The kids are officially off to school and settled in their normal routines. The temperatures are dropping (kind of). The leaves are turning…Floridians, use your imagination, okay? The moral of the story is, it’s finally fall, and you are refocusing. 

This special time of year is more than just a transitional season between the heat of summer and the cold of winter. For many women, autumn represents a time of transformation and introspection. As nature starts its own process of shedding and rejuvenating, so too can we embrace the spirit of change to refocus on ourselves. Fashion and style have become powerful tools for this self-exploration.

According to my stylish friend and colleague, Isabella de Yurre, Director of Integrated Product & Brand for USPA Global Licensing, “Resetting your mindset and shifting your wardrobe for the fall season is a reinvigorating and fun process. For example, I like to start by assessing my closet and decluttering-- out with the old, and in with the new!”

Isabella adds, “Challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone by accessorizing thoughtfully, experiment with new colors or bolder patterns to boost a fresh new fall look along with your confidence.”

Inflation has hit all of us, so don’t panic-- you don’t need a lot to reboot your wardrobe for fall! A few good quality, key pieces go a long way. Think essentials such as a cozy sweater, a leather jacket, leggings, and a pair of great boots. These key items are highly versatile and can be styled in a variety of ways.

Fall is all about transformation-- here’s how to lean into your refreshed, authentic style this season.

1. Understanding the Power of Personal Style:

Your personal style is a reflection of your personality, your tastes, your mood, and your evolution. Fashion isn't just about following trends; it's about discovering what speaks to you and showcasing it. This autumn, prioritize clothing and accessories that make you feel strong, comfortable, and truly yourself.

If you feel most comfortable and powerful in jeans, then wear them! Dress them down for the movies with a t-shirt or button-down oxford. Dress them up for work with a blazer and for nighttime with a blouse or a more fitted sweater and boots.

Veronica Beard is one of Isabella’s go-to’s for denim. This pair addresses the trendy wide-leg fit, but remains fitted throughout the thigh, so it’s still super flattering.

2. Colors of the Season:

The autumn palette traditionally embraces earthy hues: rich oranges, deep reds, golden yellows, and browns. However, it's essential to remember that your color palette should resonate with your mood and spirit, as well as what you feel looks great with your skin tone. Feeling chill? Try winter white, cream, bone or soft gray. Feeling adventurous? Opt for unexpected combinations. Plum with teal or mustard with slate gray can give a fresh twist to your autumn wardrobe. The traditional color rules of color do not apply in 2023.

This beautiful, lightweight sweater from Ramy Brooke takes rich orange to the next level with burnt sienna.

3. Comfort is Queen:

As we center on self-reflection and care, it’s important to prioritize comfort. Oversized sweaters, flowing dresses, and soft fabrics like cashmere, silk and velvet can make you feel both cozy and chic. Shoes, too, should strike a balance between style and comfort. Think about kitten-heeled boots or stylish booties that you can wear throughout the day.

We are loving this cozy soft sweater from Sezane, a new IT girl French brand with a non-fussy sense of style. Check out the hint of shine with the gold buttons. Bonus: winter white never goes out of style.

Have you been looking your whole life for leggings that feel like you can sleep in them, but look like you are poured into them? Look no further than these faux suede leggings from Spanx. They have a more tailored look that can work for dressier moments, with a blouse, sweater or blazer, while staying comfy. Not to mention, Spanx offers sizes from XS to 3X. We love the “rich caramel” color for this fall.

4. Experiment and Evolve:

This season is about redefining yourself. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Try patterns you've shied away from before or explore silhouettes you've never considered. Mix and match and remember that style is fluid.

Try this fluid and drapey trench coat for a more soft and feminine look, but also serving as a warm light layer for the perfect transition to fall fashion! Plus, this light caramel color goes with literally everything.

5. Accessorize Thoughtfully:

Autumn accessories are more than just add-ons; they are statements. A bold necklace or a vintage ring can redefine an outfit. Embrace jewelry, scarves, bags, and even makeup that aligns with your refreshed autumn self.

A quilted nylon tote from U.S. Polo Assn. is lightweight, soft and ready to compliment your on-the-go fall look.

Check out the updated, classic bucket hat in chic leather from J. Crew that’s perfect for right now.

6. Sustainable Choices:

As you focus on yourself, also consider the impact of your choices on the planet. The sustainable fashion movement offers a plethora of options that are both eco-friendly and stylish. This fall, choose brands and pieces that have a positive environmental impact.

What’s not to love about these kitten heel tall boots from Reformation? They can work with any length skirt, jeans and even dresses. They’re versatile and elegant, but also comfortable to wear all day/night. Not only that, Reformation is known for clothing and accessories that are “made smarter, made better and made for good.” It’s a win-win.

7. Wardrobe Detox:

As Isabella explained earlier, the fall restart is an excellent opportunity to declutter, which helps the mind, body and spirit. Let go of pieces that no longer resonate with your style or those that you haven't worn in years. As you detox your wardrobe, your makeup, your “things” you create space for new style, new experiences and self-growth. Sometimes it’s hard to do when you are emotionally attached to material things, but you do feel better. If it’s too hard on your own, have a friend or compassionate family member help you.

8. Embrace Your Natural Beauty:

While fashion and style may be about external appearances, remember that true beauty emanates from within. This fall season, let your natural beauty shine and show who you really are from the inside out. Opt for fresh, minimalist makeup looks, and love your skin, your freckles, your curls, or your straight tresses. Embrace what you have, not what you don’t.

I recommend Stila’s cult-classic two-in-one lipstick and blush “Convertible Color.” At just $25, you can multi-task your lips and cheeks. Simplicity, isn’t that what we all need right now? Plus, it comes in beautiful, warm, fall colors like camelia, magnolia, and peony and is loaded with translucent color that leaves lips and cheeks radiant and rosy with a fresh burst of natural looking color. Convertible color also has a soothing, nourishing wax base.

This fall, let fashion and style be mediums for self-discovery and self-love. Wear what makes you happy and feel good about yourself. Remember that while trends may come and go, your unique style is eternal and empowering. So, as the leaves change and the days become shorter, use personal style to relish the opportunity to focus on the most important person in your life: you.