Plenty of Color:

Nothing updates a basic article of clothing more than color, and from what Girlawhirl saw on the runways of New York Fashion Week, she figures that her Fall 09 wardrobe will include plenty of neon orange, hot pink, cobalt blue, shades of green and yellow and more. In addition, gorgeous jewel tones; the purples, teals and deeper blues, cranberries and reds that make for wearable fall and holiday outfits, were part of many designers' collections.

Strong Shoulders:

This one might take a little getting used to, but it's not the first time strong shoulders have been in the spotlight. Balenciaga showed them in Paris for Spring 09 and for next fall, other designers have followed suit. In addition to a strong shoulder line that's helped out with a bit of padding underneath, another way shoulders have become a focal point is with pleats, tucks and even a few strategically placed bows.

Slim Silhouettes:

From super skinny pants – topped with printed tunics – at Tibi, to more skinny pants and pencil skirts at Michael Kors, a slim silhouette looks just right for Fall 09. When slim trousers are topped with oversized layers on top, belts keep everything from becoming too overwhelming.

Seasonal Confusion:

More than once, while watching a show Girlawhirl had to remind herself that the clothes were designed for fall and winter. She knows that sounds ridiculous, but between the hot colors, flowing lightweight fabrics, single shoulder silhouettes and sleeveless sheath dresses, Girlawhirl faced a bit of seasonal confusion. Not that she has anything against fabulous sheath dresses – they're the stars of her wardrobe – year round.

Lots of Layers:

Nothing's cozier when the temperatures drop than a sweater to warm things up. And layered over a sleeveless sheath, or wrapped above skinny pants, there are always more options that Girlawhirl can keep up with. This fall, in addition to sweaters, the fur vest was the outer layer of choice, showing up on more than a few runways. Scarves, leggings, and leather jackets round out the options for layered looks.

Prints Keep Coming:

Print and pattern has been the fashion focal point for a few seasons, and this time around, Girlawhirl's getting the sense that prints are a little less abstract and over the top. That's not to say that there weren't some wonderful graphic patterns on the runways – Diane von Furstenberg and Anna Sui are right at the top of Girlawhirl's mind here – but she can't stop thinking of the black and creamy white paisleys at Marc Jacobs, zig zag prints at Matthew Williamson and yes, Ana Sui and Diane von Furstenberg also had their own versions of black and cream florals.

Plaids, Tweeds and Houndstooth Checks:

Always fall staples, Girlawhirl always expects to see plaids, tweeds and checks in her fall wardrobe, and for Fall 09, there's no exception. What's new, however, are the colors. Houndstooth checks in green and grey or red and grey from DKNY are totally wearable, fun and still office appropriate. Plaids at Lela Rose popped with shots of cobalt blue, Diane von Furstenberg used red to liven up a plaid in shades of grey, and Isaac Mizrahi sent more than a few techno color plaids down the runway.

Other details Girlawhirl's keeping an eye on for Fall 09:

Gleaming Gold, Stripes, Ombré, Oragami Pleating, Vests