Crisp New Fall Looks

This season’s looks are crisp and cool. Click on the thumbnails below the story to see more of this season’s hot looks

Lace detail peasant blouse by Alythea, found at Mia Sorella, Barrington. Rock & Republic Stella Sequin Sexy R denim jeans from NV Clothing, Barrington. Bisang-designed amethyst mink walking coat with sable collar, from York Furrier, Elmhurst.

The cool, crisp breezes of fall are sweeping in a new season of fashion trends. This season is about using what you have to create new looks.

Anchor your outfit with one item, like dark-washed skinny jeans. When choosing fall jeans, try to stick with a color wash between medium and black. Avoid a big flare or bell-bottom.

Printed leggings are popular but must be paired very carefully. If using a daring print, add a simple blouse and a knee-high boot. Too much color or too many prints will hide your curves.

Pencil skirts are hot this fall and provide endless options and an easy transition from work to play. For daytime, match a soft-colored, ruffled top with a cardigan, tights and pumps. For the evening, lose the cardigan and tights and add some earrings.

Accessories are important to your trendy outfit, and this fall you have several choices. Animal prints are among the season’s catchiest. Choose a snakeskin bag, a spotted scarf or a pair of animal-print ballet flats. Statement jewelry is also huge, and you can find necklaces, bracelets and headbands that are jeweled up, jazzed up and puffed up. Try a chunky necklace or a cute headband with your favorite dress. Messenger bags are both stylish and efficient, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns. Sling one over your shoulder or cart it around for your errands, and then use it for a trip to the gym or an overnight stay.

Blazers and jackets are perfect with a simple outfit, and a plain black blazer is a must. It goes great with a cocktail dress or at the office. Match it up with a pair of leggings and a blouse, or try a cute pattern, like plaid and tweed. It even goes well with denim for a night out.

This fall’s blouses come in a variety of fabrics and prints. It’s best to have on hand at least one girly blouse (ruffles and light colors), one sexy blouse (think lace or silk), a few office blouses (think floral prints) and an everyday blouse. Mix and match with skirts, cardigans and denim for endless options.

Dresses, too, are a must, even in cooler weather. Try a sheath style for work or social events, and a short sweater dress or long-sleeved cotton dress for a fun, playful look. Cinch it at the waist with a belt and add some flats. The embellished shoulder dress is popular, but be sure to keep the accessories light and neutral. Pair your dress with leggings, tights, blazers or jackets for extra layers and warmth.

When thinking about shoes, start with boots that can go over your jeans and under your dress pants. Chunky, ruched knee-high boots are comfortable and stylish, and grey and brown are popular colors this season. Pick some pumps that are the perfect height and allow you to travel safely and comfortably. Black patent pumps are super chic and add a dash of sexiness.

Chain purses are a hot choice this fall, and they come in a variety of colors and styles. They match just about anything and look great in a bold purple, blue or emerald green. The purse is small, but the chain is long and stays close to your body, so you won’t lose it while dancing, shopping or running errands. Most have pockets for your important things.

Fall is an in-between season, so pack up your shorts, but keep out your favorite tanks, to wear under cardigans, and your bubble skirts, to wear with tights. And if you already own it, why not use it? Don’t be afraid to try something old for a new look.