It’s All About the Accessories
By Kathie Morris | Photography by James Bass
It doesn’t matter if you’re school-aged or haven’t been on a campus in decades — fall always means back-to-school. And, of course, back-to-school means new clothes and new shoes.
August is a great time to add some accessories or clothing pieces to freshen up your wardrobe and be on trend. At The Changing Room, we love adding to a summer wardrobe to help the transition into fall. An easy way to do this is swap out sandals for boots, shorts for tights, and throw on a jean jacket. A big trend for Fall 2017 is the return of the classic turtleneck. Try layering it under a summer dress or tunic!
Here’s what we’re seeing from designers across the globe for Fall 2017. Trend colors: grenadine (red), navy peony, ballet slipper (blush pink), autumn maple (gold) and butter rum (yum!).
Sportswear: It’s official — red is the color for Fall 2017! Be on the lookout for power red, and don ’t be afraid to wear it head-to-toe. Luxe is the feel for fall, with wool jackets, brocade fabrics and sequins for day or night. Coats are taking a vintage-inspired, classic look — like you borrowed them from your grandmother’s closet. Next, we go to the Wild, Wild West, with leather vests and jackets. Think retro cowboy. We’re falling in love with the mid- to ankle-length skirts, with crocheted lace peeking out at the hem.
Denim: When it comes to denim, we’re seeing distressed, destructed and relaxed boyfriends; frayed and staggered-hemmed skinnies; cropped flares and touches of embroidery. Freshen up your pant essentials with non-denim options, such as sueded cottons, crushed velvets and knit ponte leggings in menswear prints and plaids.
Footwear: Remember those old Dr. Martens, AKA combat boots? Well, they’re back! Also, velvet isn’t just a fabric for pants. We see booties in this luxe fabric, in jewel tones, as well as vintage-printed florals that enhance the boho-chic look. The over-the-knee boot is hotter than ever, and you will see them in pops of red, navy peony and autumn maple. For desk to dinner, swap your boot for a sexy slingback in satin, velvet or suede, sprinkled with glitz and glam. Don’t be afraid of the block heel; they’re chic and comfortable! You can change any outfit with the switch of a shoe.
Accessories: The luxe look is coming on strong in accessories, too! Purses and headbands embellished with studs or pearls and bucket hats made of fur are showing up everywhere. Fishnet tights are back in a big way this year. Try them with a dress or under cropped jeans for a more modern take. Wide belts are leading the way on a more tailored look in jackets and dresses.
Jewelry: Funkier, bold jewelry is playing a major role in fall fashion. Large metal sculptured pieces mixed with pearls give that vintage-modern look. Chokers are here to stay. See them this fall in metals, gemstones and velvets. Pendants come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny, tender ones to gargantuan, chunky metallics. Pop-punk ear candy is also one of the hottest jewelry trends.
Have fun with fall fashion! The easiest way to update any wardrobe is to add a couple of new accessories. Pick a couple items in a new color or style you love. Buy an updated pair of jeans or jacket. You will be scoring an A+ for 2017! SWM
Kathie Morris owns The Changing Room, located at 425 S. Warren St. in downtown Syracuse, and 25 Syracuse St. in Baldwinsville. For more information, visit shopchangingroom.com.
