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How to Wear a Suit This Fall

Autumn has officially arrived, and I am so excited! Fall fashion is one of my favorite things, and each year I relish the chance to bust out plaids, tweeds, sweaters, and scarves as the heat and humidity give over to crisp and chilly days. Last year, all manner of blazers took center stage on the style scene. This autumn, the major (and most relatable) fall trend is head-to-toe suiting. So dust off that old interview suit, and try out some new ways to put a fresh spin on a classic ensemble.

Wearing a full suit doesn’t have to mean a matching top and bottom. To add some life into your suiting, try pairing mismatched pieces into one look. You can mix and match two pieces in similar prints, like a blazer and trouser with slightly different plaids in the same color family. Or create your own color blocking, with two pieces in contrasting hues, like gray pants and a cobalt blue or magenta blazer. One color-combo that is on trend this season is green and yellow, perfect for you John Deere fans.

If you’re in the market for a new suit, consider going with an oversized fit. Standard suits can feel too stiff and stuffy. For a more modern take, look for relaxed, pajama-like cuts. Kimono and robe-style jackets with matching pants can be found at everyday retailers like Target and Forever 21. If you’re reluctant to experiment with a leisurely silhouette, try a double-breasted blazer with wide-legged trousers for a more relaxed take on the suit. And don’t be afraid to size up for a slouchy, yet chic shape.

To bring a more dressed-down vibe to a traditional suit, utilize your casual accessories. Instead of pumps, go for a neutral sneaker. Instead of a handbag, opt for a leather bookbag. Instead of a leather belt, try a thin rope belt or a necktie. Instead of a blowout, go with a low ponytail. Don’t forget; your hair can act as an accessory. Also, consider suiting in a more casual fabric like corduroy, which is perfect for fall/winter and can also play into the 70’s trend.

Don’t feel a suit requires pants. If you’re looking for something different than the traditional trouser and blazer combination, opt for a skirt. Skirt suits are very much back en vogue. Also, don’t feel you have to wear the standard button-down shirt with a suit. Mix things up with t-shirts and knitwear underneath your jacket. I love striped t-shirts with plaid suits or a bright red turtleneck underneath a neutral suit. Or, you can contrast the menswear feel of suits with a lace top or ruffly blouse.

Whether you’re pairing your navy gabardine with sneakers and a V-neck, or buying a new suit in a novelty print, or ditching pants for a mini-skirt, the key for suiting this fall is to flip the script, shake things up, and come at it from a new angle. However, be careful. Pick your moments for the more “out there” style approaches. Workplace dress policies may prohibit sneakers, and your niece’s baptism may not be the best time to debut your striped open front blazer and matching wide-leg pants.

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