While many people dread the thought of warm, sunny summer turning into brisk, nippy fall, fashion-lovers know that a new season means the chance to stock up on lots of new clothes; nothing eases the transition into fall like a closet full of riding boots, cozy knits and super soft sweaters. 

Before you run out to stock your closet, make sure you know what trends to look out for. Use these five stylish fall 2013 trends as a guide to help you shop smart and look your best this season:    

Emerald Green

Color experts Pantone chose emerald as the top color for 2013, so make sure to stock up on plenty of bright, emerald pieces this fall. Whether you take the classic route with eye-catching emerald jewelry or make a statement with a bright emerald coat, this flattering color is sure to help you stand out in a great way. An oversized emerald t-shirt can make even your most comfortable flying outfit look stylish.

 Leather Details

Leather is the perfect way to add a little attitude to your outfit without coming across as intimidating or overwhelming. Avoid head-to-toe leather ensembles and instead go for dresses, blouses, and bottoms with leather hems, collars or panels for a slightly more subtle and classy approach to this stylish fabric. It’s a good way to dress up your outfit for a nice dinner out or night on the town.

Outerwear that Stands Out

Distinctive, attention-grabbing coats and jackets are in this season, so ditch your sweet little neutral coats and go for something slightly bolder. Oversized coats are both stylish and functional for cooler weather, while pastel coats add a breath of fresh air to the sea of black, brown and dark red outerwear. No matter where you’re traveling, amazing coats are appreciated all over the world.

Emphasis on Classic Prints

Classy patterns like houndstooth, pinstripes and herringbone belong on way more than men’s suits. This fall, menswear prints are crossing the line into women’s fashion on everything from winter coats to casual skirts. Speaking of classic prints, leopard print isn’t going anywhere; just wear it in moderation. Classic prints are perfect for traveling abroad, too; they’re a great way to stand out without coming across as the crazy tourist. 

Mid-Century Style

Even though it’s 2013, fall style is all about the fifties this year. Lucky for us, nipped-waist coats and skirts are almost universally flattering and are a simple way to look completely polished and chic. Add a fun belt to add personality to any outfit and accentuate your waist even more.

With so many fun trends to choose from, experimenting with your outfits is definitely encouraged this fall. Don’t be afraid to take some fashion risks, but also remember that classic looks never go out of style.  

Author: Megan writes about fashion, travel and lifestyle on behalf of Cache, a nationwide specialty retailer of women’s clothing, dresses, formal wear and accessories. For more on this season’s styles, visit www.cache.com.