Perhaps it’s because of the poor economy or maybe it’s due to sensory overload, but fashion, in general, is taking it back to the basics. This season the current trend for jewelry is all about fashion fundamentals, with an emphasis on chunky.

Although statement necklaces are less of a classic basic and more of a recent trend, they are still considered the "must have" focal point to give your entire wardrobe a boost. Huge chains and bib necklaces continue to be great looks to go after. These oversized ornaments can really dress up the clean lines of a simple night time look, but don’t put them away during the day. Reinvent your white t-shirt and jeans by adding your favorite attention getter around your neck. When wearing a statement necklace, keep the rest of your outfit simple, sophisticated and subdued...allowing the jewelry to grab all the attention.

While statement necklace are still current, if you want to be fashion forward, look to bold earrings as the next statement piece of jewelry coming down the pike. Long, jewel encrusted or oversized, earrings are moving towards becoming the main jewelry piece. If you’re not ready to jump on this trend yet, hoop earrings have always been a fashion basic and continue to be on trend as a fashion fundamental.

The “it” color for accessories this fall is red. Red accents are a classic look, especially when worn with black, grey and white. You may be wearing bold pops of scarlet or crimson with your bag or shoes; a necklace, bracelet or earrings would add another level of an accent. “Matchy-matchy” is no longer in, so make sure to keep the colors bright, but not exactly the same hue.

Classics like pearls and chains are another basic that are popular now. Wear them long and layered or a single massive, short choker. Try wearing a mix of different size chains in a variety of metals and colors for a look with maximum impact. For a fresh flair, try wearing multiples of longer chains knotted low creating a “y”. This look can also be done with rope length strands of pearls reminiscent of 1920’s flapper fashion. When in doubt, go bold with gold. Metals and graphic elements play a big part in jewelry for the 2009-10 fall and winter season.

Head to toe black is back and dressing in this basic monochromatic look calls for black jewelry as well. Mixing matte and shiny black creates a very luxe look. If you are heading out to a holiday party and would prefer to add some drama, then bedazzling rhinestones are always a good way to go, but in a refined way now. Look for clear or metallic colored crystals paired with dark metal.