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Gucci hat, photo from gorunway.com

Lately, it seems like everything in the fashion world is all about larger-than-life accessories – flashy jewelry, elaborate coats, and knee-high boots with sky-high heels.  Another of this season’s biggest trends is the resurgence of hats.  We’re not talking about standard cold-weather beanies that serve a purely functional purpose; instead, today you’ll find flamboyant, stylish chapeaus for everyday wear.

In the winter collections, hats in every shape and size were found all over the runways of the major fashion houses.  Some boasted epic proportions, while others offered a low, slinky profile.  All succeeded in turning heads.

The wide-brimmed fedoras from Gucci screamed 70s glamour, while Marc Jacobs pillbox hats gave off more of a 40s vibe.  John Galliano showcased hats in a variety of styles that were festively adorned with everything under the sun, including feathers, sequins, and veils.  The extra-large brims from Lanvin were pulled down low over the eyes for an air of mystery, while the unique designs from John Rocha seemed to defy gravity in their reach for the stars.

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Marc Jacobs "Petal to the Metal" pouchette bag

There’s an easy way to glam up your look this Fall!  With lots of bright colors and embellishments, adding a pouchette purse to your accessory collection will punch up even the dreariest wardrobe.  Plus, they happen to be all the rage right now!

“Pouchette purses were all over the Fall 2011 runways,” says Delisa, professional wardrobe consultant.  “From the color-blocked Proenza clutches to Louis Vuitton and Chanel, runways were full of clutches with handles on the back for convenient carrying and other great embellishments.”

Pouchette purses are versatile, pairing well with casual daytime wear or sparkly evening attire.  The sky’s the limit for colors of these cute purses – and don’t forget the extra bling!  According to Delisa, “Pouchettes give Fall’s fashion another alternative to a chic daytime bag.”

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Photo from HarpersBazaar.com; Fall 2011 Dries van Noten

Want another way to make yourself stand out this Fall?  Snag some pieces with bold graphic prints.

According to wardrobe consultant Delisa, graphic prints are a big hit this season.  Many of the biggest names in fashion rocked the runways in graphic prints, including color blocking, black and white, and Stella McCartney’s magnificent polka dots.

The standout patterns of graphic prints can be found on dresses, skirts, pants, or outerwear.  With wild lines, designs, and shapes, they can give your wardrobe unique flair that will set you apart from the rest of the pack.

Graphic prints are nothing to shy away from: the best way to wear them is unapologetically, of course.  But if you want to tone them down a bit, pair a graphic print piece with a solid color, a classic bag and fantastic shoes, and you’re good to go!

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Statement cuff bracelets available at NeimanMarcus.com

Another hot trend for Fall 2011 is statement jewelry.  Just like a statement coat, statement jewelry is a great way to jazz up your existing wardrobe—you don’t have to toss everything out and start from scratch!

With a long history dating back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans, statement jewelry is back again and seen everywhere from runways to discount stores.  It’s huge, colorful, unusual, and it really stands out.

“Look for chunky cuff bracelets, heavy chokers, embellished cuffs adorned with anything (beads, bullets, horns, animals), rhinestone encrusted jewels, pieces with baubles, or dangle earrings,” says wardrobe consultant Delisa.  The sky’s the limit when you’re looking for these eye-catching pieces!

According to Delisa, the great thing about statement jewelry is that it allows you to be more creative with your style and personality.  It’s bold, yet feminine.  You can express yourself by experimenting with pieces that work best for your look and your personality.

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Sweater by Mara Hoffman Fall 2011. Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for IMG.

Who doesn’t love to snuggle under a big, cozy blanket when the temperature drops?  Take that warmth to go this fall by wearing one of this season’s hottest trends: chunky sweaters and knits.

These oversized tops are all the rage, but you don’t have to look like someone’s grandmother in a bad holiday sweater.  You’ve got lots of choices!  Cardigans, pullovers, vests, cowl necks, turtlenecks…find a style that works for your body type, and pair these big pieces with slim-fitting ones so you don’t look too bulky.

You can also play around with color.  Why stick with dreary grays and blacks?  Look for some bright solids or patterns to spice things up.

Chunky sweaters are also extremely versatile.  Layer them over jeans and tees with a pair of flat shoes for a day of shopping, or over a dress with sky-high heels for a night out.  You can keep the look simple, or add accessories for some flair.

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Oscar de la Renta Fall 2011 Runway

Want to make a big impact on your fall and winter wardrobes this year?  You don’t have to replace everything in your closet!  Instead, try splurging on a statement coat to give your fashion sense a boost.  Buying a statement coat is an easy way to add a bit of drama to your cold-weather wardrobe with only one new piece.

According to wardrobe consultant Delisa, almost all of the big fashion houses showed statement coats on the runways in their recent collections.  These aptly named coats do just what their name implies – make a statement.  With bold, bright colors or unusual cuts, a statement coat will get you noticed.  Try a big parka, a swingy cape style, or a swishy ankle-skimming length.  Go crazy with fur or animal prints.  Whatever your statement, make it a big one.

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