As summer slinks to a close, we are already getting anxious. No, it’s not work or school or the pace of life that’s the problem. It’s not whether we’ll get into shape fast enough or be able to finally kick that coffee habit. It’s not even whether we’ll be working the kinks out of our relationships. It’s OMG, FALL FASHION! Which clothes am I gonna buy first?
Indeed. Let us loose in a mall and we could get dizzy and pass out from all the excitement. Everything brand new everywhere can turn into one big blur if you don’t know what you’re shopping for. Well, we can’t have that, now can we?
So grab your pumpkin spice and everything nice, sit back, relax, and let us lay the groundwork before you hit the ground running. It’s time for your 2015 fall fashion primer.
THE TOP 5 FALL FASHION TRENDS
1. Fringe
We know what you’re thinking: Didn’t we just do fringe this summer with the Boho trend? Yes, and lucky you, you can keep everything you’ve bought. Now just make fall the fantastic transitional fashion season it is by incorporating your fringe accessories like a pro: purse, belt or even jewelry. For those itching to buy something new, check out the gorgeous fringe skirts, jackets, and even capes (see 2. below). You’ll see them all everywhere, at all different price points.
Pro Tip: If you love hanging out in fringe, keep the rest of your outfit minimalist, lest you start looking like a car wash. 
Topshop suede gilet, $250; Balmain Leather Fringe Dress, $13,000; TopShop Faux Suede Fringe trimmed jacket, $72; Gia faux leather fringe mini skirt, $40; Frye Suede Fringe Bag, $700; Faux suede fringe boot, $60; Iosselliani fringe earrings, $305; Chloe Fringe Bracelet, $1100; Tory Burch fringe statement necklace, $385;
2. Capes
It’s official: Capes are the new jackets, and why not? Not only are they extremely flattering to your shape (no more worrying you can’t button it up) but they also add a degree of stylish sophistication to your outfit. Loving a little extra flair, designers everywhere sent capes down the runway in every colour, shape, style and fabric imaginable. Whether you invest in a cape for your everyday look or prefer to wear one just for special occasions, it’s definitely a must-have item this year.
Pro Tip: Wondering how to rock your cape? Think leggings, rider boots, turtleneck and cape.
Burgundy woolen cape, $75; Alexander McQueen belted cape, $4800; Missoni classic cape, $2300; Sacai luck military cape, $1800; Sofia cashmere fur-trimmed cape, $3200; Givenchy leather cape, $8100; Yoins cap sleeve cape, $50;
3. The Statement Blouse
There’s something very exquisite about a woman in a fabulous blouse. Whether it’s a perfectly tailored dress shirt or a feminine chemise, it’s one of those rare pieces that can look simple and stunning no matter what it’s paired with. This season, designers took the blouse to the next level by making it the centerpiece of the outfit. From high neck victorian collars, to (the unfortunately named) pussy-bow blouses, to coloured works of art, the statement blouse is here to take the pressure off over-accessorizing while ensuring you maintain a polished look.
Pro Tip: Want to hang on tight to your simple dress shirt? No problem. Try adding a gorgeous bib necklace for a little style update. 
H&M white v-neck tie blouse, $30; Dorothy Perkins chiffon polkadot pussy bow tie blouse, $50; Dolce & Gabbana black lace tie blouse, $3100; Vintage Celine yellow pussy bow shirt, $300; Oscar De La Renta window pane blouse, $1800; Victoria Beckham sleeveless ruffle blouse, $300; Dorothy Perkins mandarin collar blouse, $60; Kenzo A-line crop blouse, $400
4. Fur
If there’s one thing we know it’s that fashion should never suffer in the cold. Solution: Wrap yourself in something warm. Real or faux, plain or colourful, designers are having fun playing with fur in their collections. From fur-trimmed coats at Matthew Williamson, fur stoles at Stella McCartney and even fur skirts at Zac Posen, there are limitless options when it comes to how to wear this soft, cozy trend.
Pro Tip: Don’t want fur next to your skin? Opt for a cute accessory as simple as a furry little pompom for your car keys or purse. 
River Island faux leather fur biker jacket, $165; Philosophy rabbit fur cropped jacket, $3000; Topshop faux fur scarf, $60; Faux fur leopard print clutch, $45; Choies red faux fur parka, $100; Jocelyn patchwork fur vest, $900; Iphoria fox fur iPhone case, $165; Freda calfhair boots, $275;
5. Ribbed Knitwear
As we start to feel the chill in the air, we’re reaching for whatever feels both light and comfy at the same time. Keeping warm is fine, as long as we don’t spend all our time indoors sweating. Plus, we need long-sleeved knits that are a little form-fitting, so the shape flatters. Ribbed knitwear is it for fall. This forgiving fabric will be your go-to this season. Shell out for a turtleneck, a sweater or even a dress, and you’ll find yourself wearing your ribbed fashion all the time.
Pro Tip: This weight is so versatile you can take it from day to night just by adding a brighter lip colour or a higher heel. 
Arcopedico knit oxford, $195; SheIn geometric knit cardigan, $35; Modaoperanda asymmetrical knit skirt, $450; Jaeger wool slouchy sweater, $300; Theory knitted joggers, $400; MaxMara yellow knit cable sweater, $400; G-Starr loose cable knit turtleneck, $130; SheIn blush high-waisted knit skirt, $25; Alexander Wang ribbed striped dress, $220
So? What are you going to buy first?
