Fall fashion 2009 trend forecast: Fall fashions

Galen Hardy, the clothing czar at Zappos.com about this fall's hottest fashion trends says, "Lace, leather and denim are the staples for this fall's fashion wardrobe. Look for denim leggings and Ponte pants, top them off with a stylish boyfriend blazer or a trendy leather bomber, and you have a great look that transitions easily from work to evening.  Jumpsuits continue to be strong for fall, and dresses with lace accents, rouching or delicate details will carry right through into the holiday party season."

"The runways for Fall 2009 display trends described as 'bohemian luxury.'" This offers a great mix of unexpected earthy prints in newly sophisticated colors. Look for lots of rose, olive and blues on the palette.

"Designers have explored mixing more soft feminine silhouettes with edgy and bold pieces that make it easy for the consumer to follow the latest trends while exploring self expression," says Andrea Updike, designer for the chic-yet-affordable DownEast Basics. Her fall line offers both essential layering pieces in these debut colors along with bohemian inspired printed skirts, dresses and accessories.

What's hot this season?

Vests

You'll see lots of faux fur collars and animal skin fabrics, as the tribal trend appears to be here to stay. But that's not all – there will be a lot of tailored, contemporary looks.

Skinny jeans

Skinny jeans have been hot for several seasons now, but now skinny pants are big as well. You'll continue to see leggings and tights. It's part of a trend leaning toward sleek, slim and streamlined.

Pleated tops

I love this trend because it's GREAT for us girls who don't have a lot going on up there – but it works for those of you who do, too. The accordion pleat neckline is feminine, new and pretty much universally flattering.

Military jackets

We can blame it on Michael Jackson tributes, but it was actually on the way back before he passed. The military look – jackets, vests, even pants – is a huge fall wardrobe staple.

My personal favorite shopping destination, Loehmanns, says they are noticing several distinct looks from their top designers this fall:

Rocker chic

This style is powerful, with sophisticated polish: acid wash, leather, studs and similar embellishment.

Sparkle and shine

Opulent and edgy details for day or evening; look for tons of metallic, sequins and gunmetal gray.

Statement accessories

Statement accessories will be all the rage, with embellished shoes, boots of all heights with thigh high becoming key, statement necklaces, eye-catching gloves, scarves, hobo and other relaxed bags taking the forefront.

Loads of color

Look for everything from black and white combinations, to hot pinks and cobalt blues, to cognacs and chocolate browns and plums and raspberry.

What are your favorite looks of the season? Do you have a trend you are already hating? Comment and let us know!

Check out our Fall Fashion photo galleries:

Best of Fall Fashion 2009
Best of Fall Shoes 2009
Best of Fall Fashion 2009 Accessories
Best of Fall Fashion 2009 Outerwear