Splurge or Save: Styles to Skip or Sport This Season

Smart style starts with knowing what to skip. Here’s your cheat sheet for fall.

This transitional period between summer and fall is the perfect time to take a look through your wardrobe and decide what your staples will be for the incoming season.

But what existing and incoming trends are and aren’t worth investing in?

Not to worry – we’ve done the research for you!

We sat down with our Style Directors, Candace & Ben, to pick their brains on which trends are here to stay and which fads are falling flat.

Read through to get their expert opinion based on years of style forecasting.

Plus, scroll through to the end for an exciting announcement: our FALL TRUNK SHOW is coming in OCTOBER! More details below.


Save on Collarless Coats.

While it’s a staple you could have in your closet, it’s rather “style dependent,” according to Candace.

Instead, lean into the high necks trend and splurge on…

Funnel Necks

In Candace’s Words:

It keeps coming around and it just looks so good, season after season.

The funnel neck is in our F/W ’25 Trend Report and we’re super excited for this one.

Ben:

Agreed, 100%. I like what it does visually. It helps elongate your silhouette.

Candace’s Pick:

James Perse Waffle Knit Funnel Neck Tunic


Save on Polka Dots.

They cycle around frequently enough to tap in at a more moderate price point. Ben says “if you’re looking to buy a trend, this is more of a neutral at this point.”

Instead, switch up for accentuation splurge for…

Fringe

In Ben’s Words:

It adds a nice little flare to a look when otherwise it might be considered classic.

A little fringe on the sleeve or at the hem of the skirt can add an element of interest.

Save on Jean Skirts.

Candace says that while they can definitely still be styled in fun ways if they’re already in your closet, they’re not worth a new investment as they’re “on the way out.”

Instead, consider splurging on…

Midi Skirts

In Candace’s Words:

Splurge, 100%. They’re just good always. We’re seeing them in plaids, silks, leather; there’s something for everyone. I love the longitude – it works for so many body types. 

Ben:

Splurge! Style it up with a tall boot or a belt.

Save on Sequins.

They’re “novelty,” according to Candace, so no need to spend beyond moderately on it.

Instead, if you’re looking to stand out, splurge on…

Bold Colors

In Candace’s Words:

Absolutely splurge. We’re seeing a lot of these bold saturations in our Trend Report, so we feel very inspired by this. I’m really drawn to the bold blues right now.

Ben:

It’s unexpected for the fall! Definitely something to dive in on.


Save on Bermuda Shorts for Him.

They’re just “not Ohio,” according to our go-to Men’s fashion guide, Ben.

Instead, lean into the changing seasons and splurge on…

Men’s Cardigans

In Ben’s Words:

Splurge! I love a good cardigan.

I love that they’re a good third piece.

A cardigan is a great way to add that layering component.

Candace:

I agree – I want to see more men in cardigans.

Ben’s Pick:

BOSS x Beckham Jelso Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan


Save on Paisley Print.

Despite their recent rise on the radar with boho style trends as of late, Candace chimes in with the reminder that it “dates itself so easily.”

Instead, focus on shades versus prints and splurge on…

Timeless Terrain Tones

In Ben’s Words:

I say splurge! Get the right colors, play with them, mix and match them. That’s what fall brings. I really enjoy the greens and the olives.

Candace:

They’re not only autumnal colors, but they’re also core, classic colors you could have in your wardrobe always.


Get our full Fall/Winter ’25 Forecast now.

Click here to download your copy of our Women’s & Men’s Trend Report.

Ready for your Fall Wardrobe Refresh? Book an appointment with your personal stylist today.

Stay tuned for next week’s blog on NYFW – Subscribe now if you haven’t already.


In other news… Mark your calendars…

We’re so excited to share that we have a Trunk Show with SIMKHAI x FRAME next month! Stay tuned for appointment information.


Gently worn, greatly needed:

We’re accepting used bra donations for Freedom a la Cart

Need to make room in your drawers? Or do you simply have bras you’re no longer wearing that are ready for a second life?
We’re collecting gently used bras to donate to Freedom a la Cart, a local nonprofit that empowers survivors of sex trafficking. To join in on the good cause, you can simply provide them to your stylist at your next appointment.

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Picture credits: All graphic images elements used in this blog were sourced from their respective linked product sites. Featured image in intro paragraph sourced from Pinterest (photographer and model information unavailable to credit).

Elizabeth Bean Smith

Elizabeth is the Founder & Co-Owner of Wardrobe Therapy. She founded the company in 2006 for individuals seeking help with their personal style and image.

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