Today is the first official day of fall, and while no one told Arizona and it’s going to remain in the 100s for the forseeable future, everyone nearly everywhere else is talking about fall trends. So it’s impossible to not start browsing, eyeing, and buying into the latest and greatest. The time will come to put away the summer linens and bring out the cozier, more textured pieces.

So far this year, I’ve had my eyes (and brain) on five standout trends that are making waves and jumping to the top of my shopping list. I think these options hold a little something for everyone, and fall is a great time to experiment but still have fun - if you want to have a Billy Crystal fall, you do it. This year I’m all about embracing richness and color, just a hint of the right fall colors, that is. Keep scrolling to see where my head is at when it comes to fall trends right now.

Buttery Leather

I love a good faux leather, and this fall it’s all about buttery leather. Designers are doubling down on the ultra-smooth, soft-to-the-touch material that is ultra luxurious. Buttery leather is less about being edgy and more about being polished with a hint of elegance. It’s showing up in everything from gorgeous tailored trench coats to chic trousers. The key to nailing the trend is finding pieces with a broken-in softness or a matte finish.

Why I Love It: I probably own more faux leather than anything else, and buttery leather is a whole new reinvented era. I’m obsessed with the matte look and I can’t wait to find my dream matte piece (hopefully), but even if matte isn’t in the cards, there are plenty of other soften pieces out there. I love that this trend embraces our continued move towards comfort and pairs it with the high-end feel we have also come to love.

Minimalist Bags

Past seasons have been all about the bigger is better situation, which, don’t get me wrong, is ideal a times. You never know what you’re going to need and when you’re going to need it - especially as a woman, am I right? The minimalist bag trend is a bit of a refreshing change of pace. It’s all about the same clean lines and subtle details of minimalist fashion, but with interesting structure shapes. There are so many different shoulder bags, mini totes, and clutches that carry just the essentials, but still make an impact.

Why I Love It: Minimalist style has been having it’s moment for while, and the handbag trend continues to reflect the desire to simplify and streamline. Whether it’s in our closets or our lives, we are trying to scale back and strike a balance. Minimalist bags are versatile and timeless which means I can get more use out of them compared to their more maximalist counterparts. And I hate to admit, those 90’s inspired bags have their hooks in me.

70’s Flares

Flared pants are back, and this time they are bringing major 70’s vibes along for the ride. This fall, it’s all about the high-waisted, exaggerated silhouettes that help elongate the legs and add a bit of cool drama to every outfit. Who doesn’t love a bit of nostalgia paired with a hint of modern flare? There are so many ways to pair them and even looking to the 70s for fashion inspiration isn’t entirely out of line!

Why I Love It: Sadly, this trend isn’t one I really get to take part in. My body type doesn’t absolutely love the proportions so I am stuck being envious of everyone who gets to rock these bad boys. Fashion is cyclical and I am all about the resurgence of the 70s. It’s a chance to break free of the skinny and straight legt pants, and add a little playfulness and rock and roll into our fall closets.

Funnel-Neck Outerwear

Funnel-necks are the ultimate cold-weather companion. There are places much colder than Arizona, but for anyone who dreads even the slightest it of cold, funnel-neck jackets and coats are here to save the day. The high, structured collars are designed to keep the chill at bay while still looking chic (and warm). There is a style for everyone from sleek, belted options to more oversized shapes, and it’s a practical option for the colder seasons ahead.

Why I Love It: My funnel-neck jacket has been one of my closet favorites for awhile now. I love that they are functional and fashionable. When it comes to my closet, I try to get as much use out of things as possible and my jackets can take me from the gym to brunch looking stylish. They come in a ton of different styles which means there is probably one that is going to be just what you’re looking for.

Eggplant

Eggplant is the color you never knew you needed. Maroon and burgundy can take a seat and make room for this unexpected, elegant color. The deep, rich purple is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to the fall palette, From tailored blazers to knits and even boots, eggplant is a versatile choice that is dramatic, exciting, and still refined for every day.

Why I Love It: Eggplant is a unique alternative to the typical fall colors. It’s bold without being too much or overpowering. It pairs well with the neutrals we love like beige and gray, and it works on nearly every skin tone, making it universally flattering. I think it’s just an exciting alternative and way to elevate the fall wardrobe with ease.