Style

How Bustle’s Elly Ayres Translates Fall’s Grayscale Trend Into Her Wardrobe

The editor embraces sophisticated gray styles from Macy's.

by BDG Studios

After the chaotic year we’ve had, we all need a little soothing to bring us back to neutral. When gray was named one of the it-colors of 2021, the fashion world quickly followed suit. From sophisticated gray separates on the American runways to sultry silver staples clocked overseas, the fall ’21 runways turned grayscale into one of our most anticipated trends for the season.

In partnership with Macy’s, we chatted with Bustle’s resident fashion expert Elly Ayres to see how she put her spin on the serene palette (particularly since she’s usually a devotee of all things colorful!). Ahead, Ayres breaks down why a shift to the monochromatic was so welcome this season — making the case for embracing new trends, no matter your usual style M.O. Next, explore Ayres’s personal picks for which styles fit the trend without compromising one bit on personality.

Elly’s Take On Fall Fashion

What do you love most about wearing greyscale and neutral tones?

Experimenting with neutrals was an exciting challenge. Not only can you get dressed more quickly (everything matches!), but it does feel like it adds a little sophistication to your ensemble, overall.

How can fashion help you expand your horizons and get you excited about trying new things?

Taking the greyscale trend for a spin taught me that just because you have a signature look, that doesn’t mean you have to settle for stagnancy. It was fun to embrace a whole new color scheme and channel my playful personality through funky silhouettes or unexpected textures instead of just colors alone.

What fall fashion look are you most excited to try?

While back-to-school season personally bummed me out as a kid, as an adult, I now embrace the very scholastic-inspired trends — like loafers! I’m very excited to try out a chunky patent loafer, having never owned one before.

Describe your fall style in a few words:

Playful, statement-making, and always comfortable.

What matters most to you when it comes to putting together a winning fall look that will help you feel your most confident?

A head-turning boot! Whether it’s printed, sequined, block heel, or lug sole, boots always help me land my look.

Elly’s Grayscale Must-Haves

Kassidy Platform Lug Sole Loafers
Madden Girl
"This funky take on the loafer trend happening right now leans more 'playful' than 'prep school' — and I love the light gray color and added height element."
Ribbed Polo Midi Dress
And Now This
"I love the '90s-inspired feel of this minimalist sweater dress. Easy to layer or wear on its own, this piece is an instant classic."
Baguette Huggie Earrings
Coach
"Hoops are my go-to earring pick because they always add just enough shine. This pair's crystal stone accent kick a monochromatic gray look up a notch."
Cable-Knit Sweater Twinset
And Now This
"Another '90s mainstay: Sweater sets. Delightfully nostalgic but still of-the-moment, this cozy duo feels like a welcome addition to any fall wardrobe."
Faux-Suede Asymmetrical Moto Coat
BCBGeneration
"Moto jackets are classics for a reason, but that doesn't mean you can't introduce a new one to your wardrobe now and again. This one's unexpected gray hue looks so luxurious, and the faux suede finish (with fleece details) feels endlessly cozy."
Belted Tweed Wrap Coat, Created for Macy's
Sam Edelman
"A belted wrap coat is the definition of effortless elegance. It's so easy to layer on and head straight out the door."
Wide-Leg Pants
And Now This
"These wide-leg ribbed pants are the ultimate off-duty loungewear."
Sleeveless Corset Top
And Now This
"Corset tops bring a little romance into your fall look. Layer this one over a sheer mock-neck top or wear on its own."
24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
Urban Decay
"I love a quick swipe of eyeliner before heading out the door. This formula is super creamy and easy to blend, which makes makeup application significantly less stressful for me!"
Suede Shade Liquid Eye Shadow
Stila
“A matte gray eyeshadow puts a mod-inspired spin on the greyscale trend. This liquid formula even has skin-conditioning ingredients (think: vitamin E and glycerin), and its built-in wand makes application super easy.”