Fall '08 Trend Preview

Get ready for superhero-influenced garments like winter capes and bold shoulders, as well as preppy Gossip-Girl-inspired outfits both on the runways and in your local stores this fall.
Here's what to look for when you're doing your back-to-school shopping this fall.

Fun Shapes
Capes and strong shoulders were seen all over the fall runways this year, perfect for pairing with simple, streamlined pants. Cocoon coats and chunky knits are also a great way to stay stylishly warm as the weather starts getting cold.

Colours
Cool shades of blue and purple are the major stars of the season, although yellow remains popular, and warm reds and browns are perennial fall staples. In general, the palette for fall 2008 is a bit more subtle and muted than the past few seasons, so keep the neons and primary colours to a minimum.

Prints
Pay homage to Gossip Girl by donning a preppy plaid skirt with Mary Janes and a cute bow headband. Or, make a big statement in a plaid coat a la Marc Jacobs. Besides plaid, other popular patterns for fall include colorful ethnic and Nordic prints as well as dramatic ombre (French for "shaded," ombre prints have an effect of graduated colouring). Try a printed shift dress with boots, or add a touch of fall to any outfit with an ombre scarf. For the truly adventurous, there are even ombre jeans!

Details
Pretty blouses with ribbons detailing, bows, or tie-fronts are one of the top must-have pieces for this fall. Ruffled crinoline skirts are another popular feminine look, but don't forget to add some edge with studded belts or jewelry. Some designers went more over-the-top with gothic lace and lots of fuzzy fur, so feel free to take some inspiration from their outfits and come up with your own wearable alternatives!

Layering
Long, fitted cardigans are a perfect transition piece for fall, and can be paired with shorts or jeans for an effortless celebrity look. Textured and patterned opaque tights were also on nearly every major designer's runway, and can easily add some variety to your wardrobe while keeping you cozy. If you prefer more masculine looks, cropped vests are a great layering piece for fall too!

Basics
Skinny jeans are still essentials for teens, but more adventurous girls should pick up a pair of coloured or printed skinnies instead of just the usual blue and black. Trouser jeans are regaining popularity as well, so try a pair with a fitted top! Finally, feel free to ditch your old puffy bomber jacket in exchange for a stylish peacoat, and upgrade to a hot pair of black leather motorcycle boots with hardware accents instead of last year's Uggs.