Florida Fall Fashion

Unlike our southern counterparts who have a uniform of shorts and sandals year-round, in Tallahassee, we experience glimmers of autumn that allow us to dabble in fall fashion.

Even still, we aren’t decked out in thick knit turtlenecks or parkas. North Florida, after all, is not the North. It’s a delicate balance to embrace the novelty of fall clothing while residing in a state where the leaves don’t erupt in brilliance before falling.

We enlisted the help of Gaby Brown, director of marketing and Tallahassee apparel stylist at Hearth & Soul, who shares insight into how to wear what’s hot for fall without overheating.

Photo courtesy of Hearth & Soul

Boots

Boots are a shoe-in for peak fall fashion. Not only are they comfortable, but they are versatile and easily dressed up or down. From knee-high heeled boots to worn-in combat boots to mid-heeled booties, there’s a boot for every personality and occasion.

“Nothing says ‘fall’ like a great pair of boots,” says Brown. “This fall, pair your favorite pair of boots with a dress or leather shorts.”

She recommends classic perforated leather shorts from Elaine Kim and any dress from Ganni’s fall line as they are lightweight enough for Florida but still on trend.

Specific to 2025, equestrian boots, chunky block-heeled boots, Western-style boots, slouchy boots, and faux alligator boots were spotted on runways. A block-heeled boot or spiky heeled alligator boot would pair well with jeans for a date night. Western-style or equestrian boots highlight the legs in a short, flowy peasant dress or shorts with a button-down and cable-knit sweater.

Jeans

Jeans never go out of style, but the fit and how we style them tends to change with the seasons.

“Straight-leg jeans are your friend in the fall,” says Brown. “This silhouette is perfect for loafers, embellished flats, and booties. Finish off the look with a great sweater, blouse, or silk cami layered with a blazer or leather jacket.”

Stylish and safe, straight-leg jeans are a timeless crowd-pleaser. If you’re seeking something trendier, try barrel jeans or super wide-leg jeans.

And nothing finishes off that “polished and put-together” look better than a belt.

“A belt is as much fashion as it is functional; I love adding a studded belt to accessorize a simple outfit,” says Brown.

Top belted jeans with a flowy top or camisole and light cardigan for a look that’s fall but functional.

Sweaters

While sweaters may contain the word “sweat,” we aim to avoid that. Think lightweight knits and donning them as a layer.

Sheer, breathable knit sweaters are in for 2025. Typically, these sweaters are layered over a camisole or tank top or slipped over a dress.

The two C’s—cardigans and crewnecks—are timeless and give collegiate vibes. Crewnecks are more casual, meshing well with shorts and tall boots. Cardigans can be easily layered atop a dress or added to a jeans-and-top combo. Brown advises a cardigan plus a Vince slip skirt or a complete sweatered look with a sweater dress.

“Sweater dresses are a great way to stay cozy from head to toe,” says Brown. “I love a chocolate brown sweater dress accessorized with turquoise jewelry and embroidered boots from Penelope Chilvers.”

Scarves

We aren’t talking about infinity scarves or chunky scarves knitted by your great aunt. While practical in cold climates, they are just that—a necessity. The scarves of this fall are styled in the European way: tied around the neck, draped over the shoulders, or adorning a bag.

“A scarf as a shawl is a great way to stay warm while still looking chic,” Brown says.

Equal parts bohemian and elegant, a headscarf is a fashion statement and a means for keeping warm.

Consider rich, jewel tone colors: garnet, royal purple, sapphire, or emerald green. As for prints, animal prints and paisley are easily paired with both neutrals and bold hues.

“Leaning into those jewel tones and neutrals like olive, khaki, and chocolate brown through your accessories, bags, shoes, and a few additions to your closet will have you ready for fall,” says Brown.