By Katie Jenkins

 

It's that time of year again – when Triangle women pack up their sundresses and eagerly await the first looks of fall.
We've got you covered with fabulous styles straight from global runways and tips on how to translate them from the catwalks to the sidewalks.

 

 

Eye-catching necklines

Dramatic collars are on designers' minds this season. Right-now looks include lacy lapels, faux-fur wraps, bedazzled busts, and embellished shoulder-pieces.

 

Not sure you can pull off a Cleopatra-like choker? No worries! Instead, try a jeweled bib necklace over a simple, solid-colored sweater for a casual stroll down Franklin Street.

 

Wary of the ultra-low V-necks and bird-cage collars? Draw attention to your neck with something classic and flattering, such as a cowl-neck blouse.

 

 

 

 

Emerald city

Splashes of green provided a refreshing break from the mostly black collections on the catwalks for fall. We saw touches of emerald in everything from ball gowns to leather jackets to green patterned pants.

 

On your next evening at DPAC, try suede, emerald pumps for a cool edge. Worn with black or dark skinnies, the deep green stands out without outshining the rest of your ensemble.

 

Searching for something more daytime-friendly? Dark green jeans or cords are casual-chic when paired with a soft, cream-colored sweater. The contrast between the two colors makes the green pop.

 

 

 

 

Chunky sweaters

Boyfriend sweaters made their debut a few years ago, and I, for one, am glad they decided to stay. The boyfriend fit is much looser and longer than a typical cardigan or crewneck sweater, which makes this style more relaxed than its tighter counterpart.

 

For date night in downtown Raleigh, wear a long, loose-fitting pullover paired with slim-legged pants and a pendant necklace. The contrast between the slender pants and baggy sweater gives your legs a svelte appearance.

 

A cozy, oversized cardigan matched with skinny jeans and riding boots will shout comfort chic at the next college football game.

 

 

 

Sassy suiting

Updated work-wear was all over the runways for fall. Many designers mixed traditional suit silhouettes, such as pencil skirts and blazers, with modern features to give them a contemporary feel. Several used bright colors or bold patterns, and some adorned suits with military-inspired add-ons, such as buckles and leather.

 

You can sass up your classic suits by adding something fresh but simple, such as textured tights or a ruffled blouse.
Or, play with pattern by investing in a boldly printed blouse or skirt in gray-and-black plaid.

 

 

 

 

Textured metallics

Fabrics with high shine, such as shimmery lace, glittering sequins and sparkling snakeskins, were popular in the fall shows.

 

Off the runway, textured metallic is best worn in moderation. Handbags, shoes, belts and clothing accents all look glamorous with a metallic sheen.

For girls' night out, polish your outfit with a pair of gold or embellished flats.

 

For a day-to-night ensemble, match a sweater with metallic threading with a pair of dark-wash denims. The sweater is casual enough for day, but catches the lighting perfectly at night.

 

 

 

 

 

Seeing reds

Fashion week didn't feature a lot of bright colors, but it certainly had its share of reds. Crimson, candy-apple, burgundy and scarlet were all big.

 

These classic hues can carry you from September to December by adding flash to your toned-down fall and winter wardrobe.

 

For warm September days in the Triangle, don a bright shade of jeans, such as a coral, with a lightweight, neutral blouse.
When the weather starts to cool, opt for something in a darker shade, like a wine-colored pea-coat or sweater... perfect for holiday get-togethers.

 

 

 

 

Sweeping coats

Floor-sweeping outerwear took center stage at fashion shows throughout the world this season, while short pea-coats seemed to be on hiatus.

 

Some designers spiced up the winter staple by using bold patterns, such as animal print, and bright hues, such as cobalt, instead of the usual blacks and grays.

 

Once the temperatures drop in the Triangle, spice up your classic coat by adding a leopard-print scarf and bright gloves.

 

Or add glam to your trench by embellishing it with a brooch.