Fall Fashion: Eight Hot Trends to Make You Yearn for Cold Weather

Following the latest fashion trends may not be your cup of tea, but the styles this Fall are definitely hot (and classic) enough to make you wish you did. While some styles are still riding strong from previous years, others have reemerged from the past with a newer, sexier appeal. Without further ado, here are eight favorites.

1. Tights: Tights are back again this season with a strong emphasis on patterns and solid colors. Patterns range across the board from knits to polka dots and flowers. When choosing tights, make sure the pattern and color compliment the rest of your outfit. They can easily dominate an outfit (think 1980's) or match the rest of your outfit too well (think Robin Hood), neither of which you want to have happen. You can wear tights with open or closed-toe shoes, such as a great peep-toe.

2. Wide-leg pants: These pants not only create a sweeping silhouette, but they're also very comfortable to wear. And depending on the fabric and cut, they can be worn at home, in the office, or around town, making this look very versatile. The hem of these pants should come within millimeters of the floor, so they don't float around your ankles. Think about pairing them with either flats or heels, and a blouse and fitted jacket.

3. Pencil skirts: Historically, pencil skirts have always created a sleek, slender line. Having a pencil skirt with a high waist is a particularly popular look. A high waist gives the appearance that your legs are longer, and it lends a professional air to your outfit, as long as you stick to ones with a short slit. It's great to emphasize the high waist with a tucked-in blouse and belt.

4. Scarves: Scarves are a great accessory for any outfit--they're not just for when you step outdoors. You can take a simple shirt and dress it up with a colorful, patterned scarf draped artfully around your neck. Doing so will create more visual interest. Remember that scarves can be tied in a variety of ways, so a single scarf has multiple looks to complement an outfit. You will also get different looks depending upon the length and fabric of the scarf.

5. Knit dresses: Knits tend to be warmer than other fabrics, making them an easy choice for Fall and Winter. A knit dress in a solid color, such as gray or black, allows it to act as a backdrop for accessories like your shoes, necklace, handbag, and tights. Think of your dress as a canvas painted black--what colors and patterns would you add to attract a viewer's eye?

6. Cardigans: Cardigans have been popular for years and will probably continue to be so for years to come. If you picture a cardigan as a staid, buttoned-up sweater from the 1950's, you've got to update your mental image. Today's cardigans are a lot more versatile and come in a variety of colors, styles, patterns, and lengths. Consider wearing a boyfriend cardigan over a knit dress (or skirt) and cinching it closed with a belt at the waist. Or, throwing a cardigan over a blouse before heading to the office this Fall will keep you warm and stylish.

7. Oversized handbags: Once again, oversized handbags continue to be a popular fashion trend. However, if you're tired of lugging a big bag everywhere you go, try placing a smaller bag inside the bigger one. This way, the oversized handbag goes with you to a restaurant but gets easily ditched in your car for the smaller one when you head to the clubs.

8. Boots: The right boots can go well with just about any outfit. You can wear them over skinny jeans, or pair them with tights and a skirt or dress. Many knee and calf-length boots have graduated to a lower, more moderate heel that lends a more relaxed (and sometimes rustic) feel. These boots not only make walking on snow and ice easier, but they're also easier to pair with an outfit, since they go with more.