There's Many Fun Aspects to Fall Fashion

Cool breezes, crunchy leaves underfoot, foggy mornings and pumpkin spice lattes in every hand indicate that fall is upon us once again. If autumn is in the air where you live, it may be time to kick-off your strapped sandals and pull-out your cool weather clothing. Does last year's wardrobe look dated or out of style? Don't worry! Transitioning and updating your wardrobe doesn't have to be intimidating, frustrating or even expensive. By adding just a few key new pieces and some fun, seasonal accessories to your collection, you can give last year's wardrobe a whole new life and updated look. Best of all, you don't have to spend a fortune to look like a million buck fashionista! All you need is a good strategy. Here are eight great ways that you can get the most out of your existing fall wardrobe without feeling the pinch in your pocketbook.

1 - Examine Your Existing Fall Clothes

Take a close look at your existing fall wardrobe. Look for stains, tears, missing buttons or holes. Mend the items that need to be mended now, so you won't have to deal with a "quick fix" when you are already late for an appointment. Be sure to try on any items that you haven't worn in awhile to make sure that they are still a good fit. Use a critical and honest eye about your items' quality and style. Don't hold onto pieces you know you will never wear or that simply don't fit. Donate or sell all unwanted items to make room for new pieces.

2 - Incorporate Some Clothes from Other Seasons

Before you put all of your summer clothes away for the year, ask yourself if you could use any of the items this fall. For instance, your summer shorts might look great over a pair of leggings. And your graphic band tees could be worn under your favorite fall cardigan. Even floral patterns and other distinctly spring or summer clothes could potentially be paired with flannel shirts or other fall items. It’s a chance to be creative. 

3 - Shop Used

Familiarize yourself with your local consignment and thrift shops. Check-out various online used fashion sites or shop at garage sales for some fun new-to-you items. Be sure to look for stains or imperfections before you purchase, since some used clothing can not be returned after purchase. Another good way to ensure getting a good deal on used items is to educate yourself on clothing labels. Learn which manufacturers produce the clothes that fit your style and body best and keep an eye out for pieces from these designers.

4 - Swap With Friends

Gather a group of friends who all wear approximately the same clothing sizes and have a clothes swapping party. Ask each guest to bring articles of clothing they are willing to part with and that is still of decent quality. It's best to set a minimum number of items that each guest should bring to the swap to make sure that the party is fair for all participants. Allow participants to trade items until each guest leaves the party with a full shopping bag of usable fall clothing items.

5 - Accessorize

Adding a pop of color with a scarf or chunky necklace might be all you need to bring new life to last year's favorite sweater or suit. Dangling earrings, fun hats and shawls also provide an inexpensive and easy way to update an outfit. Pins can also provide a little whimsy to an outfit and can help secure scarves as well. Accessories are one of the least expensive ways to update an outfit.

6 - Buy Neutrals

If you are planning on purchasing new items for your wardrobe this season, look for neutral colored clothing and pieces with subtle or no pattern. Neutral colored clothing and pieces without patterns will help to stretch your wardrobe. For instance, a white tee could be worn under a cardigan or even over a long-sleeved shirt. Neutral items are versatile and can be used in a variety of different outfits and with many different colors.

7 - Layer

Fall weather can be unpredictable. Instead of investing in a lot of expensive fall outer clothing pieces, consider layering. Start with a tank top under a tee shirt that you have grabbed from your summer wardrobe. Add a dark colored cardigan or sweater to your look. These layers will help you to stay toasty warm without investing in an expensive autumn jacket. If you still feel a chill, consider adding a hat, scarf or gloves to your look.

8 - Repurpose

Don't be afraid to show your individuality and personal style. For instance, instead of investing in an expensive pair of distressed jeans, consider distressing your own. Have a stain on your favorite white tee? Try your hand at tie-dying that old tee to help give it a new look and a new life. You might be surprised at how much life is left in some of the items you thought would never be worn again. Buying something new is easy, but there’s a real sense of accomplishment when you repurpose clothing into something great.