Must-Haves For Fall 2005

The time has come, yet again, for me to outline the trends that will help make the transition from summer to winter more stylish. Look on the bright side -- fall is always conducive to cool looks, and you were probably getting sick of wearing your white pants, and pink and green tops.

Fall 2005 is all about rich fabrics and colors, "military meets preppy" contours, and a return to formal, refined looks. If you're ready to get a handle on the season, just print this fall fashion checklist and get cracking.

What follows are some of the must-have items you'll need to get your hands on as soon as possible... if you want to become the trendsetter of your posse.

The beige cardigan
Remember one thing: this ain't your daddy's cardigan. This updated version of a throwback look will only put you ahead of the others. Made from a comfortable cotton blend, you can throw on this Kenneth Cole cardigan over a white button-down shirt, with or without a tie (depending on the occasion). Even Zara has a spotlight look featuring a tan cardigan worn with jeans, a white shirt and a tie. There's no doubt that a cardigan can serve you from day to night, especially since layering is a classic fall trend.

Wear it with: A suit, it can double up as a vest.

The argyle sweater
Argyle is one of those looks that resurface every fall; maybe because it's a preppy look, or maybe because it's a sophisticated style. Whatever the case, you can take your pick of argyle sweaters (V-neck or crewneck) and even sweater vests. This argyle wool sweater by Le Chateau features one of the season's coolest colors, gray, and looks awesome over a collared shirt or worn underneath a sports jacket.

Wear it with: A pea coat.

The velvet sports jacket
Fall is the perfect time for lush fabrics like velvet, velour, cashmere, and flannel, thanks to the added warmth they add to any ensemble. So if you already bought a velvet blazer last year, then get ready to break it out again. If you don't own one, then you're in luck because this year's incarnation is super cool in burgundy, like the blazer featured here by Banana Republic. Of course, black and navy versions are fashionable too, and if you don't think you can pull of velvet (hey, pimpin' isn't for everyone...), then corduroy sports jackets also make the grade.

Wear it with: A thin solid-colored scarf, for a real hipster look.