While it’s difficult to ponder autumn style in this sizzling, seemingly everlasting summer heat, I’m always one to daydream about chilly autumn days and yearn for scarves and knits while lying on the beach.

After all, each fall season brings back cozy looks and more structured, put-together outifts that rival the casual summer ensembles. I easily get bored with shorts and T-shirts, I have a deep aversion to flip flops, and by mid-August I can’t stand the sight of any of my summer garb.

From a girl who starts pining over Autumn clothes as soon as Fashion Week rolls around each preceding Spring, I researched the collections and browsed through countless piles of magazines to compile a little round-up of what was featured on the runways for Fall/Autumn 2012.

From granny-chic (thick knit jumpers in fun, fuzzy knits) to sleek, dramatic pieces (modern military and leather), the upcoming months shall display a wide range of trends. Summer florals are continuing to bloom on the winter runways, and clothes you don’t get lost in are winning over last years’ oversized pieces. Cinch a bulky coat with a skinny belt, and wear head-to-toe patterns if you fancy it. Despite the autumn colours being rather bland and neutral, attire in deep jewel hues will spruce up your evening wear.

Autumn is all about the air getting chilly, so stay warm while adding a touch of sophistication with rich and ornate fabrics: wool, tweed, jacquard, lace, velvet, knits. Texture and coziness should be the keywords for the season. As for menswear, the same current of sober tones, textured fabrics and checkered patterns apply, along with plenty of leather and metal detailing on clothes and accessories… if you dare.

Take a peek of what you should be adding to your wardrobe for fall, before soaking in a bit more of that September sun and last lazy days at the beach.

Miu Miu coat

Miu Miu Bow-Embellished Princess Coat

This coat has been sitting at the top of my wish list since last spring – the bow and pleated waist exude girlie charms, and the bright red hue being this season’s ‘it’ colour.

The wool is warm enough for Japanese winters, yet lightweight enough for getting around the city without taking up two seats on the train with a bulky, inflated jacket. Autumn is all about textures, and keeping warm with woven staples.

Chloe Checked Sweater

Chloe Checked sweater

Keep you preppy plaids in check for chilly days: this jumper makes me want to sit by the fireplace while drinking cocoa, but those cold days are nowhere in sight.

In the meantime, I’d wear this piece every single day, whether paired with jeans and suede boots to run errands, or with a pair of leather shorts and cutout heels for a night out.

Checkered patterns are ubiquitous this season, and this sweater embraces all the goodness of fall textures and patterns. Now that I think of it, I’d want to live in this sweater.

Isabel Marant Bilbao mini skirt

Isabel Marant Bilbao Mini Skirt

Channel your inner Parisian insouciance with Isabel Marant’s effortlessly hip designs, in the form of a silver mini skirt. Metallic hues scream chic, sleek, and modern.

The brocade design adds a touch of sophistication, and even though it’s a bit on the short side, it would look perfectly appropriate paired with flats and a blazer to balance it out, or paired with the designer’s trademark sneakers for a night out.

by Vivian Morelli