What to Wear this Fall in Chicago

This article, What to wear this Fall in Chicago, has been updated to reflect the current climate of both fashion and weather from its original version.

Stumped on what to wear with this sudden Chicago chill? Well, not “chill’ per-say but it’s definitely not 9o° everyday anymore. We’re at that weird point of summer/fall when we want – nay, NEED – transitional pieces to get us through unpredictable weeks of rain, sun, frost, and fog. Let’s get started!

Fall Colors

Nothing gets me over grieving for summer and on to celebrating autumn like handbags, coats, and accessories dipped in the rich colors of the season. Think burgundy, brown, burnt orange, hunter green and white – yes, white. Contrary to tradition, even after Labor Day, white details are a great way to stop an outfit from looking too busy. Combine these colors with heavier, textured fabrics and you’ve got the perfect fall fit.

Here are a few ways to step into fall using only color…

what to wear in fall in chicago
L to R: Harley Viera-Newton, Solange, Maria Menounos, Shiona Turini

…and here are a few affordable pieces that make this look practical for everyone.

Fall Co-ords

Cheat your way to chic instantly with a smart suit. Suit jackets are a great layer to keep handy when it’s chilly during your commute but sweltering during your ride home. The once only for your grandma coordinate has grown into the perfect for any occasion closet staple.

Here are a few celebrities who make fall co-ords look easy…

what to wear in fall in chicago
L to R: Solange Knowles, Ashley Madekwe, Rita Ora, June Ambrose

…and here are a few ways to execute the look if you’re on a budget, like me.

Fall Leathers

If you’re asking how to wear leather in the fall, I suggest you look at your closet. Any leather skirts, dresses, and even shorts, can still be worn again this season. If you can stomach wearing the skin of another, leather is a great investment piece. From shoes, to clothing, to handbags, the material does nothing but endure. If you’re against animal skins, designers like Stella McCartney feel ya’ and are making their goods with high quality faux skins and furs.

Here’s some inspo …

What to wear in the fall in chicago
L to R: Shiona Turini, Beyonce, Ciara, Jennifer Lopez

Fall Sweats

Here’s a polarizing suggestion: Wear sweats outside. Specifically, wear artsy, tailored sweats whenever the opportunity even slightly permits. I’m talking casual Fridays, happy hours, date nights, and dinners. Many people (like your mom) have given the comfy co-ord a bad name by branding it lazy, sloppy. Sweats these days, however, are making a big effort to be part of the working girl with a life’s wardrobe thanks to designers like Christopher Kane.

Here are some ways to acceptable ways to sweat in public…

How to dress for fall in Chicago
L to R: walkinwonderland.com, Solange, Jamie Chung, Claire Summers

…and here are some options that will keep your wallet from sweating, including a look from a local designer I’m currently loving.

312 egyptian crew
Chicago’s own 312 Apparel’s Egyptian Crew

 

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