Rediscover These Fall Trends Hiding in Your Closet
As a stylist, I’m a huge fan of closet clean-outs, especially with the changing seasons. Almost every time, a client will say, 'OMG, I forgot I had this!' Isn’t it the best feeling to shop your closet for free? You might not realize it, but some of this season’s hottest fall trends could be hiding in the back of your wardrobe. Just a few weeks ago, I called my mom in a panic, asking her to mail me my riding boots from high school and her Chloe Paddington bag—two of this season’s biggest looks! So, take this as your sign: before rushing out to buy new pieces, you may be surprised to find that some of fall’s most popular styles have been there all along. From classic riding boots to fur coats, here are five items you (or someone in your life) probably already own that are ready for a fall revival.
Frye Boots or the Riding Boot
Yes, this is me sporting these boots a few years ago… she was always meant to be a stylist, what can I say!
Riding boots, especially Frye boots, have always been a fall staple, and they're making a stylish comeback this season. These equestrian-inspired classics are both versatile and effortlessly chic. My favourite way to wear them is with a skirt or a dress. If you’ve got a pair of riding boots tucked away—like my beloved Roots leather boots from high school—now’s the perfect time to bring them back. These boots are timeless and ready to be worn again!
2. Denim
Denim will always be in style, but this season is all about elevated pieces beyond the basics. Look for jackets, jumpsuits, skirts, and even denim dresses. Flared and wide-leg jeans are making a significant comeback, bringing those vintage vibes for a very 1970s fall. Pair them with fitted tops or oversized sweaters for a casual-chic look. If you have denim pieces tucked away in the back of your closet—especially high-rise styles or flared cuts—now is the perfect time to bring them out and style them for the season. We’re also seeing the resurgence of the denim shirt. I recommend checking with your dad; he may have had one back in the day! It’s worth searching his closet for some vintage goodies.
3. Boho Bags
Boho bags—think fringed, oversized, or intricately detailed styles—are perfect for adding a relaxed, vintage flair to your fall outfits. Originally popular in the '70s and again in the early 2000s, these bags are having another moment this season. Whether it’s a slouchy hobo bag or a crossbody adorned with tassels, boho bags are both practical and stylish, especially for the layered looks of fall.
When I was home in the summer, I noticed my mom had a Chloe Paddington bag from a few years ago. I didn’t realize how iconic it was until I got back to Toronto and started seeing that bag and the “boho” style all over my social media. I called her immediately, and she graciously shipped it to me for the season! Check out the video I posted on TikTok doing a little “bag tour”— I know I’m going to have a lot of fun styling it this season!
4. Fur (or Faux Fur)
Fur (or faux fur) is a bold fashion statement making waves this fall. We saw it last year with the “Mob Wife” trend, and it’s making a return this season. Whether in the form of coats, vests, or accessories like stoles and handbags, fur adds texture, warmth, and instant glam to any outfit. The key to rocking fur this season is pairing it with simpler, more structured pieces, allowing the fur to stand out as the statement element.
Now, it’s 2024, and we are NOT buying new real fur—unless you’re okay with judgment! However, there’s no harm in re-wearing old fur (IMO). My mom and grandma have some iconic fur jackets that I’ll be searching for in their closets. It’s such a classic look, and I’m not about to buy a new fur jacket. If you do decide to buy faux fur, be cautious about where you purchase it, as it can look cheap quickly. Always check it out in person before buying!
5. Coach Bags
Coach bags are making a major comeback! Many of us tucked away our Coach bags (or even sold them) after 2013, but I’m here to tell you they’re back and hotter than ever! From sleek crossbody bags to structured totes, Coach offers a variety of styles that seamlessly fit into both casual and formal looks. I can bet that either you or at least one woman in your life has an old Coach bag stashed in their closet, and it’s likely right back in style!
Their new fall styles are so cute, and we know they stand the test of time.
I hope this inspires you to check your closet or perhaps dig into your family's closet to discover some hidden gems. Also, many of these styles can be easily found at thrift stores, so be sure to keep an eye out next time you go shopping!
Talk soon,
Mads
