... And you don't want an incomplete collection, now do you?

Let's face it, by now you've probably already invested in the essential pieces for your fall wardrobe--you've got your blazers, your scarves, and your sweaters... but what are you missing? Complete your wardrobe with these four pieces, all priced under $100. 

THE BOOT WITH QUILTED DETAILS

Forever 21 Quilted Faux Leather Boots ($42.80 at Forever 21)

Yes, you need this. It's the perfect combination of cognac brown and black, but the quilted detailing is what really makes the boot pop. Plus the high boot is taking precedence over the bootie this season. We just got these in the store Tuesday, and I couldn't have been more excited at how pretty they looked on, too! They are, in essence, completely fabulous. I am unsure of their comfort level, but would definitely be willing to pop in those Dr. Scholl's foot inserts. 

THE CROPPED JACKET WITH LEATHER TRIM

Grey Boucle PU Trim Jacket ($61.00 at MissSelfridge.com)

Leather trim is huge this season, and I have to say it's one of my favorite little details. It adds an edge to the most simplest of items. You can dress this up by wearing it over your favorite holiday dress, or dress it down in a tee and your favorite skinnies. It's worth the investment and it definitely has that "Omg, where did you get that?" vibe going on. I love it--It's different, it's versatile, and it's on trend. 

THE TASSEL ACCENTED BAG

Fereira ($50.00 at Aldo)

How fantastic is this double-handled tote? And the tassel detail? Yes, please! I'm seeing tassel accents just about every bag this season, and it's such a great little detail that can really change the look of a bag. This bag is a perfect weekender bag! Wear it with a red and black flannel shirt, skinnies, over the knee equestrian boots, and a beanie--you're all set! 

ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING OXBLOOD

Petite Jersey Peplum Top ($36.00 at Topshop)

Give me oxblood or give me... well, okay it isn't that serious, but I am obsessing over oxblood this season. (Not sure what oxblood is?) Not only is this top the color of the season, but peplum is such a great way to show off your shape in a season where baggy layers tend to hide your curves. Break out the cropped jacket and wear it over this pretty peplum top to change up the pace a little bit!

The economy might be a bust, but your wardrobe doesn't have to be. When money is tight, it's time to start thinking harder about your purchasing decisions. Sometimes, those uber-cheap pieces just don't fulfill all of your expectations, and when that happens it's time to really cut back and distinguish between what your needs and wants. Rebuild your consumer confidence by investing in these fabulous five pieces that are well worth the price tag, and highly recommended by yours truly.

GIANNI BINI EQUESTRIAN RIDING BOOTS

$149.99 at Dillards.com

This item may be one of the most expensive items I've featured on this blog in a really long time, but I cannot recommend a more comfortable brand of shoes. I'm on my feet all day long as a Visual Merchandiser for Forever 21, so comfortable footwear is an absolute must. Gianni Bini shoes have an amazingly thick cushion--it feels like you're walking on a bed of marshmellows--seriously! You'll love them. Plus they have a wide variety of styles of shoes. However, when it comes to the perfect fall boot--this is my favorite and most likely my next big purchase.

H&M DRESS

$34.95 at H&M

I adore this dress, and I'm proud to say I own it! I try not to post too many things from H&M on this site because H&M isn't available in most places in the U.S. nor online. (I want my readers to have access to all of these fab deals!) However, I did feel like this deserved a spot on the list, and I'll tell you why: It has a thick fabrication, fits a curvy silhouette like a glove (seriously, you'll feel like Mad Men's Joan Holloway), and it's absolutely timeless. It's career appropriate with a blazer and will look fantastic during colder months with black stockings and suede pumps. 

FANTASY WOOL JACKET

$129.99 at Zara.com

I'm a smitten kitten when it comes to Zara. I bought a lot of great pieces from the store when I went to Italy, and every time I wear them I get tons of compliments--especially on my cord chain necklace, $29.90, at Zara.com. But, let's get back to this pretty coat--the length is perfection, the detailing is flawless, and yet it feels so cozy. Plus, you need to get your winter white coat! I'm also very into collarless coats and button up tops, which I feel provide a bit more of an understated elegance. 

WAREHOUSE SKINNY ANIMAL PRINT BELT

$31.66 at Asos

I consider leopard print a neutral, so to me this belt can go with just about anything. Say what you want about "zebra" print being in right now--I'm on team leopard. (Faux, of course.) That being said, this skinny belt with the ponyskin-effect and metallic pin-buckle closure can be worn in so many ways. This belt can add that extra bit of texture or print that your favorite winter ensemble just might need right now.

SEPHORA COLLECTION MANIAC MAT LIPSTICK

$7.00 (on sale from $12) at Sephora.com

This is a fantastic matte lipstick that really lasts all day! I had my makeup done last weekend for engagement photos, and my makeup artist used the Mat 02 color. Unfortunately, I can't find that color online anywhere! It's a very nice, natural pink shade and it is a great staple beauty item for anyone--even if you don't wear makeup a lot. The Mat 09 Merlot (above) is a little more for the girl who does wear makeup often and would like a classic fall shade. No matter which shade you choose, it's definitely worth every penny, and if you want a little shine, just add a touch of gloss.

Forever 21 has an amazing range of affordable bags that make it super easy to switch up your look for fall. However, once you see the purse selections scattered about the store or take a look at their offerings online, you might get a bit overwhelmed. Fortunately I've made it easy by rounding up the best of the best with Forever 21's Fall Bags. 

BEST CLUTCH

Forever 21 Studded Tassel Clutch

$19.80 at Forever 21

This envelope clutch is a lot bigger than what it appears to be online, and the studded detailing definitely adds an edge. Plus, that tassel on the zipper is the perfect little extra!

BEST CROSSBODY 

Forever 21 Woven Shoulder Bag

$29.80 at Forever 21

How fantastic is this classic crossbody? I'm always a sucker for a chain strap, and I love the sophisticated gold clasp on this bag. Plus the woven texture makes it all the more fabulous. And for $29.80, you couldn't ask for a better deal. This sleek and minimalist bag is versatile, too--wear it with something edgy or with something preppy.

BEST SATCHEL

Forever 21 Faux Ostrich Leather Satchel

$32.80 at Forever 21

It's practically oxblood, the color of the season, and it looks functional/luxurious. With the clean shape and sleek hardware, it will certainly carry over to fall 2013, too.

BEST QUILTED BAG

Forever 21 Quilted Chain Strap Satchel

$32.80 at Forever 21

Umm, yes please? This bag has all of the functionality of a satchel, with the sophisticated and puffy texture of a quilted Chanel bag. 

BEST MINIMALIST

Forever 21 Cutout Handle Clutch

$19.80 at Forever 21

Here is one fantastic party clutch. I love the minimalist design with the cutout handle--it's a reinveted red clutch that will certainly add a pop of color to your outfit.

ASOS taps Lena Dunham for the cover of the brand's November issue! The writer, producer, and actress is only 26 years old and ASOS boasts that she's probably the funniest woman on television right now. And even after four Emmy nominations, Dunham isn't letting the  success get to her head. 

On getting to create "Girls" for HBO, Dunham says, "The entire process, I was just like, 'Is this happening?' I couldn't believe the idea that I was going to get paid to do it. It was just so mind blowing to me."

Now there's a woman who exudes passion in her work and is living out her dream. Whether you love "Girls" or hate it, or even if you've never seen an episode, you have to appreciate her humble spirit. 

I can't get enough of the eclectic styles she wears for ASOS magazine, and luckily, we can get our hands on the following items, all under $100. Shop the look below.

ASOS Full Skirt in Dogtooth Print ($60.36 at Asos); ASOS MAYOR Leather Flat Shoes ($86.23 at Asos)

ASOS Denim Jacket in Oversized Boyfriend Fit ($65.53 at Asos)

ASOS Skater Dress With Kiss Print ($68.98 at Asos); ASOS MOUSE Leather Flat Shoes ($65.53 at Asos, marked down from $85)

Here's another Isabel Marant celebrity-favorite shoe: the high top wedge sneakers. Just like the Dicker boots, these shoes are selling out fast--even at around $700--and style setters like Kate Bosworth and Dakota Fanning have been spotted wearing them. And most recently, Anne Hathaway was seen sporting the trend. And while these shoes were super popular last season, they're popularity is carrying over to Fall 2012, as well--which means that they might possibly be worth the investment. Though I don't consider myself a sneaker person, I am always on the hunt for comfortable yet fashionable shoes--and I'm totally up for giving wedge sneakers a try after seeing these celebrities sport the look.

For me, pulling a look together with something as chunky as sneakers is rather difficult. I prefer a loafer or a nice ballet flat--something streamlined and chic. However, not only have celebrities made me rethink these sneakers as a fashion-forward option for the weekend, but style bloggers have also peaked my shoe interest. For style inspiration, take a look above to find out how style bloggers have worn the Isabel Marant sneakers. 

Of course, I would never spend $700 on a pair of high tops, so naturally I've provided cost-effective alternatives for you, lovely readers. I'm kinda feelin' the taupe shoes from Steve Madden. Which shoes are your favorite, if any?

Double Strap Wedge Sneaker

$42.50 at Charlotte Russe

Steve Madden Women's Olympiaa Fashion Sneaker

$99.95 by Steve Madden at Endless.com

Women's Xhilaration® Selma Sneaker

$29.99 by Xhilaration at Target

One thing that remained constant on the A/W 2012 runways was a bold lip paired with bare eyes. It's most certainly the easiest way to pull off a great bold lip color, and it definitely makes your lips the focal point of your beauty look. It's also the perfect way to add a pop of color to your otherwise neutral fall wardrobe, plus I think every girl could stand to wear more bold lip colors every now and then. 

While there will always be be exaggerated and impractical beauty looks walking down the runways every season, this look is actually wearable for the street! Are you ready for some beauty math? Here's how to get that perfect bold lip! (Pssst! Don't be shy to try a darker or brighter shade of lip color with this look, too. A firey red-orange lip color will also do the trick!)

Suggested Products: Eyeshadow Pan - Cappuccino ($10.00 at DERMSTORE); Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Instant Definition Eye Shadow Palette, in Amethyst ($7.95 at drugstore.com); and L'Oreal Colour Riche Stars Lipcolour Lipstick, Eva's Caramel ($8.95 at drugstore.com)

Call it burgundy, call it maroon, but the world of fashion is calling this season's color "oxblood". Don't get it confused with dark red, for this shade of red has more of a purple undertone--like wine or rosewood. And while "oxblood" doesn't normally conjure up the most pleasant thoughts, here's where you can get a few lovely oxblood items for under $50. 

Petite Jersey Peplum Top

$36.00 at Topshop

Twisted Peplum Dress - Wine

$48.00 at Nasty Gal

ASOS PARIS Heeled Shoes

$43.12 at Asos

ASOS Chain and Purse Detail Waist Belt

$25.87$12.07 at Asos

Deco Pinot Bib

$36.00 at BaubleBar

We are well into the Spring 2013 shows, but as the weather begins to cool down dreams of wearing flowy dresses in bold colors slowly vanish and the reality of oversized sweaters and coats sets in. But your fall attire doesn't have to be dreary or frumpy--there are plenty of styles you can steal from the Spring 2013 shows! 

So which looks can you steal from next Spring? 

Inspired By: Fendi's Ovsersize Blue Honeycomb Sweater

Wear It Now:

Crew Neck Cable Sweater

$39.50 at Delia's

Inspired By: Burberry's Classic Trench (Wearable Year-Round)

Wear It Now:

London Fog Coat, Classic Belted Trench Coat

$99.98 by London Fog at Macy's

Inspired By: Tibi's Leather Dresses

Wear It Now:

Forenza Studded Faux Leather Dress

$98.00 at The Limited

Inspired By: Alexander Wang's Black & White Combo

Wear It Now: 

*Would look great with a black blazer and tights.

Colorblock Sheath Dress

$98.00$58.80 at The Limited

Although I was out of the country for New York's Fashion week, that did not stop me from catching up with the shows when I got back. While I'm excited for fall and so ready to pull out my coats and chunky knit scarves (crossing my fingers it will get that cold in Mississippi this year), but it's also time to start evaluating my closet again and determining which summer pieces to keep for next year. Without further adieu, here's a review of trends that you'll want to take note of when you're cleaning out your summer wardrobe. 

PEEK-A-BOO MIDRIFFS

Midriff tops are definitely in again for 2013, and just like this past summer they are usually seen paired with a high-waisted skirt. It's not about exposing your entire midriff a la Britney Spears in the "I'm a Slave for You" video. It's more about effortlessly revealing a classy yet sexy pop of skin and not looking like you're trying to hard to get unnecessary male attention. Keep your chic midriff tops (like the styles below), but in my personal opinion you can throw out those ultra-trendy, cropped neon muscle tanks.

REMINDS ME OF THIS FROM SPRING 2012:

NAUTICAL STRIPES

Nautical typically always hits big during the summer--so definitely hang on to those nautical inspired stripes! Bonus if you go for the whole "matchy-matchy" look, which is also on trend for next year. 

REMINDS ME OF THIS FROM SPRING 2012:

SHEER PERFECTION:

It's sheer, dear, so keep it! I think sheer is another way to be sexy in the summer without exposing everything. So if you invested in any sweet sheer tops this summer, be sure to store them up for next year!

REMINDS ME OF THIS FROM SPRING 2012

Above: Brixton - Women's Natural Straw Parlor Hat ($40.00 by Brixton at RONROBINSON.com); Swatch and Learn Dress ($49.99 at ModCloth); Polka-dot triangle halter top ($29.99 at J.Crew); Polka-dot string hipster ($48.00 at J.Crew); Carlos by Carlos Santana Tulle Sandal ($44.95 by Carlos by Carlos Santana at DSW). 

No matter what your Labor Day plans are, here's your guide to making your outfit work for the ocassion...

1. Wear a dress. It's versatile, you can wear your swimsuit underneath, and you won't get too hot.
2. Add a sunhat or a fedora. This adds an element of style, so that even if you skipped out on jewelry it will still look like you've got a sense of fashion. 
3. Choose flats. Labor Day isn't about going bar hopping in a five inch heels for most people. Instead, lots of people go to the lake or to a cookout. If you wear heels (unless they are a nice summer wedge), you'll probably look a little bit out of place.
4. Wear your favorite swimsuit. Labor Day is like summer's last hoorah, so enjoy it in your fave bikini or one piece!