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Collegiate Essentials: Fall Fashion Edition

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Ottawa chapter.

‘Tis the real season to be jolly because it’s officially fall! And, with the change of the season comes the change in every fashionista’s closet. Out go the floral sundresses and in comes the knit cardigans. Fall fashion welcomes the return of darker colours and layered clothing and this year is no exception. Thinking about adding some new pieces to your fall wardrobe? Look no further because we’ve got you covered. Check out our top five essentials for fall. 

Denim

 

It’s back to school and also back to the denim basics for fall. Denim-on-denim has found it’s way onto fall runways and even into stores. H&M recently released their new Conscious Denim Collection for fall and it’s fabulous! Think Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake at the 2001 AMAs or Katy Perry at the 2014 VMAs, only better. Whether it’s a denim jacket, a chambray shirt, or a pair of denim jeans, denim is a fall must-have. It’s easy to style and comes in a variety of prints and washes. Mix and match with leather clothing for an edgy look or pair with a cozy cable knit sweater.

Faux Leather

Nothing says “fall” quite like a leather jacket or faux leather since most of us are living on an unforgiving student budget. A leather jacket not only adds edge to your outfit but it also goes with anything. Literally. You can dress it up with a skirt or wear it casually with jeans and still look polished. Celebrities are notorious for wearing leather jackets as a part of their street style. See how Kim Kardashian rocked hers and get inspired.

Chunky Knits

 

 

Can we say “sweater weather”? Fall is the perfect time to start wearing your favourite knit sweaters. They’re oh so cozy and oh so easy to style. Crop tops were all the rage this summer and it looks like this trend is continuing into the fall with knitwear. Try a bright, cropped sweater like this one from H&M or wear a long, loose, and laid-back cable knit sweater. Paired with leggings, jeans or skirt you are guaranteed to look comfy, cute, and chic. 

 

Oversized Scarves

 

Oversized scarves are not only practical for the impending cold weather in Ottawa but they’re also super stylish. A scarf is a classic fall accessory and this season scarves are bigger than ever. Scarves were featured on runways such as Burberry and were long, flowy, and multicoloured. Stick with classic fall colours like black, grey, or burgundy, or try mixing it up with some brighter colours and prints. With a variety of colours and textures, you can easily find a scarf to match your outfit.

 

Ankle Booties

 

 

 

These booties were made for walking and that’s just what they’ll do. With the fall comes the return of booties and this season it’s all about ankle booties. Stylists are recommending ankle booties because they’re fun, versatile and come in a range of styles. From moto boots to cute wedges, they are the perfect choice for any city girl. Play with different textures and heel heights and look for booties with zippers and buckles to add an extra something. It’s all in the details.

 

If there is one rule about fall fashion it is this: regardless of what you choose to wear, remember fall style is meant to be effortless, fun, and fashionable. Layers are your friends, especially when the weather can be tricky. Hopefully this list of fall essentials will inspire you to experiment and try something new. Think of these pieces as the foundation of your fabulous fall wardrobe. Once you’ve got the basics, the possibilities are endless. 

 

Credits: 1 2 3 4 5 6  

Kaysey graduated from the University of Ottawa with a double major in English and Sociology and is currently studying Professional Writing and Communications at Humber College. She hails from the fabulous city of Toronto and can quote Disney like it's her job. Some of her favourite things to do are reading, writing, and aimlessly surfing the internet for inspiration. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram, @kaysey_dee,  or check out her blog: Portrait of a Fashionista