6 Ways Fashion Girls Are Wearing Fall Trends IRL

If you feel like we've been talking about fall trends nonstop for the past few weeks, you'd be right, but if you're looking for an apology, this will not be it. Truthfully, this year's top picks are so cool and so darn wearable that we're just giddy little fashion kids over here. And we invite you to get on board already à la two of my all-time favorite fashion girls and trend "Mix Masters," Alyssa Coscarelli and Ashley Brooke.

These NYC-based influencers serve up the best looks season after season, so it only felt right to pick their brains on how they're mixing and matching fall trends right now. These six outfits—which, by the way, they styled at Bloomingdale's—will definitely make a statement and earn you plenty of compliments to boot, so if that's not your thing, please stop reading immediately. Otherwise, these two are serving up some major fall trend knowledge we'd personally file under "replicate immediately."

As an editor turned downtown-cool-girl fashion guru, Coscarelli has a distinct style (vintage-inspired and trend clashing, in her words) that's always worth a pause. Her outfits regularly make their way into our saved folders, and her F/W 19 looks are no exception. It's apparently her favorite season (although she notes she's 100% biased due to her October birthday), and she can't wait to return to her fall rituals: enjoying a latte at The Hideout—a cool chai café in LES (so sorry to disclose your hidden gem, Alyssa!)—and playing tourist with a walk around Central Park the minute the leaves change colors. But we know you're here for her amazing style, so please indulge…

Is your style more uptown or downtown?

Definitely downtown! I've always felt more at home downtown, and my style reflects that—heavy on denim, oversize silhouettes, and full of personality. It's not too buttoned-up or prim-and-proper.

What's the best way to pull off plaid without looking like a lumberjack?

Opting for a silhouette that's more elevated than just an oversize button-down. Skip the flannel altogether in exchange for other plaid accents, like this oversized trench. I love that the print on the back is like a fun surprise when you turn around and walk away.

What other prints would you pair with plaid or should it stand alone?

I would absolutely pair a floral or animal print with a plaid, any day.

What are your styling tips for wearing multiple neutrals together?

Play with texture—I think the crisp feel of the trench, the texture of the leather pants, and the croc-effect bag all play really nicely together, and make the outfit feel rich and interesting despite the neutral color palette.

SHOP THE LOOK:

What are the go-to pieces you love to wear in the fall?

You'll mostly find me in mom jeans and chunky knits (pictured here). Long-sleeve dresses and oversize outerwear are also in heavy rotation. I love a chunky boot, too.

Where would you wear this particular outfit?

This is pretty much my fall uniform, so you're likely to find me in a version of this on any given day.

What sweater styles or trends are you into for fall?

Statement knits featuring oversize patterns or lettering, oversize fits, and rainbow-bright color combinations.

How do you pick out a novelty sweater that doesn't feel like it's meant to be at an ugly sweater party?

Try to steer clear of any obvious tropes like reindeer, snowflakes, and snowmen.

SHOP THE LOOK:

What type of party is this look for?

I'd wear this to my birthday party, likely at a cozy yet groovy bar like Short Stories on Bowery. A Polaroid camera would likely be involved.

Who's your '80s style icon, and would she wear this dress? 

I do like to think '80s Julia Roberts would wear this look.

Do you tend to mix high and low price points?

Absolutely; that's just what's realistic for me, and I hardly feel like myself when I'm wearing head-to-toe designer. I'm really into a quirky mixed-and-matched vibe, and you just don't get that from wearing entirely luxury. Don't get me wrong, I love splurging on designer pieces, but I always try to style in a high-low way that grounds any fancier pieces (like this dress) and makes them feel more laid-back.

SHOP THE LOOK:

Brooke's style leans a bit more eclectic (Carrie Bradshaw = her dream closet swap), incorporating delicate, romantic pieces and edgier ones too. This combination makes her fall style particularly worth watching, as seen in these outfits she put together highlighting three key seasonal trends: statement outerwear, leather, and animal prints.

Where do you find inspiration for your outfits?

I have an excessive amount of Pinterest boards I utilize almost every day.

What's the first sign of fall?

When I start getting looks for drinking my iced latte, I'll know it's officially fall. (Iced lattes year-round for me.)

What about this coat makes it a great statement piece?

I love the mixture of textures! It's casual but really cool.

What are the best ways to wear denim-on-denim?

Mixing different shades of denim, and playing with different textures and styles. Right now, I'm loving baggy '90s-inspired jeans.

What's the trick for pulling off leather pants?

Treat them like you'd treat denim!

Is wearing black and brown together officially no longer a faux pas?

Even though my middle-school self wouldn't be caught dead wearing black and brown, I say go for it. That rule died long ago.

What accessories make leather pants feel more polished versus edgy?

I like the simplicity of a top-handle bag. There's something about the style that gives off a simple, almost vintage feel. I thought this outfit needed some gold hardware; that was the main reason I chose this one, and it also needed to be black to tie in with the shoes.

SHOP THE LOOK:

What's your favorite animal print for fall? 

I'm loving a warm zebra print right now.

How are you wearing this trend this year?

I think if you're going to do animal print, you should go all out. I love animal-print denim, coats, and bold skirts. Because of this, I stick to neutral colors.

What other patterns would you pair with an animal print, or should it stand alone?

I'm always open to a mixed-print outfit. As long as one print is your standout and the other is more subtle, you're good to go no matter the print. 

Looking for more incredible fall style must-haves? Head to Bloomingdale's for the best on-trend selection.