trend — just focus on the ones that truly work for you.Invest in timeless pieces, sprinkle in a little fun, and skip what doesn’talign with your lifestyle.

That’s the beauty of personal style: it’s not about rules,it’s about building a wardrobe that helps you show up as your best self.

Ready for a curated, stress-free fall wardrobe update? Book a style strategycall and let’s make getting dressed the easiest part of your day.

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