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Fall Fashion 2024: Classic + Refined Essentials to Look For

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Fall Fashion 2024: Classic + Refined Essentials to Look For

It’s time to start thinking about transitioning your wardrobe for cooler weather. We are weeks away from college football, crisp evenings, and cozy, stylish fall fashion trends. As is typical for us at StyleBlueprint, our focus remains on trends that allow us to invest in classic items that not only feel fresh and on-point now but will also stand the test of time. Today, we’re diving into eight essential fall fashion trends that promise both!

As you head out to your local boutiques, here are some things to look for. Remember, we advise only buying things you LOVE and feel great in. Trends come and go, but you should always stay true to your unique style when it comes to answering the question of “what to wear.”

Be sure to scroll to the end — we’re wrapping up this round-up with three elevated denim dresses, each under $200!

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1. Green and Mulled Wine Shades: A Blazer, Blouse, or Dress

Green has emerged as the frontrunner for this season’s color palette. And not just one green, but a rainbow of greens. For red, we are really drawn to using one particular shade: mulled wine. Or, if you must, burgundy (which is a wine hue). Both offer a fresh and versatile update to our fall wardrobes.

A tailored blazer is the perfect way to embrace this color trend while investing in a piece that will never go out of style. Another option is a blouse that you will reach for time and time again, or perhaps, an updated dress.

A woman with long hair, embodying refined fashion, dons a dark green blazer, striped shirt, and wide-leg jeans with cuffs for fall fashion 2024Pin
When talking blazers, we almost always showcase one from Veronica Beard. They are pricey, but the quality and fit are amazing. Plus, these “dickey” blazers allow you to buy Veronica Beard dickeys to zip into the blazer to change up the look with seemingly endless options. Find it here for $748. | Image: Veronica Beard
A woman with long blonde hair wearing a short-sleeve, dark red blouse and dark blue jeans stands against a white background. Embracing a Classic and Refined look, she has a neutral expression and her hands are by her sides. A woman with long blonde hair wearing a short-sleeve, dark red blouse and dark blue jeans stands against a white background. Embracing a Classic and Refined look, she has a neutral expression and her hands are by her sides. Pin
From Tuckernuck, this is called the “Merlot Dupioni Trapunto Stitch Sofia Shirt.” Currently available in sizes XXS to XXL, this top is great for everything from the boardroom to a Saturday night out. Find it here for $128. | Image: Tuckernuck
A woman is standing and wearing a dark green, three-quarter sleeve, v-neck midi dress with white sneakers. She is smiling and looking to her right, embodying classic and refined fashion against a plain white background.A woman is standing and wearing a dark green, three-quarter sleeve, v-neck midi dress with white sneakers. She is smiling and looking to her right, embodying classic and refined fashion against a plain white background.Pin
This dress is a cotton-linen blend and perfectly suited to get you through the transitional season of late summer/early fall, which, fashion-wise, can mystify even the best of us. It’s currently on sale at 50% off. Find it here for $107. | Image: Amour Vert

2. Tailored Knits: Cozy Yet Polished

While oversized knits have been a go-to for comfort in past seasons, this fall, we’re seeing a shift toward more tailored, polished knitwear. Think of sweaters that offer a relaxed fit without sacrificing structure. Belted waists, asymmetrical hems, and subtle detailing elevate these knits from casual to chic.

Of course, a classic cable-knit sweater in a neutral tone like cream, beige, or gray is perfect for layering and ensures longevity in your wardrobe. Good-quality cashmere will make you happy every time you wear it!

A person wearing a white, cable-knit sweater with a partial zip collar, embodying classic and refined style, smiles slightly to the side.A person wearing a white, cable-knit sweater with a partial zip collar, embodying classic and refined style, smiles slightly to the side.Pin
The classic cable-knit sweater is updated as a half-zip with a prominent zipper. Made by Jenni Kayne, the queen of the everyday sweater, this one is cotton, allowing you to start wearing it sooner rather than later. Find it here for $395 in ivory or black. | Image: Jenni Kayne
A woman in a maroon long-sleeve turtleneck and black leather skirt smiles while facing left, embodying classic elegance. Her large, round earrings complement the chic ensemble, a testament to Fall 2024 fashion trends.A woman in a maroon long-sleeve turtleneck and black leather skirt smiles while facing left, embodying classic elegance. Her large, round earrings complement the chic ensemble, a testament to Fall 2024 fashion trends.Pin
This knit turtleneck by SEA NEW YORK goes way beyond the expected. With beautiful perforations creating subtle patterns, it shines on its own or under a blazer. Find it here for $250. Image: Tuckernuck
A person wearing sunglasses and a sleeveless black and white zigzag-patterned top with beige trousers, embodying classic and refined style, stands against a plain background—a look that captures essential fashion trends for Fall 2024.A person wearing sunglasses and a sleeveless black and white zigzag-patterned top with beige trousers, embodying classic and refined style, stands against a plain background—a look that captures essential fashion trends for Fall 2024.Pin
Talk about a fabulous transition piece! This black and white vest is a play on the recent surge in the popularity of sweater vests, but it’s more like a sleeveless sweater made for hot days when you really want it to be fall. Layer over a blouse when the weather turns, or add a jacket. Find this cotton sweater here for $165. (Very limited sizes are available! For another similar option, check out this one HERE for $68.) | Image: ME+EM
A woman stands against a white background, embodying Fall fashion 2024 in a cream sweater with an American flag design on the front and white pants.A woman stands against a white background, embodying Fall fashion 2024 in a cream sweater with an American flag design on the front and white pants.Pin
And since we are mourning the end of the Olympics, it’s fitting to include this cotton sweater that will continue to be popular through election season and our post-olympic patriotic spirit! Pair with jeans, cords, or a skirt, this sweater also works for windy beach trips, fall trips, Labor Day, Memorial Day, Election Day, 4th of July in the mountains, and so much more! Find it here for $198. | Image: Tuckernuck

3. Straight-leg and Slightly Flared Trousers

Wide-leg trousers continue to make a statement, but if you want to refine the look for this season, a straight-leg and slightly flared leg are taking center stage. These styles offer a more tailored and flattering fit and can often seamlessly transition from work to weekend. Opt for classic fabrics like wool or tweed in neutral shades such as black, grey, navy, or camel.

If you want a pop of color in addition to the previously mentioned greens and burgundy, other colors to consider are ballet pink and sky blue. Pair your trousers with everything from fitted blazers to cozy knits to a casual or elevated denim jacket or leather jacket, making them a versatile addition to your fall wardrobe.

A person standing and wearing a black sleeveless top, black high-waisted pants, perfect for fall fashion 2024, and black footwear against a white background showcases classic fashion.A person standing and wearing a black sleeveless top, black high-waisted pants, perfect for fall fashion 2024, and black footwear against a white background showcases classic fashion.Pin
These bias-cut pants are pull-on and have a gentle wide leg. They are seasonless but perfect for dressier outings, which seem to be more plentiful in the fall and winter. These bestsellers are by VINCE and can be found here for $365. | Image: VINCE
A woman stands wearing a grey sweater, green wide-leg pants, and black heeled shoes. With a black jacket elegantly draped over one shoulder and carrying a small white crossbody bag, she epitomizes the Classic + Refined fashion trends of Fall 2024.A woman stands wearing a grey sweater, green wide-leg pants, and black heeled shoes. With a black jacket elegantly draped over one shoulder and carrying a small white crossbody bag, she epitomizes the Classic + Refined fashion trends of Fall 2024.Pin
These are ME+EM’s Cotton Utility Tapered Pants, and aren’t they fabulous? The straight leg, shorter length, and oversized front pockets just ooze statement chic. Find them here for $295. | Image: ME+EM
A person with curly hair is wearing a white tank top and black high-waisted flare pants, standing and smiling against a plain background, effortlessly embodying classic fall fashion 2024 trends.A person with curly hair is wearing a white tank top and black high-waisted flare pants, standing and smiling against a plain background, effortlessly embodying classic fall fashion 2024 trends.Pin
These black flare pants by SPANX, made from a slimming ponte fabric, promise a beautiful fit for most sizes and come in petite, regular, and tall. Find them here for $148. | Image: SPANX

4. Midi Skirts: The Love Affair Continues

Midi skirts remain a fall staple, but if you want any updates for fall fashion 2024, it’s all about the sleek and fluid silhouette. We’re heavily drawn to bias-cut skirts, as they offer a refined elegance that can be dressed up or down. Whether you choose a rich color like mulled wine (burgundy) or a classic neutral like black, a bias-cut skirt adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Pair it with an oversized sweater for a cozy-chic look or with a tailored blouse for a polished look for the office.

Woman in beige long-sleeve top and cream satin skirt, wearing high heels, standing sideways against a plain white background, epitomizing the Essential Trends of Fall Fashion 2024.Woman in beige long-sleeve top and cream satin skirt, wearing high heels, standing sideways against a plain white background, epitomizing the Essential Trends of Fall Fashion 2024.Pin
This is a skirt that we’ve highlighted before. We’ll likely continue to do so — it’s so flattering! This particular style, while widely available, has an extensive range of reviews. But this one by Quince has rabid fans. The price is also super approachable. AND it’s washable. AND it comes in lots of colors, including green and mulled wine! Find it here for $79.90. | Image: Quince
A woman is standing against a plain background wearing a black, long-sleeved, square-neck top and a long, patterned skirt—perfect for Fall Fashion 2024 Trends. Sporting light brown hair and elegant black shoes, her look exudes a classic and refined style.A woman is standing against a plain background wearing a black, long-sleeved, square-neck top and a long, patterned skirt—perfect for Fall Fashion 2024 Trends. Sporting light brown hair and elegant black shoes, her look exudes a classic and refined style.Pin
While leopard prints are not front and center this year, they are still around and always in style. But this play on a leopard print, with the teeny print on the bias-cut midi skirt by Jenni Kayne, is the year-round option we’ve been looking for. Find it here for $195. | Image: Jenni Kayne

5. Plaid with a Twist: Subtle Checks and Houndstooth

Plaid patterns have long been associated with fall, but we’re seeing a refined take on the trend this season. Subtle checks and houndstooth patterns lead the way (Alabama fans rejoice!), offering a more sophisticated and versatile option. If you want to embrace this trend in a small way, simply add a plaid wool scarf in one of these classic patterns.

You can also add a blazer, dress, or pants in this pattern for a bolder take on the trend. Stick to traditional color palettes for a piece that feels both on-trend and timeless.

A person is standing against a plain background, embracing Fall Fashion 2024 in a sleeveless, belted, patterned dress and knee-high brown boots.A person is standing against a plain background, embracing Fall Fashion 2024 in a sleeveless, belted, patterned dress and knee-high brown boots.Pin
This mini-houndstooth check dress by Cara Cara NYC has us longing for fall. It’s iconic and modern at the same time. Add a cropped leather jacket, and it can instantly take on a new look. Find it here for $895. | Image: Cara Cara NYC
A woman with shoulder-length hair stands against a plain background wearing a plaid blazer over a denim shirt and brown top, paired with blue jeans. A woman with shoulder-length hair stands against a plain background wearing a plaid blazer over a denim shirt and brown top, paired with blue jeans. Pin
I couldn’t resist adding another Veronica Beard jacket to showcase the subtle plaid look that is so gorgeous this season. See the denim underneath? That’s not really a denim jacket; it’s a dickey. That’s what these Veronica Beard jackets are — they allow these dickeys to be zippered in to give this versatile layered look. Find it here for $798. | Image: Veronica Beard
A person is leaning against a wooden chair, wearing a red and beige plaid long-sleeve top, beige shorts, and dark boots.A person is leaning against a wooden chair, wearing a red and beige plaid long-sleeve top, beige shorts, and dark boots.Pin
This Faherty organic cotton blouse is feather-light, making it a great transitional top from summer into fall. Find it here for $148. | Image: Faherty
A person stands against a wooden backdrop, showcasing a gray blazer, blue sweatshirt, black leather pants, and red houndstooth scarf.A person stands against a wooden backdrop, showcasing a gray blazer, blue sweatshirt, black leather pants, and red houndstooth scarf.Pin
This lambswool houndstooth scarf is available in six colors, including this berry one. Find this here for $119. Image: tbco.

6. Faux Leather for a Modern Edge

Leather continues to be a major player in fall fashion, but this season, it’s all about softer, more flexible faux leather finishes. This material has greatly evolved over the years, and it not only offers a modern edge but is also often available at a more approachable price point. Deep burgundy, olive green, ballet pink, sky blue, and neutral colors are all making their mark.

A faux leather skirt can be paired with a cashmere sweater or a tailored blazer, offering a chic, contemporary update to your fall wardrobe. This season, almost every fashionable item will be available in faux leather.

A person wearing a black leather jacket, black top, and black faux leather pants, posing confidently in a studio setting.A person wearing a black leather jacket, black top, and black faux leather pants, posing confidently in a studio setting.Pin
Remember how we all wore SPANX faux leather leggings for about a decade? Their newest silhouette is the flare faux leather pant, which promises to dominate just like their leggings did. Available in petite, regular, and tall. Find them here for $148. | Image: SPANX
A person stands against a plain background wearing a black short-sleeve leather dress with buttons down the front and two large pockets.A person stands against a plain background wearing a black short-sleeve leather dress with buttons down the front and two large pockets.Pin
This faux leather dress is short and sassy but easy enough to throw on at the last minute and look great. Find it here for $168. | Image: Tuckernuck

7. Maximalist Outerwear: Statement Coats

It’s hard to imagine now, but it won’t be long until you grab that “third piece” to keep you warm. As the weather cools, your outerwear becomes the focal point of your outfit. This season, “maximalist” coats are making a statement with bold prints, rich textures, and unique embellishments.

While neutral coats are always a safe bet, and we advise making your splurges there, consider investing in a statement piece that can act as the centerpiece of your fall wardrobe and that you will love for years to come. Whether it’s a coat with a dramatic silhouette or one adorned with intricate details, this trend is all about making an impact while keeping warm.

Person standing against a white wall wearing a patterned long coat, brown dress, black heeled boots, and gold hoop earrings, holding a black woven bag.Person standing against a white wall wearing a patterned long coat, brown dress, black heeled boots, and gold hoop earrings, holding a black woven bag.Pin
This gorgeous Ulla Johnson coat is a splurge you’ll keep for decades. Made from a mid-weight, non-stretch silk crepe, this one is special. Find it here for $920. | Image: shopbop
A woman stands against a white wall wearing a plaid coat, black leggings, tan suede boots, and a white top. She holds a bag on her shoulder with visible branding, effortlessly capturing essential trends of classic + refined style.A woman stands against a white wall wearing a plaid coat, black leggings, tan suede boots, and a white top. She holds a bag on her shoulder with visible branding, effortlessly capturing essential trends of classic + refined style.Pin
Speaking of plaid and bold statement coats, here’s one by Isabel Marant Etoile to feast your eyes on. It completes the outfit so well that you may not want to take it off! Find it here for $750. | Image: Tuckernuck
Person with a natural hairstyle smiling and looking to the side, wearing a multi-colored coat with green, black, beige, and pink details—perfect for Fall Fashion 2024—and blue jeans, against a plain background.Person with a natural hairstyle smiling and looking to the side, wearing a multi-colored coat with green, black, beige, and pink details—perfect for Fall Fashion 2024—and blue jeans, against a plain background.Pin
For a different take on a bold coat, try this casual raincoat with multiple colors and bright pink accents. Find it here for $230. | Image: Boden

8. Elevated Denim: Dress Up the Denim Dress

Denim is a wardrobe staple, but Fall 2024 sees it taking a luxurious turn. Elevated denim pieces, such as high-waisted jeans with unique details like contrast stitching or wide cuffs, offer a fresh update to this classic fabric. Additionally, tailored denim jackets provide a sophisticated twist on casual wear.

From jumpsuits and pants to dresses or blazers, these pieces are perfect for layering and can easily transition from day to night, making them a must-have for your fall collection. We’re focusing on how easy it is to add an elevated piece of denim to your closet with three examples of denim dresses, each under $200!

A woman stands against a neutral background wearing a sleeveless dark blue midi dress and black strappy sandals, embodying essential trends. She is resting one hand on her waist, showcasing the classic and refined look of Fall Fashion 2024.A woman stands against a neutral background wearing a sleeveless dark blue midi dress and black strappy sandals, embodying essential trends. She is resting one hand on her waist, showcasing the classic and refined look of Fall Fashion 2024.Pin
This is denim all grown up! This sophisticated dress is for the gal who would love to wear a denim dress in a dressier environment. Find it here for $160. | Image: Banana Republic
A woman stands against a plain background wearing a dark denim button-down dress with long sleeves rolled up and a belt tied at the waist.A woman stands against a plain background wearing a dark denim button-down dress with long sleeves rolled up and a belt tied at the waist.Pin
The answer to “what to wear” — from back-to-school nights to church, the office, volunteer meetings, Thanksgiving dinner, or a weekend trip. From Ralph Lauren, find it here for $165. | Image: Bloomingdales
A person stands against a plain background, showcasing a classic sleeveless, button-down navy dress with thin straps and an ankle-length hem. They have their hands clasped and are wearing strappy sandals. This timeless look effortlessly embodies the refined elegance that trends in Fall Fashion 2024.A person stands against a plain background, showcasing a classic sleeveless, button-down navy dress with thin straps and an ankle-length hem. They have their hands clasped and are wearing strappy sandals. This timeless look effortlessly embodies the refined elegance that trends in Fall Fashion 2024.Pin
This dress by Tuckernuck works from summer into cool weather. Just add a sweater, cardigan, or blazer. The dark denim with clean lines is perfectly polished for a new take on a familiar fabric. Find it here for $168. | Image: Tuckernuck

Investing in Longevity

The beauty of this year’s fall fashion trends lies in their ability to merge the new with the timeless. By investing in pieces that are both on-trend and classically refined, you’re not just updating your wardrobe for this season — you’re curating a collection that will serve you well for years to come. As always, the key is choosing items that resonate with your style and offer versatility, ensuring that they remain staples season after season.

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As you prepare for fall travel, check out our picks for the best travel shoes to keep your feet happy the whole time! 

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About the Author

Liza Graves

As CEO of StyleBlueprint, Liza also regularly writes for SB. Most of her writing is now found in the recipe archives as cooking is her stress relief!

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