Alice + Olivia, Turned Up for Fall

Alice + Olivia, Turned Up for Fall

Alice + Olivia began in 2002 with Stacey Bendet chasing a pair of pants that actually fit, and the label still dresses like someone who would rather be noticed than sensible. This fall it is all fitted blazers, faux leather, embellished knits and the occasional Staceface print. Here is the season's Alice + Olivia for anyone who likes their wardrobe with a wink.

Blazers, Tailored From the Start

Stacey Bendet founded Alice + Olivia in 2002 after hunting for trousers that fit the way she wanted, and two of her first styles, the Alice and the Olivia, gave the label its name. That origin still shows in how sharp the tailoring is. The blazer here is the descendant of those first pants.

Blazers With Something to Say

Bendet's blazers are cut close to the body and then decorated, with bows, butterfly jacquard and a sheer trench or two. They work as well over jeans as over a cocktail dress. That versatility is most of the brand's appeal.

Knits That Refuse to Be Plain

Alice + Olivia treats the sweater as another chance for embellishment, from collared wool to crystal-trimmed cardigans. The layered-look collar is having a real moment this fall. It solves the shirt-under-sweater problem in one piece.

Cardigans, Crews and Staceface

Bendet's own face, the sunglasses-wearing Staceface sketch, turns up on sweaters and prints across the collection. It is the rare brand signature that is actually funny. The rest of these knits are cozier and quieter.

The Party Dress, Year Round

The label has never believed a dress needed an occasion, and the minis here prove the point. Velvet, rhinestone trim and a sharp shirtdress cover most of the calendar. They are made to be seen.

Longer Dresses, Same Attitude

The midi and maxi dresses lean into faux leather, mesh and a trench reworked as a dress. They are the grown-up side of a playful brand. Each one works with a boot as easily as a heel.

Blouses and Fitted Shirts

The fitted button-down is one of the label's quietest bestsellers, and the silk blouses here explain why. Cuffs, collars and the odd feather are the details that set them apart. Tuck one into anything on this list.

More Blouses and Tops

The printed mesh turtleneck has become the brand's favorite layering piece, slipped under a blazer or a slip dress. It adds color without adding bulk. A few lace and peplum blouses round out the set.

Matching Sets and Bodysuits

Alice + Olivia sells a lot of coordinates, and these sets take the guesswork out of an outfit. A corset top with a matching skirt or a lace bodysuit under a jacket is the brand at its most direct. Wear them together or split them up.

Mini Skirts and Slips

Denim minis, pleated tweed and the satin slip skirt cover the label's full range of moods. The slip skirt in particular has outlasted several trend cycles. Pair it with a heavy knit for fall.

More Skirts, Long and Short

The second set of skirts runs from denim minis to a sequin fringe maxi and a silk chiffon ballgown skirt. Two cropped jackets slipped in here finish the look. Several are made for the holidays.

Trousers and Shorts

Faux leather has become Alice + Olivia's fall uniform, in wide legs, flares and the occasional lace-up. It brings the attitude of a leather pant with a lighter hand. The pleated tailored pants are the quieter option.

More Trousers and Shorts

The brand's trouser roots show most clearly here, with low-rise flares and tailored shorts for layering over tights. Each pair is cut to make the leg look endless. That has been the point since 2002.

Denim With Embellishment

Alice + Olivia jeans are rarely plain, and this season's baggy and low-rise shapes come with sequins and embroidery. They make a simple sweater feel like an outfit. The flare is still the house favorite.

A Few Extras

Swim from the PQ collaboration, a couple of slip skirts and some stray jeans fill out the collection. They are proof the label dresses for every season, not just this one. Consider them a head start on next summer.

Alice + Olivia, Turned Up for Fall

Alice + Olivia has stayed relevant for more than two decades by never apologizing for being fun. This fall the clothes are sharper and shinier, but the sense of humor is intact. Pick the piece that makes you grin.