Written by Katie Collins, Photos by Julie Ayala & Stephanie Carrillo, Design by Shelby Sutton, Media by Raylee White

After an unprecedented summer, fall’s arrival is a reassuring reminder that there are good things we can always count on, like warm pumpkin drinks and cozy sweaters. But this fashion season is bringing more than our favorite fall classics that we see every year. This time around, we are seeing trends recirculate into the fashion world decades after their creation. From the 70s to the 2000s, this fall is sure to be a throwback. Here to give some style inspiration for the top ten trends are the It Girls that we all grew up watching.

Featured looks include:

Faux Leather
Menswear
Upgraded Athleisure
Argyle
Neutrals

Now, let’s get into it.

1. The Mid-Thigh Length Leather Jacket

Arguably, the number one item that you need for fall is a leather jacket that hits you mid-thigh. Characterized by its distinct lack of hardware, think less biker and more blazer. The most detail that you are going to want to go for is a collar and pockets. Versatility wise, this jacket will be your bread and butter. If you want a more summer-to-fall transition look, throw it over a little summer dress. Who do we have to thank for this gamechanger, you might ask? Let’s not look further than our resident part-time high school student, full-time vampire slayer. It’s time for all of us to put some respect on Buffy’s name. The knee-high boots, mini dress, leather jacket—they all get checks in our book. This outfit is fall 2020 in one stylish package. If you want a more classic fall look, pair with a neutral crop top and straight-legged jeans, then accessorize with gold jewelry.

2. Sweater Vests

The addition of the sweater vest to this list probably comes to no one’s surprise, as it is this fall’s ultimate staple piece. Alica Silverstone’s Cher Horowitz dedicated four out of her fifty-two outfits from the film Clueless to sweater vests. So obviously, they are a huge deal. There two main styles that you can go for: fitted and oversized. To differentiate the two on more than just fit, you can think of the fitted vest as more of a light-weight knitwear item and the oversized vest as a true thick sweater. A fitted sweater vest looks casual and effortless on its own or over your go-to white crop top. Pair it with your favorite loose jeans and you are all set. For a warmer alternative, go for the classic Clueless outfit. We saw Cher styling two of her cropped vests with button-up blouses over mini skirts. On the other hand, oversized sweater vests are ideal for a more menswear-inspired look. You can embrace the comfort of a loose fit and wear this over a baggy button-up, or do the exact opposite and choose a tight turtleneck. There is no right or wrong here.

3. A Classic Plaid Pleated Skirt

Hit up the school uniform supply stores, everyone, because it is time to live your Gilmore Girls dream life. While plaid A-line mini skirts have been in trend for a while, this fall, we are beginning to see the iconic plaid pleated skirt return to fashion. Liv Tyler in the 1995 film, Empire Records, was one of the first to show that maybe private schools do have it right. Wear with a crop top and sneakers on warmer days. When the temperature drops, toss on a collared top and oversized crewneck.

Image: https://www.bkmag.com/2016/04/21/costume-party-josie-and-the-pussycats/

4. Animal Print Everything

Animal print has had some wild ups-and-downs in the world of fashion. What was considered tacky two years ago is now back to being trendy. The only people who seem to have always known that animal print is iconic are equally iconic girl groups: the Cheetah Girls and Josie and the Pussycats. While this trend mainly centers around cheetah print, feel free to mix it up with leopard, zebra, or even cowhide. Side note: in case you are not ready to go full 2000s and rock some halter tops, patterned pants may be the thing for you.

5. Cardigan Top Sets

No need to worry about matching. Let’s talk about sets. We are obsessing over these little babes. Cardigan top sets instantly make you look more put together and are easy to throw on. Not to mention that they have the approval of Ashley Banks, which says something, as the Fresh Prince star was and still is a 90s icon. Another thing to love about this trend is that it is perfect if you want the fall vibes, but are not a fan of the neutrals and jewel tones that are associated with fall fashion. This piece will still give you the autumn look, regardless of color.

6. Knee-High Leather Boots

These shoes are going to be your new best friend. A universally accepted truth is that Rachel Green’s style is timeless. Her old go-to is now our go-to. Knee-high leather boots are perfect for making a thin skirt or dress look a touch more autumn-friendly. If the black faux leather is not your forté, these boots look awesome in a rich brown, neutral beige, or even bright white. This also means that there is no need to shave your legs. You’re welcome.

Image: https://weheartit.com/entry/330305247

7. Straight-leg denim

Real talk: everyone either knows Jackie Burkhart or embodies Jackie Burkhart. Straight-leg denim is a great ride or die for this season because it matches practically everything. Regardless of body shape or length, you are guaranteed to look and feel good in this style of denim. Plus, we can confirm that they are so 70s. If you want to make even more of a statement with your jeans, opt for a low-rise. Another pro tip for finding the right pair is to look for the highest percent denim, and know the difference between various types of denim. Stiffer denim lasts longer and will keep its shape throughout the day, while stretchy denim is also ruined the first you toss it in the dryer, which is something we have all done at least once.

8. Button-Up Shirts

A dress shirt is a basic you definitely need in your fall wardrobe, as they are available in countless colors and fabrics. If you are someone who needs a little more direction with styling, you can’t go wrong with a silk or sheer button up. Tuck into your favorite pants or skirt, or wear it oversized like a dress. Miss Cher gets a second mention because if we’re being honest, this entire article could be dedicated to her.

9. Yoga Pants

It’s the day that we have all been waiting for. That’s right, everyone—black yoga pants are finally coming back into style. A favorite of off-duty angel, Cameron Diaz circa 2007, these pants elongate your figure, making your legs look miles long. To increase the effect, go for a high-waisted pair. This trend return is in thanks to another that we’ve already seen sweep the Pinterest boards: the bootcut-jean. Fitted alongside the thighs, then flaring out at the calves, this silhouette accentuates every body type. We should all also appreciate that yoga pants, a polo, and a crewneck can now be considered ~fashion.

10. Athleisure Sets
Athleisure sets: comfy, cute, and easy. You look put-together enough to leave the house, but at the same time, comfy enough for a day of napping and online classes (but mainly napping, let’s be real). On the other hand, sets work for nannying too! The Nanny’s Fran Fine was, as usual, ahead of her time with this one. These sets started getting big when quarantine first began, but are now getting a fall makeover. To switch this up for fall is really easy. We recommend going for long sleeve sets in neutral colors. A favorite outfit that dresses this trend up a tad is adding a blazer, chunky boots, and some jewelry. From pajamas to street-wear, it’s that simple.

Fall 2020 Fashion: Inspired by the It Girls We Grew Up Watching