Fall/Winter 2025
Fall is finally here—my favorite season! With the arrival of fall’s rich warm hues and crisp, cooler air, it’s the perfect time to give your wardrobe a slight refresh – layering in cozy textures and embracing those beautiful seasonal shades.
For me, updating my style isn’t about reinventing myself. It’s about adding a few key pieces, rethinking a silhouette or two, and letting my clothes work for me—comfortably and confidently. I often find myself going back to old favorites, and I love how sometimes a familiar piece can feel refreshingly new when paired with something trendy. What do you already have that you can work with? And what would you like to add? Your most loved choices can be a great starting point.
Honestly, my main focus is just feeling comfortable in my own skin—and in my clothes. Fashion isn’t about keeping up; it’s about showing up as yourself, in a way that feels genuine and right for where you are now. Style is deeply personal and always evolving. Some days that might mean bold choices and slightly-high heels; other days, soft fabrics and forgiving cuts shine the brightest. And I think that’s OK.
In this newsletter, I’m sharing what’s inspiring me this fall—10 trends worth noting, some beauty wisdom, and maybe a travel tip or two. My hope is that you find something here that resonates with you and makes your style journey a little more fun and personal.
Here’s to a fabulous, comfortable, and stylish season ahead!
Fall/Winter trends
Browns & Earth Tones: Dark chocolate, espresso, caramel, many shades of green and burgundy are everywhere this season. Think of brown – if you like it – as a new neutral. It pairs beautifully with black, navy, and white, but also with brighter hues. And if you’re concerned about brown replacing black as the universal chic neutral, not to worry. Black is still very much a staple in the fashion world and feel free to wear with confidence. Try a head-to-toe brown look with different textures (wool, suede, silk) for understated sophistication. The one place you never want to put brown is on your lips!
Suede and Leather, whether faux, vegan or real (and in high quality fabrics), are always fall staples. This year softer shades are stealing the spotlight. A caramel trench or suede skirt may feel warmer and fresher than black. Slouchy suede bags and crossbody totes are the accessory of the season—polished but practical – and I’m on the hunt for one right now!
Pair leather pants or skirts with an oversized knit, or a leather shirt with classic denim for a high/low vibe.
Relaxed Glamour
This is all about the mix. Take something fancy—like a sequined skirt or tuxedo blazer—and tone it down with denim or sneakers. Or do the reverse: elevate joggers or leggings with a silk scarf, statement necklace, or structured bag. It’s the balance between comfort and sparkle that makes the look feel modern.
Dark Romance: This season’s take on boho is moodier and more dramatic. Think dark florals, lace, velvet, or even touches of corsetry—layered with softer pieces so it doesn’t feel costume-y. The key is contrast: a lace blouse with wide-leg jeans, or a velvet blazer over a simple tee.
Classic Patterns: Stripes, plaids, paisley, polka dots—they’re all trending, and you don’t need to choose just one. Pattern mixing is encouraged, so don’t be afraid to pair stripes with florals or plaid with polka dots. If that feels bold, start smaller with a patterned scarf or bag against a neutral outfit. I’m more of a “one statement” piece girl myself!
Asymmetric Hems: Wrap skirts, high-low dresses and angled hems add movement and drama without being fussy. Petite? Try a subtle diagonal cut in a skirt. Tall? A dramatic high-low dress will look stunning with boots. These pieces also layer beautifully with tall coats or cropped jackets.
Denim Refresh: Denim is in a new era—wide-leg and baggy silhouettes, dark indigo washes, flare, bootcut and straight styles are all back. Chore jackets and longer bomber cuts in denim are also trending. I prefer less distressing and more polish: jeans that feel intentional and easy to dress up. I just purchased a new side-tie denim utility jacket that I absolutely love and have been wearing over dresses.
Coats: Trenches and utility jackets, both cropped and full-length look familiar and new at the same time. So many great coats and jackets are available! Funnel-necks are big, along with suede, leather, denim and classic trench coats (which are having a moment). For warmer coat options, faux fur and shearling are trending! If you want to feel fresh when getting ready for winter, this is the time to do it!
Knee Length Skirts: After years of the midi dominating, the knee-length skirt is making a comeback. Pencil, pleated, or A-line styles feel both timeless and current. Try with tall boots and a fitted knit for day, or dress it up with a silky blouse and pumps for night. If you’ve tucked yours away, now’s the time to bring them back out.
Animal Prints, both abstract and more realistic, are roaring back this fall—but in a refined, accent-driven way. Think leopard, snake, zebra, or even cow print, but used sparingly to add interest rather than overwhelm. Belts, scarves and shoes are the perfect places to play—it’s all about the wink, not the roar. Abstract versions feel artsy and modern, while realistic prints bring a touch of timeless glam.
👉 Style Tip: Ground animal prints with solid neutrals (black, camel, white) or use them as the “pop” in an otherwise minimal outfit. A zebra scarf with a trench coat, leopard loafers with jeans, or a snake-print belt over a sweater dress instantly elevates the look.
Shoes of the Season
Two big footwear directions:
- Tall boots → knee-high styles paired with skirts and dresses, or worn over slim jeans. Equestrian, Western and block-heel versions are all good.
- Loafers & Oxfords → chunky soles or delicate brogue detailing. Style them barefoot for a sleek look, or with patterned socks for a playful twist. Elegant flats with square or almond toes round out the mix, proving comfort and chic can go hand-in-hand.
Ask Suzanne
Q. I am getting more fine lines as I get older and heavy makeup seems to exaggerate them. Any tips for a fresher look?
A. I know exactly what you mean! I’ve been playing with different foundation formulas and techniques have found a few things that are helpful. My take… less is more and the right application makes a big difference!
Foundation Tricks:
- Pump a little foundation onto the back of your hand.
- Swirl a soft foundation brush in it until evenly coated… take your time and really work it into the brush.
- Lightly buff on your face in circular motions.
Blush & Color: Powder blush is my favorite; cream works too if you prefer, but sparingly.
Eyes: Tightline at the lash base — use black for strong definition, deep brown for a softer look. If you like, lots of black mascara brightens the whites of your eyes.
Pretty lipstick: a rose or pink color is a great choice for every day. Brown is the color you want to avoid when it comes to lipsticks!
Q. I’m traveling soon—how do I pack light but still look chic?
A. Happy feet take us great places! So start with shoes, because your feet need to be happy when you are walking a lot. Once you know what shoes you can wear, you build your outfits based on that. And then I try to choose one accessory color story to keep things cohesive. Build outfits with layers—tees and tanks as a base, light jackets or cardigans on top. Scarves are your not-so-secret weapon: they add polish, warmth, and take up almost no space.
One thing that I think really helps is to take the time to think about all the events you are going to, and plan them out (notes, a spreadsheet) so you won’t have to think about it during your vacation and can spend more time relaxing and enjoying knowing that you look good.
If you need help packing, I’m happy to help. Read on…
Style Spotlight: Africa
I recently helped two clients get ready for their safari trips, and one thing was key: layering is your best friend. Days can swing from sunny and warm to cool and breezy in a heartbeat, especially if you’re heading out on safari or exploring coastal towns.
We focused on lightweight, breathable basics as the foundation—think soft tees, tanks, and linen shirts—then built in mid-layers like a cozy fleece or light jacket. A scarf became the real MVP: stylish, versatile, and perfect for chilly mornings or unexpected wind. The key is mixing textures and weights so you can adjust throughout the day without ever feeling bulky.
The result? Effortless outfits that looked polished in photos, felt comfortable on long adventures, and worked from dawn game drives to evening dinners. Below, my client and her husband at Table Mountain in South Africa!
That’s it for now!
Wishing you all a wonderful Fall and Holiday season wherever you may be, and know I am thankful to have you in my life.
Happy to personally answer any fashion questions as well as work together for whatever you need. Feel free to email or call/text me at 847-721-0607, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Best, Suzanne