2009 Fall

Razzle dazzle is hot, especially when we want to stand out. But don't we all have those days when we'd just rather go incognito? For those times, turn to Element's Fall '09 look book; it's filled with under-the-radar pieces that are cool but not flashy. Army jackets, asymmetrical cardigans, crochet sweaters, plaid dresses, denim vests, and slim jeans are some of the items du jour. Personally, one of my favorite looks is the one on the left. It has just enough layers and I dig the mix of soft and rough.

As far as Fall nail polish trends are concerned, I foresee lots of hot pinks, mushroom tones, smoky metallics, burnt oranges, deep, intense greens, and the return of purple — but with a little less smoke and a little more attitude. As far as textures go, think mattes, creams, and brushed, velvety finishes. But, if you're a fan of the shimmer, don't fret. There's plenty of sparkle to go around. Like most makeup collections, nail polish colors take inspiration straight from the runways, and since nails are a fashion accessory, after all, many of these recently launched polish shades come straight to us from the Fall catwalks. Let's just say I'm not bored.

With the Spring 2010 (whoa, 2010 — doesn't that sound so futuristic?) shows in the very near future, it's time to take final glimpses at Fall. What Fab trends will you be delving into? Which hot shoes tickled your fancy? Which heavenly handbags made you pant? During my runway research I accumulated some more favorite looks, stand-out pieces, awe-inspiring jewels, and simply cool honorable mentions. Thakoon's canary fur-collared coat atop luxe black separates is what fashion dreams are made of. Beam me up, Scotty!

Source: Getty

Shoe fix fixed. Time to grab on to one of Fall's heavenly handbags. Boy oh boy, are there some delectable lovelies. This quirky Chanel gets top honors. Its clear compartment style is over-the-top — I'll take the white bag in the middle and the Chanel iPod! The baby pink surroundings are little slices of heaven. See what's in the lineup from the likes of Derek Lam, Chloe, Dior, Jill Stuart, Alexander Wang, and many, many more.

No Fall glimpse would be complete without a preview of some of the most captivating shoes to trot down the runways. The boot of the season is no doubt the over-the-knee, while wicked platforms and cutesie pumps rule, too. Heels got a lot of play — curved, pin straight, studded, wooden. And textures were wild: brocade, woven leather, super stretch, rich suede, ruffled. It's time to experiment. Stare again at these John Galliano pom pom lace-ups? Well, I nevah!