Now that it’s officially fall, fashion has changed along with the weather. This season’s must haves include animal prints, shine, boots, ruffles, sweaters, plaid, and statement jackets.

Tahari ruffled dress

 Animal print, when done tastefully, never really goes out of style. This season, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, and zebra are prowling around fashion’s hottest designers, showing up in small details and in large, bold prints. Manolo Blahnik showed off leopard print in black and silver on some of his trademark open-toed pumps. Coach even capitalized on cheetah print by concealing it inside of their Babs ballet flat. Leopard print lines the inside of the shoe, while gold or black leather are all that’s seen on the outside. Coach’s high-top sneakers also are black on the outside, with animal print inside, giving customers the choice to sport classic solids while showing a peek of trendiness on an accesso

Juicy Couture knit sweater

 At the MTV Awards and the Emmy’s shine stood out as the fabric to sport this season. Whether its sequins, satin, silk or a mixture of these three, you’re sure to be a shining fashion star if you show off these fabrics. Alice + Olivia produced a gold sequin racer dress that would be perfect for holiday parties. A satin top in a jewel tone can be worn to work or for cocktails. The fabric provides a sexy feel while the color purveys class and character, and compliments winter make-up.

L.A.M.B. leather trench

Boots are always important for fall because they can be paired with dresses, skirts or pants and can be worn rain or shine. Don’t be afraid to wear boots with leggings or tights to create layers and textures in your wardrobe. For trendier looks designers are adding details such as buckles, studs and buttons to boots. In order to really stand out and show off your sense of style, a boot such as Donald J. Pliner’s animal print suede boots with peace symbols on the top and bottom make a statement.  Dezario’s Clarisa boot combines fabric and gold leather to make a shoe that would be the perfect fall compliment to a little black dress.

L.A.M.B. double breasted jacket

Ruffles add flare to any blouse or dress and this season it’s all about volume. Feathers and silks are being layered on top of each other in order to create ruffles and flounce that make clothes really move. Dresses such as Tahari’s metallic sleeveless dress accessorize themselves with a feathered hem. Juicy Couture’s cascading ruffle dress in black silk is reminiscent of a flapper, but its contemporary elegance puts a twist on this fun frock.

Nanette Lepore satin blouse

The sweater makes a strong showing this season. From chunky sweaters to long cardigans, to sweater dresses, the sweater is a staple for fall. Sweaters can be lightweight or thick, making them versatile. They can even function as a layer because they can be taken on or off. Juicy Couture makes the knit sweater coat contemporary, easily worn over jeans and a t-shirt. Michael Kors makes the sweater dress high fashion, by cinching it at the waist with a leather belt, pairing it with heels and a large bag.

Donald J. Pliner animal print boot

Plaid brings to mind the holiday season, but a fall color palette makes this pattern more fun and gives it longevity outside of holiday months. Gwen Stefani’s L.A.M.B. fall collection shows plaid off in all its glory. L.A.M.B.’s double breasted jacket in red and black makes it easy to match with basics such as black, white, and other office attire. L.A.M.B.’s Dolly Dress or Marc Jacobs’ painted plaid dress incorporate this pattern into beautiful, flowing pieces that are feminine and perfect for a night out. Head to toe plaid can be boring, so make sure plaid is being incorporated into your wardrobe in shapes that are flattering on you and in offbeat colors such as Mark Jacobs’ fuchsia plaid dress that contains flower detailing at the bust.

Marc by Marc Jacobs wool felt coat

 A jacket or coat is practical for fall weather. This year, ditch the boring black or neutral trench and opt for a piece that will really make a statement. For example, a leather jacket can be short or long and still give an outfit edge and shine. L.A.M.B.’s autumn leather trench in maroon is a luxe touch to any wardrobe. Marc by Marc Jacobs' solid wool felt coat in blue or yellow offer the perfect drop of color to brighten up jeans or black tights. Although coats and jackets are constantly being put on and taken off, they can still be an accessory in themselves by their detailing or color. If traditional neutrals suit your taste look for coats that have over-sized pockets, embellished buttons, fur trim or have sleeves with a different cut. Also, be willing to pay a little bit more for a coat or jacket. This piece is really an investment in that it can be worn through the winter and with multiple outfits.

Whether you’re bundling up or losing a layer, fall is about adding onto your wardrobe. Remember to look for colors such as purple or silver, which are popular this season and look for items that will actually keep you warm when the weather turns cold.

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