Next week, I will be heading to New York City for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, where designers from the United States and around the globe will be previewing their latest collections for the scrutiny of the press. This past February, I was there to witness what they had in store for fall - since the shows are around six months out from the actual season they represent. There were a lot of ideas as usual; some very new and some a continuation of timeless looks that never go out of style. Here are my top 10 ideas for Fall 2012, so you can keep your eyes open for items at Goodwill that could just fit the fashion bill.

Uniquely Styled Coats

Oversized, blocky, and colorful could be good adjectives to describe the type of coats that will be “in” for fall. Think of dramatic shapes, and unique textures and colors.

Graphic Suits

Not exactly a re-hash of the 70’s but close. Two-piece ensembles in graphic patterns like hound’s-tooth, floral, and brocades, take the front row in fashion.

Turtlenecks

A fall fashion staple has made a resounding come back.  A perfect layering piece in thin knits, and used like outerwear in chunky boucle knits. Everyone should have a couple neutral pieces to add to the mix.

Fur

Even if you’re fur adverse, you just can’t deny that fur says fall and winter fashion.  Go for a luxurious faux, or just dip your toe in the fur trend with an accented cuff or collar on a cloth coat.

Leather

Not just for Harley riders anymore, leather has gone upscale in sophisticated dresses, blouses, coats and slacks. Look for tailored details, and a slim fit to be the leader of the fashion pack.  Extra points for scaled down motorcycle jackets!

Handmade

Macramé, embroidery, and the like embellish many items of clothing and accessories.  While there is a fine line between crafty and couture, a small handbag done in crewel embroidery might just be the ticket.

Ruffles

Romantic and glamorous, ruffles are a love them or hate them proposition.  If you’re a girly-girl, you just can’t get enough this fall in dresses, sweaters, and virtually anything you can imagine.

Velvet

Is velvet ever out of style? Your best bet would be to find a blazer that is perfectly cut and fits like a glove. Pair it with jeans and a t-shirt or wear over a feminine dress for stylish chic.

High Boots

Dame fashion says knee high or even more for fall.  Buccaneer meets Prince and the Revolution.  Wear them with anything and everything to capture the latest trend.

Bold Necklaces

Bigger is better, and you can’t do without a large and in charge statement piece or two. Maybe one should be a textured macramé and wood, while the other could be a garishly glamorous jewel. The more the merrier when it comes to bold baubles

Whatever you choose to wear, remember to always feel confident in your choices.  At Goodwill there are so many things to choose from in the ever-changing selection that you’ll never leave empty handed.  So take my tips and see what fall fashion steals you can find for just pennies on the dollar.