Fall Fashion for Under $40

The easy days of summer are fast behind us.

The weather's become a bit cooler and unpredictable and no longer can we throw on our shorts and sandals and get on with our day. It's never an easy task changing up a wardrobe in anticipation of a new (colder) season. In the last week alone I've overdressed and sweated through the warmer days, then underdressed and shivered through the cooler ones.

The key to fall fashion, I've been reminded, is to dress in layers. But just because you're wearing more clothes (and often in the fall the selections become less colourful), that doesn't mean you can't have some statement pieces to keep things lively. Here are some fun fall fashion finds for under $40.

SLIDESHOW: 5 FALL TRENDS FOR LESS THAN $40

Embellished Accessories
Gilded, golden and bejeweled influences from the Baroque age can be found in fashion houses everywhere this fall. And yes, you can get this rich look for less. Try the Embellished Collar, with sparkly gems, at H&M for $29.95 or give your outfit some metallic shimmer with gold bracelets (a 30 pack for $6.95). Decadent Zara gemstone bib necklaces are anywhere from $30 - $36. The Gap also offers up old world opulence with embroidered loafers ($29.95).

2. Wine Coloured Finds
Love it or hate it, wine coloured hues are everywhere. Oxblood, dark red, burgundy, purplish... you get the idea. The Marled Tee at Joe Fresh in burgundy is a great all-purpose shirt (you can dress it up or down) for $16. The wrap sweater in a similar tone is $24. For simply a splash of the season's IT shade, a sheer, wool scarf at Indigo is $28 (in berry). For something a bit dressier, Old Navy is offering a long-sleeve wrap dress in plum for $32.94.
The best thing about wearing this colour is if you spill red wine on your outfit, it doesn't matter!

3. Oversize Everything
Big is big this season. You can't go wrong if you go oversize, whether it's a knit sweater, wide leg pants or a statement necklace or ring. (Obviously this is not all to be worn together).
Get a "shirtdress" from Urban Outfitters for $39, and a cuff bracelet for $24. Collar necklaces (some from the fashion elite would say are must-haves this season) are around $35 at the Bay. Try a "boyfriend-style" Oxford shirt from Joe Fresh ($24). Or go big with your bag -- a Tote at Indigo in black, olive or berry is $30.

4. Wild Patterns
Whether it's floral, animal print, or Western style, patterns are running wild.
Sheer, floral blouses at H&M are $34.95. Also striking in a similar pattern are floral print leggings by Material Girl ($26 at the Bay). For layering purposes, go for an open-front animal print cardigan at Old Navy ($29.94). Or, if you really can't decide on one theme, you can get scarves of varied patterns (the "Modern print", the "Ava floral", the "Heritage Animal Print") at Banana Republic for between $29.99 and $39.99.

5. Comeback Hats
Baseball caps, fedoras, riding-helmet- inspired hats, you name it, the hat is back.
Keep your head warm and stylish. You can be sporty or sophisticated, there are no rules here.
Classic, wool felt wide-brim hats at the Gap are $29.95 as are wool horseman-like caps. Baseball-style sports caps at Sport Chek are around $29.

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