As New York Fashion Week unfolded, thousands flocked to observe what we’ll be wearing come spring. I prefer, however, to focus on relevancy – to bring the news we need to know now and provide insight on what to wear in the with approaching fall season.

While the past several seasons providing ever-inundating frocks and frills, which seemed to swallow one whole with inflating volumes one might as well drown in, the figure was forgotten- thrown to the wind and replaced in the name and crusade of fashion.

I am happy to report that this season provides an unexpected contrast (though perhaps expected due the cyclical nature of the fashion industry). Fall welcomes figure-friendly trends with a more mature undertone that reminds us what it truly is to “strut your stuff.”

Elaborate and assorted fabrics, textures, furs and gem- toned hues dominate this season’s collections, personifying luxury, elegance and opulence. The confectionary femininity and flirt that was so abundant this past spring has neared extinction, with designers sharply reminding the consumer that recent recycling is not good for business.

Fall is full of grown-up demure attire. Regardless of our current station in life as college students here in Foggy Bottom, dressing the part is more than acceptable – it’s a necessity!

Trends one must incorporate into their wardrobe this fall are as follows:

The Sexy Secretary

Thanks to fashion catalysts such as Stella McCartney, Proenza Schouler, Valentino and my favorite this season, Tuleh – the reprisal of the suit, be it pant or skirt, has swept fall and provided the opportunity for a woman to feel confident in a suit both in and out of the office. The suits incorporate, maturity, structure, and form while coyly providing an intentional yet ‘inadvertent’ tease with cinched waists and pencil skirts. The transition from day to night has never been easier.

Gray

Gray provides a wonderful new addition to the family of neutrals. No longer are our options khaki and beige. This soft muted color can be incorporated into any outfit, be it knit, sweater dress or eveningwear (like my favorite gray piece this season – an evening dress by Alberta Feretti). A replacement for the LBD and LWD: the new and improved LGD.

Biker Chic

Leather, zippers, patent, and studs are all introduced and included in this season’s new edge. Studded booties, strapped-in gloves, chunky accessories and belted, quilted or cropped leather coats are all here for fall.

Military

It seems there’s been a call to arms this season, and while so many divert their attention away from a war, the military look has found a new niche-the runway. Designers like Burberry Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, and Balenciaga all gave us military blazers and pea coats, both double- and single-breasted. And, for a naval yet functionally feminine touch, incorporate some clean white gloves.

Denim

Finally, options and alternatives! The high waisted pant, with or without the wide leg, is ultra- flattering, sexy and whittles the mid-region for definitely head- turning. If your waist is not up to par, the wide leg also comes in a slouchier options, resting on the hips for both comfort and style. Look to designers like Grey Ant, Judi Rosen and J Brand for your wider and longer legs. For those who prefer the thin and sleek, skinny is here to stay and now available in a rainbow of colors. Incorporate colored and jewel tone jeans, but don’t plan on losing sight of white – its here to stay.