Countdown to 2009: Melissa's Top 10 Fashion Trends of 2008

Every weekday of December (except for December 25, that is), Phillyist will be counting down to 2009 with our highlights from the past year and our predictions for the next. If you have a list you'd like to submit, let us know!

10. Vests. These are a personal favorite of mine. You can buy them cheap at a place like Old Navy. Or, opt for a more expensive version like the ones seen here. These vests look cute at the office over a crisp, button-down white shirt, or are nice on the weekends over a plain t-shirt.

9. Flats. I'm a big fan of flats, especially since I wreaked havoc on my feet with heels for the past five years. Flats are—dare I say—more stylish and fun than heels. You can dress them up or style them down. They also look great with skinny jeans. If you're going casual try these. For a dressier look try these.

8. Black nail polish. Black nail polish makes even the most cookie-cutter chick look instantly dark and twisty. Check out these dark shades from O.P.I. But, beware. When these colors chip you don't look like the classiest girl in town. Word on the street is that gray is the new black in '09. Good thing because the gray doesn't look nearly as bad when it chips, and it's a lot more subtle than the black. Kind of like "I'm dark and twisty, but not THAT dark and twisty." Try this one, also from O.P.I., called "Sheer Your Toys!"

7. Flannels. I never thought I'd see the day when flannels came back. It actually makes me really happy because it brings out the 90s alternative kid in me. I really like this one. You may see me around town sporting one with an old Nirvana t-shirt. Smells Like Teen Spirit.

6. Carrie Bradshaw-like heels. While flats are all the rage, there's nothing sexier than a gorgeous heel. These were all over the Sex and the City movie. If you don't feel like you can pull these off, opt for a pair of flats, which are just as nice.

5. Go Green shopping bags. I'm all for "going green," as people and companies say, but I must admit it's strange that being environmentally conscious is a fashion trend. Oh well. I'll take what I can get. Whole Foods has been selling these bags for years, and it's great that the rest of retail is finally catching on. Try these cute ones seen here and here.

4. Equestrian style boots. Like flats, these boots look awesome over skinny jeans. And, they usually come with a small heel and rounded toe, which is much more comfortable than the hooker-type styles. My feet thank these boots every day. Try these in black or brown.

3. Bright colors. Yellow. Burnt orange the color of leaves. Basically, colors that go with fall. From handbags to coats, you'll see these colors all over, and they look darn good. Check out these looks from InStyle.

2. Accessories. What you wear says something about you, and nothing does that more than accessories. Take a black t-shirt and add a funky necklace. Now you have something that makes a statement. This year it was all about bangle bracelets, chunky necklaces, and scarves with unique prints.

1. Bangs. Hair is as much a part of your wardrobe as jackets and pants. This year bangs made the cut with women everywhere deciding to chop their locks for a modern cut with bangs. Recently, I noticed Alanis Morisette sporting the new look. Take a look at these celebrities with bangs and decide if you want to try the look for yourself.

Image credit: Flickr user LeeLeeLu