—Make a colorful statement. Buy a new jacket or coat in a bold color. Red is one of the biggest hits this fall. Try it in a vibrant shade of crimson. It's a fast way to give anything you wear underneath a punch of fall fashion. Pastels are also a new way to step out for fall in cool corals, pinks and yellows. Or stick to tailored menswear classics in black and white (Yes, you can still wear white after Labor Day!)

—Bloom in floral prints. Flower patterns are popping up in everything from dresses to handbags and shoes especially in digitized graphic prints. Pick one and have some fun this fall. The '40s-inspired printed dress is a great place to start.

—Dress up your jeans. Whether you like fitted or flared jeans, you'll want to add some interesting layers on top. Leather bomber jackets and furry, cropped jackets are two of your best bets.

— Be a caped crusader. The cape is a great outerwear piece to own this fall. This flowing shape can easily be worn day or night and adds a dramatic romantic flair to everything you wear. Even the poncho gets reinvented this season for a flirty change of pace. Missoni's knit poncho at Target is one of the freshest new looks updated in the company's iconic stripes. Just be sure to stick to slim pants, tights or a skirt when wearing this oversized shape on top. And carry a clutch or top-handle handbag. No shoulder bags for this look!

—Get a little crafty. Take a tip from Grandma. This fall many fashion designers worked their creative looks into artistic pieces with patchwork details that often reflect geometric American Indian motifs. Look for Southwestern graphics like Navajo-inspired coats to be new favorites.

—Update with animal prints. Leopard may be a popular animal spot on the fashion horizon this fall, but watch for an even newer print to snake its way into the scene — python — even in bright colors, it weaves its way into the latest boots and bags.

—Fluff it up. You've seen the furry jackets, scarves and vests on the runways; now you can put some frill into your wardrobe with fur — newest when it's bright and colorful. Feathers are another way to add some thrills to your clothes and are also a great way to make eveningwear more special.

(set image) smo091311adAP.jpg (end image) (set caption) Missoni updates the knit poncho this fall in its new collection debuting this week at Target stores and www.target.com. (end caption)

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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