Laura's Style's Jump Start on Fall Trends for 2012!

The end of July is coming closer. And then there is August. Some fun in the sun is still left in the month of September. But let's face it. Cold cool weather is coming whether we like it or not. Here is my list of must have trends for fall 2012 just to give you a jump start on your thought process.

1. Granny Chic 

{Left: Carolina Hererra. Right: Oscar de la Renta}

{Left: L'Wren Scott. Right: Oscar de la Renta}

By granny chic I don't mean to literally dress like your grandmother. I just mean take a few tips from the wise {older} lady. Lower the hemline on your skirts to below your knee. A longer style fitted pencil skirt can look very sexy. Wear a shawll, but make it something more fitted. Kind of like a sweater tube. Wear ladylike dresses. Button up your blouse collar {all the way} when layering them under sweaters and cardis or wear a pretty ruffled blouse under a cardigan. The idea is to keep the look fitted so you don't look like a bag lady. Also, a wool cape is a super cool granny chic item that you may want to own this fall. 

2. Monochromatic White

{Left: Derek Lam. Right: Lyn Devon}

{Left: Reed Krakoff. Right: The Row}

This trend is so beautiful and pure as the white of snow (bad word). It is also a pretty easy trend to wear. That is, if you can get over yourself and accept the fact that it is okay to wear white after labor day. Just watch your fabrics. I absolutely love this trend.

3. Hunting and Fishing

{Both of these looks are by Rodarte}

{Left: Ralph Lauren. Right: J Crew}

The hunting and fishing looks consist of lady like silhouettes in bold plaids (think glen plaid and houndstooth) Fair Isle prints, and tweeds as well as leather, shearling, fisherman knit sweaters, corduroys and sweater dresses.

4. Global Patterns

{Left: Altuzarra. Right: J Crew}

{Left: Ralph Lauren. Right Sophie Theallett}

By global patterns I mean old world elegance. If you adore this trend then you will need to invest in tribal patterns, fur and brocade fabrics. Such a rich and powerful trend! You will feel so in control and pretty!

5. Modern Military

{Left: Victoria Beckham. Right: Marc Jacobs}

For the modern military trend you will want to be on the look out for shoulder epaulets, anything double breasted, belted coats and jackets, and breast pockets. This look may seem strict but you will be surprised at how beautiful you actually feel when you wear it. You may even feel untouchable!

6. Streamlined Black Dressing

{Left Michael Kors. Right: Donna Karen}

Don't ever think that wearing black from head to toe is boring. When worn in different texture combinations, black can be very exciting! You will want to look for leather blouses, skirts, pants and jackets in smooth and textured varieties. Also invest in a great fitted black turtleneck. Black trousers are a must as well as a classic black handbag!

I am not looking forward to colder temps that's for darn sure, but the fact that fashion always gives us something to look forward to always adds a nice touch to the change of seasons. Wouldn't you agree?

Photos via Harper's Bazaar.
Find more looks for fall 2012 HERE.