Fall Style Guide

From boots to belts and everything in between, three Middlesex students share the ins and outs of fall fashion.

As the days become shorter and the air turns crisper, one question sits on many students’ minds: how do you effortlessly stay chic as the temperature drops? Are uggs still in? Flares or straight-leg jeans? Is beige the fall color, or is it kind of boring? We interviewed three Middlesex students who we think perfectly encapsulate the season’s vibes, all of whom kindly shared their expertise on the latest campus trends.

We had the pleasure of speaking with Stella May Curwin-Amfitheatrof ‘26, known for her trendsetting style and superb outfits. When discussing the “ins” of fall fashion, Stella C. emphasizes the importance of boots in any form. Tall boots, she suggests, pair perfectly with suede shorts and a matching jacket duo, while smaller “heel boots and flares” can never go wrong. 

Other fall staples in her closet include T-shirt sweaters, cool belts, and, in her words, “a good pair of blue jeans.” For Stella C., confidence is the key to a great style. She believes that trying unique clothing combos is essential to heightening one's fashion sense — simply embracing a “wear it” mentality. Her best advice? “Wear what makes you feel good and find pieces that fit your body, not just because they are trendy.” 

Next, we turned to Clara Szeman ‘27, a Vogue Fashion School alum and one of Middlesex’s unofficial style icons, to get the inside scoop on fall fashion. Like Stella, Clara feels that this season is all about belts and boots (specifically brown Steve Madden ones) — simple accessories that can elevate any outfit. 

She also recognizes the recent popularity in polka dots, adding a playful element to everyone’s wardrobes. While bright colors dominated the summer, Clara states that a more sophisticated and cozier trend of browns and beiges are in this fall. Finally, Clara shares her firm belief in the “look good, feel good” philosophy. Wearing an outfit she feels most confident in allows her to stay motivated and ready to take on the day – a motto everyone should live by.

Last but not least, we interviewed Stella Pham ‘28, known not only for her cute outfits but for her thrifting skills as well. Although she admits she’s a summer girl at heart, Stella knows that the fall essentials include puffer vests, and, of course, boots. After reviewing several trends on campus, Stella P. notes that Adidas Sambas might be a little overused and fun alternatives include Puma Suedes or Nike 90 Totals. 

Most of Stella’s wardrobe comes from thrift stores, and she offers practical advice for beginners: “Don't go to the vintage curated thrift shops — hit up the Goodwill and hit up the Salvation Army,” she says. “And go in with the mindset that you’re going to find nothing.” For her, fashion is not just about style but also self expression and positivity. “Good outfit day — good day,” she declares.  

If you're trying to curate your wardrobe for this season, look to these three fashionistas and take their advice — and definitely invest in a good pair of boots ASAP! 

Minna Felago ‘28 & Annabelle Tantillo ‘28

image by: Pintrest