How to wear the 5 best fashion trends for fall 2020

Fall is my favorite time of year, and the change in season means it’s time for a change in wardrobe! I rarely had the opportunity for sweater weather living in California, but now that I’m in Amsterdam I can fully embrace fall fashion. Sometimes it’s hard to know what’s worth investing in, because trends can seem unapproachable or difficult to wear (like the jacket-over-the-shoulders thing that I’ve just now come around to). But don’t worry – I’ve sorted through all of those crazy trends to find what’s wearable, and how to incorporate it into your wardrobe. Check out how to wear the 5 best fashion trends for fall 2020 below!

xx,
Mercedes

#1 Leather

This fall is all about leather everything. Everyone should own a classic leather jacket (I’ve had this All Saints jacket for years), but the best way to wear leather this season is actually as a skirt. Find a good pencil or midi skirt in leather (real or faux) and you’ll be set for fall.

My favorite way to wear it is to pair a leather pencil skirt with a cozy, chunky knit in a neutral color for a daytime look, or a sheer turtleneck for a more refined evening look (check out my outfits page for inspo).

#2 Combat & Chelsea boots

Another must for fall is a good pair of black boots. Chelsea boots are all the rage this year, but I actually prefer a combat boot. I think they’re much more timeless, wearable, and worth investing in. This trend is also super practical, particularly if you live in a wetter climate like Amsterdam. My reliable Dune combat boots (similar to these) have gotten me through a lot of surprise rain storms safely. I also found this similar pair from Madewell, and this pair at Nordstroms if you’re in the US.

I love to pair my combat boots with a neutral summer dress or a midi skirt. It’s the best way to transition some of your warm weather outfits to fall. Top your outfit with a denim jacket for the daytime, or a leather jacket for nighttime.

#3 Chains

Chains are one of those trends that can be intimidating, or even feel a bit gaudy or forced. But don’t worry – this trend is totally wearable if you incorporate them in the right way.

I don’t like heavy jewelry or accessories, so my favorite way to wear chains is to incorporate them somewhere more unusual – like a pair of flats or a sweater. I adore these flats from ASOS (US link / EU link) but they’re pretty low in stock, so my other favorites are below.

#4 Plaid

Plaid is a must for this fall. But instead of bold design or bright colors, pick a smaller pattern in a neutral color. These pieces will be more wearable, transition to winter well, and stay on trend for next fall.

I love a plaid blazer paired with jeans and a lace cami. Or you can channel the 1960’s with a high waisted plaid midi skirt, which will look great with your combat boots, a sheer turtleneck, and a pair of sheer black tights.

#5 Knit crop top + sweater sets

Sweater sets may seem very 1950’s, but this season they’ve been updated for 2020. A knit crop top on it’s own is a bit too Britney Spears, but pairing it with an oversized matching sweater is a perfect look for fall. Bonus points if you have a set with matching leggings, which is ideal for Thanksgiving.

A set also looks super cute with a pair of loose high waisted jeans, or a leather mini skirt & combat boots. In my opinion, this is one of the best fashion trends for fall 2020 because it’s so cozy and wearable. My three favorite affordable looks are below – I love the leggings in the Mango set (waiting for the exact ones to be available), and the rhinestone details in the Zara and H&M sets.