Just when it feels like summer will last forever, the first crisp morning reminds us that fall has arrived. One day you're reaching for breezy dresses and sandals; the next, you're standing in front of your closet wondering how to layer, what still works, and whether anything feels fresh. Fortunately, inspiration is closer than you think. From boutique owners with an eye for timeless pieces to personal stylists who know how to build effortless wardrobes, Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree are home to women quietly influencing how our community gets dressed. We asked four local style makers to share a favorite fall look and pieces they're reaching for this season.
Elizabeth Sanders (personal stylist)
For more than 23 years, Elizabeth Sanders has helped women discover their authentic personal style. She believes fashion is more than clothing; it's a form of self-expression that should reflect who you are, not define you. Working one-on-one with clients, Elizabeth creates wardrobes that are both beautiful and functional, helping women feel confident through every stage of life. Her goal is simple: for every client to look in the mirror and truly see themselves.
This fall, Elizabeth encourages women to have fun by mixing patterns. This floral blouse pairs beautifully with the coordinating skirt and jacket for a fresh, confident look. This exact set can be found at elizabethsanders.cabionline.com.
Brooke Svanda (Suburban Girl Boutique)
As a mom of three boys and the owner of Suburban Girl Boutique, Brooke Svanda knows how important it is to have a wardrobe that makes you feel confident without overcomplicating your life. She opened the boutique to create a welcoming shopping experience where women can find elevated, wearable styles that fit their everyday lives.
For this feature, Brooke chose a black two-piece maxi skirt set because it perfectly captures the transition into fall. It’s lightweight enough for warm days, but by adding a cozy chunky knit sweater and a great pair of boots, it instantly becomes the perfect fall look. She suggests investing in versatile pieces like these that can be styled together or in multiple ways throughout the season. Follow @suburbangirlboutique1 on Instagram for upcoming open houses, styling inspiration, and new arrivals.
Kim Nowlin (A Fashioned Life)
Kim Nowlin is a style coach, speaker, and trained image consultant with her business, A Fashioned Life.Kim believes style is more than what you wear; it's how you express your identity. At the heart of her work is the belief that when women change the language they use to describe themselves, they transform the way they see themselves and show up in the world. She helps women discover the words that define who they are and translate them into their own personal style.
Kim’s pick for a versatile piece for fall is the cropped trench coat. It was big for spring and will continue to add a classic twist to your wardrobe this fall. Instead of a blazer, style your jeans, trousers, and even your denim culottes with this modern take on a classic trench!
Follow along on Instagram @a_fashioned_life.
Kelly Crossley (Modern Vintage Marketplace)
In an age of one-click shopping, there's something refreshing about wandering through a space where every shelf holds the possibility of an unexpected find. That's exactly the experience Kelly and Wil Crossley have created at Modern Vintage Marketplace (MVM) in Highlands Ranch. Filled with vintage treasures, antiques, handcrafted goods, stylish clothing, home décor, and distinctive gifts from more than 30 local artists and makers, the shop invites visitors to slow down and explore. Every visit offers the simple joy of discovering something with a story to tell.
Owner Kelly suggests wearing a pair of upcycled palazzo pants by local artist Tremar this fall. These are custom-created in store by transforming a loved pair of jeans with colorful scarf fabric. They are still breezy for the hot days, but are a step away from the shorts of summer. Learn more about MVM at modernvintagemarketplace.com.