Fashion is leaning away from dropped shoulders and oversized, bulky shapes in heavy-textured sweaters, said David Zyla, stylist and author of "Color Your Style."

Instead, the stylist recommends reaching for structured sweaters that bring the volume higher up on the body through more defined shoulder details.

This might look like styles with "built-in shoulder pads and strong horizontal boat-neck seaming or balloon sleeves," Zyla told BI.

According to Fred Kim, a New York-based stylist, wearing baggy clothing from head to toe is fading in popularity. There's no need to rid your closet of relaxed pieces entirely, though.

Instead, the stylist recommends being more intentional about where you add volume.

"I think a modern approach would be just kind of getting rid of the oversized items and just keeping it a little more refined, or choose one area to create volume," Kim said.

For instance, he recommends pairing a fitted T-shirt with a relaxed trouser or a straight-leg jean with a looser-fitting jacket.

Wardrobe stylist Rachel Varney said booties that dip down too low on the ankle are starting to feel outdated.

"I just think that maybe it's better to keep our ankles covered for the fall," Varney told BI.

She also said booties with a side zipper can create an especially awkward gap between the shoe and the pants, which can create a less-flattering silhouette.

Instead, the stylist recommends opting for boots that come up higher on the ankle.

Tight bodycon silhouettes, plunging necklines, and cutout designs are stepping aside as softer, more romantic styles start to trend, Zyla said.

"This version of sexy this season is all about movement," the stylist told BI. Think vintage-inspired dresses with dropped waists and rich details like embroidery, beading, fringe, tulle, and velvet.

Moto jackets have been around for a while, Zyla said, and it might be time to replace them with something more modern.

The stylist suggested tailored, shrunken, and cropped fitted jackets as updated alternatives.

Funnel-neck jackets are an especially notable style this season, he said, appearing on everything from utility bombers to cropped silhouettes.

"Beyond the regal chic connotation of the tall, stiff collar, it's also a super-practical solve in keeping the neck warm," Zyla told BI.

Several of the stylists BI spoke with agreed that quiet luxury — which focuses on understated, minimalist fashions — is on its way out this autumn. Kim said the more neutral, uniform looks can feel a little too predictable.

"I just feel like we need to kind of liven up the wardrobe a little bit," Kim told BI. He recommended incorporating more color and texture, maybe even by bringing vintage pieces into your wardrobe.

According to Kim, cargo pants with too many pockets or zippers can feel outdated. Utility styles are still relevant, he said, but may be best done more simply.

"I would probably look for a relaxed cotton twill trouser with one or two subtle pockets, where you still get the functionality but you're not looking like you're heading into the woods or something," Kim told BI.

"I think it's time to put the dainty, minimalist multi-layered chain necklaces in a drawer and use your jewelry box to store some focal-point brooches," Zyla told BI.

There are a lot of options, he said. Brooches are showing up in a variety of designs, from autumnal motifs like leaves, pinecones, and acorns to more classic florals.

The stylist also suggests experimenting with placement rather than simply pinning one to your collar. Try adding a brooch to a handbag, using one to pin a cardigan closed, or placing one at the waistline of a dress.

Varney and Zyla both agreed that platform, clunky sneakers are worth skipping this season.

Chunkier styles can look especially clunky when paired with dresses, Varney said, and they also are often not as flattering as slimmer-fitting shoes.

Instead, the stylist recommends slimmer or sportier sneakers for a sleeker look. Zyla said satin sneakers are another solid footwear option gaining attention this season.

"These hybrid shoes feature soft satin finishes, really sleek low-profile silhouettes, and iconic lace-up ribbon ties," Zyla told BI.

Workout clothes as everyday wear is something Kim would love to see less of this season, particularly on men.

Comfort is still important, but the stylist recommends choosing more intentional fabrics, such as cotton, over synthetic materials that can sometimes read as overly casual.

Leather has been a longtime wardrobe staple in shoes, bags, and belts, but this season might feature more fun twists on the classic material.

For example, Zyla said, croc-embossed leather is gaining traction this fall.

"We're seeing it in leather jackets. We're seeing it in bags and skirts and handbags," Zyla told BI. The textured finish offers a more interesting alternative to basic leather this fall.

This story was originally published on September 15, 2026, and most recently updated on October 27, 2026.

When it comes to wearing jeans at a 9-to-5, I think a darker wash is always the best place to start, since it closely matches the color of a classic pair of dark trousers. Although black jeans can look professional, I prefer a dark-blue shade, as it still clearly reads as denim.

As for the fit, I love a wide-leg pair rather than a slimmer one because it gives the illusion of trousers while still maintaining a casual feel. This way, the look is still laid-back and comfortable, but the shape and color are more polished and professional.

Regarding the waist, I think individuals with shorter torsos should opt for a mid-to-low-rise jean, whereas those with longer torsos should reach for a higher-waisted alternative.

I love a cozy sweater, but pairing one with jeans can make an entire outfit feel too casual.

To avoid this, I like to pair denim with a top that has some interest. Think texture, beautiful buttons, an interesting collar, or an actual blouse.

If you really want to wear a sweater, I recommend layering it with a cardigan in the same color. Having those two distinct elements instantly makes the denim feel more put-together and gives the outfit more intention.

One of the easiest ways to instantly make jeans feel more polished for the office is to add a belt.

I like to think of a belt as the jewelry for your pants. Similar to how a necklace, earrings, or a bracelet can complete an outfit, a belt adds the extra detail that shows careful thought went into the look.

Whether it's a classic leather version with a simple buckle or something with a little more personality, a belt is a great addition that can immediately transform a casual look into corporate attire.

Not all denim worn in the workplace needs to be a traditional solid wash. For example, I think jeans with painted designs, tonal patterns, and interesting finishes and textures — like stitching — add so much more interest to the look.

However, be careful with the styling of textured denim. I recommend keeping the rest of the outfit simple and letting the patterned jeans serve as the focal point.

When it comes to selecting the right shoes to wear with jeans, there's a careful balance between looking professional and too casual.

I always recommend wearing a ballet flat, a pointed-toe heel, or a bootie.

If you do want to wear a sneaker, I suggest a low-profile, less bulky option — so it still looks put together with the denim.