As we head into November, I would like to pass on a celebratory nod to everyone in the NA community. Summer has long come and gone, but we still have a little time yet before winter’s first snow.  Accordingly, it is time to put summer’s styles back into the  closet, and to bring out the fall apparel.  Be excited, as trends for fall 2010—both men’s and women’s—offer a fresh perspective on the standard fall wear.

Fall’s fashion-forward woman is strong and edgy, glamorous and feminine, all at the same time.  This season, riding wear is big.  Tweed jackets, knee-high boots and brown leather jackets make for a chic look—and do not forget to throw in some plaid to complete the outfit!

Following up on the riding wear trend, knits are very much in style. As the weather becomes colder, pair a chunky knit sweater with skinny jeans and heeled boots for a look that is sensible, yet stylish.

The military trend is dominating fall fashion as well.  The look is prevalent in a lot of cameo, but also in utility coats in olive hues, with ruffles or gold accents to add a feminine flare to these typically masculine pieces.  Fall’s ready-to-wear shows were filled with crop jackets that featured military-inspired shoulder pads and lace-up boots, for a look that is simultaneously edgy and cute.

On to the next, the 70’s have dominated fall fashion trends; it’s girly and glam, and any girl can have fun rocking looks inspired from this decade.  Faux fur vests and long waist-defining dresses make for a fun and flirty look for any wearer.  These looks best when accessorized; think hats, gloves, fringe bags, and wedges to give personality to the look!

The final women’s wear trend is of course, menswear for women!  Whether in the form of corporate separates like blazers, pinstripe dresses, neat white button-downs or  the casual loafers, women this fall are glamming up menswear.  This “urban chic woman” looks both professional and modern as she roams the city streets on her way to work, or out for lunch.  The trend demonstrates women really owning conservative glamour, with savvy high necklines that exude such a polished appearance.

To the men of NA, I have in no way forgotten about you!  Fall’s fashion-forward man is bold and adventurous in his choice of

clothing.

One of this season’s most popular  trends is the chambray shirt. It looks like denim, but it is actually a lightweight, cotton button down that happens to be popular in blue at the moment.  It is comfortable and versatile, as it can be worn in three ways: closed on its own, over a T-shirt as a light jacket, or with a tie for a semi-formal occasion.

Next, the military-inspired trend is very much popular for men this season as well.  A jacket with front pockets and a snap closure over the zipper executes the look beautifully.

The next trend for men this season brings a new meaning to the “man-purse.”  The workwear bag is a great new addition to this season’s trends.  Especially for students or travelers, a practical bag is essential, and this one fits the bid perfectly.  It is not totally leather, making it more affordable, but it is assuredly durable and (contrary to some people’s opinion) manly.  These bags come in neutrals, so they go with any outfit.

Next up for the men is plaid.  No matter how guys wear it, plaid says bold and confident.  To emulate Chuck Bass’s own approach to this trend (of Gossip Girl fame, boys), consider going for a plaid tie to make a statement.

The following trend may be labeled as “experts only” or “warning, wear at your own risk” for many guys, but really it only takes a little more ambition to wear it successfully: the chunky scarf.  For a guy that can handle it, chunky scarves make a great fashion statement. They compliment a variety of looks—a grey tweed sports jacket for example—and are perfect for the in between weather of fall.

The next trend I am going to cover is a personal favorite; Grandma’s Christmas sweater is back—in style!  Instead of reindeer and snowmen, these bold, graphic knits are showcasing preppy patterns such as lacrosse sticks or rustic alpine imagery to achieve a very masculine look.  These are perfect for the man that wants to venture away from drab solids that usually permeate men’s fashion.

Lastly, to touch on this season’s men’s accessory trend alert, I will discuss the “blacked-out” watch. All black and classic, this is for the man that does not want the bling, but still wants to look trendy and polished.  Very manly and very timeless, this watch has been dominating men’s ready-to-wear this fall.

With that, I conclude my report on men’s and women’s trends this season.  To all of NA, happy styling!