It's not every day we pull the perfect Autumn outfit [1] out of our hat without some trial and error. But when we are finding it difficult to get dressed, as fashion editors and stylists, we maintain little tricks that help us pull things together. Regardless of the trend forecast [2], some of us have used these tips for years, not only one single season. For example, I've been tying lightweight jackets over my shoulder for about a year now during the questionably cooler months, and before that, I wore them around my waist, incorporating them into my outfits just as I would a shoe or bag. I use extra layers as extra accessories! Why not?
After spending time talking to my friends in the industry, I realised that so many people have go-to style moves like my own. I reached out to fellow editors, stylists, and entrepreneurs I admire and begged them to reveal their secret. These little ideas are going to help you in the mornings when you just don't know what to wear, so it was for a good cause, after all! Whether you're planning an evening look [3] or something sophisticated for the office [4], I promise you'll pick up at least one hack when you scroll.
Sarah Wasilak, POPSUGAR Fashion Editor
"In the Fall, I tend to underestimate the chill in the air and go for bare legs, forgetting how easily I get cold. I'm constantly tying an extra jacket over my shoulder, just in case the inevitable happens, and it also doubles as an instant accessory that adds both dimension and a casual touch to my look. Here's a more recent example [6]."
Laura Lajiness, POPSUGAR Senior Fashion Editor
"I'm super into the leather trend this season, specifically tailored separates with an oversize fit. The look instantly lends a Fall vibe to my favourite staples, from silky slip skirts to denim and easy basics like sweaters and tees."
Nikita Ramsinghani, POPSUGAR Associate Fashion Editor
"A Fall hack I love is making the most out of my Summer wardrobe and giving it a second life. Your favourite crop top? Style it with a long pleated maxi skirt to make it Fall-appropriate."
Photo by @styledumonde [7].
Nikki Ogunnaike, GQ Deputy Fashion Director
"Lately I've been layering shirts and tanks underneath my jumpsuits and I'm excited to do so as it gets colder. When it gets hot I can wear the sleeves wrapped around my waist, or if it's cold pull up the sleeves and slip my arms through them."
Bobby Schuessler, Who What Wear Market Editor
"Don't forget the 'third piece rule.' The idea is to add a third piece to your outfit, like a jacket or a cardigan tied around your neck. Adding this extra layered element will elevate your outfit and make it feel more 'styled.'"
Tyler McCall, Fashionista Editor-in-Chief
"I am a big, big, BIG fan of tights. First of all, they make my beloved skirts and dresses last into the cooler season; second, they're a (relatively) cheap way to add newness into the rotation when the season changes. I'm a believer in a 'festive' tight, too, with a pattern or interesting colour choice that goes beyond drab Winter black."
Maria Bobila, Fashionista Senior Editor
"Invest in funky, cool socks. I used to rely on a collection of socks in black or white, but now I'm leaning towards statement styles like neon colours and tie-dye prints. They add a tiny dose of fun and colour to my usually minimal outfits."
Katie Sturino, Founder of MegaBabe
"Headbands are my ultimate style hack, and they're actually season-less! I can't go back to pre-headband life; they add a fun twist to any look and are so easy to throw on."
Photo by @jamiemagnifico [8].
Aemilia Madden, The Zoe Report Senior Fashion Editor
"My current favourite styling trick is to reimagine your standard sweater. I've been playing with cardigans — both long and shrunken versions — and finding fun new ways to wear them. I wore a button-down Jacquemus sweater half unbuttoned with jeans (below) which felt fun and different for me."
Alyssa Spirito, Assistant Fashion Director, Ready-to-Wear at Macy’s
"Wear a cardigan as a top! You can dress it up with a skirt or wear it casually with jeans!"
Ashley Kiely, Freelance Editor, Stylist, and Consultant
"Layering, layering, layering - it allows for those favourite warm-weather pieces to live beyond the Summer. Come the cooler temps, I'm all about styling a slip dress over pants and wearing a turtleneck under a sleeveless silhouette. And sometimes, I even manage to do both, as shown in this shot."
