While some of you are brushing the dust off your scientific calculators and prepping for the new school year, I’m taking a refresher course on the Fall 2012 runway looks. From personalizing collars and sweaters to turning flannel into a tailored staple, here are the fads I keep falling for.

Poppin’ Collars
Layer a brightly colored or bold patterned shirt under a crewneck sweater or cardigan to bring the eye above the neck. Here, I updated a denim shirt by sewing some emerald and navy plaid taffeta to the underside of my collar for an unexpected punch of color.

Shades of Grey
This is a great transitional color that flatters people of all different complexions and hair colors. To kick a grey frock up a notch, pair it with a cropped leather motorcycle jacket.

Black & Blue
It doesn’t hurt to mix ‘em! Pairing bright cobalt with black makes for an electric combination for a night out on the town.

Not Your Grandma’s Sweater
With the help of sequins and embroidery, these once-for-Grandma sweaters are coming back with a vengeance, and I, for one, am jumping on the bandwagon.

Floral Camo
Disappear in a field of wildflowers with these micro-floral prints. I’m wearing them every which way: mix-matched with other prints, on their own, and especially paired with denim.

Buffalo Soldier
Bold red buffalo flannels are always in style, but lately the pattern has taken a liking to coats, totes, and dress, too.  Try this flannel ensemble from Ralph Lauren for a haute hunter look.

By Grace Romanowsky, Staff Writer

What fall trends are you rocking? Tell us in the comments below or tweet us @ruelala.

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