A Song Lookbook for Fall
design: Miranda Fournier
Enhance your fall playlist and your wardrobe.
by Paloma Donado ★ OCTOBER 21, 2024
As fall enters full swing, dressing for the fluctuating weather can be challenging. However, drawing inspiration from other art forms can be incredibly helpful. Here are some stylish outfit ideas for the season — inspired by fall songs.
“Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” by The Smiths
This stand-out song by the legendary band, The Smiths, deserves to be listened to while wearing an iconic outfit. Nothing says iconic more than a Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake inspired denim-on-denim look. The song opens with sharp guitar chords played by Ivor Perry, which can be nicely represented by a medium-wash denim button-up thrown over a casual white graphic baby tee.
As for bottoms, a chill pair of boyfriend jeans with a similar wash will tie the denim look together. Morrisey’s unique voice calls for a unique shoe, and for this look, we suggest wearing metallic Adidas Sambas. Overall, this outfit encapsulates the messy, classic rock aesthetic of the song while still feeling put together and complete. Although the fall gloom might occasionally get you down, we guarantee that heaven won’t know you’re miserable while you’re wearing this outfit!
“Dreams” by The Cranberries
When listening to the loud guitar chord series and vivid drums that act as the backbone of the song, a chunky black Doc Marten boot comes to mind. Light-washed and slightly distressed slouchy jeans would match nicely with the casual drag and tempo of the song.
Dolores O'Riordan’s light and airy voice warms ears just like a burgundy cashmere pullover sweater would hug your body. To spice things up, similar to the layers of harmonies throughout the song, try pairing the sweater and jeans with a cool black belt and studded purse.
“Spooky” by Dusty Springfield
A dark and sexy dinner look seems most appropriate for Dusty Springfield’s “Spooky.” The song carries a slow jazz beat with mellow piano throughout and Dusty’s voice can be described as sultry, intimate and sophisticated. For this song, consider centering an outfit around a pair of black leather knee-high boots. Black leather micro shorts paired with a sleek high-neck black top underneath a leather jacket will complete the edgy look.
The title of the song is very on-brand for the season of trick-or-treating and scary movies. To add something fun and accessorize, pair the all-black fit with a fun orange sequined shoulder bag, adding to the spooky Halloween vibes.
“Redbone” by Childish Gambino
Redbone is the perfect fall song to satisfy R&B and P-Funk needs. For a fancier, more occasional outfit, go with a dark red off-the-shoulder dress. A monochromatically patterned, lace dress with long sleeves for warmth on chilly fall nights would do the trick. The song has an edgy tone with a heavy bass and distorted guitar, contrasting Childish Gambino's high-pitched singing. This creates a funky sound, calling for a black kitten heel.
“Juna” by Clairo
Most of Clairo’s songs tend to contain soft and relaxed melodies that calm the soul. With the fairly recent release of her third album, Charm, we now have even more Clairo options to add to our fall playlists. For her song “Juna” on the album, a frilly white babydoll dress for warmer fall days would be perfect. Brown suede boots would go great, along with a matching suede bag. Clairo’s voice radiates a certain girliness and warmth, and because of this, we recommend a white cardigan for when the fall breeze washes over.
“Upside Down” by Jack Johnson
“I wanna turn the whole world upside down” is all that everyone’s been hearing recently on their FYP. Although this song is currently trending on TikTok, we used to hear those lyrics nonstop as a little girl. Nostalgia feels like a giant hug, similar to knitwear, making a beige knit sweater set perfect for this song.
In a set, you’ll feel cozy while listening to Johnson’s soft voice and sweet lyrics. To keep your feet just as warm, opt for chocolate brown UGG slippers and a leather brown tote bag. While wearing this outfit, you can turn the world upside down while keeping comfortable.
By taking inspiration from music that captures the season’s spirit, you can style outfits that reflect the warm colors and cozy vibrations of autumn. Let your wardrobe sing this fall!