Farewell sweatpants, you’ve served us well. But it’s time to step outside our comfort zones—literally—and sample some of the fall’s hottest fashion trends. If you thought the fall looks would reflect our recent forced dedication to hygge—the Danish concept of coziness—you’re only half right. While some trends still have that cozy vibe, even more are about painting the town red (safely, of course).

CABARET GLAMOUR: Sequins
For something optimistic and fun, try glistening sequins. Think of the Roaring 1920s, but with a modern twist (the Roaring 2020s, if you will): A sparkling midi skirt can make a bold statement on your reemergence. If sequins are still a bit too much, a glittering clutch or headband will do the trick.

Try: A Style Studio, 25 Hooks Lane, #111, Pikesville, 410-484-1115

APRÉS SKI: Knits
Just because the sweatpants are packed away (for now), that doesn’t mean we can’t be both cozy and glamorous. Whether you’re into a funky Fair Isle print or a classic argyle, stocking up on a quality knit is a must for this fall. Bonus trend points for those daring to match a knit cardigan with knit pants.

Try: South Moon Under, multiple locations including 815 Aliceanna Street, 410-685-7820

TAILOR-MADE: Blazers
Maybe you need a little more structure in your life? A perfect fit gives the impression of high quality while maintaining the utmost comfort. Sporting a tailored trench coat or a blazer that fits like a glove is the way to go for an easy but classic look. Wear with a slinky slip dress for an added edge.

Try: Ruth Shaw, 800 Kenilworth Drive, Suite 852, Towson, 410-532-7886

BOOT LEG: Knee-high Boots
The shoes of the season are sleek and sexy: the iconic knee-high boot. While slouchy boots and suede thigh-highs were “it” pre-COVID, this fall it’s all about calf-hugging high heels. Pair it with a mini skirt and bare legs or let them peek out beneath cuffed trousers.

Try: Poppy and Stella, multiple locations including 728 S. Broadway, 410-522-1970

Fall is upon us, which gives a perfect excuse for a wardrobe revamp. Not sure what’s hot and what’s not? Fear not. Fashion connoisseurs Raina Filippelli of Raina Dawn and Melissa Bona of Mint + Major are here to share their seasonal faves—and we share how to style them.

WILD THINGS

“Animal prints! Especially every color of leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and snakeskin!”—RF

Good news. That cheetah print coat you splurged on last season? It’s still in style. But this season, it’s all about going big and bold. Don’t be shy of neon jaguar print skirts and mix-and-match snake- skin and suede textures.

MIX AND MATCH

“My go-to look for fall: a long-sleeve mini dress with sneakers.”—RF

Having a hard time transitioning your wardrobe into cooler weather? For an easy solution, try pairing long sleeves with a flowing skirt. Whether worn with a chic sneaker or a classic bootie, this look can be easy to dress up or down.

HAIR TODAY

“Using hair accessories with details like pearls or rhinestones gives your day look some nighttime glam.”—MB

A statement accessory can give an outfit a brand-new feel. This year’s choice of statement pieces? The hair clip. Opt for a delicate metal accent or go for the glamour with a pairing of two or more shining pieces.

HARDCORE

“I am obsessed with what has been dubbed by fashion insiders as ‘heavy metal.’ So, biker-inspired necklaces, safety pin earrings, and chain links in bracelets, and rings.” —MB

Being adventurous with trends can keep your personal style fresh and fun. But don’t feel compelled to go all in just to suit the latest fashions. Give the trend some personal flair by incorporating your favorite bits and pieces, such as a set of chunky metal chain bracelets.

Transitioning between seasons can be tough on your closet, especially when the weather feels like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. We put together some outfit options featuring our favorite fall trends to ease you into autumn.

Weekend Wear
Layer a loose-knit sweater with a bomber jacket. Everyone looks cool in a bomber jacket. Rag & Bone bomber jacket ($650) at Ruth Shaw. Willow & Clay sweater ($84) at South Moon Under. AGOLDE Los Angeles high-rise skinny jeans ($158) at South Moon Under. Kate Spade Devoe Street Tinley bag, ($278) at Handbags in the City. Sam Edelman Leya leather slides ($100) at Sassanova.

SFW (Safe For Work)
Embroidery is huge this fall. We paired it with a textured bag and comfy flats. Tory Burch Sadie rug shoulder bag ($498) at Handbags in the City. Restricted Jazzie flat ($50) at Poppy & Stella. Tanya Taylor Caro embroidered dress ($550) at
Ruth Shaw.

Formal Affair
Midi-length dresses are great year-round. Add a fun accessory and you are ready for a night on the town. Azalea dress ($500) at Ruth Shaw. Patti black leather round-toe stilettos ($98) at Poppy & Stella. Milly Bite Me acrylic clutch multi OS ($295) at Sassanova.

Whether adorned in doughnuts or displaying your favorite work of art, novelty socks are all the rage this fall. Cozy up and let loose below the knee—chances are you’ll find a pair that speaks to you.

1. Sock It to Me Boston terrier socks ($9.99) at Ma Petite Shoe. 2. Blue Q Duchess of Sassytown socks ($10) at Trohv. 3. Stance Roulette socks ($12) at For Rent Shoes. 4. Sock It to Me Sea Captain socks ($9.99) at Ma Petite Shoe. 5. Free People Melbourne ivory combo speckled boot socks ($14) at South Moon Under. 6. Gallant & Beau polka dot socks ($14.99) at Angel Park. 7. Star Wars socks ($25) at The QG. 8. Video Game socks ($12) at Trohv 9. Socksmith doughnut knee-highs ($10) at Poppy and Stella. 10. Blue Q Sugar Monster socks ($10) at Trohv. 11. Sock It to Me Llama Drama purple sock ($9.99) at Ma Petite Shoe. 12. Stance Anyaviolet socks ($10) at For Rent Shoes.

Deana Hagaag, 29

Executive Director at The Contemporary

Describe your style: Unlimited. Style icon: Brown and black street culture from all over the world. Favorite fall trend: I am super into long, loose, flowy trench coats. Baltimore style is: Flawless. Baltimore style is unparalleled. Style advice: Make sure it’s clean.

TT The Artist, 32

Artist

Describe your style: I would say it’s a mix of street fashion with pop art. Style icon: I love Grace Jones, Jeremy Scott, and I am a big, big fan of Marc Jacobs. I love fashion designers that kind of bring together high-end fashion and street fashion. Baltimore style is: Everyone just has his or her own unique style, and in Baltimore I think style is really a reflection of a person’s identity. Style advice: Dress as if you are always having fun.

“Bowtie” Bob, 71

Retiree/Volunteer at Irish Charities of Maryland and Friendly Sons of St. Patrick

Describe your style: Preppy. Eternally preppy. Favorite fall trend: I love the tweed coats and bow ties. I like to look like a college professor or something like that. Baltimore style is: A little bit of everything. I just wish more people paid more attention to what they wear. What you put on is what people see before they even see you or talk to you. What is your favorite piece of style advice? If a Colleen says it looks good, it looks good.

Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, 46

Mayor

Describe your style: Chic, body conscious, and feminine. Style icon: I look to people like Diane von Furstenberg, Beyoncé, Iris Apfel, and of course, RuPaul. Baltimore style is: Unique, bold, and definitely trendsetting. Style advice: Know your body. Not every trend is for everybody. And for God’s sake, please accessorize!

Al Rogers Jr., 26

Artist

Describe your style: It is inspired by my surroundings, not so much my mood. If I’m having a bad day, I’m still wearing bright colors. Style icon: My mom, my uncle, and André 3000. André 3000 came around in hip-hop at a time when everyone was following trends and he just didn’t conform. He made it acceptable to embrace your feminine side. Baltimore style is: Very raw. Style here goes further than what you wear. It’s just in how we carry ourselves. It is late, but it’s cool. Style advice: If your favorite color is black, try blue.

Margaret Nam, 27

Public Relations Associate at PANDORA Jewelry

Describe your style: It’s a little bit edgy. I like to mix things up according to my mood that day. Style icon: I would say Nicole Richie. She has rad hair, outfits, even her personality. Favorite fall trend: The Renaissance and baroque old school theme that I have seen a lot on the runways. Style advice: Don’t be afraid to mix up different trends and styles, and stay unique to yourself.

Chanel Cruz, 22

Merchandising Assistant at Poppy and Stella

Describe your style: Traditional things like denim, penny loafers, and blazers mixed with new contemporary styles. Style icon: Rihanna. She is amazing. Baltimore style is: To sum it up, the thrift store. People shop at antique and vintage places. There is Go-Go’s bus, stores on Read Street, and all the huge Value Villages. People in Baltimore are hunters. Style advice: Stop taking style advice from your boyfriend.

Kriss Masson, 29

Musician and Owner of Esther & Harper

Describe your style: Being a musician and being on stage lends me the ability to wear things that I don’t traditionally get to wear just to dinner, which is fun. Style icon: My style icon for the performance part of my world is Tina Turner. I love her spirit and tenacity. Favorite fall trend: I’ve been growing a collection of kimonos. I love just how varied they are and how colorful they are. Baltimore style is: Very eclectic. I love that there is a real celebrational sense of color here and it feels very embracing.

DDM, 30

Musician

Describe your style: My style is ostentatious and vibrant. You can never go too big in my opinion. Style icon: I love Jeremy Scott, CeeLo Green, Diana Ross, and Grace Jones. I like characters. Baltimore style is: Utilitarian. You get some interesting things based off of what people can work with. Baltimore is a city where people learn how to make things great. Style advice: Pile it all on and then start to edit.

Jason Bass, 36

Co-Owner and Creative Director of Treason Toting Co.

Describe your style: Sophisticated grit. Favorite fall trend: Bomber jackets. I am addicted to them. Baltimore style is: Changing. It’s getting better and I’m very happy about that. I just hope everyone catches on—men and women—and we get out of that blue collar, older frat boy situation. Style advice: Shop for the essentials and basics and then build around it. That way you have a go-to every day, and find your comfort zone, and then from there you can start to explore different looks.

Seth Schafer, 22

Tailor at Christopher Schafer Clothier

Describe your style: I go from one extreme to the other. I’m either in a suit and tie or jeans and a T-shirt. I think it’s hard for people to fathom that I actually own other clothing besides suits. Style icon: Cary Grant and my father, Christopher Schafer. Baltimore style is: Different. We have so many different influences from international transplants, trendsetters, and people rocking vintage clothes. We have a little bit of everything. Style advice: The small stuff adds up.

Chelsea Gregoire, 26

Bartender, Creative Consultant, and Owner of Drinkable Genius

Describe your style: I do a definite menswear take for a female body. I like patterns and colors but I also like to go Brooklyn and just wear all black. Style icon: A lot of Google image searches. Favorite fall trend: Always jackets. Baltimore style is: This mix of young professionals, medical students, and art students, and they are all just thrown into this mess of different styles. People do whatever they want. Style advice: Be comfortable. Don’t overwork yourself and make yourself feel like you have to fit into certain styles. Just wear what is comfortable to you.

Lana Rae, 35

CEO of KIS Agency

Describe your style: I’m edgy but classy at the same time. Style icon: I wouldn’t say there is one style icon. I would say my inspiration comes from my emotions. I just dress how I feel. Favorite fall trend: I love monochromatic looks. Style advice: Never overthink your outfit. If it comes naturally then it’s right.

Victoria Nolan, 25

High School English Teacher

Describe your style: Pretty classic, but I do always try to incorporate some trends. Style icon: Amal Clooney and Victoria Beckham. They are both very strong, powerful women with professional careers but still look awesome at all times. Baltimore style is: A beautiful thing. It is all over the map. Style advice: My favorite piece of advice comes from my mom who always said to dress in a way that makes you comfortable while still feeling powerful and sexy.

Summer’s bright and lively color palette is a thing of the past. Time to fill your wardrobe and home with the rich jewel tones of fall. Not only do these hues look good on everyone, they instantly add a feeling of warmth and luxury to an outfit (or room).

The Look: Midi Skirt
Woven coral midi skirt ($88) at Babe. (a boutique).

“Midi skirts are a great transitional piece to have in your closet. Wear one in the summer with cute strappy sandals and a cool graphic tee, and then carry it into fall with a loose-knit sweater and your favorite ankle boots.” —Lauren Bell, store manager, Babe. (a boutique).

The Look: Crop Top
Cropped peasant top ($58.95) at Doubledutch Boutique.

“In the 1940s, women wore abbreviated tops with high-waisted midi skirts to showcase an hourglass figure. Stay true to that ‘peekaboo’ style by pairing a crop with higher-waist bottoms, such as pencil skirts or even fall’s culottes. The objective is a subtle less-is-more reveal.” —Lesley Jennings, owner, Doubledutch Boutique.

The Look: Shorts
Scotty shorts ($198) at JG Sassy.

“The trick is layering. Try sheer black tights under your shorts, throw on some ankle booties and a chunky knit sweater, and you’re out the door! For a dressier look, pair your shorts with stilettos, a silky blouse, and a statement necklace.” —Jen Johnson, store manager and buyer, JG Sassy.

The Look: Shootie
Lucky Brand ($108) at Poppy and Stella.

“A ‘shootie’ [half-shoe, half-boot] style is perfect for adding a little edge to a summer look—wear it bare-legged with a feminine dress for an awesome contrast. Come fall, try it with cropped skinny jeans, or (if you’re feeling bold!) with a skirt and knee-high socks.” —Alli Baldwin, marketing manager, Poppy and Stella.