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• Be fabulous this fall; trends for your cold weather wardrobe
• By Victoria Izzio

Just as soon as we get used to our shorts and brave up enough to slip on the bikini, it's time to start thinking about fall. Retail stores are already stocked with their autumn apparel and it's best to shop while there's still plenty available. Year after year, many women (myself included) remain in denial that winter is around the corner and cling to the light and breezy summer garb we've worn for the past few months. Next thing you know it, we're trekking through snow and stuck in last year's ill fitting and outdated clothes.

Let's break out of this habit, ladies.
Don't fret about hiding your new found tan-lines and giving up the beachy waves in your hair for yet another season. It'll be back before you know it and we'll be back to the frustration that is bathing suit shopping soon enough. I digress, here's what you should stock up on this autumn.

The emphasis on bottoms is very strong this time around, and there's guarantee that you can take one of these trends and own it, regardless of body type.
First and foremost, the hemlines of skirts have drastically fallen. And for the better. Maxi skirts aren't a foreign concept, many women have already taken advantage of the floor sweeping fashion as it's been a fixture on runways for the past few summers.
However, some still linger on the idea that this look isn't ideal, practical or all that flattering. Time to meet it's not too distant relative. Welcome back the midi skirt.

Not too short, not too long. Arguably, a perfect length. Mid-calf length skirts are perfect for the mild-weathered fall months. No need to stick to certain shapes, either. Have fun with pleated A-lines or go sleek and sexy with a fitted look. For those women still on the fence, one cannot go wrong with the classic pencil skirt. This gives you a chance to not only be perfectly on trend, but gives you a classic fit that will never go out of style.

Another trend that's sure to flatter is a denim look straight from the hippie era. Time to ditch those tired skinny jeans and slip into something more long and lean. Flares are back, and these aren't your mom's bellbottoms.

Don't let the idea of a 60's/70's era staple turn you off. This fit does wonderful things to lengthen your legs. That means you, petite ladies! This silhouette spans out to trouser legs and even certain boot cut for those who aren't quite ready to take the plunge. Whether you opt for a roomier wide leg or fitted thigh-hugging flares, you'll be sure to find a fit that will compliment your figure and make you look miles long.

If the idea of giving up your skinny jeans is too devastating for you, fear not. While this trend may not be for the shy, it's surely a great way to add fun to a favourite look. Bold, bright and beautiful colours are an unmissable fall look.

This is a trend that many retail stores are picking up on this year and you should too. It's youthful, vibrant and just plain fun. It may seem a bit bold,
Have fun with pinks and yellows, or classic colours such as crimson or cobalt. Even pick up a pair in your favourite colour! This is a trend that you can definitely make your own and personalize to suit you best.

The other big emphasis this season is on bold patterns and prints. Wear them all over, restrict them to your top half or keep it simple with accessories. It's up to you. But don't miss out on these eye-catching designs.

Polka dots are popping up all over the runways of Marc Jacobs, Rodarte and Diane Von Furstenberg just to name a few. It can be big bold baubles or miniature pinpoints. Be spot on with this super feminine and retro evoking look.

Straight from the hills of Scotland is the tartan plaid. This is criss-cross colour-block plaid one would typically familiarize with a kilt. Bold and classic, a print that's unmistakable and perfect for fall. Look for heavy tweeds and knits with this pattern. It's a look sure to evoke the Glaswegian lassie within.

These are certainly not the only fall fashions you'll witness this year, but certainly the most wearable ones. Don't be afraid to explore different looks or mix and match these ideas to create an outfit that's truly yours. Because these trends are even reminiscent of previous decades, check out your local thrift or vintage shops to break away from the typical retail clothing racks.

Make this fall season fabulous and fun with these tips, and you'll surely be in good spirits by the time the snow comes around.