Sunday, 01 August 2010 | Author: Catherine Horgan | 
This year, fall walks in quietly. More subtle and subdued, as compared to last year. Remember those screaming neons of fall 09? They are a thing of the past. The classics — in both cuts and colors — are welcomed back with open arms. While accessories continue to grow bigger and funkier than ever, they will complement the natural, refined style of the season's garments.While a few themes from spring bleed into fall, such as utilitarian, a few new themes will be ushered in. Menswear Inspired: sharp, masculine tailoring will make an impact this season from clothing to shoes. Western Girl: from chic to preppy, every look will be sleek with scrumptious fabrics. Color Blocking: it's back in a modern way that will have you embracing the look weekly.
Leggings continue to be a must have essential item. However, thanks to designers such as Alexander Wang and the likes, plush fabrics will be introduced into the line up. Leather leggings will make an even bigger impact, as well. Talk about leg expression! Leg wear will come in all shapes and sizes, from leg warmers, shoe warmers and socks layered over tights. Speaking of tights, while black opaque will always make the list, ivory opaque is the up-and-coming super fresh go to!
Fabrics will range from flannel, tartans, houndstooth, cashmere, sheers, leather, velvet and fur. The best of the season = the royal plush: leather, velvet and fur. Leather — whether in small details or massive expressions (read: leather funnelneck cropped jackets and pleated leather skirts) will be worn in a modern way ... even layered upon more leather! Velvet will be a warm welcome in lush colors, such as reds and purples (of course). And fur becomes over-the-top. Last year's fur was limited to the vest. This year, fur touches every last detail in outerwear, shoes and handbags. Fur mixed with leather will also be a natural.
The neutral color palette continues into fall, with gray taking center stage. Pair gray with camel and ivory and you'll get a standing ovation! Green is still getting lots of love for yet another year.
Longer hem lengths in skirts and dresses have been revived, so don't be shy about whipping out that to-the-floor length skirt, ladies. However, be careful with hem lengths that cut you at the calf, as that can be a very unflattering look (and breaks so many rules in educating what serves our body shapes). Likewise, I caution against the straight leg clam digger length suit pant. While this may appear really great one day, the very next day you'll be over it.
I am all about layering. However, the concept is making a shift for fall. It's not just the long sleeve tee under dresses from casual to formal, but also angled layers ... almost as if you emptied out your entire closet's contents onto your body. There is definitely skill involved in pulling off this look. Shoes get a little tricked out for fall. Time to amp up the style factor with ladylike men’s-inspired heels, diamond studded and chevron patterned pumps, socks-attached boots, retro pumps and flats, and rugged soles on a fancy foundation. And guess what? The OTK boot has lasted another year! Perfect for all the winter shorts will you wearing. Go for a relaxed pair of shorts with a tailored top and thigh high boots. Mmmm, delicious!
Accessories will be fun and carefree. Experimentation can only lead to the next new trend! Take note of python scarves, serpent broaches and bracelets, and the ever-classic leopard, zebra and giraffe print shoes and handbags. Speaking of handbags, aside from all the hobo styles, you will see more structure this season, with fur and leopard print detailing. Animal magnetism comes in all shapes and sizes!
Square sunglasses are made of-the-moment, thanks to Tod’s, Bulgari, Gucci and D&G. And your simplest of leather belts will be wrapped around just about anything from evening gowns to outwear. Chain belts will again double as necklaces (or bracelets), thanks to the iconic YSL.
Time to get back into your closet to take inventory. There are so many great looks waiting for you (or me) to put together!
