Fashion

5 Fall Fashion Trends That Make You Less #Basic

by Ashley Massis

We’ve all seen the memes that describe what makes a girl #basic. There’s something about the fall that leads 20-somethings to rejoice with their pumpkin spice lattes, North Face jackets, leggings and Ugg boots. I mean, it wouldn’t be a stereotype if it weren't at least slightly true!

Trust me, ladies; I am not judging. As a fellow New Yorker, I am guilty of wearing the exact outfit described above, on several occasions. However, there comes a time in our lives when we have to retire the #basic attire.

Luckily, fall 2014's trends make the transition easy, with comfortable wrap coats, structured boots and pops of color that will separate us from the most basic of basic styles:

1. Powerful Pops Of Pastel

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Spring 2014's soft hues got carried into fall 2014 and are here to stay. From vintage pastels, like mint green, baby blue and baby pink, these pastels work great with fall neutrals and eventually, winter whites.

Do not take these colors lightly. By mixing pastels with animal prints, fall neutrals and mixed fabrics, such as velvet or leather, these subtle hues will become powerful pops.

2. Wrap Coats And Capes To The Rescue!

Although it might be appealing to throw on the sneakers and an old sweatshirt for a weekend coffee run, how about upping your fashion game to separate you from the rest? An oversized wrap coat or cape is perfect for the transitional fall weather, and it's just as easy to wear as your old college hoodie.

Pair the unstructured fabric with oversized sunglasses and a leggings/boot combo and you’ll be ready for a run-in with an ex or coworker. It is a small world after all, so it’s best to be prepared and looking chic than caught in a Saturday outfit slump.

3. Plaid: Not Just For School Girls Anymore

Plaid can be posh or grunge depending on the outfit.

There’s a little lumberjack in all of us. While this trend may reside in Brooklyn, plaid and plaid flannels are currently trending with the nostalgic 90s fashion obsession.

While a cute plaid flannel with skinny jeans gives off the “I’m relaxed but adorable look,” plaid skirts, pants and silk tops are perfect for a night out. If you're not ready to plunge into the plaid world, try adding a plaid accessory, such as a hat, belt or Burberry scarf!

4. Make A Statement! Boots, Boots, Boots

It’s time to say goodbye to our Ugg boots. Like a pair of tight jeans we can’t seem to give away because of the memories, our Ugg boots have been there for the good and the bad (weather). Unfortunately, they’re not exactly what we want to wear for a night on the town.

I was once told that since many New Yorkers do not buy car tires, our shoes are our tires and are worth the investment. As a Manolo addict, Carrie Bradshaw couldn’t agree more. Treat yo’self and purchase structured leather boots. Fall 2014’s knee-high styles are an outfit’s focal point.

Sites like Piperlime and Overstock offer a variety of boots with different buckles, colors and heights so you can pick a pair that resembles your style. Don’t fear; you can still wear them with leggings, printed pants or skinny jeans and they’re much more versatile.

Also, they look less like you rolled out of bed and put on your slippers. RIP, UGGs.

5. The Boys' Club: Blazers

Forgo the cardigan or hoodie and upgrade to a tailored blazer. Fall 2014 is all about mixing masculine menswear pieces with feminine accents. This business casual piece, paired with denim, skirts, dress pants, or boots and leggings adds a touch of refined structure to any look.

Spring 2014 celebrated oversized blazers. With bulkier sweaters, dresses and heavier weight items, save some money and use blazers as a transitional outerwear piece. For extra credit, head to your nearest thrift store and make an old blazer your own!

By changing the buttons, adding elbow detailing or having it custom-tailored, the blazer can reflect your personality.

Fall 2014 is all about details. By adding trendy pieces to basic outfits, you can separate yourself from the crowd.

The best thing about the fall season is our ability to layer. Although I was extremely comfortable in sweatpants as I stood in line at the grocery store, I can remember looking at the fashionable women in line who were handling the changing weather with stride and fashionable ease.

I couldn't help but wonder, “Who has that much time to look good?” Our lives are fast-paced, and it’s hard to keep a good look together without ultimately resorting to the old comfort blanket trends. By adding a refreshed, trendy piece to your outfit, your quick grocery run won’t be a frump fest.

You will be prepared for any awkward run-in, any flirty eyes in the aisles and any happy hour encounters. Don't be afraid to take a risk and make a trend your own.

Photo Courtesy: We Heart It