5 New Silhouettes Trending for Fall 2014

Fashion Week may be full of new inspiration for the coming season, but with trend overload and the sheer volume of outfits hitting the runway, sometimes we wish it came with a translating guide. Fall 2014 certainly gave us a lot to think about, from the abundance of fur to the flowing floral gowns. Luckily, we were able to pick out five key silhouettes that will have you looking chic — and hopefully not bewildered — for autumn.

1. The Belted Coat

No need to add your own belt to Fall 2014's coats; they have their own built into the design. Not only does the silhouette allow for multiple iterations of the same piece, but it also works on any body type, height, and shape. Altuzarra showed the trend in coats with contrasting-colored lapels, Louis Vuitton gave his outerwear crisp, patent, waist-defining belts, and Peter Som knotted his belts for a more chilled-out look. If you're feeling casual, leave the belt undone and let your ensemble peek out from the coat. For a more polished look, keep the belt buckled, with a scarf or piece of statement jewelry to highlight the neckline.

2. The Bell Skirt

Yet another trend that works on anyone regardless of body type, the bell skirt is a feminine, flirty style that looks at once polished and playful. The piece looks just a chic paired with a turtleneck as it does a boxy blazer or ruffled blouse depending on the vibe you're going for. Zuhair Murad amped up the bell skirt with bold animal prints and graphic patterns, while Valentino went for a hybrid flared version which was crisp color blocked version for fall. Because the skirt is voluminous, try balancing it with a relaxed-fit button down or a contoured blouse.

3. The Slit Origami Skirt

Good news for those who balk at miniskirts but aren't afraid of flashing a bit of skin: slit origami skirts are in, and they come in every configuration from maxi to midi. JC de Castelbajac showed a luxe, ladylike version on his Paris Fashion Week runway, with below-the-knee and maxi skirts in bold patterns and rich jewel tone silk. Louis Vuitton took the trend in an edgier direction, with zippers, tweed, and asymmetric swathes of fabrics, and Acne kept the slit front and center with pared-down skirts in solid colors. Though designers paired their slit skirts with equally daring tops, the trend is best paired with a more modest top in a simple cut, so as not to detract from the eye-catching cut of the skirt.

4. The Cape

The cape gracing so many Fall 2014 runways was chic, streamlined, and thankfully as far from superhero territory as possible. Designers took on the trend in tasteful neutrals and pastels, from Ralph Lauren's creamy pink cape to Barbara Bui's updated cable knit sweater version. Unless you want to look like you're ready to fly away in your ensemble, ground the outfit with a pair of fitted trousers or leather leggings.

5. The Oversized Collared Top

Lapels and collars are getting a makeover for Fall 2014, and their newest iteration is oversized and statement-making. From heavy fur trim to exaggerated cowl necks, these collars are bold enough without being popped (thank goodness). Christian Siriano's vintage-inspired runway gave the trend a glamorous '40s feel, while Carolina Herrera took on the fur trend by lining her collars with the material and adding oversized cowl necks to her classic ensembles. A slim pencil skirt or pair of skinny jeans is your best bet for taking the trend from runway to real life.