This fall, stock up on basic pieces for versatility and easy layering, but don’t neglect prints and patterns. Select fun, unique items for your wardrobe that allow you to be playful and personalize your outfits every day.

Geometric patterns

Geometric shapes and graphics are a bold, fun way to include more color into your wardrobe. For a statement look, search for a blouse or jacket with strong, thick lines or bright, intriguing shapes. Mix geometric pieces with monochromatic separates, like a sleek pencil skirt or a pair of fitted trousers. Structured basics create a sturdy palette and provide clean, contrasting lines for any geometric pattern, especially if it is loud or oversized. But even if your geometric top is wild, don’t skimp on accessories. Pair chunky bangles and glittering, heavy necklaces with your geometric apparel for a confident, well-rounded look. See looks by Dries Van Noten and Marni Fall 2010.

Camo

Military-inspired fashions are everywhere, and they aren’t going away for a while. If you already own a pair of work boots, an olive trench coat, cargo skinny pants and more utilitarian, neutral basics than you can count, take it one step further and invest in a camouflage T-shirt, blouse or versatile camouflage accessory. If you want to wear camo without looking over-the-top army, pull on fitted separates and incorporate plenty of feminine accents as accompaniments. Tuck a camo button-up into a pair of skinny jeans and throw on a bright blazer for a more subtle display of this pattern. Or wear camouflage as an accent — tie a camo-patterned scarf around your neck for just the right amount of movement, pattern and military flair.

Western-inspired

I always love it when designers get inspired by the “rugged Midwest.” This fall, tuck Western-esque, patterned shirts into skirts or high-waisted trousers for a fun weekend look. The colors, typically shades of browns, blacks, yellows, tans and reds, are perfectly accented by the bright hue of any blue jean. Or, for a healthy dose of color, wear your Western garb with a brighter, contrasting color, like turquoise. Check out Zac Posen Fall 2010 RTW for a great, modern interpretation of the Western-inspired trend.

Incorporating patterns into your fall wardrobe

• When in doubt, wear black and white. The black-and-white color combination is classic and ultra-chic, and it is an easy way to wear clothing that is already in your closet. Create your own shapes with skinny belts, tall socks and loads of layers. Think of interesting ways to make bold patterns that will be completely your own and totally in style.

• I can’t say it enough — invest in a few animal-print accessories. You will wear these items time and time again. A leopard-print scarf is a simple way to dress up a plain black sweater, jeans and boots; a wild pair of heels makes your favorite LBD look brand new and very hip; a zebra clutch takes a bright, weekend cardigan up to the next level.

Animal-print accessories add glamour to everyday wardrobe pieces, and their patterns stand the test of time.