The Dos & Don’ts of Fall Fashion

We get it: Navigating all the new trends coming at you right now can be a difficult process. Hoping to make shopping for—and wearing—fall’s new looks easier, we’ve pulled together a few pointers on how to dress for fall success.

The Statement Necklace

DO remember that bigger is better! Fall’s supersize necklaces, especially the amazing crystal stunners at Burberry, are a great style shortcut: Slip a large necklace over any outfit and—voilà—your look is instantly fall 2008. Just DON’T wear yours outside your winter coat—something as precious and pretty as that should be kept under wraps!

Long Gloves

Once reserved for fifties prom styles, elbow-length gloves resurfaced this season topping off daytime and evening looks alike. DO buy a pair in a versatile color like black, brown or navy—you’ll want to live in them all season long. But DON’T forget to take them off when you’re not outside: Only grannies and pageant queens wear gloves indoors!

Western Plaids

Bold plaids like the ones Ralph Lauren whipped up are an easy DO to pull off this season: Simply throw on this trendy new piece with basic black separates that you already have in your closet, like a turtleneck or knee-length dress. Just DON’T add cowboy boots and a studded belt unless you’re really at home in the range. (Yes, that means you, city slicker.)

Bow Blouses

It’s hard to pull off a bow blouse without looking too prissy, so follow this fool-proof style rule: DO choose a dainty blouse like the ladylike numbers spotted on the Bill Blass runway to dress up jeans or a basic black skirt, and DON’T forget to tuck it in! A tailored top that’s untucked looks unflattering and super sloppy.

Velvet

When it comes to velvet, the season’s plushest fabric, DO keep it short and sweet by opting for a minidress like Erin Fetherston’s. Unless you’re an opera singer or interviewing for a job at the local Renaissance fair, DON’T go for the floor-length velvet gown.

Dark Beauty

Givenchy’s moody, head-to-toe black looks made waves this season: Madonna liked them so much, the trendsetting star tapped Givenchy designer Ricardo Tischi to design costumes for her Sticky & Sweet tour—and imitating Madonna can be a DO! Just DON’T go for the dominatrix look: Leave the leather pants to Madge, and just seek out a black ruffled blouse to wear with dark jeans or black pants.

Full, Knee-length Skirts

From Diane von Furstenberg to Michael Kors, fall runways saw the return of the full, knee-length skirt. While it’s a flattering look for both day and night, DON’T spoil it by wearing flats, which can make legs appear shorter than they really are. DO pair with heels and a belted waist for a demure silhouette.

’80s Inspired

Multicolor, mixed-up looks with eighties undertones turned up on many runways this season including Marc by Marc Jacobs, Betsey Johnson and Sass & Bide. DON’T wear Doc Martens with leather pants and a shoulder-padded blazer unless you’re a big Billy Idol fan. (And even then, DON’T do it.) DO take a playful approach to fall fashion by sporting a studded bag or cuff

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Black Lace

If you think this fabric’s just for third dates and brides, think again. A staple on runways including Prada and Gaultier, fall’s sexy black lace dresses are a favorite among the fashion crowd. (Case in point: Gwyneth Paltrow recently sported this Balmain LBD to a film premiere.) Just DON’T show too much skin. When wearing a micromini like this one, steer clear of stilettos unless you want to be mistaken for a cocktail waitress. Instead, try a pair of black patent flats—which are a DO with any outfit, in any season.