By Rachel Pratl

 

Remember February? While you were enjoying your coziest sweaters, cashmere-soft scarves and luxe, toasty coats, the fashion gods convened in New York City for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week to display their fall 2014 collections.

 

Now, in September, Triangle women are suffering through North Carolina's sweltering temperatures.

 

Don't you wish for those crisp, chilly days? Believe it or not, they'll be here in no time.

 

So, prep your wardrobe for the change in weather. Incorporate pieces you already own. Splurge on a few must-haves. And use our tips to ensure that you rock the best of the runway.

 

 

Yellow Fever

This year, electric yellow isn't just for the warm climate. From rich honey to faint blonde, it's easy find the perfect hue for you.

 

Left: Textured knit sweaters in this pale shade will rejuvenate your well-worn neutrals.

 

Middle: When playing with this washed-out lemon, build visual interest with bold, gold accessories.

 

Right: Citrus ball gowns are best left to the models. In real life, you might draw all eyes to your beautiful face with a vivid saffron scarf.

 

 

 

 

Sheer Thing

Barely-there black gauze creates an alluring sense of intrigue. Have no fear - with modest black or nude underthings, you can pull this sexy look off for your next date night.

 

Left: Slip on a racy, semi-translucent, floor-length skirt for those refreshing early fall temperatures.

 

Middle: Don't retire your summertime crop-tops yet! Add a skin-baring sheer blouse.

 

Right: Have a special occasion coming up? Abstractly adorned dresses are as provocative as they are dazzling.

 

 

 

 

 

Cool Neutrals

This season, head-to-toe beige takes center stage. Want to flatter your figure? Monochromatic khaki casts a beautiful silhouette from every angle.

 

Left: Accentuate a lavish, cream-colored sweater with smooth-fitting, elegant buff trousers.

 

Middle: Create long, lean lines by opting for outerwear in an earthy color palette.

 

Right: Don a feminine camel dress with café au lait heels to lengthen the appearance of your legs.

 

 

 

 

Traditional Plaid

Thought plaid was reserved for your hubby's flannel shirts? Now you can flaunt that same borrowed-from-the-boys vibe in a much more fashionable way.

 

Left: Pair a structured mini-dress with chunky charcoal accessories for added chic-ness.

 

Middle: Pick a subdued plaid when working this trend into your fall work attire.

 

Right: We know you love it, but...unlike the model...limit yourself to one plaid garment at a time.

 

 

 

 

 

Winter Pastels

Typically stylish in the spring and summer, these flirty Easter-egg dyes are in vogue right now. No need to spend here – just look in your closet for these muted yet striking washes.

 

Left: Go professional glam in an icy azure silk blouse paired with a structured wool blazer.

 

Middle: Jazz up pale pink pants for the weekend with last season's denim button-down.

 

Right: Work a shimmering purple skirt with black tights, or choose black leggings for more warmth.

 

Next month:

NYC Runway Report – Part 2