Seeing Green in Fall Fashion Trends

When the weather starts to get cooler, it’s time to ditch those flip-flops and daisy dukes.

With fall comes flare. Cool, autumn weather brings the perfect opportunity for fashionistas to show their edgy style through vibrant and eye-catching pieces.

If you are looking to shake things up in your wardrobe this fall, you have picked a fabulous year to do so.

This fall’s most popular fashion trends were revealed on the runway during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York City, which ran from Sept. 5 to Sept. 12.

Some of the more appealing trends for this season include shades of green, classic prints and leather.

“Fall trends” might typically bring to mind dark colors and oversized sweaters, but this season, designers put more emphasis on the color.

Various hues of green made it onto Pantone’s list of top color picks for fall 2013. From emerald to army, there’s a shade for every skin tone, hair color and personal style.

Whether you make a statement with a blazer or a pair of colored jeans, or keep it simple with a belt or a piece of jewelry, there are many ways to incorporate these shades into your wardrobe.

“I was really excited to see emerald green pop up in this fall’s fashion trends,” said Emily Egner, a junior. “I’ve always liked green, but I was reluctant to wear it because it’s not the most commonly worn color. Now, I can experiment without feeling out of place.”

Patterns were all over the runway this fall-from houndstooth and plaids to all-over animal prints. After a few seasons of loud, complicated prints, designers were ready to go back to the classics.

While these prints work on almost everything, it is best to choose one piece of clothing to highlight, leaving the rest of your outfit neutral.

A classic plaid button-down shirt is a staple for any fall wardrobe. For those who are looking to make a statement, printed jeans are for you. Whether you go with plaid, leopard or houndstooth, there’s a print for every personality.

“I always gravitate towards plaid button-downs while shopping for fall clothing,” said Lauren Fuhring, a junior. “I enjoy taking risks when it comes to fashion, so I will definitely be on the hunt for plaid jeans.”

And if you’re looking to add a sleek edge into your wardrobe while making the ultimate fashion statement, then take a risk with leather this fall.

Not sure how to pull off the leather look? Try pairing a leather jacket with an outfit you would normally wear. This simple piece can turn any outfit from ordinary to chic in seconds.

If you’re a little more adventurous, you can look for leather leggings, pants and even dresses.

“My leather jacket is a necessity in my wardrobe,” said Britney Blanco, a senior. “It’s my main staple for any basic outfit, and it can even make a girly look a little edgy.”

Whether you are choosing one trend or all of them, the most important thing is to pick the one that best fits your personality and lifestyle. Fashion is a form of self-expression. It’s the way we tell the world who we are without saying a word.

sbell@ramapo.edu