By Rachel Hoeing

I absolutely love shopping for clothing for the fall season. I love outfits that give me that warm & cozy feeling, but I also like to keep up with the current trends.

I wanted to find out what styles would be popular this year, so I enlisted the help of some of our own stylists and fashion seekers right here in our area. They have shared some fun trends and fashion tips for 2017 with us. Take some time to visit their websites/stores as well through the links below!

Chokers & Shoulders

“This is my Fall favorite because it compliments every shape, size and age.  Today it seems like there are a ton of choices to pick from when it comes to this collar bone craze.  You can show a little open shoulder, cold shoulder or one shoulder, but whichever you choose pick a choker to be your statement accessory.  The Josephine necklace is currently our favorite because it’s versatility allows you to wear it to your own personal style and can equally take you from day to night.  Fall into this season showing a little shoulder and highlight your neck!” ~ Ali Kraus-Flowers, Co-founder of Indigo Tilt

• Josephine necklace:  indigotilt.com
• J.Crew Easy Sweatshirt in Heather Overcast Snow:  Nordstrom
• Kimchi Blue Tyra Cold Shoulder Tunic Top in Black:  Urban Outfitters

Velvet Touch

“You will see this feminine and oh, so luxurious trend on tops, shoes and everything in between.  Yes, velvet in the richest colors of the season is SUPER HOT for fall.  Sprinkle it into your daily look with a velvet tee, necklace or bag, or go all out and hit the town in a full-on velvet dress.  Don’t go overboard and wear multiple pieces at once, but definitely add a bit of this romantic trend into your 2017 fall style.”  ~ Anitra Mitchell, owner of Mainstream Boutique

• Find both dresses pictured at Mainstream Boutique

Red Hues

“This fall red is reigning supreme! Not just one shade of red, but all different hues, which is great because it can work on lots of different people. In the right shade, like a burgundy or wine, red can even be considered a neutral. Designers paired red back with pink, (gasp) and we love this fresh look! If that seems a little too outside the box for you, try layering various shades of red in different textures such as velvet, suede or silk. It’s such a rich look! Go ahead and add a little red to your closet this season! Think a comfy sweater, a jacket or even a fabulous statement sleeve top!”  ~ Erin Jelinek and Donna Dixon of Twin City Style

• Top and Pants – Halogen
• Shoes – Sam Edelman

Metallics

“More over basic black. There’s a new Sheffic-ette in town: Metallics. It’s one of the hottest trends for the fall. It’s popping up in nail polish, lipsticks and clothing up and down the runway. Designer Bottega Veneta reworked evening wear with a pop of silver and rose gold. Chanel recreated the classic Trench coat and added a top layer of sheen, and Versace created a masterpiece in the anything-but-little-black dress with chrome, gold and silver details. I look forward to adding a little flavor to a basic ensemble with a metallic nail color, lip color, belt, purse or slipper. The key to this trend is to add in small and impactful doses. Just a little goes a long way and can turn a boring outfit into the belle of the ball. Shine on!” ~ Glynis Bell of Glynis Bell Integrated

Midi-Length Skirt

“We think the midi-length skirt is this season’s most versatile style!  It’s fabulous on all body types and can be worn dressed up for a date night, professionally in a business casual setting or for a fun girls afternoon out!  Look for it in a pencil shape, high waisted or pleated!  Add lace, jacquard or metallic fabric for flare!  Always wear a statement shoe- the midi length skirt can handle an ankle bootie, tall boot, wedge or heel!” ~ Shannon Kemp, owner Style Encore Winston-Salem and Greensboro

• Find skirts similar to this one pictured in all shapes, colors and styles at your local Style Encore

Statement Sleeves

“In addition to off-the-shoulder and cold shoulder, many sleeve styles are featured in a BIG way this fall. Whether it’s ruffled, frilled, tiered, flared, tied up or pleated, designers are making a bold statement this fall with statement sleeves. If shoppers aren’t ready to go big with oversized ruffles or billowy poufs, opting for ties or one simple ruffle at the shoulder will offer a softer but still very feminine approach to this adorable trend.” ~ Shannon Koontz, co-owner of Bourbon and Grits Boutique

• All tops pictured are available online at Bourbon and Grits Boutique

Wraps, Scarves & Ponchos

“Let us help you wrap up your fall wardrobe! A wrap, scarf or poncho is the perfect finishing touch. Layer over a t-shirt, turtleneck or blouse for a cozy, put together look. The best feature about this fringe wrap is it has arms to hold the wrap around your shoulders. No more fighting to keep it on! It is also reversible and comes in many color combinations. That’s a wrap!” ~ Kim Taylor & Diane Green of Kim Taylor & Co

• All wraps pictured are available at Kim Taylor & Co

I hope these tips from our local stylists and boutique owners have helped you find a trend that sits your style this fall. Let us know which ones are your favorites!

Happy shopping!