Models lined up backstage ready to strut their stuff on the Northbridge Mall runway. Much like the scene of New York Fashion Week at Bryant Park, the people were abuzz with excitement and anticipation of what fall fashion would bring.

The Northbridge Mall Back-to-School Fashion Show was Wednesday evening, and 75 parents, relatives, friends and fashion enthusiasts were eager to see what trends are hot and cheer on the models.

Nearly 40 children, teens and young adults took the runway clad in the most popular clothes for the fall season. Herberger’s, Maurices and Vanity dressed the models in four categories: fall’s casuals, newest trends, fall outerwear and best of store.

Trends that were in the fall’s casuals category were skinny jeans, sweater dresses with leggings, ruffled blouses with vests and plaid on everything. Relaxed styles such as hoodies and sweatpants are always comfortable for back to school.

Edginess is in again, with rocker T’s, studded belts and bright colors reminiscent of the 1980s.

Clothes for fall generally reflect fall colors, but one that pops this season is purple. Pink was abundant, too, but generally in a richer raspberry hues.

Accessories that came down the runway were larger bags in similar autumn shades and pointed-toe shoes in all colors — even kelly green. Necklaces this season make a statement and are best layered.

Some of fall’s casuals also fell into the newest trends category. Sweater dresses with leggings are one such trend. Layering is also back this fall, which is good for Minnesota’s changing temperatures going into football season.

Kids are loving the “Hannah Montana” and “High School Musical” themed clothing, according to Herberger’s Sales Manager Nicole McNamee.

Other new trends include puffy, sleeveless vests with fur-lined hoods. High-waisted pants are inspiring a retro-classic look, and paired with a ruffled or embellished blouse make a smart combination. Graphic prints abound on all pieces of clothing — and definitely argyle patterns in a variety of colors.

“There’s a lot of interesting patterns,” said Maurices model Miriam Crow. “I like how layering is back.”

Women’s and girls’ pants come in many shapes and sizes this season. From skinny jean to wide-leg trousers, a pant style can be found for any occasion.

For boys and young men, graphic hoodies are now reflecting a rocker theme and the plaid, woven button-down shirt make for great layering pieces.

“Layering is big again — all the layering, the more you can add the better,” McNamee said.

For young men, jeans are coming in straighter and tapered legs reflecting the skinny jean trend of punk rockers. Boot leg jeans can also be found.

“They’re just opening to more styles of denim,” McNamee said.

Outerwear comes in many shapes and sizes this year. Full coats, vests, leather jackets and trenches can all be found. Leather jackets are, again, reminiscent of the rocker, edgy look. Parkas with fleece are popular this season as well as puffy jackets with fur-lined hoods. And scarves go with everything — from a sweater dress to a trench coat.

Get more about fall clothing fashions in the Fall 2008 issue of Southern Minnesota, coming out on Aug. 30.

Whatever the look students are going for, many styles, colors and shapes can be found for back-to-school clothes.