Hide that pair of Bermuda shorts in the very back of the closet and throw away those $2 pair of foam flip-flops because fall is here to stay.

Chunky knits, print dresses, tailored jackets, ruffled blouses and fuller skirts are hot trends in clothes this fall season, according to the fashion Web site InStyle.com.

“I love ruffled, button-up blouses. That’s really in this fall,” senior Kate Hess said. “When I went shopping recently, I picked up a few.”

Because of her job at a local school, Hess purchases and is seen wearing stylish clothes including pencil skirts and high heels.

“I wear a lot of dress casual, and I wear dresses all the time,” Hess said. “I really love sweater dresses.”

Knit sweaters also are popular right now junior Shawna Stokes said.

“I saw a lot of oversized sweaters when I went school shopping,” Stokes said. “I own a few in simple, natural colors.”

Typically darker and neutral hues, such as brown and burnt orange, are popular during the fall.

The 2008 fall fashion season is no different it seems.

Hess said dark brown and mustard yellow are especially prominent and trendy this year. New, unorthodox ideas about color combinations are appearing in the fashion world as well.

“I really like how brown and black are mixing this season,” she said. “(Fashion experts) say that brown and black aren’t supposed to go together, but it really looks great.”

Freshman Gloria Atanmo likes to wear darker colors during autumn. “I like my clothes to match with the season,” she said.

Atanmo also has noticed some additional fall clothing trends in stores right now that InStyle.com didn’t notice or mention.

“Scarves and vests are a hot topic right now,” she said. “I see them rocking on the mannequins.”

Atanmo really likes accessories. She said bracelets, ties, belts, chains, hats, gloves, scarves and eyeglasses are necessary to complete any outfit, especially during the fall.

“Matching my clothes and accessories is my No. 1 thing,” she said. “My day will be ruined if I’m not matching.”

Hess also noted accessories tie together an outfit, and she is partial to particular accessory trends.

“I love long necklaces,” she said. “I’ve seen a lot more long, gold necklaces around. Gold is a hot color right now.”

Stokes also has noticed the long necklaces.

“I like the long necklaces, but nothing too shiny or blingy at all,” she said. “Simple always looks the best.”

Fashion is all about looking good, but that doesn’t mean anyone should sacrifice flare for function. In fact, flashy and functional pieces are quite easy to come by.

Stokes, whose primary concern is being comfortable, suggests wearing jackets and coats that stand out in the crowd.

“Jackets in bright colors make your outfit pop,” she said.

Flats and dressy shoes without heels also are in style this season and highly comfortable to wear.

“There are so many cute flats out there that are so comfortable,” Hess said. “They go really well with jeans and dress up any outfit.”

When it comes to buying pieces to create a fashionable look this autumn, think outside the box.

“Sometimes I splurge at the mall,” Atanmo said. “But I shop at thrift and boutique stores, too.”

Stokes also frequents thrift and vintage stores, especially at West Port in Kansas City, Mo.

“Vintage is always good,” Stokes said. “Go to Mom’s jewelry box for classic looks.”

To ensure you aren’t breaking the bank this fall, remember also to shop smart and frugally.

Stokes suggests buying quality, classic clothes that will last.

“Get simple things that might cost more,” Stokes said. “Splurge on simple things like jeans and T-shirts, and find deals on crazy shirts that you won’t wear all the time.”

Hess also suggests purchasing classic clothes that stay in style for several seasons.

“Have pieces to mix and match. It’s a good way to mix up your wardrobe,” Hess said.

Finding a few different pieces, such as a classic white blouse and a chic navy pencil skirt, will never be considered fashion mistakes after the fall season is over.