We may all be sweltering in the 90-degree summer heat, but fall is in the not-too-distant horizon—and that means one thing: an exciting new-season wardrobe. So what sartorial delights do we have to look forward to once the leaves start turning brown? (A lot, as it happens!) Who better to let us in on the best trends and items to invest in this fall than the buyers of our favorite luxury retailers themselves? From fashion-girl favorite animal print to Western-style cowboy boots, heritage plaid, and the must-have hues of the season, it's time to stock your closet with these trends that are set to be huge for fall. Scroll below for insider intel from some of the most prominent buyers in the fashion world.
Natalie Kingham, fashion and buying director, MATCHESFASHION.COM
Animal Print
"The strongest and most prevalent trend for A/W 18 is animal prints, and not any one type of animal in particular—for a more elevated take on the trend, look to zebra print in coats from Bottega Veneta, as well as the use of python print from designers such as Kwaidan Editions and Emilia Wickstead."Available in sizes S to L.
Prairie Dresses
"Batsheva is one of the new brands I'm most excited about for F/W 18—her prairie-style designs, created with upcycled fabrics, are the perfect combination for exploring feminine dressing and vintage prints."Available in sizes 0 to 10.
Western-Style Boots
"This season has been a great one for boots in all different styles—flat and heeled, ankle boots, knee-high boots and over-the-knee boots have all been strong, meaning they can be worn in for a variety of occasions. One of the biggest trends we saw on the runway was the return of Western-style boots—this Margiela pair was a more directional take on this trend with its cutout features."Available in sizes EU35 to EU41.
Plaid and Check
"Checks have been another key runway trend that has become a standout this season—designers such as Joseph, Max Mara, Fendi, and Emilia Wickstead used plaid as accents on other prints or to bring signature styles into the new season. At Gucci, the check was used to temper the otherwise loud mashup of prints, instantly making each look more wearable."Available in sizes IT36 to IT44.
Ultra-Glamorous Evening Bags
"Another strong trend for the season has been evening bags in ultra-glamourous designs. Favorites for me have been the Do Not Disturb mini bags from Alessandra Rich and Saint Laurent, as well as Hillier Bartley's lantern fringed leather clutch."
Caroline Maguire, fashion director, Shopbop
Ultraviolet
"This is one of my favorite colors for the season—it screams royalty. It's like jelly—all you need is the peanut butter!"Available in sizes 0 to 4.
Available in sizes 35 to 40.
A Knit You Can't Live Without
"The fall season is all about loveable knits. This Acne Studios one checks all the boxes—oversize, novel, and the palette is so fresh."Available in sizes XXS to L.
Colored Animal Print
"I am obsessed with various animal prints in bright colors for fall. This unconventional polo is a must!"Available in sizes 34 to 40.
Western Cowboy Boots
"You need these in your closet. It's the perfect transitional shoe to wear year-round!"Available in sizes 35 to 41.
Rebecca Brewer, senior buyer, FWRD.com
Green
"Green is our new favorite color for the season, it's that perfect pop of color that looks great on any skin tone. This belted cashmere coat from Loewe is a must."Available in sizes XS to M.
Hands-Free Bags
"Run, don't walk, to purchase the must-own accessory for fall! I'm all about being hands-free and love that you can wear this around your waist or across the chest. The Attica Fanny Pack from Alexander Wang is perfect because who doesn't love a pop of leopard?"
High Shine
"Saint Laurent just debuted its newest bag and she is oh so cute. The Vicky Chain Bag is perfect in this red patent colorway, and I'm loving this as an updated day bag. Don't be afraid to introduce high shine into everyday wear."
Fuchsia
"Retrofete is one of my new favorite brands for fall, and I'm especially loving its Gabrielle Robe in fuchsia. This super-glam sequin style drapes perfectly and shows off just the right part of your body. It's perfect for buy now, wear now and can easily take you from dinner to dancing."Available in sizes XS to L.
Luxe Cashmere Knit
"The best investment for Fall. This uber luxe cashmere knit is the perfect transitional outerwear piece. Buy one and it will leave you wondering how you lived without it before."Available in sizes XS to M.
Shop More Fall Favorites
Available in sizes 5 to 10.
Available in sizes 34 to 42.
Available in sizes 0 to 14.
Available in sizes 0 to 14.
