If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then the fashion world is having a grand old time. Although you can’t reinvent the wheel, you can recreate clothing shapes, colors, themes and trends. When you shop this fall, you will be happy that the plagiarists have made fashion more inclusive for all.

Most of the trends I’ve highlighted below are for both men and women.

Black

After taking a hiatus, the designers have proclaimed that black is back. However, it’s not as spare and minimalist as it’s been in the past. It’s seriously embellished and looking rich with texture and interest. I never put my black away; it’s a wardrobe staple because it’s timeless, easy to coordinate and a breeze to pack.

Embellishment and detail

Not since the ’80s has fashion been so adorned and bedazzling. Everything is jewel encrusted from blouses to denim, and, if it’s not, it has feathers, fringe, shimmer, lace or contrasting textures like taffeta and shearling.

The attention to detail is seen in bias cuts, draping, ruching, sheer netting, empire waists, and layered tiers of fabric. Embellishments aren’t just for women; you will see many of the same elements in menswear.

Fabrics

Never has a fashion season produced such rich, sumptuous materials. Designers even looked at upholstery fabrics for inspiration. This is the season of knits: great cardigans and sweaters should be a must-have buy this season. Other great fabrics include velvet, brocade, satin, tulle, faux fur, faille, shearling, taffeta and wool. A palette of jewel toned shades ups the glamour quotient.

Military

Designers everywhere were influenced by the armed forces of today and the past. They borrowed not only from the U.S. forces but the Russian Cossacks as well.

The lines are crisp and structured, but sexy. Navy, green, brown, black and red jackets and pants feature epaulettes, cargo pockets, brass buttons, and braiding. Wear one military piece at a time to avoid looking as if you’re in a costume on the way to The Eagle.

Boho

Think Kate Moss and Marc Jacobs — not the Olsen twins. The key to getting this look to work is layering. The proportion of the layers will balance and anchor the look.

When worn with a full peasant skirt or jeans, tunics and jackets should be close to the body and vests should be shorter just so they hit at the rib cage. The new low-heeled boot and a fringed bag are great with this look.

Russian

If you want to channel your inner czar or czarina, now is the time. Every major designer is giving a nod to historic Russian style. Fur trimming or gold braiding on rich, colorful velvets or brocades, layered, billowy peasant skirts and bold, gilded embellishments define this look. The fabrics are sensual to the touch, and the colors are jewel tones like purple and burgundy. Capes and fur hats are another key element to this look.

Victorian-Edwardian

Queen Victoria would have been proud of the high necklines, ruffled, puffed sleeves, capes and layered tiers that define the Belle Epoque era of dressing.

Wearing only one piece like a blouse or shirt and mixing it with another trend will keep the look from being too prim or serious.

Denim

Can you believe that this working class material has defined the look of a nation? It’s a wardrobe staple for every American, but the rest of the world has caught on.

Would you have ever believed that the price of a pair of jeans could reach and exceed $1,000? Every major designer has started doing jeans. These days thy’re beaded, painted and jewel encrusted — not the Levis we remember from high school.

As easy as denim is to wear, it is equally as difficult to purchase. With so many choices, finding jeans that fit well and maximize your assets has become a daunting experience. I think it’s almost easier to choose formal wear.

Sartorial influences

Designers have borrowed from menswear to redefine a woman’s suit. Baggy Katherine Hepburn inspired trousers, vests, and jackets are more structured and, well, more like a man’s suit.

The fabrics are no exception? Tartan plaids, houndstooth, tweeds, and stripes make this suit look modern and wearable. This fall you will also have a grand old time deciding which looks to add to your closet. Thank God for fashion plagiarism; otherwise, the best looks would be the exclusive property of a select few.