(Photos) Must Have Looks for Fall 2011

After a warm summer of casual maxi dresses and easy sandals, T-shirts and care-free hair, getting dressed in the fall can be a bit tricky. It's not quite cold enough to bundle up but these shorter days are definitely too chilly for bare legs {well, mostly}. To me, fall is a sort of segue into the dressed-up holiday season. I find myself holding back now and keeping my fall looks more casual so as to make the holidays more enjoyable. Getting dressed should be fun and I think if you have the right key pieces on hand, pulling together looks will be a cinch! So without further ado, here are my must-have fashion picks for fall.

1. Black or camel colored trousers

Since shoes are so much fun and a major focal point in fashion right now, a great way to showcase them is with a pair of cropped or rolled-up pants. I tend to view my wardrobe as a collection and sort of "build" it over time adding classic items that can be worn in more than one way, and for many years to come. A great pair of comfortable trousers {these happen to be wool} cuffed up now will go far when winter comes and you can roll them down and wear them with pumps, oxfords, or ankle boots.

2. Slim fitting black blazer

Paired with an easy dress, jeans, or a pencil skirt, a great-fitting black blazer will get you through your work day, on to cocktails at happy hour, and keep you warm after hours. It's an essential piece you can wear year round but as layering becomes a necessity in fall, it will be your best friend.

3. Flared jeans in a light or dark wash

The great belled flare from the 70s has come back with a vengeance! But for me, this look is a classic and I always keep a pair {or two or three} on hand to wear. I tend to splurge on a great pair of classic jeans because they'll last a lifetime. I've had these J. Brand "Love Story" jeans since 2006 and they're still going strong.

4. Something leopard

Leopard print is timeless and classic and will always come back in style. Look for fun pieces in a rich print {as many can look very cheap}! Just remember the general rule behind wearing leopard print is wear one piece at a time! Leopard print shoes and a matching belt will work if everything else is the same solid color.

5. Denim shirt

Yes, denim button-down shirts may remind you of your past, but if you haven't warmed up to them yet, give them a try now. This is a vintage Wrangler button-down with pearlized snaps! But its Western origins are surprisingly versatile. Worn over this long jersey maxi dress or layered over a sweater or T-shirt, the button down has a new jacket-like quality but is still light enough for moody fall weather. Even an over-sized denim shirt has value... and best of all, you can find these gems at your local thrift shops for under $5.

6. Brightly colored jeans or pants

And just to add some fun to your wardrobe, brightly colored jeans or pants are seemingly the trend of the moment. Worn cropped to show off my leopard print stilettos and topped off with my black blazer, here are three fall looks wrapped up in one!

What are your must have looks for this fall? How do you plan to spice up your wardrobe? Please do share in the comments!

BlogHer Style Editor Maegan Tintari {@loveMaegan} is a Fashion, Home & Lifestyle blogger from Los Angeles. Go to ...love Maegan to find out more.