The air is becoming brisk, the leaves are changing color, and you’ve noticed something: You aren’t going to be able to wear T-shirts and Chacos for the rest of the semester. Looks like it’s time to update your fashion wardrobe. Fortunately for you, Columbia is the perfect place to do it.
Turn the corner onto Broadway, and you’ll find Columbia’s prime shopping district: downtown. With cute local boutiques like Breeze, Swank and Britches, you’re never far from the latest fall fashion.
WOMEN’S:
**1. Shiny golden brown leather jacket**
_Swank Boutique, Free People, $168_
Ever wanted to look like a rock star _and_ a lady? It’s not nearly as hard as it sounds. This leather jacket will add an eye-catching edge to any fall ensemble. Pair it with a simple necklace or infinity scarf and dark wash jeans to keep it classy, CoMo.
**2. Patterned scarf**
_Breeze, $19_
Scarf weather is the best weather. Not only are there about a million different ways to wear a scarf, but there’s a fabric for any and every outfit. Our advice? Invest in a few classic colors, like dark red and black. Then, when you’re feeling adventurous, graduate to bold patterns (like this multi-colored chevron beauty).
**3. Statement jewelry**
_Breeze, $20 (silver), $19 (red and gold), $19 (blue and gold), $26 (white and gold)_
In case you haven’t been paying attention to fashion trends all spring and summer, statement jewelry is big (no pun intended). Thankfully, the trend is following us into fall. Try mixing and matching necklace and outfit colors for a bit of pop in your wardrobe.
**4. Emerald dress**
_Breeze, Ya Los Angeles, $59_
Emerald is a color that transitions flawlessly into autumn. It’s not too bright, it draws attention, and best of all? It looks gorgeous with any skin tone. Throw on a gold necklace with this cinched dress, and you have a lovely look for any occasion.
**5. Turquoise blazer**
_Breeze, Iris Basic, $49_
So let’s say it’s late November, and the great outdoors are starting to get a bit, well, _chilly_. You start missing those early August days of tank tops and bright-colored Nike shorts. While we can’t help you travel back in time, we can give you a warm fall piece with a bit of summer color: This beautiful turquoise blazer. Extra bonus? Blazers go with pretty much everything. Go wild!
**6. Red and white patterned sweater**
_Britches, Pink Owl Apparel, $48_
We all know what fall is really for: sweaters. So many sweaters. This long, flowing knit is an essential for the colder nights of autumn. Grab your favorite pair of black leggings (be honest, you know you have one) and a pair of boots for a look that’s not just comfy but cute.
**7. Tiger black shirt**
_Britches, Cefian, $35_
Cut-off shirts are a new trend this fall, and while they may not be as practical for keeping warm, they certainly make a statement. Check out this black long-sleeved number and support your favorite Tigers while also supporting your favorite trends.
MEN’S:
**1. Yellow cords**
_Swank Boutique, French Connection, $98_
Corduroys are a huge hit for men this fall, especially colored cords. These yellow pants add a splash of color without veering into the “too crazy” lane. And even better? They’re your school colors. You’re welcome, gents of MU.
**2. Green knit sweater**
_Swank Boutique, $168_
Quick pro tip, boys: The ladies love sweaters (and not just because they get to steal them from you when they’re cold). Sweaters look fantastic on just about any guy. Mix this forest green gem with jeans and brown work boots for a subtle “tough guy” look, and still look absolutely adorable.
**3. Plaid shirt**
_Swank Boutique, $68_
This fall’s runway is infatuated with plaid, so naturally, you should be too. When you’re itching for some extra color, plaid is how you get your fix. This button-down blends yellow, navy and white, but you’ll find plaids with anything from black and blue to “wine” and “cream.” Just keep your eyes peeled.
**4. Burgundy button-down**
_Muse, Cheap Monday, $82_
Burgundy. Does it sound beautiful? Not exactly. Does it look beautiful? Absolutely. Complete in button-down form, this burgundy number is a manly necessity. Try it with jeans or, if you’re really looking to make a statement, a nice leather vest. Keep it simple, though. We don’t need a Steven Tyler waltzing around campus.
**5. Gray pants**
_Muse, The Unbranded Brand, $88_
Males of MU: If you’ve yet to purchase a pair of classy gray jeans, it’s about time to jump on the bandwagon. Gray jeans match everything, and they’re the perfect cop-out when “business casual” is too much of a chore. Don’t have time for slacks? A quality pair of gray jeans should do the trick.