Fall 2012 has brought us so many different trends and styles, think baroque, military, goth, sci-fi (and I'm only getting started), that it's important to figure out which are worth tackling. Before sifting through the fashion-net and running to the nearest Saks, take on these trends in a more resourceful manner by looking for affordable alternatives. Just check out our latest roundup of fall's hottest trends on a budget.
Shop Fall's Hottest Trends on a Budget
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The Gilded Age
Lavish adornments and decadent fabrics ruled the fall runways for a sumptuous creation of delightful and delectable rococo designs. Get inspired by the baroque trends in this gold jacquard evening dress by Vero Moda. This structured dress features a fitted high waist and a full skirt with gathered pleats, for a feminine fit that is cut to highlight and flatter the female form. Wear this jacquard design with black suede booties for an even more alluring take on the baroque look.
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The Romantic Goth
Designers like Gucci, Valentino, and Givenchy took goth through a romantic whirlwind by creating dark pieces that felt poetic and moody, mixing in subtly alluring pieces of lace, sheer fabric, and leather. Get the look for less in this body-conscious dress by Prey of London. Crafted from stretch velvet with a super soft feel, this form-fitting dress features beautiful details including floral applique, mesh inserts and a subtle revealing scoop neckline.
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A Nod To the Future
Space-age suits give off a fashion high thanks to celestial fall collections from Jil Sander, Chanel, and Peter Pilotto. Escape the humdrum of daily life in these futuristic platform shoes by ASOS collection. Crafted with a leather-look upper and a resin sole, these sandals feature a smooth main with peep toe styling, a slingback ankle strap, and a platform sole with a grind style design. Pair these sci-fi-inspired shoes with a bold graphic print frock for the ultimate fantasy role.
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Oxblood Is the New Black
Sensual and romantic, wine colors are this season's "it" palette thanks to collections from Kenzo, Chloe, and Versus. More alluring than red and more sophisticated than purple, berry stains will give your wardrobe both a lush and luxe upgrade. Get the look with this classic puff sleeve crepe dress from Zara, a garment that will transition from fall into winter and from work into dinner with just a few accessory changes. For just under $80, this versatile dress retains both a polished and mature look, while remaining fresh and stylish.
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Skinny Leather
If you don't already know, leather is back and in full gear this season. Whether done in an edgy manner as seen on the Acne runway or in sleek lines a la Derek Lam, there is a fresh new crop in the field of leather revival. To get this trend, look for staple pieces with leather accents, like these jeggings by British label, River Island. Done in stretchy fabric, these supper-skinny pants feature leather paneling details through the sides for an urban touch. These comfy pants are as versatile as they come and will pair with pretty much any fall staple.
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Blue Velvet
Provocative, yet sophisticated, dark velvet played an alluring role during the fall runways. Give this seductive trend a playful feel with this midnight blue velvet playsuit from Topshop. Chiffon sleeves give this piece a romantic flair while its fitted design feels sensual and contemporary.
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Printed Trousers
This season, look for prints that are hi-res, thanks to advanced technology now available to fabric makers, bold, and more importantly, clash-friendly. Start with these printed trousers from Zara. The busy floral pattern doesn't overwhelm thanks to its autumn palette which is more muted and lends a sophisticated vibe. A thick black waist band creates contrast while highlighting the waist, to form a figure flattering pair of pants that you will find yourself wearing all season long.
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Borrow From the Boys with Bedazzled Feet
Borrowed-from-the-boys dressing is one of this season's biggest style stories, thanks to designers like Ralph Lauren, Miu-Miu, and Rochas. To mix it up a bit, step into these glitter studded loafers from Steve Madden, the perfect accent to this season's tailored pieces. While its strong silhouette definitely mans up to this season's boyish trend, the glitter front gives it a feminine touch, that further complements tailored pieces for a vibrant tomboy-cool finish.
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Oversized Coat
Tis the time where fashion is reborn, and we begin to embrace silhouettes and designs from the past. Think of this season's Jil Sander, Celine, and Chanel shows and you'll immediately conjure images of oversized coats and shifts, a welcome respite from all of those body-con trends and asymmetrical designs. To get this luxe trend without spending your bank account and then some, scope out this oversized coat from Second Female. Featuring a double breasted button closure, wide lapels, two front pockets, and a graduated stripe pattern, this practical coat will keep you super warm and stylish throughout the whole season.
