You've never been a “slave to fashion,” per se, but knowing what's going on in the fashion world can't hurt — especially when it offers you an excuse to do a little extra shopping. This fall brings five “new” and unexpected items to the table. Take the opportunity to head out to the stores, bring out some of the old clothes you could never part with, or simply cut up your wardrobe for a new look. Mix and match According to this year's catwalks, mix and match textures and styles — eveningwear with knits, for instance — while keeping colors cohesive. Think your old comfy, chunky sweater with a shiny skirt for a wintery night out. Knits are in, so your chunky sweater should be coming out no matter what. That being said, matching is favored with suits this fall and whether you're donning flowers or plaid, matching tops and bottoms or suits made of the same fabric are a big hit. Collars off Detachable collars! Yes, you read it right — apparently, this is the winter 2012 fashion originally invented in Troy, New York, in 1827, when a woman decided it would be more practical to wash her husband's collar by cutting it off and sewing it on again. The detachable collar can dress up anything from a t-shirt to a collarless blouse. Disco is not dead This season, don psychedelic prints (think 1970s) and purchase those groovy pants you've been dreaming of. Grow out your hair, consider jumpsuits and wear sunglasses at all times. A multitude of flowers will do, but in any case, there will be a lot of detail this winter — less “basics.” Over belts Just when you thought they'd go away, over belts or particularly tight waist-high belts that are put over dresses have now entered the world of belts over large coats. Although you don't necessarily need a great figure to pull these off, you do need to be true to your waist. Forget the years of low rise when you decide to buckle up your “over belt.” Black and leather Black, baggy leather pants are all the rage on the catwalks for winter. Although this might be a big step outside your comfort zone, for those more adventurous, it's a nice twist on wearing leather. If you want to pick one, black is definitely back for winter, with a majority of the top designers putting out model after model wearing black on black. This piece was originally published in Egypt Independent's weekly print edition.
