Timeless Fall Fashion & the First Ladies
By Peyton Stearns
As the temperatures drop and the sweaters and boots are brought out, you may be tempted to buy the trendy new style for the season. However, the fall season contains many timeless trends which are great for your wallet and your closet. Here are four fall styles to gain inspiration from to build a curated wardrobe you can wear in 2022 and beyond.
The East Coast, preppy equestrian-inspired outerwear and style is a timeless fall trend. Ralph Lauren’s Fall 2022 collection showed coats, tailored blazers, fitted button-ups, ruffle collars, and boots. In addition, Nancy Reagan and Betty Ford presented this style beautifully with sweaters, fur mitts, hats, and scarves. Staples for this style include quilted vests, sweaters, blazers, and boots. Materials and styles to look for are tweeds, fleeces, corduroy, and quilted fabrics. This Americana flair is easy to assemble because of its classic staple pieces.
Note: Betty Ford worked in the fashion industry before becoming the first lady.
Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Melania Trump were regularly outfitted in wide-leg pants throughout their husband’s presidencies. Not only can this pant leg be tailored and sharp to dress up, but it’s also easy to dress down and wear comfortably. It looks particularly well with a fitted top to show your curves. First, execute this outfit by using a belt! Then, dress down by pairing it with a sweater or Uggs. Depending on the look and your daily life, there are countless materials to choose from. From denim to silk or cargo, it’s easy to mix the style choice.
Maxi-length skirts, dresses, and outerwear are fall and winter staples! These pieces are easy to put together with minimal effort. Rosalynn Carter wore an a-line coat for the inauguration parade, while Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ casual look was outfitted with a trench coat. The Fall 1997 Ralph Lauren collection also featured a tailored, long blazer that remains on-trend. Use a trench or long coat to tie together accessories. For a casual look, layer a sweater over a skirt.
Leather is one of the best staple pieces in a wardrobe, regardless of the season. It’s a fabulous neutral that can tie in to make any look more sophisticated. For example, Melania Trump is pictured in a red leather coat, dressed up for Trump rally. Leather jackets provide warmth on chilly autumn evenings and look incredible as both a long and short accessory. Although trending within the last few years, leather pants are here to stay. These pants style great with a button-down or layered with a sweater.
No matter your style or aesthetic choice, fall is a beautiful season to utilize basics to create a sophisticated look, whether you’re dressing it up or down. Reach for timeless pieces that will look just as good in the autumn seasons to come, like many of our first lady’s style choices.
Featured photos available on Pinterest @TheConservateur
Peyton Stearns is a columnist at The Conservateur and is currently a third year student at Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame. She serves as marketing director for Strike Magazine at the University of Notre Dame chapter.
