— Cape — This was a runway favorite and one outerwear shape you can dress up or down. Capes and ponchos are also ideal for days when you don't really need a heavy coat, but you need more than just a sweater. Just make sure that when you do wear this flyaway look, that you stay grounded on the bottom with slim pants or a pencil skirt. Otherwise, your body can easily morph into what I call the "mushroom" effect. I think you get the picture!

— Colorful coat — Another runway must-have that will instantly transform your entire wardrobe. Coats in bright colors (I love the red ones.) are making a big splash for fall. Bright prints are also livening things up in outerwear. Pair these coats with a neutral palette like black, gray or camel. You can get away with wearing just about anything underneath this big fashion trend ... it will speak for itself. One word of caution: If you do decide to buy one of these new colorful coats, make sure you go for a simple shape like a car coat, princess style or a three-quarter length coat. Too many buckles and bows on one of these will make you feel more like a clown.

— Military coat — We're in the trenches again, and there are several styles that will command attention this fall — from the classic favorites reinvented to more "heavy metal" jackets embellished with all the belts and buckles. The leather look is always an edgy way to put some military might into your wardrobe.

— Camel coat — If you have a closet full of black basics, then this is the new neutral for you. The sophisticated look of the camel coat took the runways by storm in all shapes and sizes. It's one of the classic style staples and will last you for years. From short jackets to longer wrap styles, this is a coat you can consider an investment piece, since it will complement just about anything in your wardrobe and give you lots of versatile options.

— Faux fur look — If you're looking for a fun way to put some style into your outerwear wardrobe, then this is your ticket for this fall and winter. Be adventurous. Faux fur is flying into stores in lots of variations on the theme — from fuzzy trimmed vests and parkas, to elegant swing coats and wraps. But remember — puffy furs can add extra pounds, so be wary of coats and vests that are thick and bulky. Try them on in the store before you buy them ... the furs may have lots of attitude this season, but you want to look for a silhouette that is the most flattering!

Image: Banana Republic has the latest silhouette in the shorter camel coat — an updated classic for outerwear this fall and winter.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.