10 Easy Ways to Wear Red in Fall
Fall fashion conjures up images of cozy sweaters in muted earthy tones, but one color is making a bold statement this season: red.
From warm tomato red to rich burgundy to maroon, red is the “it” color this autumn. Here are some easy, modern ways to incorporate red into your fall wardrobe and elevate your style game.
1. Wear Red as an Accessory
There’s no denying that red is powerful and commands attention, which is why some women aren’t comfortable wearing it head to toe. That’s not me! – I love a bold red sweater or dress. It makes me feel energized and confident!
If you’re not ready to dive headfirst into a sea of red, start with accessories. For example, use a red scarf, handbag, belt, statement earrings, or a pair of fun red readers to add a pop of color to your neutral autumn outfit and energize your look.
Or, opt for deep, jewel-toned reds like burgundy, oxblood, Paprika, or Redwood for a quieter, sophisticated look. (Right now, I’m seeing more of these shades in stores, although I expect more bright reds as we approach the holiday season!)
Red accessories can be especially effective when paired with classic fall staples like camel coats, denim jackets, or black boots, creating an elegant contrast.
2. Try Red Outerwear for a Bold Statement
For gals like me who feel like red is an attitude and it’s their attitude, how about a bright red coat? A red coat or jacket is the ultimate statement piece for fall, whether a trench coat, a puffer jacket, or a tailored blazer.
Warm Tomato red (with a touch of orange) is the trending shade, but if your skin is more cool, you may opt for a crimson red or dark cherry red. I predict these shades will be the most popular this fall.
When wearing a red outer layer, keep the rest of your outfit understated to let the coat take center stage. Neutral colors like camel, black, gray, or navy work perfectly as a backdrop.
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3. Slip on a Red Dress
I’ve never met a woman who didn’t look good in red. It’s just a matter of finding the right shade. Whether at the office or having a date night, this beautiful Chianti red sweater dress is the perfect color and style! Lady in Red, be prepared to turn heads in this fabulous ribbed dress that is modern, youthful, and chic. Classic accessories with updated details like a square toe on the boots make this red outfit one of my favorite Fall looks.
4. Monochromatic is Magic
One of the most striking ways to wear red this fall is to go monochromatic. Dress in shades of red for a bold, head-to-toe, chic, and daring look. Pair red pants with a matching blouse or sweater for a streamlined effect, or rock a red dress with coordinating boots for a polished ensemble.
Play with different textures and tones within the same color family to avoid a flat, boring look. Mixing red suede, leather, and knits adds depth to your monochromatic outfit.
5. Red Prints and Patterns add Life
Red also shines in prints and patterns. Add a red floral sweater, plaid, or animal print to your fall wardrobe. A red floral blouse with jeans is a timeless fall look with a touch of rustic charm. I like this one!
For a more contemporary look, choose an abstract, geometric, or, my favorite, a chain print.
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6. Fall-Ready Red Knitwear is a Must
Fall is all about cozy knitwear; a red sweater should be a staple. Opt for chunky red cable-knit styles, mocknecks, or long cardigans. Deep red hues like maroon or wine have a warm and inviting vibe and look especially great with camel-colored shades. An Ombre shaded cardigan with graduated shades of red or a red color-blocked sweater is modern.
Red knitwear looks great with jeans, leggings, or skirts. Even a simple red crewneck sweater makes an outfit look like a knockout!
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7. Wear Red Leather for Edgy Elegance
Red leather is an exciting way to make a bold fashion statement and stand out this fall.
For example, a red leather jacket, skirt, or pair of pants can infuse your look with an edgy vibe. Pair a red leather jacket with a simple white tee, distressed jeans, and ankle boots for a chic, rock-inspired ensemble.
For a more sophisticated look, combine a burgundy leather pencil skirt with a silk blouse and heeled ankle boots. This combination balances the edginess of the leather with a touch of femininity. Or, pair Burgundy leather leggings with a Burgundy tunic sweater.
Red leather accessories like belts and gloves are also great options to add a subtle touch of this trend to your outfit, especially if you prefer a more understated look.
Cranberry Skyrise Wide-Leg Trousers
8. Look Effortlessly Elegant in Red Pants
Red pants can add a touch of sophistication and color to your fall wardrobe. Choose tailored red trousers in classy shades like cranberry or brick red. Create a polished, effortless look by pairing your red trousers with a classic white button-down shirt and loafers. Top it off with a neutral blazer for a sharp finish.
Wear relaxed, slouchy red trousers with a cozy knit sweater and white sneakers for a more peaceful and casual outfit. Or, get yourself a pair of casual wine-colored corduroy jeans that are so on point this fall. I just saw these and think they’re perfect!
9. Red Shoes are Sexy
Red footwear can be a game-changer. Whether it’s boots, flats, or heels, red shoes make a bold statement and instantly elevate your fall outfits.
Cranberry red slingback heels are more subtle, and low kitten heels are right on trend and easy for gals our age to walk in! Fashion Forward types are going all out in dark red patent leather boots, poised to be a big hit, too. These from Amazon are hot sellers.
Remember that red shoes can be the focal point of your outfit, so balance the rest of your look with neutral or complementary colors.
10. Red Jumpsuits Give You One-Piece Chic
Do you dare? Red jumpsuits are a streamlined, stylish, and sexy alternative to traditional fall separates. Plus, they are comfy to wear. This red tuxedo-style jumpsuit would be a knockout for the holidays!
Look for jumpsuits in clear or deep red tones with flattering silhouettes to wear to cocktail parties and holiday events. I love this burgundy jumpsuit with the pretty bow. A long-sleeved, wide-leg red jumpsuit looks great with ankle boots and a statement belt for a trendy, modern look.
Red reigns in Fall 2023, so choose to embrace it! Whether you go bold with a red coat or subtly accent your outfit with red accessories, there are many easy ways to incorporate this fiery color into your autumn wardrobe. From monochromatic looks to playful patterns, the key is experimenting and having fun. So, this fall, don’t be afraid to paint the town red and look Age-amazing!
Other posts on Red for Fall and Winter You might enjoy:
3 Ways to Wear a Long Red Cardigan this Fall
Festive Ways to Wear Red Velvet Leggings
Festive Red Tops for the Holidays
Help! I am going to a very high-end wedding in NYC next summer. I am a small-town girl (early 60s, thankfully look much younger), and most comfortable in jeans! I’m unsure yet, but I assume it will be an evening wedding. What clothes should I need for rehearsal & and wedding festivities – without spending a huge fortune on things I will never wear again!!! I am 5’4″, slim at 135 lbs. Thank you for any suggestions!!!
Hi Donnis, Keep it simple and stick to three colors like black, white and a beautiful color like fuschia, for example. You could wear black flowy dress pants and a beautiful fuchsia or white silk blouse and possibly a black jacket for the rehearsal dinner since you feel comfortable in pants. An evening wedding is very formal, so go with a black or black and white long or short cocktail dress. You can get one pair of black evening shoes and a black evening bag and wear it with the pants outfit and the dress. Add some dressy gold or silver jewelry and you are done. You can re-wear your silk blouse at holiday time, same with the wide leg dress pants or break them up and wear them for other occasions. A classic black or black and white party dress doesn’t go out of style. I hope that helps.