2010 Fall Fashion Trends

Fall is here and you've had to kiss your beloved bikinis and denim shorts goodbye. But with the conclusion of every season, comes the opportunity (or excuse) to shop for another. Keep these trends in mind while you start to eye new pieces for your fall wardrobe.

The Professional: One of the overall themes we've seen in the fall fashion shows is that casual garb should be temporarily retired come September and it's perfectly acceptable (even commendable) to dress up again. This was evident by the amount of professional looks, menswear-inspired pieces, tailored coats, and the increase of darker, demure grays and navy blues that we've seen on the runways. However, professionals and creative spirits can embrace this trend. If for no other reason, than simply as a reminder us that hemlines can actually go somewhere other than up. This fall, fashionistas with an appreciation for the conservative can easily supplement their wardrobe with Antonio Berardi blazer-dresses, Balmain pinstripe suits, and Stella McCartney pleated slacks. Showing up to the office has never been this glamorous.

Sheer Chic: Both London and Paris fashion weeks proudly proclaimed that sheer is here. Designers like Julien MacDonald showed dresses with see-through lace details, while models wore barely-there sheer blouses for Givenchy and Giambattista Valli. It goes without saying that sheer isn't exactly for the shy, but with some clever layering, anyone can wear this trend. Remember that cardigans, vests, and jackets can help you cover up a sheer shirt. Also, for those of us itching to wear fall pieces now, sheer clothing is a great way to transition summer-wear into what you'll be wearing this fall. If the sheer strikes you with fear, stick with dresses or blouses embellished with lace.

Ferocious Furs: If you live in an environment where the weather permits, incorporate fur into your wardrobe this fall. Real or faux, we saw tons of this trend trotting down the runways for fall fashion shows. Whether it's a knee-length chocolate coat, as showcased at Bottega Veneta, or a vest by Derek Lam, fur is back with a vengeance, much to the dismay of PETA. If you're not bold enough to wear a full length fur coat, you can ease it into your wardrobe with boots, bags and accessories with fur trim and details.

Rising Necklines: Does your cleavage need a break? Considering the amount of time you've spent in a swimsuit, v-neck tee or halter top, the answer is probably a resounding, "Yes." Luckily, necklines are getting higher and higher for fall. And yes, we even saw turtlenecks at New York Fashion Week. Although the last time you wore a turtleneck, it was probably part of a school uniform. Fear not! Higher necklines actually frame your face and give you an opportunity to show off those fantastic earrings you picked up at the Barney's Warehouse Sale.