As North Texas temps continue to climb into the triple-digit zone, fashion inevitably focuses on fall. Today, with the return of Trending, we will begin our analysis of the looks to watch in months to come. With an eye on practicality, however, we’ll keep the layers and fur to a minimum (you’re welcome).   To begin, Fall ’12 collections prove that matched colors will move forward, whether ladylike or with an edge. Almost the opposite of color blocking, this week we are trending the old school version of the match game (belt to shoes, bag to dress). This put-together strategy is making a big comeback.    

Pitch-perfect coordination of texture and tone in shoes and dress, from Alexander McQueen.

     

Black on black, reminiscent of the ‘80s, from Christian Dior Pre-Fall 2012.

     

Proenza Schouler’s black on black takes a turn for the tough.

     

In patterns and solids, clutches from Kirna Zabête play right along with fall’s graphic or solid ensembles.

   

A ladylike bag and shoe pairing from Ralph Lauren.

     

Michael Kors coordinates belt, bag, and shoe, as well as socks and gloves.

   

Alexander McQueen’s “De Manta” calfskin clutch, with distinctive hardware, will match an all black ensemble for any occasion this fall.

   

Finally, the “Tracy” fedora by Eric Javits is our favorite coordinated topper.

    (Photo credits, from top: 1. Monica Feudi / feudiguaineri.com via Style.com, 2. Christian Dior via Style.com, 3. Monica Feudi / feudiguaineri.com via Style.com, 4. Style.com, 5. Imaxtree, 6. Yannis Vlamos / GoRunway.com, 7. NeimanMarcus.com, 8. EricJavits.com)