The 9 Micro-Trends That Are Already Defining Cool Fall Style

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(Image credit: @camillecharriere; @helsastudio; @hannamw)

Here at Who What Wear, we focus a lot of our energy on the biggest trends of the season, and while we'll never stop covering the heavy hitters, there are several micro-trends worthy of honorary mentions. These aren't making major style moves yet, but we firmly believe that it's only a matter of time until they graduate from micro to macro or, in other words, from niche to mainstream.

After hours of studying the runways and, of course, online shopping (all in the name of research!), we're sharing the fall micro-trends on our radar at the moment. We've spotted these pieces on the feeds of the most influential women we know and stocked at several key retailers, which tells us that each is on the brink of becoming huge. Keep reading for fashion's most exciting micro-trends of fall 2023, from the animal print that every It girl will be wearing to the simple but outfit-making Reformation tank that has all our editors in a tizzy.

Snakeskin Print

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(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

Khaite's assortment of moody snakeskin-print pieces has us craving a bit of edge in our fall wardrobes and a touch of the animal print, whether via shoes or a cool leather jacket, is just what the doctor ordered. While a single snakeskin-print piece makes a striking statement, it's surprisingly easy to style with just about any neutral you already own.

Studded Details

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Speaking of tough details, cool studded elements are also heading toward virality this fall with studded belts, studded jeans, and studded flats all spiking in popularity.

Polka Dots

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(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl)

Miu Miu's fall runway had a number of delicate polka-dot pieces in it and put the classic print back on our radars after a several-years hiatus. Between the delicate sheer skirts and retro-inspired dresses we're noticing in the market, it's safe to say that the pretty print is having a comeback.

Halter Necklines

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(Image credit: @rosiehw)

Sleek halter tops are the cool option to wear with jeans and trousers, period. Whether you opt for a streamlined style or a more statement one, they feel so fresh.

Hourglass Blazers

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(Image credit: @helsastudio)

You might want to put your oversize blazers on hold this season because nipped-waist silhouettes are coming in hot. 

Boat-Neck Tops

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

If you're looking for a fresh basic to update your wardrobe for fall, snag a boat-neck top. With the popularity of Reformation's Dusk Top, the style is becoming a more elevated version of your average plain tank.

Mesh Shoes

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(Image credit: @hannamw)

Love them or hate them, you can't deny that mesh flats are everywhere you look lately. The see-through style may be divisive, but pairs from Khaite, Alaïa, and Dear Frances are already defining the season—if not the year.

Peplum Hems

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(Image credit: @marliesgrace)

If you like pretty things, you'll love this new wave of polished peplum hems. Fitted in the bodice and flared out via a dress or a top, it's a fresh silhouette that feels both retro and modern.

Micro Belts

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(Image credit: @modedamour)

Little details, big impact. Slim belts are a simple outfit addition that adds a sophisticated touch to basic tailoring and simple staples.

Senior Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.