Thanks to the fall 2022 runway shows introducing the fashion industry’s hottest new trends, the end of summer doesn’t have to incite panic. This year we’re borrowing from trends from the ’90s and early aughts. Think: preppy-chic, leather and even some aviation-inspired looks. Plus we’ve sourced some local Toronto spots where you can cop the looks for yourself.
Preppy
The prep school uniform–inspired trend is back and better than ever. You might remember it from the mid-2000s when Lacoste polo T-shirts, plaid miniskirts and crisp white blouses layered under cardigans used to run the hallways. Opt for an oversized knit sweater worn as a mini dress or style a plaid miniskirt with a loose, varsity crewneck. Pair with mid-shin socks and leather loafers for a polished, slightly edgy spin. Local Canadian designer Hilary MacMillan has a plaid A-line mini skirt that will fit the preppy-chic bill perfectly. With a high waist, subtle front pleat and mid-thigh length, the elevated take on a classic screams, “I understood the [2022 F/W] assignment.”
Leather, leather and more leather
It’s everyone’s favourite material back in a big way. Drip head to toe in a moto-inspired look with leather jackets, pants, boots and bags — the more, the better. Midtown’s Thursdays has a ton of vegan leather that will help you get the look. Whether you like a looser, wide leg fit pant, a tailored blazer or a cowboy boot, Thursdays has got you covered for this fall fashion trend. Choose from chocolate, navy and true black shades; motorcycle not included. 1130 Yonge St.
Oversized silhouettes
We all know skinny jeans went the way of the side part, thanks to the teachings of Gen Z and TikTok. Now, it’s all about oversized silhouettes. From denim and blouses to sweaters and jackets, the bigger the better. Pair your loose jeans with a cropped t-shirt and denim jacket for a look that effortlessly works day-to-night.
Local Bloor Street shop Risqué has got you covered with a ton of oversized denim, like the Levi’s Dad Jean, a ’90s-inspired pair of non-stretch, relaxed denim, re-editioned for a super flattering look. 600 Bloor St. W.
Bomber jackets
If you love dressing for fall than it’s likely you have a denim jacket, leather jacket (or both) hanging in your closet. Switch things up this year with the aviation-inspired bomber jacket — the once popular outerwear option that sort of fell off our radar post-2017. Thankfully, the pilot-inspired jacket is back and ready for takeoff. Blend the preppy style with this fashion trend and rep your city by snagging the Peace Collective Home is Toronto Baseball Bomber in a unique green/cream colourway for a pop of colour against the sea of rich, dark hues that often dominate fall wardrobes. 65 Front St. W.
Floor-length hemlines
Maxi and midi dresses and skirts dominated spring and summer look books. The cooler season will be no different with floor sweeping hemlines popular in the mid-to-late ’90s. Think slinky, straight lines and solid colours. Queen West’s Coal Miner’s Daughter has several transitional dresses that can be layered on cooler days. Try the witchy-meets-boho-cottagecore Auraline midi dress for a linen look or the Indi & Cold Marsala maxi dress in a fall-esque rust colour with button front detail for something a little more autumnal. 87 Roncesvalles Ave.
Jumpsuits and catsuits
The jumpsuit look inspired by dance class unitards also took over the summer — and for good reason: they’re easy, comfortable and versatile. Pairing it with a linen button down or a funky blazer took the outfit from morning to night, and now you can walk that staple piece right into cooler days ahead. Fall-ify your fave warmer weather look by purchasing a full length pant version of your favourite jumpsuit (also commonly called catsuits). Visit Leaside’s Relevé to try out the spacedye uplevel midi jumpsuit with a scoop neck. Layer your new go-to staple with a denim jacket, knit sweater or leather blazer for a look that melds fashion and function. 1727 Bayview Ave.
