MISSISSIPPI STATE -- When considering clothing purchases this fall, the real challenge may be figuring out what's not in style.

Phyllis Miller, associate professor of human sciences at Mississippi State University, said "anything goes" as long as people express their own individuality in their clothing selections.

Styles...

"We are still in a wonderful period of ethnic and cultural fusion. For example, a woman may wear a Japanese top with a South American skirt and an Indian shoe," Miller said. "People also will blend periods such as the 1890s and the 1960s. There is a tremendous amount of retro and folkloric clothing available this year."

Miller said consumers will blend evening styles, such as lacy elements, with work and play clothing. Patterns, such as florals and bold Marimekko prints that are reminiscent of the 1960s, will abound. People wanting a more coordinated look should choose pieces that have something in common: color, fabric or a design element.

The current emphasis in the news on military actions will likely carry over into clothing selections. Miller predicted an increased use of military-style clothing including double-breasted jackets, brass buttons, and functional pants such as cargo pants with lots of pockets, zippers, flaps and D-rings will be popular.

"Whenever there is a military action prominent in the news, we see an increase in fatigues, camouflage and khakis," Miller said.

Colors...

The uncertainty in the world also influences some of the popular colors for the coming fall and winter. Miller said consumers can expect to see muted, mystical colors such as taupe, black, beige, navy, darks and off white. Additionally and in keeping with the anything-goes attitude, shoppers will see very bright/electric colors and sometimes they will be blended with the muted colors.

Hemlines...

The lengths of skirts and dresses will go from one extreme to the other and include straight hemlines, handkerchief skirts and wrap-arounds &endash; all equally fashionable. The retro-country look, with multi-tiered or layered skirts, will be on the scene.

"Another trend will be a lot of layering. Multipurpose garments will be appropriate from morning to afternoon to evening with minimal changes necessary from one activity to the next," Miller said.

Fabrics...

Look for a lot of denim in stores this fall. Miller said jeans will have a more worn look and unusual effects such as resin-treated wrinkles. Unkempt looks and unfinished hems will make alterations easier but frustrate parents who want teenagers to look neat. Loose-fitting, slouch pants will be available as well as their complete opposite, which Miller referred to as second-skin pants.

"Quilted fabrics will be popular along with other materials with raised surfaces, even in suits and evening wear," Miller said. "Winter sweats will be popular, along with relief jersey, polar fleece and tone-on-tone jacquards -- lots of texture. Look for a touch of lycra in other fabrics, such as wool, silk and linen, to help reduce the wrinkles and increase comfort."

Shoes...

Women's footwear will come in many different styles this season. Strappy dress shoes with high heels will contrast with very comfortable shoes that blend regular styles with athletic soles. Boots ranging from over the knee on down will be available in leather and unusual textures. Fabric and leather will be common together in some styles.

Accessories...

Miller said ethnic jewelry, bangle bracelets and Sterling cuff bracelets will be popular this fall. Watch for more beads as well. Very long scarves and mufflers will be common accessories even in warm weather.

"Hosiery will continue to be ornamental with features like seams down the back, stitched designs, interwoven patterns and many fishnet variations," Miller said.

Cool Season - Hot Fashions

    A-line coats
    Polar jackets and coats
    Belted coats
    Biker-style jackets
    Cropped jackets
    Sweater dresses
    Pleated skirts
    Pencil skirts
    Corset tops
    Large-ribbed corduroy
    Suedes, leathers, furs