There’s something about the first hint of crisp fall air that makes us ready to refresh our closets. After months of sundresses, sandals and lightweight layers, fall gives us an excuse to bring back cozy knits, rich seasonal colors, great denim and all those effortless layers we love.

This season, Soft Surroundings is making the transition especially easy with pieces that blend comfort with polished, put together style. Whether you’re heading to the office, meeting friends for brunch, running errands or planning a fall weekend away, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite new arrivals to help you step into the season in style.

The Sweater You’ll Reach for Again and Again

Shaker Mock Neck Whip Stitch Sweater

Nothing says fall quite like a great sweater. We love a knit that feels cozy without looking overly casual, making it just as easy to pair with your favorite jeans for the weekend as it is to dress up with trousers and boots. Add a simple necklace or scarf, and you have one of those effortless outfits that looks like you spent much more time putting it together than you actually did.

The Perfect Fall Layer

Marled Metallic Fringe Trim Sweater Vest

Fall weather can change by the hour, which makes a versatile layering piece one of the smartest additions to your seasonal wardrobe. This pick is perfect for throwing over a simple tee, blouse or lightweight sweater when temperatures start to dip. Pair it with denim bootcut jeans for an easy everyday look that can take you from morning errands straight through dinner.

Denim Made for Fall Days

Comfort Knit Denim Wide Leg Pull On Jeans

A fresh pair of jeans can instantly update your fall wardrobe. These jeans have a soft knit fabric, pull-on waist and wide-leg silhouette that make them an everyday staple. Soft Surroundings offers denim in a variety of silhouettes, including slim, straight, bootcut and wide-leg styles, making it easy to find a shape that works with the pieces already hanging in your closet.

For fall, we love denim paired with a soft sweater or printed blouse and your favorite boots. It’s classic, comfortable and endlessly wearable.

The Elevated Everyday Top

Folklore Long Sleeve Big Shirt

The best fall wardrobes are built around pieces you can wear more than one way, and a beautiful top is one of the easiest places to start. This Folklore Big Shirt’s artful print and  relaxed silhouette can make even a simple pair of jeans feel pulled together.

Wear this one on its own while the weather is still mild, then layer it under a cardigan or jacket as the season gets cooler.

The Skirt That Make Getting Dressed Easy

Problem Solved Paneled Ponte Midi Skirt

Comfort and style absolutely can coexist. A beautiful, long skirt is a fall wardrobe essential, especially when you find one comfortable enough for an entire day of work, errands or travel.

Pair this with a tucked-in blouse and heels, or keep things casual with a cozy knit and flats. 

A Dress Made for Fall Plans

Terrific Tartan Dress

Fall calendars fill up quickly with dinners, celebrations, work events and weekend get-togethers, which is why having a versatile dress ready to go is always a good idea.

Add boots and a jacket for daytime, then switch to heels and statement jewelry for an evening out. A dress that can transition between occasions earns major bonus points in our closets.

The Statement Piece

Enchanted Garden Blouse

Every wardrobe needs at least one piece that does the styling for you. Whether it’s an artful print, beautiful texture, embroidery or an unexpected detail, this is the kind of find that can turn simple basics into an outfit.

Keep everything else understated and let this piece take center stage.

Sometimes a few thoughtfully chosen pieces are all it takes to make everything you already own feel new again.

With cozy textures, flattering silhouettes, beautiful seasonal colors and plenty of pieces designed for layering, Soft Surroundings’ new arrivals make it easy to create a wardrobe that’s as comfortable as it is stylish.

Ready for fall? [Shop the latest new arrivals from Soft Surroundings.]

The post Fall Style Made Easy: Cozy, Polished Pieces You’ll Want to Wear All Season appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Everlane’s Elevated Essentials Make Fall Dressing Effortless

Everlane offers modern wardrobe essentials that combine timeless style, quality materials, and everyday versatility. Known for its clean, minimalist aesthetic, Everlane offers elevated basics, denim, workwear, footwear, and accessories designed for effortless transitions from work to weekend. With a focus on durable construction, thoughtful design, and transparent pricing, the brand makes it easy to invest in polished, long-lasting staples that can be worn and styled season after season.

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H2Glow Brings a Beauty-First Approach to Everyday Hydration

H2Glow is redefining daily hydration with a beauty-first electrolyte drink mix designed to support healthy, hydrated skin from within. Each sugar-free stick combines all four essential electrolytes with hyaluronic acid, phytoceramides, collagen-supporting amino acids, antioxidants, and key vitamins and minerals in one easy daily serving. As medical advisor Dr. Gretchen San Miguel explains, “Skin hydration depends on cellular hydration, not just how much water you drink.” H2Glow brings hydration and skin support together in one science-led formula made for everyday use. H2Glow comes in three flavors: Peach Mango, Fresh Lemonade, and Tropical Punch, plus a variety pack for those who want to try them all. Available at H2Glow.com for $59.95 per 30-serving pouch, with subscribe-and-save options for less than $2 per day!

Promo Code: YOUREG10WING

Artemis LED Light Therapy Mask Brings High-Tech Skincare Home

As routines reset for the fall, the FDA-cleared RENPHO Artemis LED Light Therapy Mask makes it easy to bring professional-inspired light therapy into your at-home skincare routine. It features three modes: red+NIR to reduce wrinkles, blue to clear acne, and a combined red+blue+NIR mode for overall radiance. The extended chin treats neck and jawline, 5 adjustable intensities are gentle for sensitive skin, and 324 LEDs deliver uniform coverage. Lightweight silicone ensures contoured comfort during use, and the targeted therapies work together to leave skin visibly brighter, smoother, and more radiant with regular use! Use Code 3QN8BUAR for 30% exclusive discount. 

Total Wireless Makes Staying Connected Simpler This Fall

Total Wireless delivers reliable, no-contract wireless service backed by Verizon’s powerful 5G network. With unlimited talk, text and data, plans offer valuable benefits including mobile hotspot, international calling and roaming, cloud storage, and Disney+ included on select plans. Customers can also enjoy a 5-year price guarantee with taxes and fees included, providing straightforward pricing and long-term value. With flexible options for a range of needs and budgets, Total Wireless makes premium connectivity more accessible. Bring your phone and save. Get the Total MAX 5G BYO Plan for just $20/mo with Auto Pay.

Lola + The Boys Brings Bold, Playful Style to Fall

Born in Chicago in 2016 and made for confidence, Lola + The Boys creates bold, playful fashion that inspires kids to express themselves, stand out, and feel amazing being exactly who they are. This fall, the brand brings its signature sparkle and statement making style to a new collection designed for back to school moments, everyday adventures, and everything in between. Use promo code Moms15 for 15% OFF your first order with Lola + The Boys

D’Joy Clover Cut Moissanite Royal Bloom Ring & Pendant Necklace 

This elegant Moissanite Clover Royal Bloom set brings timeless sophistication to any occasion. Featuring brilliant clover-cut moissanite stones set in rhodium-over-sterling-silver, surrounded by sparkling accent stones for extra shimmer. The matching ring and pendant necklace create a cohesive, refined look — perfect for everyday elegance or special moments. Lab-created moissanite offers exceptional brilliance and durability at incredible value. Use Promo code Extra28 for 28% Off 

Shop The Ring

SneakERASERS Keeps the Family’s Favorite Shoes Looking Fresh

SneakERASERS, the #1 shoe cleaner as seen on Shark Tank, makes it quick and easy to keep the whole family’s favorite shoes looking clean and fresh, with no harsh chemicals. Water-activated SneakERASERS sponges tackle everyday dirt, grime, and scuffs, while Pre-Moistened Singles make touch-ups easy on the go. SOAK detergent is designed to clean mesh and fabric shoe uppers, while StinkERASERS activated charcoal bags help control unwanted odors and moisture between wears. From school and sports to everyday sneakers, SneakERASERS takes the hassle out of shoe care with easy-to-use products made for busy families.

ScentAir Brings the Feeling of Fall Home Through Fragrance

Bring Fall Home with Fragrance. Whisper PRO gives you full-coverage fragrance for spaces that deserve more. When home feels like a luxury hotel, every moment feels elevated. Whisper PRO delivers even, full-coverage scent designed to enhance every space.

QuickMend™ Is the Cold Sore Essential to Keep Close This Season 

QuickMend™ Cold Sore Treatment provides cool, soothing relief at the first sign of a cold sore or fever blister. Its patented formula helps calm irritation, soothe discomfort, and restore moisture to dry, irritated skin around the lips and mouth. Convenient enough to keep in your purse, pocket, or medicine cabinet, QuickMend is designed for on-the-spot relief when you need it most. Don’t wait for a cold sore to develop—keep QuickMend nearby and treat the first signs of irritation quickly. Use coupon code GetQuickmend15 (15% off)

Bactine Is the First-Aid Staple Every Family Should Keep on Hand

Bactine Antimicrobial Wound Care Hydrogel helps prevent infection while reducing pain and itch associated with minor wounds. Formulated with Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl), a naturally occurring molecule found in the human immune system, it helps calm irritated skin while providing powerful antimicrobial protection for lacerations, scrapes, burns, blisters and first-aid needs.

KAAI’s Chestnut Brown Pyramid Is the Handbag Made for Fall 

The KAAI Pyramid is the brand’s best-selling functional luxury carry-all work tote, boasting hundreds of five-star reviews. Crafted from 100% Italian leather with a scratch-resistant, water-repellent finish, the Pyramid is built to hold its shape and color through years of daily wear. Behind its distinctive Art Deco-inspired silhouette lies thoughtful organization, with a dedicated sleeve for laptops up to 15.6” and a place for every essential.

Balmbini Manuka Honey Skincare will make your skin glow this Fall

Balmbini is a skincare line born in New York centered around the restorative power of Manuka. Rooted in barrier repair, the collection is designed as a system to strengthen and support the skin at its core. Balmbini sources its Manuka directly from independent farms in New Zealand, harnessing its restorative properties through high-MGO Manuka honey, 40% triketone Manuka oil and Manuka hydrosol. Made in California and paired with potent botanicals and advanced peptides, each concentrated formula is created to restore, replenish and build skin resilience over time.

A new season is the perfect excuse to discover a few new favorites. Whether you’re refreshing your closet, upgrading your self-care routine, making your home feel a little cozier, or finding products that make busy days easier, these fall finds offer something for every part of life. Here’s to cooler days, cozy layers, fresh routines, and a season filled with things that make you look good, feel good, and enjoy fall just a little bit more.

The post Fall Favorites: Must-Haves for the Season appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Fall is fast approaching and it’s time to trade in the tank tops and shorts for more seasonally appropriate pieces. It’s imperative to not lose sight of style as the cold weather hits. Here are some tips to staying stylish (and warm) during the transition:

1.  Recognize your body type-

The female body varies in shape and size. If you have an hourglass shape, be sure to accentuate your tiny waist line. Belted jackets that cinch around the waist will bring your shape much positive attention. For the apple-shaped, or rounded, female, focus on the shoulders and leg area; this will minimize your midsection and create the S-curve illusion. Flowy fall tops or swing coats for chillier weather will be the most flattering. If you are noticeably heavier in the midsection and have a slim lower body (carrying all the weight toward the tummy area), aim for cropped jackets with banded bottoms that will again, create the illusion of a smaller waist. Pear shaped women with wider hips should accentuate their top halves and create balance. Structured jackets with details and fun patterns draw the attention to the top half of the body. A diversion of the attention to the lower half will create a more balanced body perspective. Remember, all bodies are different and it is up to you to decide what is more aesthetically pleasing. The key to styling for your body is creating the shape you desire and a balance so the body will be desirable to others. 

2.  Be mindful of the colors of the season-

Earthy neutrals are in this season. Fashion forecasters have foreseen sage, rose, and ranges of bold colors reflecting landscape (full of blues, browns, greens, and grays) as the colors of the upcoming fall season. Choose the color(s) that pop(s) against your skin. Do not be afraid to mix and match the colors. Fall is colorful in itself. Stay festive. 

3.  Layer, layer, layer-

The season is changing. Be bold! Do not be afraid to layer your clothes as you mix those colors. Always be mindful of styling for your shape; do not disguise your body under a plethora of items, but, rather, mix and match to create a nicely balanced full ensemble. Try a nice blouse with an outer jacket with an accessory piece such as a belt or a scarf. The great thing about this season is it is the perfect blend of warm and cool. The options are endless! 

4.  Wear your confidence-

No matter what garment you wear, remember YOU are carrying it; do not let it carry you. The most important piece you carry with every outfit will be your confidence. You confidence stays with you through all four seasons and will be consistently striking if exercised daily. 

Fall: a season of color, change, and celebration. Let your fashions match the season!

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Despite the sweltering heat still making its way across the country, there are a few signs of the season to come. The days are getting shorter and as the sun sets, you can start to feels signs of the cool autumn air. Any fashionista will tell you that fall is the best season of the year because you can layer, layer and layer some more. And when it comes to finding pieces to layer, there’s nothing better or easier than accessories. Wear these five essential accessories separately for five different looks or put them together for an old school-meets-modern vibe suitable for any mom.

70s Sunglasses

Channel your free-spirit side with a pair of large, round sunglasses. This golden brown pair from Modcloth will work with all of your fall outfits. Bonus: the frames are large enough to cover tired eyes and dark circles. No one will know you were up all night taming your two-year-old.

The “New Neutral” Scarf

Black, brown, and beige scarves are versatile, but a print is a nice departure from the normal. That’s why a leopard print scarf in neutral tones (like this one from Sole Society) is the perfect fall scarf. The beige, black and brown colors will mesh with your wardrobe but the print will add a little “oomph” to a simple outfit.

The “Wear-it-Everywhere” Hat

Finding the perfect hat is about as hard as finding the perfect guy; you have to try a million on before finding the right one. This flattering floppy Modcloth hat will fix any fall fashion woes. Complete with a sweet bow, this olive green hat makes any outfit instantly chicer.

The “Worn Out” Ankle Boots

You may still rock your well-loved tall boots but this season you’ll be seeing more and more ladies opting for ankle-length pairs, especially ones that are distressed. We love the woven detail on the backs of this pair from Sole Society. The handy side zipper makes them easy to put on and pull off.

Statement Earrings

Statement necklaces were everywhere this summer, but this fall it’s all about the earrings. When you’re not finding yourself in a pair of earmuffs, opt for earrings like this dainty gold and crystal set from JCPenney. They’ll be pretty with both your favorite sweater and your nicest cocktail dress.

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Summer is nearly over, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. It’s almost time for pumpkin spice lattes, wet and windy weekends spent snuggling up on the couch binging on Netflix and, of course, essential fall fashion looks in full force. Bold colors and opulent textures make for the most luxurious layered looks this upcoming season. From ponchos to purses, we’ve got all the outstanding outerwear you’ll be craving for your fall fashion wardrobe. Browse our faves below, and be sure to click the image for purchasing options.

Outerwear

• Ponchos – Ponchos are one of our favorite ways to add serious style and instant chic to any fall outfit. From fitted to flowing, ponchos make an excellent alternative to the standard cardigan or blazer jacket. It might not be the easier trend to pull off depending on body type and height (ponchos are a lot of added material that can seem bulky), but pairing it with a knee-length dress or skinny jeans/leggings can be the perfect fit. Opt for ponchos with color blocking and embellishments for added sass and style, like the Renny Poncho by Parker ($396), a leader in women’s luxury fashion.

• Parkas – There’s nothing quite like zipping yourself into a puffy parka on a crisp autumn or winter day, am I right? A classic piece for staying warm while looking cool, parkas are one of the most understated coats that are making a serious comeback in 2015. Get your mitts on this hot-ticket item, especially those with a faux-fur trimmed hoodie like this one from Forever 21’s Women’s collection ($64.90).

Accessories

• Statement Pieces – Statement necklaces are definitely having a moment in fashion history, but there are other beautiful baubles waiting for their time to shine, especially bracelets – the perfect everyday accessory. This season, don’t pick just any bracelet, pick Simbi This eco-friendly and socially conscious collection of handmade bracelets come from the island of Haiti, and every purchase adds 15 more sustainable jobs to the country’s market along with provided clean and accessible water to native Haitians. With an assortment of colors and styles offering messages of peace, hope and love, you’re sure to find one that speaks to the humanist (and fashionista) in you!

Handbags

• Earth-Tone Purses – It’s time to pack away those bulky beach totes still full of Labor Day weekend’s sand and sunscreen, and instead reach for those rich earth-tone purses to heat up your favorite fall outfits. Get creative this season and stray from the traditional black or brown leather purses you’ve been clutching too long. Invest in bags that add a welcomed pop of color, like burnt orange, olive green, dark teal and rich plum. Our favorite is the Kendra Crossbody in tranquil teal by Infinite Universe. It boasts supple lambskin, fossil agate stone and African Blackwood in its detailing. And did we mention is currently on sale? Only $175 – down from $598!

Headwear

• Floppy Fall Hats – As one of the most overlooked accessory of them all, fall is the perfect time to sport some super-feminine headwear – and I’m not talking beanies and the like. A floppy felt hat or fitted fedora will add seriously sexy glam to any look. You can even take it from an office look to drinks after work look with ease. We’re coveting this crushed berry color hat currently on sale for $15 at Old Navy.

Footwear

• Bold and Brawny Boots – Footwear is always a smart investment, especially fall and winter styles. But imagine all of the snow, sleet, rain and mud your shoes endure during these months. It’s no wonder women seem to have to replace their precious boots every season! Get smart this year and invest in footwear that will actually last past the first snowfall. Iffy materials like leather and suede are a recipe for disaster in months that experience excessive weather, so switch over to synthetic leather on days when your footwear may be in danger from the elements. We LOVE these faux-leather Trixie Booties by G by Guess, and we love the price even more – only $56.99!

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Fall fashion magazines can easily top 500 pages of skirts, tops, pants, coats and accessories; all deemed “must-haves” for the chilly weather ahead. The choices and trends can be staggering, but just because temperatures are falling doesn’t mean you need to drop a small fortune on a new wardrobe.

Fashion experts from two of the Art Institutes schools share six of the top trends for fall and how you can use them to make the most of the pieces already in your closet.

Animal print – “Look at any magazine and you’re going to see animal print,” says Stefani Bay, fashion instructor at The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago. She says everything is in animal print. Whether black and white or a crazy color, this trend can be found on garments, shoes, bags and scarves. According to Bay, adding an animal print piece to any outfit in your closet will make you look “of the moment.”

Skinny Leopard Belt – $125, at Calypso St. Barth

Tweed – “Tweeds are a very important fashion story this fall,” says Emil DeJohn, fashion instructor at The Art Institute of Philadelphia. Each year a variety of tweeds grace the runways of Fashion Week, but this year they are stealing the spotlight, especially in black and white versions of houndstooth, Donegal tweed, and herringbone.

“A tweed jacket is the perfect thing over something old,” says Bay, especially when it’s a colorful tweed over a colorful outfit. Other options include tweed scarves and even handbags.

Kellen Tweed Jacket by Rhyme Los Angeles – $94, at Piperlime

Leather – “When isn’t leather right?” asks Bay. DeJohn agrees adding whether it’s trim, collar and cuff, or the entire jacket, leather is something every woman should have in her closet this fall. You can find this incredibly versatile textile in jeans, blouses and accents, but according to Bay, the big story for leather is the motorcycle jacket. You can find motorcycle jackets in all price points, made from leather, faux leather, vinyl or patent leather. Added to your closet it will make anything look more current.

Keep It Rockin’ Vegan Leather Cropped Skinny – $128, at FreePeople

Black and white – A perennial favorite of chic women the world over, black and white is a big trend for fall, especially when paired with a bright shocking color, says DeJohn. The perfect way to jazz up black and white is with a punch of the season’s soft orange, citrus green, bright royal blue, gold or royal purple. “You can put anything black and white over a white shirt to look crisp and professional,” says Bay. You can also do the same with a black T-shirt or add a punch of black and white with a handbag.

 Latico Dannie 8590 Tote – $68.55, at Amazon

Dresses – “Dresses made a major comeback. Every designer had a number of dresses in their collection,” says DeJohn. Dresses are easy, convenient and versatile. “They take you from day to evening,” says Bay. She recommends wearing a favorite dress with a motorcycle jacket and boots for day, and chandelier earrings and heels for evening. She cautions that the most important thing with dresses is fit. And if you have an old dress with a great pattern or color, just add a motorcycle jacket to give it new life.

Dana Brushed Knit Aztec 3/4 Sleeve Skater Dress – $36, at boohoo.com

Hats and scarves – According to DeJohn, hats are also making a comeback. He says they are an easy and practical update to any outfit, with a variety to suit all face shapes. Bay says scarves are another trend in fall accessories. For daytime, she recommends wearing a long woven scarf wrapped around multiple times, and for evening add a beaded scarf to a black dress.

 Sunset the Mood Scarf – $24.99, at ModCloth

Source: BPT

EDITOR’S NOTE: 

The Art Institutes (www.artinstitutes.edu) is a system of more than 50 schools located throughout North America. The Art Institutes schools provide an important source for design, media arts, fashion and culinary professionals. Several institutions included in The Art Institutes system are campuses of South University or Argosy University. OH Registration # 04-01-1698B; AC0165, AC0080; Licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education, License No. 1287, 3427, 3110, 2581. Administrative office: 210 Sixth Avenue, 33rd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Since The Art Institutes is comprised of several institutions, see aiprograms.info for program duration, tuition, fees, and other costs, median debt, federal salary data, alumni success, and other important info. 

The Art Institute of Philadelphia is located at 1622 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.

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