By Emily Kopec

Feeling the creeping chill of the winter months approaching begs one question more important than all others: “Hold on, what the hell do I wear?!” Whimsical tanks and sandals don’t cut it anymore. (Don’t tell anyone, but I was getting bored with them anyway). With the not-as-crazy-as-last-year-yet-still-innovative looks sashaying down the runways for fall and winter, I feel all warm and fuzzy inside knowing my wardrobe will get a boost for the better during the seasonal shift. Let’s raise a toast of mulled apple cider (perhaps spiked a bit) to that, shall we, and take a look at what’s on trend for the coming season.

The Brave New Lace. Although vintage lace is always fab, the lace of the season is modern and bold. Designers are placing dark sheer lace over pale solid fabric, resulting in a suggestive look (whoa, is that skin underneath her lace shirt?) that is still ladylike (nope, it’s fabric). Look for see-through lace inserts and geometric shaped solid piping over the lace. Not to be ignored, sheer lace sleeves are making a comeback in all their feminine glory, and I also like all the lacy necklines I’m seeing. Topshop really nails the lace trend with their slightly “more naughty than nice” Lace Mesh Panel Skirt, $70 (topshop.com).

Menswear Trousers. I admit it. I’ve always been jealous of the businessman’s gray, professional-yet-comfortable swishy pants. While for-her trousers are no new invention, they’ve gotten some cool updates for fall. They’re rocking a slightly higher waistline (often with just a simple tab closure) and a generous-cut straight leg that falls with fluidity. This style tends to be unforgiving on the hips and thighs, so make sure your trousers aren’t too tight on top. (I don’t know about you, but I’m not down with looking like my hips, butt and thighs are about to simultaneously explode through my pants.) Express rules my budget-challenged world when it comes to sexy, affordable trousers with the perfect combination of stretch and slouch. Try the Studio Stretch Wide Leg Stylist Pant, $69 (express.com). Makes me want to swish and strut my stuff on Wall Street.

Calling all Men, Fellas and Gents!

Men, let’s get real: you got away with wearing some pretty sloppy clothes during the carefree days of summer, but now it’s fall and you’re this close to getting a ticket from the Fashion Police. Get acquainted with the coolest fall threads and make the world a better looking place.

This fall, the military look is invading men’s fashion ~ but this is not your run-of-the mill army jacket garb. Military clothes have taken a decided turn for the historical ~ like, WWII times historical. Um, so what does this mean? Watch the flick Enemy at the Gates and be inspired by the well-groomed gentlemen dressing in official soldier threads. Now don’t go buy an actual soldier’s uniform, or any piece thereof, that’s not the point. Looking suave is the point. That a quality greatcoat goes a long way is the point. No, that’s not great coat. Greatcoat. It resembles a pea coat but has a more prominent single or double-breasted collar (wear the collar up for maximum impact), polished brass buttons and a longer length.

Another key piece to this look is the aviator boot. These functional boots makes me think of a cross between what a fighter pilot and a soldier would wear. And they look hot. It’s the whole “Ooh, yummy, men in uniform” thing that works for us ladies. Dark hued, slim pants and shirts with zippers compliment this style nicely without making you look too geared up for battle. A good resource for ideas is revampvintage.com, a simple site featuring cool men’s vintage recreations from the ‘30s and ‘40s. On a final note, remember that people took pride in dressing up back in your great-grandfather’s day. Got all that, young man?

Cool Zippers. Say hello to the edgy, sexy zipper of the season, not to be confused with last season’s multiple zig- zagging-all-over-the-place-fast-and-furious zippers. A single bold zipper going up the back of a jersey dress is hot, as are dark skinny jeans with zipper pockets. A simple, loose-cut heather gray top with a randomly placed zipper in front is fabulous too. The most lavish, is-that-drool-on-your-chin way to own this trend? That would be the kill-worthy Christian Louboutin Rolandzip Pumps, jingling in at $795 (netaporter.com). These glorious beasts are clearly out for blood ~ they have a sick silver zipper with a circle clasp going up the back of the heel. Let’s just say when you exit the room, people won’t be staring at your ass. Okay, at least the girls and boys who know their fashion won’t be.

Bell Bottoms. Bell Bottoms? That’s right sister, B-E-L-L bottoms. With an overwhelming emphasis on skinny bottoms for many a season, this trend is so far out it’s in, man. To tone down the Jan Brady-ness of it all, get acquainted with three simple elements to look for that will result in the perfect marriage of bell bottom and wide-leg: 1) a dark wash with no fading ~ upscale and slimming, 2) a trouser-like material ~ cotton with a teeny bit of elastane will do the trick, and 3) a more gradual bell opening ~ once the jeans hit the knees, they need not explode out into an exaggerated bell. Rather, a gradual opening from the knee all the way to the bottom will give enough of a bell effect without screaming, “Look at me, I’m a hippie.” The jean that combines all these elements in perfect harmony is 7 For All Mankind’s Ginger jean, $155 (neimanmarcus.com). How do I know? Because I own them, bee-atches.

Steal the Styles of Your Favorite TV Shows

Seriously, I’m just mad about the 60s looks of the hit show “Mad Men.” The trapped-in-a-man’s-world female characters make ladylike dresses and skirts look fresh again. To inject some mod into your wardrobe, pick one item like an A-line, empire-waist or sheath dress, and keep the rest modern. Also, a cute swing coat tops off just about any outfit swell. Accessory-wise, bring on the retro-looking watches, top-handle doctor bags (already a trend this fall), gloves, oversized pearl chokers, and (always a favorite of mine) wide headbands. Men get in on the look with fine and proper suits, namely the two-button suit with double-pleated trousers. Tweed jackets, the double-breasted trench coat and fedoras are great outdoor add-ons that also help build the stylish, in-control image of a man worthy of his Lucky Strikes.

Whether you’re a Serena or a Blair, it’s easy to get lost in the high-fashion fantasy world of “Gossip Girl.” These NYC high-society scenesters (and the actors who portray them) are young, rich, beautiful, and chic beyond belief. For those of us who don’t have a no-limit gold card or a first-name relationship with Carolina Herrera (don’t judge), here are a couple of “gossipy” outfit ideas that involve items you may already own: a high-waisted patterned, silky skirt worn with black tights, high heel booties, a gray or black shell, and a blazer ~ or how about a black jumpsuit with a thin, bright belt worn with a chunky cropped cardigan and metallic heels. Much of this lavish look is about layering and mixing colors, textures and patterns so some set the primary tone while others act as the final, eye-catching, inspired pops. So unleash your creativity, and don’t forget to use multiple necklaces and jumbo-sized handbags to give your outfit a high-fashion appeal…Ruffles and sequins don’t hurt either.

If you’ve been sinking your teeth into “The Vampire Diaries,” you’re probably also a fan of the show’s leather-heavy fashion that is surprisingly more everyday high school than gothic. After all, the vampires have to blend in with the mere mortals. Leather jackets and the color red are the staples of this very wearable wardrobe. I find the use of dark neutrals over the black we’ve come to expect from anything vampire-related to be refreshing (and there sure is no shortage of vampires these days). Versatile basics like scoop-neck tees, cropped leather jackets, skinny jeans, flannel shirts and flats all set the inconspicuous yet stylish tone. Guys can really play up the leather look in a bad-boy-yet-sensitive way by mixing in crisp, collared shirts and gray straight-leg jeans with their leather duds. These outfits definitely don’t “bite.”

Beauty and Hair Trends Say goodbye to summer’s beachy, carefree locks and hello to the silky, sleek strands of fall. Is this perfectly straight style harder to achieve than your old tousled waves of summer? You betcha. But the plus is that once you blow out your triceps styling your hair straight, you won’t have to a damn thing and it will last for days if you use the modern-day hair miracle known as dry shampoo. We love Psssssst Instant Spray Shampoo ($7.99, drugstore.com or your local drugstore) to make any ‘do go on for days and days. OK, this season’s straight style is shinier and glossier than ever so ladies, start your flat irons. After center parting your hair and blowing it dry, use a flat iron to mend out every little nook and cranny until your hair is stick straight. Don’t go heavy on the products or you’ll weigh down your masterpiece. Also, to keep your new straight ‘do full of volume and prevent it from falling flat, flat iron bigger sections of pieces at a time. We can deal with that. Fall’s other big hair trend is a little (OK, a lot) easier to create: The Messy Ponytail. Oh how we love The Messy Ponytail for so many reasons, namely it’s easy to do and it looks damn cool. And it doesn’t discriminate; both curly and straighter hair types can pull it off with pizzazz. Here’s how to create it in a snap: start with dry hair (day-old or more is best). Separate the front and back sections, then back-comb the back section with a rat-tail comb and clip it aside. Next, back-comb the front section and smooth it in with the lower section, securing it into a low or mid-length ponytail. Play with the tail by back-combing certain areas even further to manipulate it into the imperfect, sexy, messiness desired. Now hairspray that sucker to keep it that way. Blake Lively, eat your heart out. (You can also change it up by doing a messy bun or chignon).

Fall beauty is abuzz with striking kohl-rimmed eyes framed by long, dark lashes. It’s more technical and artsy than smudgy and dark, so yeah, have your secretary hold all your morning calls because it’s gonna take some time. Start with a clean, primed lid and line away with black kohl liner. You can lightly smudge the liner to get it looking connected, but don’t go crazy. Gold and bronze eye shadow is the way to go for an updated strong eye. After all your fancy lidwork is done, use an eyelash curler to get the best curl you can and apply at least two coats of black mascara. Our mascara staple is Lancome Definicils ($24.99, sephora.com). Don’t forget the lower lashes, as they are also a key part of this look. The Nude Lip reigns supreme this season, but read our lips: it’s matte and natural with hints of burnt orange and brown. (How awesomely early ‘90s). Frosty ‘n glossy kissers are taking a much-needed season off. Nail shades are earthy and muted, like camel, gray, and mud. For the more risqué, there is a fun, unexpected nail color of the season: baby blue! Essie’s Lapis of Luxury ($8.00, essieshop.com) is sure to brighten up those chilly days.

14 Carat Gold. In a complete contrast the above trend, flashy gold is boogying its way back into the limelight. Sure, I own a gold evening dress or two and ~ ahem ~ a few pairs of gold heels, but this gold has been spun and respun into a liquid-y precious metal fit for a Vegas showgirl! Watch for it showing up on all kinds of daytime clothes you never imagined: shirts, pants, and even blazers are fair game for this most precious of metals. I love the pairing of a cropped metallic gold blazer with easy black pants. Never thought about shiny gold leggings? Well, start thinking about them. American Apparel does a wonderful nylon-elastane blend legging for $46 (americanapparel.net). And last but not least, night is still always right for gold: a one-shoulder gold top with rouching is a sexy way to head out on a Saturday evening.

Mimimalism. Ok, I’m the first to admit the word “exciting” doesn’t leap to mind when I think about dressing…down. But on second thought, I like the idea of standing out in clean, structured lines amidst the embellished outfits around me. Bells and whistles begone! A perfect fit is key ~ don’t settle for anything less than classic cuts that fit like they were tailor-made for your body. Pieces like fitted pea coats, pencil skirts, tall slim boots, skinny pants, and asymmetric tops with higher necklines all give off a cool, understated vibe. Hey, this look is starting to remind me of the early ‘90s, but in a twenty-years-later kind of way. I likey. Chickity-check out ‘90s maven himself Calvin Klein’s Color Block Back Zip Sheath Dress featuring cool slit pockets, $128 (calvinklein.com). So very Kate Moss.

The One Must-Have Item of the Season

If your debit card affords you just one transaction, please let it be for the awesome, amazing, and very versatile Skinny Cargo Pant. You’ll get a huge bang for your buck as well as a military-sexy alternative to jeans. Get them in the classic khaki or olive shade with small to medium flap pockets scattering the upper region. Look for a slightly shorter, ankle-skimming length, and ~ obvy! ~ a slim fit all over. You can wear your cargo skinnies just about anywhere and any way, plus they’re flattering with just the right amount of stretch. Tuck them into boots or ~ and this is my favorite way ~ wear them with a high heel shoe or bootie that shows your bare ankle area. Oh, and did I mention they’re seasonless? It’s really hard to justify not buying these. Check out Jana Cargo Skinny Pants, $89 (guess.com).

The Three Single Hottest Extras

Hottest Shoe

Utilitarian Lace-Up Booties. A juicy hybrid of the workbook and lace-up bootie, these high heel kicks embrace their tough side in a woman-in-charge kind of way. Their sturdy round toe with visible lug soles is durable while still being h-h-hot. Details like buckles and straps accentuate their boyish side, while their high heel leaves no question about who wears the pants. Er, I mean, the shoes. Get inspired by Sam Edelman’s Vancouver Lace Up Bootie, $225 (revolveclothing.com). For an adorable twist, let a few inches of contrasting socks peek out of your boots

Hottest Jewelry

Multi Mixed-Up Materials. Materials in necklaces and bracelets are all mixed up as of late, and by golly it works. A single bracelet can consist of five or more of the following materials: metal links or chains, shredded soft feather or mohair pieces, glass or acrylic beads, resin, thread, leather, pearls, sequins…the list goes on. These beads and trinkets are generally small-sized, helping them smoothly intertwine through one another and live in tender-and-tough harmony on one piece. Arden B’s Drop Hoop Feather Chain Earrings, $24 (ardenb.com) have all the links, stones, beads and feathers we could ever want in one earring without being overkill.

Hottest Handbag

Top-Handle Satchels. Aaah, there’s something about carrying a trapeze-shaped bag on the crook of my elbow that makes me feel all sophisticated ‘n such. Shiny adornments like hardware, clasps, and key and keyhole combos make the carrying experience all that much more luxe. Pair your satchel with a chic getup for ladylike appeal, or match it up with jeans for an instant dress-up transformation. These puppies range from rigid and sturdy ~ like the classic doctor bag ~ to more rouched and pliable. A scrumptious example of the latter is Hype’s Helen Doctor Satchel, $175 (bluefly.com), featuring black snake print leather and a modest scattering of pewter studs.

Unconventional Cardigans. Busted! I’m totally guilty of cardigan profiling. I label all cardigans as functional and boring, period. In an unforeseen cardigan comeback, these highly effective keep-warm devices have become so stylish they’re stealing the spotlight from outfits left and right. Well how you doin’! Look for haute couture elements like cropped and boxy cuts, ribbed banding, tweed patterns, oversized buttons, and ragged cuts on chunky knits. I’m so not a fan of Elisabeth Hasselbeck, but she’s been wearing some damn cute cardigans lately featuring these kinds of details. Anyway, moving on. My wish-list cardigan is a heather gray long sleeve number by Ronny Kobo aptly called Coco Chains Cardigan, featuring looped chains that create the cutest patch-shaped “pockets,” $275 (shopbop.com). Cardigans, I apologize. There, now can we please be friends again?