Fall fashion

Though fall doesn’t technically begin until Sept. 23, that hasn’t stopped SMC students from daunting their new autumn outfits. When it comes to day-wear, all the mustard hues, bold oranges and rust tones scattered around campus have been “inspired by colors found naturally throughout the season,” said local Santa Monica designer Erica Waddell.  “The elements of fall play a much larger role in 2011 fall trends than seen in past years.”

Since climates differ only subtly from season to season here in Southern California, students have been utilizing the overcast mornings of Santa Monica to their full advantage, layering on the plaids and busting out their camouflage-inspired overcoats until the early afternoon sun breaks through.

The runways at the 2011 fall and winter collections were riddled with plaid on plaid attire as an evolution from summer's color blocking trend.

Come October when temperatures begin to drop, a slew of chunky grandma-style sweaters will appear as the vintage trend continues in full force.

“The chunkier the better,” said Waddell who suggested pairing your chunky sweater with flowing gauze like skirts for the best effect.  “(It's) a look you can wear throughout winter season as well.”

Darker colors plague both runway and street fashion this time of year but color is making a chilly season comeback.  Jazzing up any gray-toned outfit with a pair of bright-colored pants in the red or orange family will give any autumn outfit a style that’s “fresh and fun.”

Waddell commented that the “long awaited return of the long sleeve mini dress” acts as a substitute for summer's sun dresses.

“Long sleeves display a level of class, sophistication, and common sense,” said Waddell.

This fall, less isn’t necessarily more when it comes to outfits.

Another way to stand out amongst the crowd without showing too much skin is by adding a polished touch of lace to an outfit.

“Lace is always sexy," said Waddell.  "And when done in minimalistic amounts, it reigns supreme.”