By Jessica Goldfond

Right now, designs from the catwalk and styles from the street are showing us that Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 are times for mixing and matching. From feminine, comfy knits to bold-colored hosiery and accessories, why not use this new-found freedom to have some fun and mix the season’s trends? Transform summer clothes to reinvent your autumn wardrobe by layering, while picking up some fall staples (tights, cardigans, tights, thermals … did you notice the tights?) that will carry you through winter.

Keep it Bright: Avoid the fall blues (or traditional browns) and humdrum palettes by adding colors that pop. Get a head start on hot-for-spring tones like bright-but-burnt orange and golden chartreuse.

Social Patterns: When it comes to print and pattern, stay in the same family either by style (floral on floral) or color (red stripes on red floral). To flatter your figure, it’s best to keep large patterns up top.

All to Pieces: This season, don’t be afraid to layer deep-colored tights beneath your high-waisted wool shorts. Revisit an oversize blazer. Balance out the micro length of a knit sweater dress with comfy, thick leggings. Experiment with the length of your cardigan—let it fall well below your waistline. Cinch that skirt with a skinny belt. And don’t forget a pair of ’70s inspired heels for boosting your stovepipes.

Image credits: Spring 2009 runway looks from Style.com, current streetwear looks from Hel-looks.com, Orla Kiely ensembles from Fall 2008 lookbook at OrlaKiely.com.

This entry was posted on Monday, September 29th, 2008 at 8:18 am and is filed under Apparel, Fashion & Trends. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.