With summer officially ending on September 22, temperatures will begin to drop, and wardrobes will change for the new season. Summer trends are going out of fashion, and new trends are developing. So the question is, what’s Hoboken wearing?
Predictions from Vogue, based on runway observations, lean towards “a more expressive approach to style,” expanding beyond prevalent, minimalist trends of the past year with bolder styles. For example, the Andra top by Khaite elevates a knit top through its exaggerated peplum shape, playing with proportions to provide a more distinctive silhouette. Colorwise, earth tones were seen in a variety of collections taking inspiration from “the nature around us.”
While temperatures won’t drop into sweater weather for another few weeks, pre-fall fashion trends could bridge the gap between summer shorts and fall flannels. As noted by Elle magazine, the five major trends to look out for during this transition period are silk scarves, structured leather, clear materials, pink pops of color, and contemporary lace usage.
Around Hoboken, the transition into fall is happening gradually. With afternoons still warm, summer staples have not yet disappeared. Shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, and athletic wear can still be seen around town, but they’re increasingly paired with warmer pieces to fend off the morning chill. Lightweight sweaters, hoodies, and jackets offer protection from the early breeze while still being removable, keeping options open for temperature shifts.
From my observations, Vogue’s prediction of more exaggerated shapes rings true. People are playing with the proportions of their outfits, with an emphasis on contrast. Tight tops with loose pants are popular around town for a dressier look, while casual or gym styles lean toward the opposite, with loose sweatshirts and fitted bottoms. Wide-leg jeans and pants also continue this emphasis on proportion while offering a breezy transition from summer styles.
Footwear is making the seasonal transition as well. Sneakers remain common, especially with casual outfits, but boots and heavier shoes are returning to people’s rotations, especially for rainy days.
Colors are still in a transitional period, with autumn’s earthy tones arising as summer’s colors start to mellow out. Browns, creams, dark greens, and gray are beginning to appear alongside colorful summer holdovers.
For now, Hoboken fashion seems to be caught somewhere between the two seasons. Summer is slowly being shed, and fall is starting to emerge, one sweater at a time.
