One of the best things about fall is the abundance of thick, cozy sweaters. I mean, that’s why we lovingly call it Sweater Weather, right? Or maybe you prefer Leather Weather for the edgy and luxe effect that leather pieces add to your favorite fall layers.
{RELATED POST: The Best Places to Buy Sweaters}
Either way, chunky knits and luxe leathers are classic autumnal trends that never go out of style. If you need some inspiration for your late-fall outfits, look no further than these two textures.
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Styling Chunky Cable Knits
I love a good grandpa trend. I feel like a lot of 2019’s favorite trends have been inspired by grandpas, in that they’re vintage-inspired and all about being comfortable. (Hello, dad sneakers.)
Cable knits definitely fit the criteria to be considered a grandpa trend, but they’re not necessarily a new trend. You probably have at least one cable knit sweater in your wardrobe already.
If you don’t have one, consider this a sign that you need one! A good chunky knit sweater makes any outfit instantly cozier and it’s an easy layering piece for colder weather.
We’ve written a whole post on cable knit sweater outfit ideas, so go there for specific ideas for your cable knits. But this season, my favorite use for them has been the ultimate grandpa trend: tying it around your shoulders.
You may have seen sweater sets floating around your Instagram feed this season. Or maybe it just looks familiar because you’ve seen old photos of your dad sporting this look! I’ve said before that I should start paying closer attention to my dad’s wardrobe, and this is no exception!
I’m loving this look for late autumn — for one thing, it looks so chic and vintage. For another, it doubles as a scarf and an extra sweater if it gets colder during the day — that’s just smart layering.
To style this trend, all you need are two chunky sweaters in similar colors. If you’re on a college budget, ignore the stores selling sweater sets and hit the thrift shop! You’re sure to find cozy knits aplenty.
Shop Chunky Knits:
Here are some of my favorite chunky knits in stores right now, all college girl affordable.
Styling Leather
Whether you prefer leather, pleather or vinyl, it’s well-known that fall is leather’s favorite season.
As you know, leather jackets are a fashion essential for autumn layers, but the trend doesn’t stop there! This fall especially, leather wrap dresses have been very on-trend, as have leather pants.
No matter how you choose to wear your leather (or pleather!), this trend will definitely take you straight into winter and beyond.
If you’re a leather jacket kind of gal, I hope you’ve been putting it to work this season. If it’s still warm out where you live, a leather jacket over a dress is a perfect transitional look! It’s so effortless but chic enough to make people think you put work into it. Paired with a comfortable sneaker and a day bag? *chef’s kiss*
If it’s already cold out where you are (same here, girl!) then you can totally still sport this look with the help of a cozy knit (ahem, see above). I am such a fan of a cozy sweater over a long dress or skirt, with a leather jacket to top it off. Bonus points if you opt for a sweater dress instead!
For a bolder take on leather, try styling a pair of leather pants, or a leather skirt.
If you’ve been wondering how to style animal print sweaters, this is the answer you’ve been looking for. Leather is basically an elevated basic, like the luxurious older sister to your favorite black skinny jeans.
If I’m wearing a leather skirt, I pair it with an oversized sweater tucked all the way in — it adds shape to the outfit and feels that much cozier.
I’m also a big fan of burgundy leather – it’s such an edgy take on a well-loved wardrobe essential. I love how fashion blogger Pia Shah styled these leather pants with a burgundy leather button-down. It’s edgy and super chic, but still totally wearable.
I want to hear from you!
Will you be styling either of these trends? What’s your take on leather and knits – are you more leather weather or sweater weather?