If there’s one thing that defines Fall 2019 on the style front, it’s bourgeois. It popped up on almost every runway during fashion month and you can’t listen to a fashion insider for very long without the term being dropped. But what exactly is bourgeois?
Like camp fashion, bourgeois can leave shoppers scratching their heads. It’s not as crystal clear as the square-toe trend or our slouchy boot obsession. Basically, bourgeois is about affluence and, according to some, boredom. While the term may be the kiss of death to some fashion folk since it references a certain uniformity, it’s appealing to others because it represents a return to “proper” day dressing as opposed to streetwear or athleisure.

The Fall 2019 runways translated it into prim-and-proper looks with nods to the 70s. (See: Hermes, Tory Burch, Victoria Beckham along with old and new Celine — the fashion house’s Fall 2019 show was a strong champion of the trend.) In fact, most of the Fall 2019 shows in Paris showcased some form of the look. From tons of tweed and heritage fabrics to crisp tailoring via overcoats and suits to neckties plus the occasional ruffle spotting, the key is to always look like you have somewhere to go, even if you don’t.
Now that you know the deal, here are some chic bourgeois pieces so you can blend in with the crowd.
Decoding Bourgeois Dressing to Nail This Season's Hottest Look
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H&M
Pleated Skirt in Black/Gold-Colored Pattern, $69.99 at H&M
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Zara
Mid-Height Heeled Leather Boots, $169 at Zara
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& Other Stories
Striped Handkerchief Midi Dress, $129 at & Other Stories
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Joseph
Olwa Tie-Neck Silk-Blend Seersucker Blouse, $420 at Net-a-Porter
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Mango
Check Suit Pants in Brown, $59.99 at Mango
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Polo Ralph Lauren
Corduroy One-Button Blazer, $398 at Ralph Lauren
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Universal Standard
Tresa Wide Leg Tie Pants in Caramel, $130 at Universal Standard
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Ganni
Prince of Wales Checked Twill Wrap Dress, $360 at Net-a-Porter
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Bl Nk
Bryce Silk Scarf, $68 at Anthropologie
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COS
Pleated Skirt With D-Ring Belt, $150 at COS
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WAYF
Goodwin Single Breasted Blazer, $128 at Shopbop
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Ted Baker
Gwynith Long Wrap Coat in Natural, $659 at Ted Baker
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Madewell
The Alex Loafer in Suede, $148 at Madewell
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Tommy Hilfiger
Zendaya Tie Neck Blouse, $129.99 at Tommy Hilfiger