Kara Birkenstock

Fall 2012 Fashion Must Haves

Fall is officially here! No matter how unpredictable the weather has been where you live, it’s time to start transitioning your wardrobe for the season ahead. There is so much to look forward to this autumn – from refined, ladylike pieces to those with bold, menswear inspiration. Adding new items to your closet can be a daunting and expensive task, especially when there are so many beautiful options to choose from. Luckily, I’ve broken down the season’s strongest trends below, with tips on how to incorporate them with the clothes you already have!

Burgundy

Burgundy, oxblood, wine, plum, or garnet – no matter what you call it, this rich hue is a fall fashion favorite! A chic blazer or sheath is a stylish and versatile choice for sophisticates, ideal for the office or a night on the town. A pair of jewel toned skinnies is a great alternative to blue jeans, and can be paired with a simple tank or a dressy blouse.

Wear burgundy pieces with both neutral and vivid colors, such as black, ebony, green and gold. Stunning accessories are also a simple way to make an outfit, from top handle handbags and t-strap pumps to sparkling baubles.

Leather

Leather has always been an essential item in the world of fashion. For fall however, the supple fabric is getting a feminine makeover! No longer tough or overly sexy, this season’s leather is ladylike and very wearable. Leather accents on an everyday top are an unexpected and modern twist, an easy choice for layering under a suit for work or with pants and heels for an evening look.

Leather skirts are also on trend, from fuller a-lines to sleek pencil skirts with geometric illusions that help to define your waist. The key to wearing leather is to mix materials – a tweed sheath with leather detailing is the epitome of understated elegance.

Granny Chic

The Granny Chic trend is all about covering up, a welcome return to the demure days of fashion’s past. Taking cues from Nana’s closet, this look is refined and modest. Chunky, cable knit sweaters (both oversized and cropped) are perfect for those chilly autumn days. Pair them with jeans and leather riding boots and you’ll have your go to get up for the season!

Blouses and dresses with high necklines, knee length hems and long sleeves are both prim and polished. Add a bit of drama with ornate floral designs and embellishments. Intricate textures such as tweed and brocade also pair back nicely to both casual and dressy outfits.

Ankle Boots

This fall, the must have shoe to add to your collection is a pair of Ankle Boots! For a fashion forward vibe, opt for the Chelsea Boot. This mod style has a laidback, 60s inspiration, and is paired best with skinnies, cropped pants, or a mini with tights.

Western Boots are also making a statement this fall, with leather and suede options in all colors. This casual shoe is best with denim, but you can also offset an ultra-girly ensemble with chunkier styles. For the most classic look, a Stiletto Bootie is sexy and versatile, perfect with everything from pants to dresses.

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