The stores have been full of fall merchandise for weeks now, and try as we might to pretend that summer will never end, it is over – time to face the cold, hard truth So, as you look to add to your fall wardrobe, keep in mind 10 of my favorite fall trends for women:
It's raining menswear: Glenn Plaid Vest $48, www.urbanoutfitters.com
This trend spans from trousers to shoes. I especially like the fabrics that come into play here, including tartan plaid, houndstooth, glenn plaid, and tweed. While you add a touch of masculinity, remember you are all woman, so look for these fabrics in feminine cuts.
Take a shine to patent: Black Patent Trench Coat $278, www.cache.com
Let's not gloss things over here – patent leather is a great way to mix it up and stay classy. In patent, the trench coat is snazzy, the purse is charming, the shoes are spiffy. Pick something with a classic cut and allow one patent piece per outfit. Too much of either has a decidedly red light/dominatrix vibe.
Gray should be on your anatomy: Classic 3-button Wool Blazer $118, www.gap.com
This cool classic is a great neutral for fall. Look for deep charcoal pieces to really show off saturated autumn colors.
Purple reigns (again): Short Shift $49.98, www.kennethcole.com
There are lots of shades of pretty purple out there again this season. Try both the cool and warm tones to see which works best for you. A spot of purple makes a royal statement when paired with a classic fabric like tweed or leather. Keep the color to one piece like a top, shoes, or jewelry, otherwise your punch of purple may leave you looking bruised.
Follow your animal instinct: Dolce & Gabbana Skirt $995, www.bergdorfgoodman.com
Not for the fashion faint-of-heart, animal prints offer a dash of drama for fall. These prints always look best when applied with restraint (think classy scarf or shoes vs. head-to-toe ensemble).
Do try to skirt the issue: Floral Print Tie-Neck Dress $128, www.bananarepublic.com
Skirts and dresses with tights are feminine and offer warmth and coverage for fall. Match either the tights to the skirt/dress or the shoes for the most flattering look. Finish off with flats, heels, or boots for an easy, polished look.
Leather, studs, and rock 'n' roll: Guess? Patent Lambskin Bomber $288, www.nordstrom.com
Walk on your wild side with a fab new leather jacket. Keep it fairly simple with minimal zippers and studs so that it can be worn with slacks, skirts, or jeans.
Ride high with tall boots: Dolce Vita Berlin-1 Boot $220, www.swayandcake.com
While my black leather riding boots are a personal favorite, some people put on this style and feel like they should be calling for the hounds. If a flat boot doesn't appeal to you, there are some great boots with a heel that look quite foxy with a dress or skirt.
Cozy up to chunky knits: Juicy Couture Chunky Sweater $298, www.nordstrom.com
They keep you warm and require no ironing, so what's not to love about the new crop of chunky sweaters? I'll tell you – they can look as if they add a few pounds. Just keep an eye out for narrow lines and flattering cuts.
What a croc: S.O.A.P. Snake Mini $29, www.wilsonsleather.com
Animal skin bags in a classic style will forever be in style in my book. The market is swamped this season with faux croc and snakeskin bags that won't take a bite out of your wallet.
