Trendstalking: Fall/Holiday ’08 Edition

Most of you have probably already started, or are about to start buying your Fall wardrobe. And as always with a new season in fashion comes a whole new set of trends! Of course, as a buyer, I always have to keep my eyes open for new trends popping up along with being aware of which ones are carrying over from last season. So here’s my complete Fall 2008 trend guide:

New(ish) Trends:

• Crochet necklines:

Very elegant and cute. Purchased the Bryce & Bouji Basket Weave top (pictured above), which is the piece I’ll probably add to my wardrobe.


• Lace:

For so many years I was in love with lace, but now? Not so much. It just strikes me as dated and sort of stuffy now. Kova & T is doing lace leggings this season and I think they’re just awful. But a little black lace dress can definitely work.


• Tiered layers/strips:

This is the trend I pointed out a couple of weeks ago. I’m liking it a lot but I have a feeling it won’t catch on particularly strong.


• Equestrian:

Looks great on other people, but skinny/stretchy pants do not suit my figure!


• Plaid:

This one is fun, and practical. I’d love to add a ruffled button down plaid top to my wardrobe. Rihanna pulled this off perfectly:



• Sheer:

I’m seeing sheer blouses and sheer sleeves popping up at some of the upscale brands and boutiques. I’m on the fence with this one, and probably won’t be wearing it myself. I passed on buying any sheer merchandise just because it doesn’t always photograph well.

Continuing Trends

• Leggings (including Latex).

Just accept it, they’re not going anywhere! I don’t mind it either because I think leggings are really versatile and comfy, but I prefer wearing them with boots, so technically no one knows for sure if they’re leggings. And these latex leggings are really growing on me. There are ways to make them not look tacky; they just give a regular outfit an edge. However, the only place I go is to the supermarket, so I’ll probably have to pass.


• Opaque & semi sheer tights:

To me it looks like the focus this year will be on black opaque tights rather than semi sheer ones, like it was last year. And colored stockings will probably be even bigger. Today, I purchased black and purple opaque tights and a pair of striped gray ones. The purple will probably go back because I’m afraid of looking like the Joker in them. But hello deep semi sheer purple and/or Bordeaux.


• Ruffles:

My absolute fave! I just bought a black vest from BeBe with mini ruffles and I’m in love with it. I want to get some sort of a plain jersey ruffled top before fall as well. I think at least one ruffled blouse is a must have for everyone’s wardrobe.

• Fringe:

I hated when Fendi did all that fringe stuff last year, and I REALLY hate those fringe boots some of the famous “fashionistas” are wearing. I think ostrich feathers are better option, personally.


• Long cardigans/knit vests:

Just keep the ones from last year; don’t invest in any new ones.


• Wraps:

Everyone needs to have at least one of these in their wardrobe for fall! How often do we see a trend that is practical and looks great at the same time? My wardrobe already consists of a gray cashmere wrap and a dark green cocoon but I’ll probably add two jersey wraps soon.


• Leather:

Leather jackets are carrying over from last year (I’m not as keen on hem, but I’m glad my Forever 21 one hasn’t fallen apart) and skinny leather pants will be hot as well. Oh, leather pencil skirts are super cute as well! It’s all about wearing them correctly so that it doesn’t look trashy.


• Look-at-me Necklaces

: Or as Nina Garcia calls them, “statement jewelry”. I like my name better. I have at least one of these left over from a year or two ago, and I’ve had my eye on this huge, chunky necklace at Express for a while now. These are perfect to dress up a basic turtleneck.


• Belts:

It’s been, what, three or maybe even four years since the whole wide belts at the natural waist trend came along? It’s still going strong, and rightfully so.


• Thick Heels & Flats:

Flats are still going to be hot. And the “it” heel seems to be getting significantly chunkier.

Silhouettes, Textures & Colors
There’s not that much play on shape this season; it’s either very straight, or a very full hem.

• Skinny jeans




• High waisted bottoms:

I still don’t like high waisted pants on anyone, but high waisted skirts, pencil or a-line, are absolutely love. Lauren Conrad always looks cute in the ones she wears everywhere, paired with just a basic tank.


• Asymmetry




• Bubble:

I’m really surprised this hasn’t died already.


• Wide leg pants




• Full skirts




• Patent & Croc:

Or both, like the Onna Ehlrich make up bags I should be getting any day now. They look sort of like the clutch pictured below, but with patent crock + suede.



• Metallic:

I really wish this would go away.


• Cobalt blue:

I’ve always loved this color, it’s so striking. I’m so tempted to keep one of the Love Quotes scarves I bought in this color, but I have a feeling it’s going to be a big seller. Such a Catch 22.


• Jewel toned purple:

Most of the merchandise I bought for fall is either this color or black, no joke.

I don’t find any of these trends particularly offensive, so no complaints here from me. My top three favorite trends are ruffles, black stockings and the high waisted skirt. Anyone of any body shape can pull off those three trends; heck, you can even wear them all together and they’ll look fab!

So, you guys know I want your input! Did I get this right, or did I miss something major? What do you love and what do you hate? What have you bought, and what do you plan on buying? Don’t forget to post it in the comments section!