Portia De Rossi Nailed 'Academic Autumn Chic' With A Flattering Mix Of Clothing Colors
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
Portia de Rossi is proving that the academic aesthetic is the best way to embrace fall. The actor shared a carousel of photos to Instagram featuring a stylish autumn outfit she wore on a November trip to Scotland. The ensemble was the picture-perfect combination of everything associated with collegiate heritage styling, from the checked blazer jacket and brown plaid scarf to the Fair Isle-inspired sweater and pale blue collared shirt.
Not only did the outfit look cozy — a key factor in the fall — it also looked stylishly playful thanks to the interplay of numerous patterns and textures. De Rossi carried the brown tone through the look by styling chocolate cowboy boots under her jeans. She also opted for light wash, wide leg denim, creating a striking contrast. Since the trendiest fall looks are also the most comfortable ones, de Rossi really hit it out of the park with her chic layering. So, with a nod to de Rossi's Scotland look, we're copying her academic autumn flair.
Layering textures and patterns is the key to the academic autumn aesthetic
The magic to Portia De Rossi's academic outfit was in its autumnal maximalism. The secret to achieving this is by maintaining a particular color palette throughout many different patterns. Though her outfit featured several alpine-inspired prints and plaid, they all had a similar undertone of camel-colored brown.
To recreate de Rossi's look, start with a base of structured tailoring. Not only does this check off the academic tone of the outfit, but it's also a key component of fall 2026 fashion trends that are perfect for older women. A sharp blazer or structured coat, like ELLEVEN Oversized Plaid Blazer is key. Mimic de Rossi's cozy layers by pairing a knit with an alpine or argyle pattern, like CIDER Women's Mock Neck Sweater, over a shirt, like Siliteelon Women's Button Down. Then drape a scarf, like BLATIAL Winter Scarf to bring more texture to the look, or loosely tie a cardigan over your shoulders.
The key with strategic layering is to roll up your sleeves or keep a jacket open so that each piece is slightly visible. Finally, don't be afraid to get playful. What made de Rossi's look so compelling is how colorful it was. If you want some sparkle, play around with accessories. A statement coat and sunglasses are part of the classic fashion combos that always look great together for fall. Or best of all, add a bouquet of brooches.