Think of Fall '05 fashion trends as the darker, richer version of spring and summer trends: turquoise turns to teal, gauze becomes wool, camisoles become romantic blouses.
While there's plenty of newness to shop from in the stores (fuller silhouettes) there are also new reasons to buy staples like denim (now it's embellished).
Designer have revived favorites that make sense to most women such as black (the universal color of chic) and tall boots (no ridiculous bare legs and sandals in freezing weather anymore).
Sample a bit from each Fall 2005 fashion trend and mix it in a unique way, making it personal with jewelry, color and layering.
Black is the New Black
After seasons of bright colors and white, black reappears as a chic look for everything from dresses to accessories.
Unlike the minimalist appeal of black in the past, black now has pretty embellishments, full volume, soft fabrics and other intriguing details to make it not-so-basic black.
Color Story
Spring and summer's turquoise has mellowed into a rich teal (also called peacock or Moroccan blue). This pretty blue-green color mixes beautifully with earthy colors and flatters most complexions.
Rich browns also make this season's must-have list, accented by shots of burnt orange, moss, ginger and other naturally inspired hues.
Romantically Inclined
Soft, sheer blouses in white, black or prints are the top of the season. With bits of lace, velvet, ribbon trims or even puffy sleeves, these romantic tops are the perfect layer under fitted velvet jackets.
Retailers are calling this trend "Baroque" or "Renaissance."
Volume Dressing
Worn with a fitted topper (jacket, shrug, capelet, etc.) and paired with tall boots, the full skirt takes on a new look for fall.
Volume also comes in full gauchos or culottes, or a loose, dolman-sleeve top.
The key to wearing volume without looking sloppy is to pair a full item with a slim item (dolman-sleeve sweater with skinny jeans or full skirt with a fitted top).
Boots
Tall, to-the-knee boots are the best footwear option for everything from full skirts to gauchos.
A new, flat silhouette in tall boots is new, as is the wedge heel.
Lace-up styles, ruched looks and croc embossing are great alternatives to basic leather boots.
Big Bags
From oversized hobo bags to large structured styles, the bold bag is this season's must-have. While luggage-sized satchels are around, the most manageable sizes are slightly oversized.
Wear from the past seasons:
- Boho: Layer your tiered skirts with a cropped jean jacket for cooler weather.
- Shrugs: Layer shrugs and tie-front ballet tops over long camisoles and sheer tops. Pair with denim or cropped pants.
- Chunky, ethnic jewelry: Mixes great with fall's teals and browns.
- Metallic shoes and bags: Still hot!
- Cropped pants: Wear with tall boots and a duster or long coat for a cool long-over-short look.
Must-have Items
- Military-inspired jacket or coat
- Animal prints
- Fur trims
- Embellished jeans
- Bold jewelry - especially cuff bracelets
