Sep 29, 2016

How to Wear Fall's Biggest Trends Like a Style Icon

by Nicole Kliest

Fashion moves fast in 2016. We understand that in order to keep up with the times one must always be thinking and moving forward. Progressive, you might say. However, we think it’s equally important to be analytical about the past in order to understand the present; after all, trends are cyclical, right? Whether it’s educating yourself on the history behind current staples like the trench coat (ahem, Burberry) or keeping an extensive log of iconic films that continue to influence designers, it’s all about the backstory.

To help prove our point, we picked out a few of our favorite style icons and researched their past looks to uncover trends that are relevant for the F/W 16 season. As expected, we found plenty. Thankfully, the contemporary interpretations of these trends aren’t identical to their erstwhile counterparts, rather they're an extension that we now see is rooted in historical significance. And on the more surface level? They’re simply inspiring ways to wear a few fun trends! Scroll down to see and shop our picks.

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Catwalking/Getty Images

Furry bags were spotted all over F/W 16 catwalks, like Christopher Kane (above), Fendi, and Alexander Wang. This playful purse is a quick way to add a tactile element to your look.

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Associated Newspapers /REX/Shutterstock

Socialite Edie Sedgwick paired her furry friend with a pair of jumbo chandelier earrings and a glittery dress.

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Catwalking/Getty Images

For fall, designers adorned their bags with edgy guitar straps, including Burberry's Christopher Bailey.

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Associated Newspapers /REX/Shutterstock

If we've learned anything about Bianca Jagger's style, it's that she knows how to rock a white blazer. But she also happens to be skilled at the art of accessorizing, as witnessed above.

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Antonio de Moraes Barros Filho/WireImage

Labels got lacquered this season, with shiny things across the spectrum, including this cherry red patent leather coat from Isabel Marant.

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Bill Howard/Associated Newspapers/REX

Want to pull off patent leather like Brigitte Bardot? Pair yours with a newsboy cap and thigh-high boots, of course.

Zara Midi Patent Finish Skirt ($36)

Contrast a bold patent leather piece with simple separates, such as a crisp white button-down.

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Catwalking/Getty Images

Demna Gvasalia's first collection for Balenciaga introduced a plethora of artfully tailored menswear-inspired suiting separates, including this gorgeous look above.

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Dezo Hoffmann/REX/Shutterstock

It really doesn't get much more chic than Françoise Hardy; this menswear-inspired ensemble is no exception.

Reiss Musk Jacket ($465)

Reiss Musk Jacket ($465) and Musk Trouser ($254)

Invest in a suit you love, and you'll wear it forever.

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Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

Animal prints always make a splash for fall, this time around we're seeing zebra on everything from coats to these flamboyant Gucci heels.

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Bill Cross/Associated Newspapers/REX/Shutterstock

Even if you're a minimalist at heart like Jane Birkin, a zesty statement coat like the one above can be fun to rotate into your look from time to time.

Rockins Zebra Print Scarf ($150)

An accessory that has major It-girl potential.

Love style icons as much as we do? Take our quiz to find out which one you're most like.