by Brittney Osborn 

With the arrival of fall fashions, getting dressed is fun again. Designers and influencers alike have been showcasing new and exciting ways to wear the season’s hottest trends. Check out this list of the top 10 trends for fall, and consider adding a few from the local boutiques featured in this section on an upcoming shopping trip.

1. Bigger Bombers

Bomber jackets are always cool, but this year the quintessential topper goes bigger and better. Pair an oversized bomber with more streamlined pieces for a more balanced look. Try a classic leather style in a timeless black, or shake things up with a colorful, quilted bomber. The possibilities are endless. With the correct silhouette, the big bomber jacket will always be on trend.

2. Boxy Blazers

Blazers are always in style. Whether they are making a statement in the boardroom or just worn casually for a night out with friends, they can be styled for any occasion. This season, swap the cropped, fitted blazers for boxy, lengthy styles in saturated hues, neutral tones and snappy plaids. Pair a blazer with parachute pants and a band tee for an edgy vibe, or add it to a fitted knit dress for a more elegant look.

3. Schoolgirl Style

Live out those “Gossip Girl” dreams with a return to preppy, schoolgirl style. There’s something about the return to the classroom in the fall that also signals a return to collegiate-inspired looks. Letterman jackets, plaid mini and midi skirts, cozy sweater sets and loafers are all the rage this season and are sure to turn heads in Northeast Arkansas just as much as they have on the runways. For a more mature take on schoolgirl style, try an accessory like a satin headband or a single statement piece instead of a head-to-toe Blair Waldorf costume.

4. Elevated Knits

One of the best things about fall is all the soft, cozy sweaters and knits that are perfect to wear when the temperatures drop. It’s finally sweater weather, so pile on the pullovers and cardigans in sumptuous fabrics like angora, cashmere and merino wool. Sweaters accented with pearls and beads, as well as satin ribbons worked into the knit, are a way to elevate a go-to sweater and jeans look into anything but basic.

5. Corsets

Corset tops have been everywhere leading up to fall. First making an appearance this spring and summer paired with floaty skirts, this lingerie-inspired trend is becoming more and more popular. Try a corset or bustier style top layered over a button-up shirt in a contrasting color or under a blazer in a matching hue. This ultra femme-meets-menswear layered look is very of the moment and perfect for the cooler temps of fall.

6. Vests

Speaking of layering, vests are back. The autumnal staple is available in any style for any occasion. Try a sweater vest and plaid skirt for a double dip into the schoolgirl style trend. A puffer vest in a vibrant color is just the thing for those wanting to make a statement with their outerwear, and it has that perfect retro-vibe that’s very sought after in leisure wear at the moment.

7. Statement Coats

When colder temperatures call for a coat this fall, make it a showstopper. Coats in vibrant hues and unexpected patterns are a sure way to make a memorable impression and brighten those gloomy, chilly days on the horizon. For an extra impact, try a coat in one of this season’s hot hues of fuchsia, emerald green, burnt henna, lilac or marigold. Shaggy, furry robe coats and patchwork quilt coats are a cozy way to stay warm, chic and a little connected to that homebody nature everyone developed over the past few years.

8. ‘90s Basics

This season, basics are anything but. White tees, jeans, black tanks and denim jackets all have a place in our wardrobes. Fall 2022’s basics are taking inspiration from the ‘90s. Less normcore and more supermodel style, pair a ribbed short sleeve white tee with stovepipe high-waisted jeans and top with a black leather jacket for an effortless autumnal outfit that’s ready for most anything.

9. Barbiecore

There’s never been a better time to be a Barbie Girl. For the ultimate power move this season, head-to-toe hot pink and girly looks full of sparkles, ruffles, satin and chiffon are popping up in boutiques and on social media feeds around the country. Try a hot pink power suit for that next presentation, or a pink slip dress with a fluffy pink overcoat for a date night outfit worthy of an icon.

10. Pumpkin Patch Chic

For many, fall means trips to the pumpkin patch and all the photo ops. For a fresh take on pumpkin patch style, try a sweater dress and duck boots paired with a puffer vest. Not a dress person? Try a flannel shacket and carpenter jeans atop a black crop top. Add a pair of Doc Martens for a little ‘90s flair.