The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and fall fashion is in full swing. But for those in the know, the race to secure the season’s hottest items starts long before the first pumpkin spice latte appears. While it’s tempting to wait until the weather cools down to update your wardrobe, the truth is, the most coveted pieces are often gone by the time autumn officially arrives.
So, who better to turn to for insight into what will be dominating shopping carts this fall than the fashion experts themselves? We asked buyers and fashion directors from top retailers to share their predictions on the trends that will be defining the season, from the It bag to the statement coat.
Net-a-Porter:
For Net-a-Porter market director Libby Page, fall 2023 is all about timeless pieces that will be cherished for years to come. Look to Bottega Veneta and Loewe for on-trend yet classic jackets, Bally and Gucci for luxurious footwear that’s practical enough for everyday wear, and Khaite for new additions to their handbag lineup. Page is particularly enthusiastic about Bally’s boat shoe loafer, already selling out in what she calls the color of the season: a rich burgundy.
Saks Fifth Avenue:
Roopal Patel, SVP, fashion director at Saks, sees the return of boho glam as a major trend, inspired by Chemena Kamali’s debut collection for Chloé. Expect to see flowy chiffon dresses, lace, over-the-knee boots, bracelet bags, and the signature Chloé monogram belt high on the wish lists of fashionistas. Patel also emphasizes the importance of tall boots and mini top-handle bags for fall. “High-shaft boots are perfect to pair back with fall dresses and statement coats,” she says. When it comes to handbags, she advises, “less is more” in terms of size – think mini, not XXL.
Shopbop:
Slouchy bags, oversized jeans, and leather bomber jackets are just a few of the trends that Shopbop’s senior fashion director Caroline Maguire is excited about. For Shopbop’s customer, she predicts a mix of sporty-meets-fashion-forward pieces will be bestsellers, including Sea NY’s rugby-inspired tee (designed exclusively for the retailer to celebrate its 25th anniversary), black capris, and Tanner Fletcher’s ruffle-trimmed hoodie. In footwear, keep an eye out for edgy moto boots and loafers with laced-up grommets.
Nordstrom:
Nordstrom’s fashion director, Rickie de Sole, tells Vogue, “fashion is embracing a new wave of elegance, and sophistication is key.” Accessories like Alaïa’s Le Teckel handbag, Prada’s satin ballet flats, and Nili Lotan’s more fitted take on the barn jacket perfectly capture this sentiment. De Sole shares Patel’s excitement for all things boho, highlighting two Chloé runway styles that Nordstrom has picked up for the season: its ruffle dress and etched cork wedges. Core fall styles top her bestsellers list, too, including Gucci’s Horsebit platform loafer and Khaite’s suede Marfa boot.
Neiman Marcus:
“The fall collections this season delivered the perfect combination of glamour and wearability,” Jodi Kahn, VP of luxury fashion at Neiman Marcus tells Vogue. “When pieces check not only one of these boxes, but both, they become instant must-haves!” These must-haves range from Khaite’s leather midiskirt in a luxe oxblood to Chloé’s outfit-defining over-the-knee boots. Back for another cameo is Dries Van Noten’s statement coat, which would make any fall wardrobe come to life with its painterly brushstrokes in Klein blue, pink, and brown.
Bergdorf Goodman:
Linda Fargo, SVP, women’s fashion and director of store presentation at Bergdorf Goodman, is confident in a handful of trends that will resonate with the retailer’s shoppers this fall. Feminine tailoring leads the charge, followed closely by burgundy as a color trend. Sleek, to-the-knee shaft boots are another key piece, and anything by Dries Van Noten is a sure bet. “The more signature Dries, the better!” she says.
Moda Operandi:
April Hennig, Moda Operandi’s Chief Merchant says a few fall trends are already resonating with its clients. When it comes to outerwear, barn jackets make for the perfect transitional investment; Brandon Maxwell’s is a noted favorite. For colder days, statement shearlings like the one from By Malene Birger will define your look. Cardigans, according to Hennig, “effortlessly embody both grace and versatility.” The boho blouse is another key style she predicts will take off. On the more understated side of things, practical investments include a roomy, largely logo-free carryall and sleek flats, which allow for 10K+ steps away without compromising personal style.
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