Splurge vs. Steal: Your Cheat Sheet to the Biggest Fall 2021 Trends

Are you as sad and shocked as I am that summer is almost over? I feel like I barely got to live my best summer life, and now, fall is right around the corner. The only thing that is helping me keep my chin up as I mentally prepare for the shift of the season is knowing that there are tons of beautiful new trends for me to try this fall, and I am here to share with you some of my findings thus far, as I have begun to shop for them. Before I actually nail down what to buy, I love to evaluate all of my options. I want to know what a trend will look like at the highest price point and at the lowest price point so that I can make an educated shopping decision. Duh. 

Well, folks, that is exactly what I did for you here today. A classic “splurge vs. steal” is coming your way, and I have a feeling it will help you figure out which trends you want to save on and which ones you want to invest in this fall 2021 season. From sweaters to boots to outerwear, the list ahead is your official cheat sheet to the biggest trends of the season at every price imaginable. You’re welcome. 

Tailored vests are shaping up to be one of fall 2021’s biggest trends. Whether you wear yours alone or as a three-piece-suit situation, you’re sure to look very on-trend this season while sporting your little vest. I love styling mine with relaxed trousers, but fear not—denim is a strong option as well.

Statement coats, in general, are going to be huge this season, from bold leopard prints to plush cloud coats. However, colored and neutral leather-like coats are my personal favorite version of the trend. 

Like it or not, clogs are going to be the footwear trend you’re about to see everywhere this season. Luckily, there are many versions to choose from. Whether they’re heeled, flat, or in a crazy cow print, these shoes are soon going to be flooding the streets and your Instagram feed. I promise. 

If you’re looking to add some color to your wardrobe this season, look for highly saturated hues. Thanks to much proof on the runway, it is clear that the higher the saturation, the better. I love just a pop of these pigmented hues incorporated into a look, but if you’re feeling like making a statement, by all means, go for the head-to-toe look. 

If you don’t have at least one comfortable and chunky sweater in your life come fall, you’re doing something wrong. Lucky for you, cozy cable-knits are trending this season, and I’m here to show you the best of the best. I personally love investing in nice knitwear, but honestly, H&M’s assortment is truly next-level. 

If you ask me, knee-high boots will never go out of style, especially ones with zero frills. This season, that’s exactly what’s trending. With that being said, if you’ve been looking for an excuse to splurge on a pair of shoes, make it sleek knee-high boots. If not, there are tons of affordable versions out there.

Cutouts certainly aren’t the newest trend on the block, but this season, they have received an elevated update. I am calling this new and improved version “grown-up” cutouts, as they are now reading less sultry and more polished. Keep scrolling to see what I mean. 

Screen prints (and anything artsy) are making major moves this fall. I love this trend because it evokes joy and excitement every time you put it on, and the shopping options are endless. From dresses to tops to pants, there seems to be no shortage of this particular trend, and for that, I am forever grateful. 

Knit sets have pretty much become a part of the everyday lives of fashion people across the globe. This season, however, I am particularly excited about matching knit skirt sets. Is that because we have the cutest version in existence thanks to Who What Wear Collection? Maybe. But there are tons of other stunning options currently in the market as well. 

Shop the matching Alma Cashmere Maxi Skirt ($545).

Shop the matching Lulu Midi Herringbone Skirt ($155).

Normally, you would see faux-fur coats trending during the fall and winter season, but this time, it’s all about the accessories. I am particularly fond of the bucket hat. In case you haven’t noticed, Rihanna is also a fan, which basically means this is the holy grail of all the trends. That’s all. 

Next up, shop 31 pairs of fall shoes that are sure to rock your world