With the change in seasons there's profusion of exciting new fashion trends and rich colors to set the mood for shorter days and cooler nights or vice-versa. Stay on top of the latest fashion trends for the fall and winter season with current eye-catching styles as well as classic favorites. Mix and match for the perfect combination to switch from work to play. Glossy! Vague! Soft! Rutted! Woolly! All these are textures that screamed to be touched, rubbed, and fondled. And if you don't want anyone doing those things to you, you may want to sit out of this season.

Texture is a prevalent theme this winter, as it usually is. Prada's fur collars have inspired neckwear in mohair, twisted fur (real and fake), chunky knits, velvet and even feathers. They're very flattering as long as you don't try and make them too perfect. With scarves, wear the knot a little loose and slightly to the side. With tie-on collars, wear it a little lopsided and not too tight. The messiness of these looks makes it seem approachable, gives it personality, makes it seem like a real person is wearing them, and not a store mannequin.

Tactile fabrics didn't just hit accessories, it's all over clothes. Knits - from chunky to delicate pointelle - are very strong. (Beware of some of those chunky turtleneck sweaters though. Sure, mine makes my legs look fabulously thin, but the thick neck almost cut off my air supply) I saw a mohair coat the other day that made my heart skip a beat. Velvet dresses and skirts are everywhere from Saks to Target.

Rich textures go hand in hand with lavish looks, and this season is no exception. Beading, kind of like gathering, decorative edges, feathers, and other details are popular. Simple basics are not what's hot - one of a kind, funky pieces that make a statement are. Touch is one of the most comforting senses, in my opinion. The right blend of texture and fit can make you feel like you're wrapped in your security blanket all day long. And, it's very attractive to others - wearing the right fabric can get you felt up all day long. Put on something soft and fuzzy during winter and enjoy the affection.

Color Trends

History shows that autumn is the most popular season to preview fashion trends. With cool weather moving in, we have a tendency to focus more on style. Fall fashions for women will demonstrate bold colors and earth tones to compliment flashier fabrics. Taking a cue from Paris and Milan, celebrities are wearing and eclectic mix of neutrals and bolds to express individuality. Charcoal and silver sets the overall trend for base colors while adding vibrant, eye-catching color. Women portray power and sophistication at work with understated monochrome and can step it up a notch for play with a chic black and gold combo. Real attention-getters are bold burgundy, purple, or lime green outfits paired with neutral accessories. Who says you shouldn't wear white after Labor Day? Not only are we seeing white paired with bright colors, were seeing white from head to toe. Add in some understated black accessories and you'll be ready for work or play.

Fall & Winter Fabrics

The new fall and winter season brings back some popular classic fabrics. In addition to mohair, suede, leather, fleece, and velvet, the cotton stretch fabric allows and expansion and movement. Denim and corduroy casual pants are stylish for the season but also add practicality. One of the many trendy fringe or simple leather belts are appropriate and emit a classic elegance. Metallic fabrics are not exclusive to clothing. Accessories such as purses and belts are used to catch the eye and accent styles. Worn not only for casual but formal, these shiny fabrics will make you feel like a Cinderella at the ball.

Patterns

Search for patterns that look best on you. Select from the classic pinstripes, jacquards, checks, paisleys, and tweed. These will all be all being available with the fall fashions. Choose wisely, they don't flatter all figures. Faux animal prints are all the rage this season, with leopard being the most popular. For those who are not so daring, accessories such as belts, handbags, and shoes can add just the animal or reptile look without being overstated. Look for alligator, crocodile, or snakeskin to complete your ensemble.

Styles

Traditional, tailored clothing are classics which are always a good choice for the workplace environment. Cover up with a print coat or coatdress when the weather turns cold. Cropped is not just for summer. In addition to long trousers, cropped ones can be appropriate for fall and winter, as long as they're worn with the right pair of shoes. Patent boots, flats, or sandals add a nice finishing touch only if they're conservative.

Dresses are taking a significant shift in detail. Soft, light fabrics with silkscreen designs are cropping up all over Hollywood. Varying waistlines flatter a wide variety of figures, allowing any woman to feel flirty and feminine. Trapeze dresses raise the waistline while adding length to the torso.

Fashion Trends and Accessories

This fall and winter season embraces the vintage look, with shiny fabrics, fake fur edgings and trim give an elegant look for late-night parties. A pair of high-heeled, designer sandals adds romance to mystery. Accents and Jewelry, fashionable scarves with intricate designs, glamorous gold jewelry is making a comeback, long, layered necklaces, stack rings, cuff bracelets, multi-faceted gemstones to catch the light, large, eclectic watches, faux crocodile and alligator handbags, belts, large handbags and totes for work, slouchy hobo bags, stylish satchels for play.

Shoes

Whether they're flats or heels, we're seeing a bit more bulk. Thick soles add height as well as style. Wedges double for business and pleasure. In lieu of leather, heavy fabrics provide a sturdy base for clunky buckles, zippers, and laces. Timeless boots provide protection and class. Leather trends are patent, adding shine back to shoes, handbags, and belts.