Welcome to fall, that narrow window of perfect weather in which you’re desperately waiting for the temperature to dip juuust low enough so you can wear your cutest ankle boots and leather jacket on the reg. Here’s a controversial statement, but autumn is undoubtedly the best fashion season—reference the encyclopedia-thick September issue of any fashion magazine if you need proof.
We spoke with Jess Kirby, style expert at the highly regarded fashion blog Prosecco & Plaid, and Bare Necessities premium bra buyer Heather Viskovic to get the scoop on the latest and greatest. They’re in total agreement: To ensure you rock Fall 2016’s coolest seasonal fashion trends with confidence, start at base level with the proper undergarments. Jess and Heather reviewed all the major fashion trends and named the best bra to match with each clothing style.
THE FALL FASHION TREND: SHEER
Dresses and tops made from voluminous sheer fabrics like silk, chiffon and lace rely heavily on what you choose to put on underneath. The question is this: What do you dare to bare?
THE MATCHING BRA: A RIDICULOUSLY GORGEOUS BRA
“Reach for a bra with beautiful detailing. Depending on your level of comfort, a sheer top can also be worn with a cami or bodysuit to offer a little more coverage,” says Jess. Bam, office-appropriate.
Whether you spotlight what’s underneath a sheer blouse or keep it subtle, you’ve got more options than ever. “I’ve been seeing tons of jewel tones—lots of green bras and denim blue bras,” says Heather, pointing to the forest green version of the Wacoal Lace Affair bra. “And while nude bras will always be here, it’s not one-nude-fits-all these days. You’re going to be seeing a wider range of shades to match women’s different skin tones.”
THE FALL FASHION TREND: BODYSUITS
You’ll love the slimming silhouette and the absence of bulk when you’re wearing this suddenly-chic-again layer. “Bodysuits are so versatile. Just be sure to think about proportion. Since they’re fitted on top, pair bodysuits with your favorite baggier boyfriend or high-waisted jeans on the bottom,” Jess says.
THE MATCHING BRA: A BODYSUIT WITH A BUILT-IN BRA
Because of the fitted nature of a bodysuit, oftentimes, people want to go au naturel underneath. Braless, you say? If that’s not an option for you, get excited. “Shaping and daywear bodysuits are huge, of course, but the Simone Perele Caresse bodysuit is a real two-fer,” says Heather. “It’s a bra within a bodysuit.” Yup, you read that right. Easy as can be, and you can kiss VBL (visible bra lines) goodbye—without skimping on support.
THE FALL FASHION TREND: CUT-OUTS
No, Mom, my shirt isn’t ripped; it’s supposed to look like this!
“Showing off your bra is no longer a faux-pas,” says Jess. “It’s perfectly fashion-forward to see a bit of bra peeking through a cut-out, or a strap showing” if you’re wearing, say, a loosely-woven sweater or a top with a midriff cut-out just below the bustline.
THE MATCHING BRA: A BRALETTE
Pretty, lacy little bralettes are here to stay, even for women who take a larger cup size. “If you’re a DD or above, you can still totally wear a bralette. Just pull on your best, most supportive bra and put a bralette over it,” says Heather, who points to the new Freya Fancies line. “And Pour Moi is launching their first underwire bralette next month. It’s incredible!”
THE FALL FASHION TREND: ATHLEISURE
Finally: Running errands in your gym clothes is not only acceptable; it’s a downright do! “Athleisure is really just a fancy term for activewear you can wear outside of the gym. It’s versatile but still stylish,” Jess says.
THE MATCHING BRA: A CHIC SPORTS BRA
“Rock a sports bra with a zippered hoodie and leggings,” suggests Jess. The utilitarian, uni-boob sports bra is a thing of the past, as options these days are much more attractive. “We take our sports bra selection seriously. You can find zip fronts, like this Wacoal Front-Zip Firm Control sports bra, and playful colors and patterns, and we still offer that support with underwires for DD+ cups,” says Heather. “These bras work in and out of the gym. Now you can show off your sports bra as a part of your outfit.”
THE FALL FASHION TREND: OFF-THE SHOULDER
Here’s an event season trend we’re seeing continue from summer into fall. “These off-the-shoulder tops are so popular,” says Jess. “Adjust the colors and textures to match the new season. Think deeper, richer, fall-inspired hues and thicker fabrics.”
THE MATCHING BRA: STRAPLESS
You shouldn’t dread wearing a strapless bra with a cold-shoulder shirt. “While we have strapless bras that people swear by, like the Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless bra, the most important thing to make sure of is that you’re wearing the correct size. The more accurate your size, the better lift and support you’ll get,” says Heather. And the better you feel, the better you’ll look.
Happy fall, fashionistas!
