Fall Fashion Tips, Trends

The flirty frocks of summer are giving way to tailored, classic details with a touch of 1940s glamour.

Laura Schara, trend expert for Macy's shares some tips for a fashionable fall.

"Gray was all over the runway (for the fall season)," said Schara. "Expect to see it everywhere for both men and women."

An all-gray appearance can be a bit dull, so Schara offers a tip to make it less drab: "Also, look for cobalt blue, shades of purple and berry, and pops of hot pink!"

"Yellow was really hot for summer. It will begin to fade away for fall," she said. "However cobalt blue will stay around. Don't store that cobalt dress just yet."

Textures For Fall

Schara offered the essential list of textures and fabrics to add to your fall wardrobe.

• Tweed
• Plaid
• Houndstooth
• Luxe fabrics
• Shiny silk
• Metallic brocade

Dress To Impress

"Summery bohemian frock and smock dresses should be tucked away," said Schara. "It's time to switch it up and wear a sleek sheath."

"The sleek sheath dress is making a comeback," said Schara. She suggests it as a wardrobe staple and a wise investment piece for your fall wardrobe because it will last many seasons, especially in a shade of grey.

Along with the sheath dress come trends that even those who don't like frilly, feminine touches can embrace.

"Man tailoring and menswear inspirations are important for fall fashion," she said. "You will see such things as wide leg trousers, pant suits and vests."

With the transition into wider leg jeans, many of the more fitted pant styles will begin to fade.

"Those who despised skinny leg pants will breathe a sigh of relief," said Schara. "Look for wide-leg trousers in denim as well as Glenn plaid, tweed and more."

Accessorize In Style

Accessorizing isn't about having jewelry that suits each and every outfit. Some trends from previous seasons will work with your fall wardrobe; others will not.

"The clear, Lucite jewelry we saw for summer is just too light for the fall season," said Schara.

Look for jewelry in more natural tones and finishes.

Hot Autumn Jewelry

• Pearls
• Metallics such as copper, bronze, gold and silver
• Hearts, discs and hoops
• Wood and shell finishes
• Exaggerated facets on stones
• Natural flourishes such as birds, trees and florals
• Jewelry with bright "pops" of color

Wearable accessories are going beyond your basic earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets.

"Gloves will be an important trend this season," said Schara. "A long leather pair looks great with all those three-quarter sleeves on jackets and coats."

This classic and classy accessory isn't the only item making its way into fall wardrobes.

"You'll also see hats popping up," she said. "Look for a cloche hat."

Not all trends are new for this season. You may find that some of the items you purchased this spring or summer transition well into your fall wardrobe.

"Wide corset belts continue into fall," said Schara.

Headbands and wraps are also continuing into the season. Expect hair accessories in plaids, houndstooth, and stripes in leather, satin and silks. Look for hair accessories such as pony tail ties with stripes or polka dots, and headbands, barrettes, hairpins and more with jewel embellishments.

Purses Take Shape

"Pack and store the ultra-mini bag and wristlet," said Schara.

It's also time to put away those large, unstructured hobos, at least for the fall.

"It's all about the day clutch," said Schara. "Its time to lighten the load and carry the day clutch -- which is an oversized clutch bag."

If you simply can't fit your necessities into a clutch, Schara offers an alternative. "Invest in a doctor's bag -- a framed, structured tote," she said.

Shoes, Boots And Tights, Oh My

"Tights are making a comeback," said Schara. "Look for very dark, opaque tights."

Tights offer a more polished look to dresses and skirts than bare legs. They can also improve the appearance of legs, hide imperfections and shape the hips, stomach and waist.

Shoes can make or break an outfit. Make sure the shoes you wear are clean and free of scuffs.

"It is all about the Oxford/town shoe – which is a lace-up shoe-boot," said Schara. "These should be worn with pants and dresses and accented with opaque tights."

Flats will continue their presence this fall, and ankle boots will become more popular. Look for these in tweed, plaids or textures such as suede and patent leather in gray, deep reds and metallics.

"Pumps are another classic for fall," said Schara. "Pumps with a small platform will be most important.

Keep Warm With A Hot Coat

"Outerwear is so important to keep current as we are in it so often in the winter months," said Schara.

"The statement coat is important," she said. "Buy a coat that will do just that -- make a statement."

"Look for a bold color, new shape such as trapeze or swing coat, or look for a coat that is embellished with fur trim or other details."

Coat Styles To Consider

• Cropped three-quarters sleeve jacket in plaids, tweeds
• Feminine jackets with rounded collars and detailed cuffs
• Knee-length wool coat with removable fur trim
• Pea coats and trenches in traditional colors –- navy, black, camel
• Brocade coat with metallic detailing
• Coats in bright, signature colors such as poppy red, cobalt blue and plum

With only a few key pieces, you can enhance your previous fall wardrobe with key pieces that update and accentuate your personal style.