[Image via AEO]
Perhaps it’s the evolution of the ‘boyfriend’ look, or the early 90s making a formidable fashion comeback (or the combination of both), but it’s easy to see that the shape of clothing for fall speaks volumes, and quite literally. From the waist through the ankle, pants are becoming more relaxed in fit, while tops and dresses are taking the liberty to balloon out in all directions.
All sorts of ruching details, such as pleating and gathering, have surfaced in order to reign in the superfluous shapes, while other accents, such as ripping and tearing, encourage the fabrics to flow freely. There may be some trepidation with committing to a new shape, but we at FPD will help you navigate by sharing how to style this spacious silhouette.
The Dress:
[Image via J.Jill]
All that a fuller dress needs is just some carefully selected jewelry to best pay tribute to its generous shape. Go statement with your necklace, incorporating longer chains and even lariat styles with large pendants. Indulge in the delicate jewelry trend by adding in small stud earrings and layering on ultra-thin bracelets and rings.
The Shirt:
[Image via AEO]
With an oversized shirt, it’s all about balancing the volume ratio, so you can still pair your tighter pants in order to not tip the scale too much with the proportions. If you’d like to try a wider pant leg, keep the waist on the fitted side and let the leg flare or puff out closer to the ankle.
The Pants:
[Image via Michael Kors Collection]
Decide to go big or go home when it comes to pants, and don’t fear the return of pleating (as seen in the Michael Kors Collection pants above)! Get even more volume with a fitted waist then cut away from the hip. The key to pulling off this look is to avoid chunky shoe styles in order to keep the streamlined, lengthened look through the ankle.
The Skirt:
[Image via New York & Company]
There is a bit of an élan that comes along with wearing a wide, full skirt, so take it in stride and enjoy the extra folds of fabric that envelope you. A style with waist definition will prove to be most flattering, as well as keeping a shirt or blouse that is tucked and fitted to focus on and accentuate the expanse of the skirt.
The Jacket:
[Image via Rebecca Taylor]
For practical reasons and the heaviness factor, look to find volume for your coat/jacket in ways other than all-over enlargement. This is easily accomplished by finding options with wider lapels and pumped up sleeves, as well as indulging in some details that contribute to taking up more space like ruffles and ruching.
Just remember that the secret to looking flawless in fall’s volume trend is finding the balance between full and fitted.
