Fashionista forecasts Fall fashion trends

The start of fall semester kicks off fall fashion season. Even though autumn doesn't officially start until September, retail stores anticipate back-to-school shoppers by stocking their shelves with fall attire. Whether hunting new threads online or in the store, a few select trends will distinguish the frumpy from the fashionistas.

Military-inspired wear dominates the runways this season. Luckily, this is one of the easiest trends to pull off. The military-structured jacket stands out as a wardrobe essential. The outerwear looks great paired with a basic t-shirt, skinny jeans and ballet flats for a simply chic ensemble. Wearing a color palette of olive, khaki or black alone brings out the spirit of this trend. Accessorize with combat boots, i.e. Doc Martens, and cargo-pocket skinny pants to commit to this look completely. For a smaller commitment, sporting details such as buckles, studs and buttons will be more subtle.

A trend that began last spring, mixing feminine pieces with masculine, is still in vogue. For an effortless outfit, pair a frilly shirt with skinny jeans. The perfect pair of oxfords, a lace up saddle shoe, brings the menswear aspect to a femine outfit.

Wearing a power blazer instantly adds masculinity to an otherwise feminine outfit. This year's blazer transitions from 80s oversized with square shoulders to more ruching in the sleeves and rolled cuffs. For a night out, one can rock this look by wearing a button down shirt with a leather jacket paired with a skirt. Country music star Taylor Swift often dons this look.

Also this season, designers like Diane Von Furstenberg and Oscar De La Renta mix patterns and textures on many pieces in their collections. To pull off mixing patterns, pair a bold pattern with a more subtle one. Patterns should not compete with each other. Aspring trendspotters should not wear patterns that are too similar. The mixture of different textures also relates to combining feminine pieces with masculine pieces. For example, mixing leather with cashmere balances texture in a fresh way. It may take a couple experiments to achieve the right look for this ensemble.

Of course in the colder months, boots add a definite wow factor. Looking through multiple online retailers, there are styles for almost anyone's aesthetic this season. Many sites seem to favor the cute ankle bootie over the controversial over-the-knee boots, a trend that failed to take flight last year. Boots look great with almost any outfit. From dresses, jeans, leggings or skirts, boots can tie the entire look together. To keep warm, boots can be as functional as they are fashionable.

Remember to self-edit trendy accessories. Usually one or two trendy items will suffice. Incorporating classic counterparts is equally important to keep a look pulled together. A fashionista always stays true to his or her personal style. Without continuity, a revolving door of trends will just make one's style look schizophrenic.