2025 Fall Fashion Trends: Expert Insights with Eric Daman and Cosmo
Discover this season's must-have styles, expert tips, and the perfect blend of comfort and chic, straight from industry leaders.
As the crisp air of autumn approaches, the fashion world is buzzing with anticipation. This year, Cosmopolitan’s fashion director Cassie Anderson and the iconic costume designer Eric Daman, loved for his work on Gossip Girl, have teamed up to deliver a masterclass on the essential styles, comfort pieces, and insider styling tricks you’ll want to embrace all season.
The Trends to Know in Fall 2025
Fashion’s comeback is all about bold self-expression and refined comfort. Anderson notes that after months of stockpiling statement pieces and practical essentials, people are eager to showcase their accumulated style. Daman reinforces that ‘athleisure’—the ongoing love of comfortable, sporty pieces—remains a wardrobe staple but is now balanced with designer investments, like a luxe handbag or premium sneakers.
- Maximalism reigns: Vibrant colors, layered accessories, and more-is-more mentality are front and center.
- Athleisure meets high fashion: Style tech fleece hoodies, joggers, and oversized sweatshirts with key designer pieces for an elevated, casual-chic effect.
- Nostalgic touches: Expect strong nods to iconic ’70s warmth and the fun proportions of the ’80s, seen in plaid shirt jackets and nubby knits.
| Trend | Signature Item | Styling Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Maximalism | Bold statement handbag | Pair with vivid colors and layers |
| Athleisure | Tech fleece hoodie | Mix with tailored trousers |
| Mix 70s & 80s Nostalgia | Plaid shirt-jacket | Belt for added shape |
| Monochromatic Layering | Quilted shirt jacket | Use varying textures for depth |
Nostalgic Styling Inspirations
Retro references continue to influence fall dressing. Anderson observes consistent appearances of ’70s earth tones and chill shapes, mixed with the athletic, streamlined details of the ‘80s. However, forget the taffeta prom dresses and shoulder pads; it’s about reimagining these eras for real life.
- Think belted leotards, varsity jackets, and oversized pieces.
- Pairing subtle masculine elements, like a boxy shirt jacket, with feminine basics such as fitted shorts or delicate tops, delivers visual interest.
- Proportion play is key: big jeans with fitted crop tops or a playful sports bra, blending silhouettes from different decades for a thoroughly modern effect.
Eric Daman emphasizes the art of proportions: oversized dad jeans marry well with a sports bra, while mixing classic varsity jackets with fresh denim shorts offers versatility and intrigue.
Insider Styling Tricks for Effortless Looks
Layering is a fall staple, yet mastering texture and color can be tricky.
- Monochromatic dressing: Start with a neutral base—think a matching jogger and hoodie set—then layer with a long parka or a standout plaid shirt-jacket.
- Texture mixing: Experiment with quilted jackets, nubby knits, and matte cottons to add depth without overwhelming the eye.
- High-low technique: Team up an unassuming hoodie with a structured blazer, or wear crisp sneakers alongside tailored trousers.
- Accessorize with purpose: Use bold bags or sleek belts to punctuate your look.
Anderson shares that function and comfort remain non-negotiable. The perfect balance? Combining polished pieces with laid-back favorites, resulting in comfortable looks that are anything but casual.
Key Athleisure Picks for Fall
- Tech Fleece Hoodie: Versatile for both errands and laid-back evenings in.
- Waffle-Knit Joggers: Update your daily sweats with tactile comfort and stylish appeal.
- Oversized Hoodie: Pair with bike shorts, mini skirts, or wide-leg pants for a laid-back yet chic silhouette.
- Half-Zip Jacket: Perfect over a crisp tee or layered under heavier coats as temperatures drop.
- Plaid Shirt Jackets: Channel both nostalgia and practicality by layering over fitted tops and denim.
What others are reading
Autumn’s Major Fashion “Dos”
- Layer monochrome and prints: Embrace layering, but keep color families unified.
- Mix proportions: Offset volume with fitted shapes—oversized knits atop bike shorts, or structured jackets on top of relaxed joggers.
- Balance comfort and polish: Athleisure isn’t going away; pair your most relaxed items with something tailored.
Fashion “Don’ts” for Fall
- Don’t go overboard with exposed thong straps: While early 2000s trends resurface, Daman and Anderson recommend leaving overly revealing styles behind.
- Don’t let comfort overshadow sophistication: Even if sweats are here to stay, mix in one statement accessory or designer piece to keep the look curated.
- Don’t ignore texture and color play: Match similar fabrics and tones for visual harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the biggest fall trend for 2025?
A: Maximalism and comfortable layering with athleisure are leading the charge, seeing bold colors, statement accessories, and the fusion of comfort with designer pieces.
Q: Is athleisure still in style for fall?
A: Absolutely. Athleisure remains a vital part of every wardrobe but now features a luxury twist—think pairing joggers with polished outerwear or upgraded sneakers.
Q: How should I style oversized items without looking sloppy?
A: Always balance volume with something fitted: tuck a loose knit into tailored trousers, or pair oversized jackets with slim-cut pants or a cropped top.
Q: What retro decade is most influential for fall fashion this year?
A: Both the 1970s and the athletic, proportion-driven styles of the 1980s are highlighted, updated for today’s tastes in texture and comfort.
Q: What’s the one accessory to invest in?
A: A high-quality designer handbag or an updated pair of statement sneakers adds instant polish, regardless of the rest of your outfit.
Must-Have Items Checklist for Fall 2025
- Tech fleece hoodie
- Waffle-knit joggers
- Oversized hoodie
- Half-zip jacket
- Plaid shirt-jacket
- Designer handbag
- Statement sneakers
- Belted leotard
- Varsity jacket
- Oversized dad jeans
Curated Style Combinations
| Look | Components | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Monochrome Comfort | Tech fleece hoodie + joggers + statement sneaker | Casual or travel |
| Retro Mix | Plaid shirt-jacket + belted leotard + mini skirt | Day outings |
| Tailored Athleisure | Oversized hoodie + blazer + tailored trouser | Office or semi-formal |
| Sporty Nostalgia | Varsity jacket + dad jeans + crop top | Weekend/campus |
Final Thoughts on Fall Fashion 2025
The best-dressed will channel boldness and comfort in equal measure. Drawing inspiration from iconic decades, mastering the art of proportion, and incorporating smart high-low pieces lets anyone own their style story—right on trend, and right for now.
Whether you’re layering a hoodie under a blazer for that high-low contrast or embracing the texture and color play of plaid and quilted jackets, remember—the most important accessory is confidence.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/a37161167/cosmo-and-eric-daman-dish-on-all-the-fall-trends/
- https://www.alexwoo.com/blogs/editorial/72575493-cosmopolitan-com-costume-designer-eric-daman-dishes-about-the-clothes-behind-the-carrie-diaries
- https://www.thefashionspot.com/runway-news/315857-costume-designer-eric-daman-top-fall-fashion-tips/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irb20iNKZ4I
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