Fall’s Most Fashionable Trends

There was a fashion rebellion on the fall runways, as many designers reinvented punk. The result: chic and sophisticated versions of classic rebel wear. These plaid, skinny trousers adorned with zippers are a great way to rock the trend with an effortlessly cool vibe. Create a grown-up rebel look by pairing them with a simple sweater and a pointy-toed flat, or increase the anarchy feel by adding a motorcycle jacket and patent-leather combat boots.

To buy: Zara, $80

Designers are flirting with feline prints this season, and the perennially chic leopard is leading the pack. While it’s a great time to pull out your leopard blasts from the past, it’s also worth considering revamping your wardrobe with some clever new takes on this classic print. DKNY’s wool-blend sweater is a spot-on pick, as it updates the typically neutral palette with splashes of pink-y red. The slightly relaxed silhouette makes this the perfect sweater to top skinny jeans, leather leggings or a pencil skirt.

To buy: DKNY, $295

There’s a decidedly sweet side to the season with pastel-colored coats dominating the fall runways. Classic in cut but ultra modern in hue, these delicious offerings are an easy way to update your basics, making these coats a worthwhile investment. This pastel pink version is perfect to layer over your most noteworthy neutrals, like dark denim jeans and little black dresses.

To buy: Zara, $299

MORE: Endless Summer Fashion

The menswear trend is big for fall, and the oxford is a key player in this look. And while this timeless shoe can be found in more traditional colors like brown and black, this season many designers took a more whimsical approach. Case in point: J.Crew’s mirrored oxford gives the classic lace-up a thoroughly modern feel. Mix things up by pairing them with a feminine frock, or fully embrace the borrowed-from-the-boys vibe when you wear them with herringbone trousers, a white button-up and cardigan sweater.

To buy: J.Crew, $258

Pantone named it the color of the year, and many designers infused it in their collections, making emerald the must-have hue for fall. The prime pick is a top, as this jewel-toned color is flattering to all complexions and blends beautifully with your neutrals. This feminine camisole has multiple uses. By day, layer it under a blazer with denim and ballet flats. Come night, wear it solo with skinny black jeans or pajama-inspired silk pants, a high-heeled sandal and lots of bling.

To buy: Topshop, $36

Leather—real or faux—has long been a favored fabric for fall, and, this season, designers are finding new ways to work it in and experimenting with unexpected colors. Offered in a deep shade of oxblood, this sleek pencil skirt is both sexy and polished, giving it high marks for wearability. Keep it conservative with a V-neck cashmere sweater and kitten heels, or sex it up for an evening out with a silky black sleeveless top and high-heeled pointy-toed pump.

To buy: Zara, $70

MORE: Nina Garcia Talks Parenting

Without question, the must-have carryall for the season is the duffel-style handbag. This classic shape comes in all sorts of sizes, colors and skins, making it easy to find one that suits your style and budget. This brilliant red version from Clare Vivier is "simple chic" at its most alluring. Made from luxurious leather, this roomy bag can be filled to the brim without weighing you down. The removable cross-body strap allows for hands-free handling—a busy mother’s dream come true.

To buy: Clare Vivier, $499

Super-soft and fuzzy sweaters were the focal point of much of the season’s knitwear. Reminiscent of the 1950s, these slightly fitted or cropped angora sweaters look and feel luxurious and are the perfect thing to warm you up on a chilly fall day. With its slim fit and bold hue, this V-neck is a great addition to any wardrobe. The deep red color pairs perfectly with neutrals, and the sleek silhouette tops everything from slim-cut trousers to boyfriend jeans, and from a pleated mini to a sleek pencil skirt.

To buy: Zara, $119

MORE: Yes, Mom. You Can Wear That

Fashion’s current fascination with menswear has brought fabrics traditionally used for men’s suiting back into the women’s wear spotlight. One of the most popular is houndstooth, and designers are using this classic men’s pattern in decidedly feminine silhouettes, such as dresses, skirts and slim fit trousers. These skinny velvet corduroy pants from Rag & Bone boast a flattering fit, and the mini houndstooth print is universally wearable. Take a traditional approach by pairing them with a white button-up, black blazer and lace-up oxfords, or go street chic with a short-sleeved sweatshirt and leather sneakers.

To buy: Rag & Bone, $185

It’s time to dust off your combat boots, as the military trend is back on the front lines for fall. Everything from tailored officer-inspired coats to 50 shades of Army green was seen on the runways. One of the most inspired of the season’s take on military is the creative use of camo prints, and Topshop’s silk shirt dress is a four-star example. Chic and sophisticated, this dress feels totally of-the-moment, but it's undeniably timeless. Keep it effortlessly cool with a bootie and leather motorcycle jacket, or go more refined with pointy-toed pumps and a tailored coat.

To buy: Topshop, $320