It’s hard to believe, but Fall is right around the corner. Planning ahead for a season change is some of the best advice I can ever give. Knowing what you have, what you don’t have, and what’s trending are three key ingredients to making the transition successful. There’s no absolute way to know any of these things if you don’t plan ahead. So today we’re looking at 5 of Fall’s BIG Trends with a NEW Friday 5 post. I’ll also include some current items that fall into each of the 5 categories and how you can shop them now. Let’s get started!

1. PLATFORM BOOTS

Nicknamed the “David Bowie” boot, the shoe of Fall ’16 has arrived in a very bold way. Whether you’ll embrace the trend a little or a lot, it’s a go big or go home moment. I’m enjoying mixing two of fall’s big trends to create my perfect shoe: velvet platform boots. Shop some affordable options below.

2. ANYTHING VELVET

Nothing is quite as luxe and divine as velvet. I think highly of this trend and hope to embrace it well into Winter. You can wear velvet a number of ways and even indulge in a few key velvet accessories. I've already gathered a few ideas for y'all, and these items are on my must have list.

3. STATEMENT CHOKERS

Chokers have made a slow but steady comeback in the past year, and looking ahead to fall, things are getting bigger and better than ever before. Statement chokers are now an "it" item to have in your wardrobe. I think I'll stick with a more minimal choker necklace to see how long this trend really lasts.

4. HOODIES (HELL YES)

Now this is something I can totally get down with. A hoodie has been epic since my first one for high school cheerleading. I swear I wore that black hooded sweatshirt until the sleeves and hem unraveled. Hoodies today have a new sense of style. They are still very much relaxed but definitely more chic. A couple of these looks are pinned on my vision board already, and below are a few options I recommend purchasing.

5. OVERSIZED SLEEVES

A big sleeve ups the statement factor and totally gives you a fashion moment that you'll never forget. I love a good bold sleeve, especially on a traditional blouse. It switches things up, adds a little flair, and gives volume to any outfit. Below are a few current favorites I can't wait to have in my closet.

XO, Alex

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