NYFW '12: Altuzarra-Diane von Furstenberg

At risk of posting too much about designer clothing, I cannot allow New York Fashion Week to continue without noting the many amazing trends being created for this fall. Although names like Marc Jacobs and Armani seem far-off and too idealistic for the typical girl's wardrobe, the ensembles they develop inevitably end up inspiring and dictating what lands on the racks at stores like Forever 21, Macy's, and even Target. So instead of writing the runway shows off as inapplicable to your own life, consider yourself "in the know" of the fall trends to come.

Here's the first installment of my favorite autumn looks:

Altuzzara

[Easily one of my favorite collections yet, I can actually picture myself wearing these outfits; they're relatively practical for a Wisconsin coed. The black leather boots cap off easy cargo pants and embellished sweaters, while a bohemian coin-adorned frock is thrown into the mix for fun. Having grown up on Disney movies, I couldn't help but think of The Hunchback's Esmeralda. Who knew gypsy could be so couture?]

Badgley Mischka

[The duo's done it again. While the ultra-glam gowns are always expected, the cutout shoulders and vest toppers are not, though they are completely welcome. My favorite facets of the fall line: the liquid gold maxi, blush mauve colors, and hair evocative of the 1930's.]

Band of Outsiders

[I surely wasn't at Woodstock, but this collection is what I imagine would surround me if I was. Decidedly hippie meets Laura Ingalls Wilder, the lineup boasts long dresses and ditsy floral prints as well as floor-dusting coats and generously tufted fur vests. 1800's or 1900's? Doesn't matter what century the inspiration came from; it's all very now.]

Carolina Herrera

[Always the lady, Ms. Herrera impresses with layered turtleneck blouses and calf-length pinafores. Varying textures and patterns add interest to monochrome outfits. The hue of choice is navy blue, but I'm not a bit blue about it--if those headband-bound bouffants don't lift your spirits, I don't know what will.]

Diane von Furstenberg

[In a sea of dark sequin sparkles, DVF manages to inject her line with plenty of doses of color. Brilliant colors, at that. Baby pink and eye-popping red on a pantsuit spice up a boring day at the office while the aforementioned black shimmer is a no-brainer for night. Always thinking of the working girl, aren't you Ms. von Furstenberg? Thanks!]

xo Heidi

[PRESS PLAY: "Walking On a Dream" by Empire of the Sun. Available on iTunes.]