Fall Style Guide

Fall is one of the most difficult seasons to buy clothes for. In the winter, it is obvious that you will need to bundle up, and in the summer, chances are that you will need to cool off. However, autumn has a way of being very unpredictable. One day it can seem more like the dead of winter, while the next day it feels like summer all over again.  But not to worry, we have everything you need to make sure you start the fall season looking spicy and fresh!

Tips for Fall Dressing

• Layers. If you want to cope with the variations in temperature, you're going to need to dress in layers. If you are dressing casually, grab a hoodie,  sweatshirt,  or light jacket  and bring it with you throughout the day. Those dressing more formally can still beat the chill by bringing a blazer,  sports coat,  or fancy light jacket with them.

• Colors. Most people know (or could guess) that the traditional autumn colors are browns, oranges, neutrals, and reds. However, there are usually a few colors each autumn that are unconventional yet trendy for the season. This fall, it's all about gray, purple, burnt mustard, green, and rich, bright blue.

• Accessories. Fall is all about choosing the perfect, trendiest accessories. In winter, we have to accessorize with hats and gloves. In summer and spring, we have to accessorize with sunglasses. Fall, however, doesn't really have any accessory needs. That's why fall accessories are all about trends and style! Try out some accessories with flare. It's all about being bold this fall!

Fall 2009 Trends

This fall, expect to see a lot of older trends made new again.  Because of the recession, designers understand that average folks are not looking to splurge on a new fall wardrobe.  It's very easy to wear last season's clothing with a new pop of color or a fun new accessory.  Just in case you need a refresher of what was in and what was not, we are here to help! 

Plaid  This classic fall staple isn't leaving. One big difference to note is that this isn't your Nirvana, grudge type of plaid. Look for pieces that are well tailored to your body and fit with the whole high class preppy trend.	Vests  Vests are huge this fall for both guys and gals. Longer, tunic like vests are more popular for girls, while shorter, more classic vests are in for guys. Make sure the vest is thin though, and not like the old life preserver vest that was in years ago.	Oxford Heels  Oxford heels with a peep toe are super popular this fall. While boots  are the typical fall footwear, try out this shoe for a good transition from summer peep toes to fall boots.	Chunky Jewelry  Costume jewelry  and large, almost gaudy pieces are very in this fall. Go with gold rather than silver whenever possible. Look for pieces that have plenty of "stuff" on them, similar to a charm bracelet style.	Fashion Scarves  Fashion scarves are in this season for guys and girls! Shorter scarves are more popular for the guys, while longer scarves (but not the ridiculously long ones we saw a few seasons back) are hot with the ladies.

Head Wraps  Decorative head wraps are popular among the younger counter-culture crowd this fall. Look for braided or beaded bands that are the perfect mix of hippie and Native American.	Sport Coats  You can't do high class without some sport coats! While classic colors are great for the professional, the younger crowd should look for sport coats in interesting fabrics and colors (think bright blue, burnt mustard, and red velvet).	Bootcut Jeans  After a season of skin tight skinny jeans,  the fashion world seems to be dividing. Some designers are pushing for wide leg pants  to become the next big thing, while others are still rocking the skinny jeans. So if you want to be safe, go with bootcut jeans.	Oxford Shirts  You'll need to wear something under all those vests, and an oxford shirt is the classic high class undershirt. Keep the colors simple and look for vests and sport coats to bring in the funky color accents.	Long Coats  Long coats that are a mix between Breakfast at Tiffany's and military styles are super in this season. Stick with classic colors and fabrics here.

Related Guides

Fall Makeup Guide	Women's Fall Style Guide	Men's Fall Style Guide	Hair Trends	Thanksgiving and Fall Crafts

Back-to-School Clothes for Kids	Back-to-School Clothes for Teens	Back-to-School Makeup	School Supplies	Back-to-School Gadgets

External Links

• Glam.com: This article sums up the trends spotted at the Fall 2009 Fashion Week in New York City.
• Elle.com: The popular fashion magazine explains the top trends spotted at Fall 2009 Fashion Week in NYC, Milan, Paris, and London. 
• Suit101.com: Check out this prediction of the hottest Fall 2009 trends.
• LAStylistMom: One woman's opinion of your top ten Fall 2009 must-haves.
• CollegeFashion.net: Learn how to dress like the girls from Gossip Girl.