There is a distinct magic in the air across Genesee County once autumn arrives. From the crisp morning breeze rolling off local lakes to the canvas of red and gold painting our city, we know that fall isn’t just a season, it’s a lifestyle. Here in mid-Michigan, our autumns are amazeballs and active, filled with everything from Friday night traditions and weekend tailgates to elegant charity fundraisers and crisp orchard hayrides. Transitioning your wardrobe and home for this dynamic season means finding pieces that effortlessly balance cozy comfort with chic versatility while building toward the holiday season.
Tailgates & Pumpkin Picking: Nothing unites a Michigan community quite like football. Whether you’re cheering on local high school under-the-lights matchups or heading down US-23 or I-69 for a Saturday afternoon collegiate tailgate, game-day style requires a blend of team spirit and effortless layering. While screen-printed shirts are always easy to find, opt for embroidery, terry cloth logos and unique styles at boutiques like Clothed or Mainstream in Grand Blanc and SHIFT and Avenue 19 in Fenton.
SHIFT collaborated in September with Erin Meade Originals, a #shepower entrepreneur who upcycles men’s and women’s Oxford button-downs into game-day-ready flannel and poplin fall tops with ruffle stand collars and cropped hemlines for the cutest feminine flair. Find her on Instagram @erinmeadeoriginals!
Do NOT forget color-coordinated accessories because the smallest details matter! Pair your great top and matching earrings with a unique pair of denim and sleek, comfortable lifestyle sneakers for walking across bustling parking lots or rows of apple trees. Finish the active outdoor ensemble with a classic wide-brim hat featuring a one-of-a-kind handmade feathered adornment and layered leather hatband, plus a crossbody bag to keep your hands free for warm doughnuts and fresh-picked Honeycrisps.
Bring that rustic warmth back home by accentuating your living space with textured accent pillows and artisanal autumn candles from SHIFT’s home décor line, making your porch as welcoming as your backyard bonfire.
Gala Nights & School Functions: As the leaves turn, our social calendars fill up with PTA meetings, homecoming dances and fancy philanthropic fundraising events supporting our robust local nonprofits. These occasions call for a sophisticated step up.
Never underestimate the power of the predictable little black dress, but consider opting instead for a rich red, drapey cowl-neck dress, jewel-toned emerald satin or a dimensional, tone-on-tone floral navy full-length dress for a sophisticated apparel edit. Accessorize with statement metallic earrings and a chic clutch to turn heads as you walk into the room. Feel confident knowing you are supporting local small businesses while dressing for the county’s most elegant autumn nights out.
Heading Toward the Holidays: By the end of October, Halloween is upon us, and a nod ahead makes it the perfect time to plan your Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings. Plan early for hosting parties, Friday night pizza and game nights. Once the weather SHIFTS, your vibe and mindset will, too.
Try a new reformer Pilates class at the stunning new Fenton Pilates Studio with a group of friends! Fenton Pilates Studio Pair leggings with an oversized sweater for an easy transition into a brunch date for the win!
During this fall season, don’t just watch the changing leaves, immerse yourself fully in everything YOUR CITY has to offer. Elevate your wardrobe and living spaces, and shop local to experience hand-picked collections in person.
Which Genesee County fall tradition are you most excited to dress up for this year?
Shannon White is an architect, designer and fashionista – a small but mighty cheerleader of all things Flint! Holding both Bachelor of Science and Master of Architecture degrees from the University of Michigan, she is the founder of the FUNchitecture design firm and co-founder of the new she-powered Downtown Fenton retail business, SHIFT.
