FALL 2011: Top Trends {Part 1}

{by Brittany Sadler}

Ah yes, fall is in the air! And with it comes the fashion opportunities of a new season. It’s time to bring out the coats, boots, gloves and scarves. Tis the season of effortless elegance, when we all acknowledge the magic of a gorgeous scarf and a stunning pair of boots. As the leaves are swirling on the sidewalk, let’s take a look at the trends that swirl on the runway….

maxi skirt and sweater [tracy reese]

1) It’s a Long Story

This year the length is officially long. For fall 2011 we are looking at long skirts, long coats, long dresses. From just below the knee to floor grazing, this look can be very unique and sophisticated. To dress it down, pair a super long skirt with a casual knit sweater and boots. Or try a mid-calf length dress and some chunky heels. This look is so wearable and sooo chic!

2) My Fair Lady

stunning polka dots [marc jacobs and diane von furstenberg]

Yes, ladylike is actually trendy this year. Which proves that anything is possible. Thanks in part to Kate Middleton and retro TV shows like Mad Men, the simply elegant and ladylike styles are back, dressed up with a modern twist. We’re talking below-the-knee pencil skirts (big trend) and sleek dresses, trim jackets with nipped-in waists, and of course the classic-killer pumps.

3) Pattern of My Life

dramatic graphic stripes [rag & bone, steven alan, rag & bone, dkny]

This year’s runways were crazy for pattern! Polka dots are huge, also stripes, florals, and graphic plaids, especially worn together. Try different scales of the same print for a cute, coordinated look. If you want to be a little more daring, try pairing a striped shirt with a floral skirt, or mixing graphic prints. But be careful…you don’t want to end up looking…well, you know what I mean.

"Clothes are inevitable. They are nothing less than the furniture of the mind made visible." ~James Laver

check back throughout this week for continued coverage of this season's top trends.

after that we'll being taking a closer trend-by-trend look at how we can apply these fads to our everyday outfits!

~which of these three trends is your favorite? which do you see as the most wearable?~