Finviui: Style Tips for Fall - Trend Alert Exclusive: Cable Knit Sweaters.

Fall is here and winter is approaching in no time. I almost can't keep up with Fashion Week (it's already over in London and I believe it has moved on to Milan!) that's already previewing the Spring collection for next year, but I promise I'm observing the trends for you guys. A little too overwhelmed at the moment to do a compilation and on top of that, I have been handicapped without my Photoshop software (thanks to you - you know who you are, that I have it back!). I'm keeping my fingers crossed I'll get them done.

Meanwhile, we need to stock up on winter wear to prepare for the season, including those of us who might be traveling to somewhere with freezing temperatures this coming year end. Unfortunately for those (like myself) who live in the hot and humid climate all year round, we are so prone to having a dated winter wardrobe.

Some tips on getting out of that stuffy situation:

1. Invest in a good quality classic trench coat - it works for fall temperatures, not so much for those below 10°C, but they never go out of style. [Stay tuned for an upcoming post on "Closet Essentials: Trench Coat"!] A versatile color like black, grey, brown or beige (think Burberry's signature trench) would never become outdated.

Zooey Deschanel

2. Make cable knit sweaters your staple for winter. This actually brings me to a small segment on "Trend Alert" because many stylish people including celebrities have donned this easy-to-wear, classic sweater. Once again, get them in classic and versatile colors to match them with your various bottoms and outerwear. But you can always grab them in bold colors to make a statement.
For cooler days but not too cold, pair it with your summer wear. Take cues from Rachel Bilson and Kate Bosworth.

*credit: Rachel-Online.org

*credit: Kate Bosworth Online

But with the rise of midi skirts on the runway and off, cable knit sweaters go perfectly well with them, making for a cozy and stylish outfit for fall. Choose a pleated skirt for a more polished look.

*credit: Trendycrew.com

Kate Bosworth

3. Winter doesn't necessarily mean you have to live in long pants/jeans. Re-work some of your dresses (especially those of you with an event to attend in the cold) by throwing over a coat and wearing tights underneath to cover up your garms. If your dress is colored, it is safest to keep to black tights. Plus, if you're wearing black boots/heels/pumps, they give an illusion of longer legs. But hey, colored tights can add color to your outfit.

Whitney Port

Kourtney Kardashian

Blake Lively

Anna Sui Fall RTW 2011

Nicole Miller Fall RTW 2011

Hint: You've probably seen words like "100 denier" or "40 denier" on the packaging. That actually refers to the thickness of your tights. The large the number, the thicker and more opaque they are. So if you're looking for a thicker pair, go for 100 and beyond. Thinner ones around 40 to 50 are ideal to wear under your formal dresses. These are slightly see-through when stretched.

4. If you frequent colder countries, a trench coat may not be good enough to keep you warm. Wool is probably the best material for coats as it keeps you warm even when it's wet. Have at least two in your inventory - one in a basic color (black is preferred for versatility) and one in any color or pattern (plaid is good) you like.

*credit: Just Jared

Gwyneth Paltrow

Jessica Alba

Emma Watson

Blake Lively

Lauren Conrad

While they now come in all lengths and types, it's best if they end somewhere mid-thigh for more warmth. One with an A-line cut would be more feminine and would flatter dress/skirt-outfits.

Leighton Meester

Coats aren't something to scrimp on, especially when you want them to serve their function of keeping you warm. Cheap coats may not be made out of good quality materials so be sure to check before you make your purchase.

But nobody said coats had to be plain and boring (besides the colored and patterned ones, of course). Details can make for an interesting dash of pattern on plain coats - check out the ones from ASOS:

Think toggles for buttons, laced collars, leopard print trimmings and military-style details! What fun!

5. Protect your head and ears! Wear a beanie or any fur-lined headgear to protect the brain that is in charge to sending signals to protect the rest of your body from the cold. Besides, it's a great accessory to doll up any winter outfit.

Hilary Duff

Kate Beckinsale

Kate Middleton

6. Last, but not least, we all need a pair of boots. Visiting temperate climate countries are the best excuse to rock your winter gear and the boots can't be missing. The ideal pair is one that rises up to a couple of inches below the knee. It is the classic cut that's versatile, but if you're feeling playful, try the season's hottest booties.
For comfort, have a short, thick heel to ensure that your feet gets ample support from all the walking you're gonna be doing. For a more dressy look, go higher, but beware of those with overly thin heels - they're bound to make your feet ache if you do more foot work than expected.