Trends are a funny thing. They come, they go, they come back. One day a fashion editor decides she loves kitten heels and all of a sudden they’re in every magazine. Or a famous fashion blogger is photographed on the street in Prague wearing a neon parka and, next thing you know, neon parkas completely sell out in stores and online.

Fashion doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you figure out your personal style and what works for you, stick to it with the occasional dalliance in something different just to spice things up. For example, if you’re a minimalist who sticks to neutrals, adding a shoe or scarf in a bold color is a nice detour every so often.

I’m not big on trends, but it’s important to be adaptable. If something is really popular at the moment and it appeals to my aesthetic, I’m not opposed to incorporating it into my wardrobe. But following every trend every season can turn you into a slave to fashion (and empty your bank account).

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Some trends are really cute and others are completely whacky. And some trends are just a definite NO. Seriously, no. Here are a few fall trends to avoid this season:

Socks with Sandals

I’m not sure who came up with the idea that socks and sandals should be worn together. The entire point of sandals is to let your feet breathe. It’s a warm-weather shoe. If your feet get cold, put away the sandals and get some boots. Whether you’re a socialite or an old man from the old country, this is not a good look.

Crop Top Sweaters

Sometimes fashion doesn’t make sense. I mean, if it’s cold enough to need a sweater, why would you bare your midriff? Why? Even if you have rock hard abs, it’s just not worth looking silly.

Animal Prints

There are animal prints on almost every runway every season, so I don’t think this trend is going anywhere anytime soon. I am okay with it in very small doses. If you go overboard, you could look like you’re from the Jersey Shore of the 80s. Avoid the head-to-toe look and keep it to accessories to be safe – a clutch or even boots. And try a new print, like python, to keep it fresh. Otherwise, keep the animal prints on the actual animal.

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Military

I’m not sure how I feel about wearing military-inspired gear when you’re not in the actual military. I prefer to respect our servicemen and women and leave the camo to them. What you can do is adopt military colors such as olive and navy blue. They are considered neutrals and are very versatile.

Honorable Mention:  Ruffles

Ruffles were pretty big on the runway this year. I like a good flounce as much as the next person, but this is a tricky trend to pull off. Ruffles can add weight and run the risk of looking costume-y. Unless you’re a flamenco dancer, wear them sparingly!

Permanent Rule:  Leggings as Pants

Christians and non-Christians alike have made a big deal about leggings in recent years. Leggings are not devil-pants. I think of them as glorified tights. They are okay as long as your bottom is covered. So wear them with a mini-dress, a long sweater, a tunic – anything on the longer side. Leggings look fantastic with boots and under dresses.

FCS Fashion Superstar:  Reggie Williams

I have to give a shout out to our very own Mr. Reggie Williams. Neon colored clothing is usually a trend to avoid, but he recently pulled off the brightest pair of purple pants I have ever seen. He rocked them like royalty. Well done, sir.

~ Silva

To read more Style Session, check out Style Sessions No. 4 – I survived! 

If you have questions or topics you’d like to see addressed in this blog, please email me at [email protected]. You can read more from me at www.onmyshoebox.com.