Three Fall Trends That Will Age Terribly – And What to Choose Instead

Three Fall Trends That Will Age Terribly – And What to Choose Instead

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Not every "luxury" trend is actually an upgrade. As these pieces go viral, I'm taking a different approach – choosing alternatives that work better in practice, not just in photos.

Silk Pants

Why I'm passing: I do love how these silk pants bring a bit of eveningwear into everyday outfits. With a nod to pyjamas, they continue the cocooning theme that began with PJ dressing around 2019. I love a long trend arch. Contrasts are key for styling outfits, like the compelling juxtaposition of satin pants like Hailey Bieber's with a white tank and a white button up.

But silk satin is devastatingly delicate, whether it's $2,300 Dior or accessible alternatives. One snag from a handbag, a rough chair, or even a fingernail, and you're left with irreparable damage. Even more frustrating? Many trending options aren't even silk. Reformation's $198 version is 88% acetate, and Leset's hyped $260 pants are 75% triacetate and 25% polyester, which is a shocking price for a synthetic fabric that just mimics silk.

What I'm choosing instead:

The lesson? Get the ease and high-low mix of silk pants through fabrics that can actually handle your lifestyle.

Theory, 295 $221
Banana Republic, $150 $90

Brushed Cashmere

Brushed cashmere new vs. preloved

Why I'm passing: Brushed cashmere seems like a luxurious next step for our beloved knits. It strives for even more of a cloud-like look, and we associate brushing with ordinary care. But on cashmere, the brushing process pulls fibers out of the yarn, making pieces prone to pilling, matting, and looking like a hot mess before the end of the season. It's like the difference between a loose braid after sleeping versus a tight, polished braid.

What I'm choosing instead: Smooth, dense cashmere from brands that focus on construction over surface treatments.

Acitura's Milana sweater

Acitura (my friend Marc's brand) represents meticulous Italian craftsmanship using Todd & Duncan cashmere twisted like wool for exceptional durability. Their 8-ply construction creates pieces that weigh over a pound in size small – substantial cashmere that improves with age.

The Row ($1,290) versus Cos ($399)
COS, $399

COS remains the best high-street cashmere with a smooth surface and rich handfeel. Their $399 funnel neck compares to The Row in styling, and I consistently see their stores' display pieces looking fresh after being handled by countless customers. The raised detail along the shoulders and slanted seams along the bodice are more refined than many luxury alternatives. Fair warning: they sell out and rarely go on sale. I wanted to recommend their $250 crewneck, and it's completely out of stock.

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