Ah, New York Fashion Week, we missed each other again. To all the (self-proclaimed) fashionistas in Columbia, if you feel my pain, don’t drown in the rivers of your sorrow (Hi, Chris Brown) just yet. We have compiled a list of three fall ’12 trends that you can easily incorporate in your wardrobe, with pieces from local stores, before winter really hits.

1. Oversized Outerwear

I don’t know about you, but I’m a huge advocate of layering in fall and winter — layers and layers of basics and a nice warm coat are my staples. This season designers play with a different silhouette and introduce bulky, convex outerwear to the runway. Pair it up with loud patterns (another fall trend) or not, you are set for a relaxed, androgynous look.

On the runway: Chloé, Emilio Pucci, Victoria Beckham

Emilio Pucci, photo courtesy of Style.com

In Columbia: Swank Boutique

Plaid jacket, $120

2. Beijing Brocade

Hopefully you’re informed by now that 2012 is the Year of Dragon. Well, designers surely are in the know because the fall runway screams a lavish celebration of the Chinoises with embellished brocade materials. Obviously, you don’t have to get all decked out in Oriental motifs; opt for a basic piece to sport the brocade element instead.

On the runway: Salvatore Ferragamo, Balmain, Marchesa

Balmain, photo courtesy of Style.com

In Columbia: Envy Boutique

3. Black is the new Black

You heard me right —  bright neons and feminine pastels might have reigned supreme last season, but the big shot is back. And when black is in the picture, leather is, too; but designers took a new spin this time and injected a new kind of chic and cool by mixing black and leather with different textures — I say this trend is the most fool-proof, non?

On the runway: Mulgler, Costume National, Michael Kors

Costume National, photo courtesy of Style.com

In Columbia: Britches Clothing

Corset style high-low maxi dress, $45