The leaves change from their summer green to vibrant shades of red and orange, the weather gets brisk and cool, and our economic woes make us long for years gone by - the fall fashion trends of 2008 reflect all of these changes. Here are just a few trends to look for and try out in the months to come:
COLOR US HAPPY
As the days became shorter, the skies just a little more gray, vibrant color began popping up on everything from the runways to the store racks. Early on this fall, deep, plum-like purple and rusty orange were the colors of choice, emulating the color of the changing leaves. Next came the super-bright, nearly Technicolor shades of goldenrod, crimson, indigo, fuschia and teal, with the hot trend of late being pairing two contrasting shades together to make an unexpectedly bold look for daytime. Brightly colored jeans, skirts or dresses can be accented with another bold hue, or can be made the signature piece by wearing with basic black.
THE INTERNATIONAL SPY VS. THE BAD GIRL
The chilly weather calls for a dramatic jacket or coat to make an entrance of its own. Puffy, marshmallow-like jackets are no longer the norm - to the delight of many fashionistas. The belted trenchcoat has returned with a vengeance, evoking a nostalgic, romantic feel for outerwear. Yet the typical beige of old is nowhere to be found - dark tweeds, bold solids and geometric plaids are popping up, splashing those dismal days with interesting shades and patterns. The cinched waist is flattering on every form, giving a woman a mysterious, sophisticated, look-at-me appeal. On the other end of the spectrum is the revival of the leather motorcycle jacket, but in a new, sexy format. The "bad girl" can flaunt her sexuality without drowning in pounds of seamless, shapeless leather. Buttons, snaps and diagonal zippers add a little spark. Fitted, sleek shapes in classic black or brown can be paired with just about everything.
COMFY COZY
One of the most popular accessories at the moment is a cozy, brightly-hued scarf that can be paired with any coat or sweater. And winterwear isn't just for the great outdoors anymore - many Hollywood celebs have been spotted wearing a lovely knit scarf paired with a casual shirt and jeans. Also popular are long, chunky sweaters that can be worn with jeans or as a dress with leggings. Thickly knit and often with front pockets and cowlnecks, these sweaters will ward off any chilly fall weather and are perfect for a casual day indoors or out.
PRINTS, SKINS & BOHO CHIC
Earlier this year, animal prints were popping up in accessories and as signature pieces. Making the difficult transition from trashy to trendy, zebra, tiger and leopard-print designs are now the norm for the woman who wants to make a bold statement. Along with this animalistic influence for fall comes the rebirth of snakeskin as an acceptable design and texture for accessories. Shoes, wallets, belts and handbags are popping up in in this "skin-ful" trend - but animal lovers can rejoice, since these brightly-hued accessories are all polyester-born. Also a tag-along from earlier this year are the flowing, bohemian-influenced designs that some said would never last. Yet, the boho chic appeal has remained in loose, romantic blouses and retro designs.
MENSWEAR, FILM NOIR AND . . . DEJA VU?
The oxford bootie has returned for fall as the hottest shoe-of-choice, making those fashionistas who bought some last year breathe a sigh of relief. Along the same vein of menswear, tweeds, stripes and chunky buttons spice up the classic suit for women. Ruffled, high-necked blouses and pencil skirts recall a simpler time and the glamour of film noir. Vintage-inspired tops are lacy and loose, almost Victorian in their modesty. Beautiful, 1920's inspired pastel pieces are being paired with chunky rings and long necklaces. Even skirts and jackets are becoming more demure, with graceful lines and pleats that seem very Jackie O.
VITAMIN C AND PRECIOUS METALS
Handbags and wallets are picking up their cue from the season's bold colors. Shades of citrus - tangerine, lemon, ruby red grapefruit and lime - are hot for purses. Usually hues reserved for spring and summer, these delicious shades will bring the sunshine into anyone's day. Metal detailing gives handbags, clothing and belts alike a dangerous, sexy edge. Shoes are showing off rich gold, copper, bronze and silver, perfect for pairing with any outfit.
This fall in fashion is all about finding a comfort zone, and experimenting with past classics. While politics rage on, money worries plague and the world becomes even more uncertain, fashion is recalling times when modesty and tradition were valued and the female silhouette was a thing of sophistication. And perhaps those of us who dare to travel outside of our comfort zone can don a sexy leather jacket, a vibrantly-colored top, or even a pair of metallic shoes. Either way, there are luxe and inexpensive options alike for all of these hot trends, so every woman can look and feel fashionable this fall.