Fashion Tips & Tricks for Fall ‘26

We’re encroaching on the crispy comforts of autumn, and soon enough it will be time for another wardrobe change to fit the colder seasons. You may be able to hold onto your favorite T-shirts and sneakers for a bit longer, but the days of flannels and boots are bound to return. While we’re never here to tell you what to wear, we understand how daunting it can be to establish a distinct style throughout changing seasons, and we’re here to help with the basics. I’m no fashion designer or model by any means, but I do have a few tips and tricks to help ensure all SLUG readers have a fashionable fall!

First, reduce, reuse and recycle! A given to many of our veteran thrifters, but arguably all the best items in my closet—including the ones pictured—are well-loved secondhand purchases and pieces that had plenty of life left for styling when I found them on thrift racks or listed on Depop. Additionally, I hate to contradict myself so soon – but this is the one time I’ll say what not to wear: fast fashion. With how many garments are rotting on this planet, it’s always best to reuse what we already have on hand; and a thin $5 Shein turtleneck will have holes before the leaves start to fall. Conscious shopping ensures the longevity of your pieces and your pockets.

To tack onto this tip, donate and declutter with local programs offering resources to Utah’s vulnerable communities! Personally, I prefer spring cleaning, but as the weather gets colder, countless people could use assistance this fall – and your closet could use cleansing. SLUG even has its own thrift rack where we accept donations and showcase your beloved pieces to find them new homes! Regardless of where you choose to reuse, it’s a well-known fact that retail thrift stores overprice and landfill clothing too quickly, so tie up those donation bags and find the nearest nonprofit near you!

Next, why not accessorize? A watch or earrings may seem extra for a day out, but a few accenting accessories will leave you feeling more put together whether you’re running daily errands or hitting the town for date night. As a future educator, one of my favorite add-ons has been faux lip rings for style without the commitment. With that in mind, there are countless ways to accessorize, from headpieces and jewelry to socks, bags, nail polish and more; there are a million things to try before you get bored, including crafting your own creative additions. If you’re trying to catch eyes or turn heads, accessories are always a must.

For our beloved men and mascs, for the love of God, know how far to tuck a shirt in and commit to it for the next few fall dinners. Generally, without a top layer or jacket, a shirt tucked too far into the waistband will look odd on its own – even with a half/French-tuck (sorry Tan France!) If needed, loosen the tuck for something more casual and comfortable.

Finally, color is a crowd-pleaser. Finding a matching outfit can be incredibly tedious, but through the years I’ve found that you’re bound to catch a compliment or two when a few garments create a colorful harmony. Color coordination goes a long way in the wardrobe! With this, it’s always good to assess the patterns or materials you’ve selected to ensure they don’t clash with one another. In retrospect, stripes don’t always mix with flannel patterns, and a latex jacket may look odd over corduroy pants. However, as I type this, I can imagine someone rocking that combo – so wear what you will at the designer’s discretion! Mindfulness will simply help you narrow messy wardrobes down into a selection of your most memorable outfits.

While these tips may read as rudimentary to Utah’s fashionistas, I’ve entered the realm of fashion as a queer man with little stylistic guidance, and sometimes it’s good to return to the basics! These are just a few tricks I’ve used to elevate my wardrobe from sweatpants and T-shirts to a carefully coordinated presence for every occasion.

Read more articles by Juno McKell:
Local Review: Daniel Young — Another Golden Hour
Local Review: Queenadilla — You Won’t Survive This

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