As we’ve stated previously in this blog, fall 2012 runways were all about visual contrast—but not necessarily in the usual ways. In this fall 2012 trend report, we'll be covering the mixed media trend. This season’s designers have truly broken the mold with avant-garde mixed media styling that is surprisingly accessible to wear. On the runways, this trend played out mostly as looks that incorporated two distinctly different fabrics.

For instance, Versace presented gowns with shiny plastic paneling alongside smooth, ribbed chiffon. Bottega Veneta mixed leather with satin in different shades of the same color. The mesh trend was also represented with fabrics like silk and velvet, showing that transparency as a fashion motif is still alive and well.

Other designers paired wool with leather, a statement that is at once both country-house and city-street appropriate. In fact, both materials are enormously in demand for fall. So how can you make this look work for you?

Here are some ideas:

1. Workwear. As the weather gets cooler, don yourself in a wool suit with high, hemline-skimming leather boots or a wrap a wide, statement leather belt around your waist.

2. For evening. Nothing could be more glamorous than silk and fur. A cowl-necked dress in a bold color with a fur collar will have you looking like you stepped out of an Old Hollywood film.

3. Every day. The excellent thing about this trend is that it probably takes less effort to pull off than trying to look perfectly pulled together. Need to run to the grocery store? Try a dark or brightly colored denim with a shiny, waterproof track jacket. Instant style.

Leave us some comments and let us know how you like this fall 2012 trend report and how you’d wear it.