Sunday, 02 October 2011 | Author: Catherine Horgan | 
There is always something exciting about a new season, and fall is no exception. From 'it' colors red and cornflower blue to a good representation of the color wheel (orange and citron being great accentuators), vibrancy mixes well with the big neutrals of the season, gray and camel. With showings of mod shapes, tart tartans, lady-like suits, menswear-inspired detailing, fantastical prints and color blocking, fall brings serious style.
While prints are always embraced no matter the season, it's fall that allows those of us with mostly solids in our closets to leave the excuses behind. There is no better time to try on a print or two. With the glorious colors of the season, no doubt you will find a fast favorite and fall madly in love. Polka dots, thanks to Marc Jacobs and Stella McCartney, make a huge impact. Not a big fan? That's what tights are for! Speaking of, legs can express themselves easily this fall with amazing textures, patterns and colors to choose from in tights and socks (of all lengths).
Fabrics continue down the path of luxury, with leather and fur leading the pack. Items to pay close attention to —leather dresses and tops, in addition to fur embellished garments. Heavier weighted fabrics find their way into retailers for fall. However, your wardrobe should be partial to the climate in which you live.
With the longer hem lengths of the season, it's best to play it safe and stick close to the knee or go all the way to the floor. I adore floor length skirts and dresses. The styles and cuts this season are classic — less trend ... more of a timeless treasure. Dresses and skirts that fall 2 inches below the knee are only flattering on those who are slight of frame and have a height advantage. If you're tempted to try out this trend, do so with caution and be sure to create visual balance.
While on the subject of cuts, cropped toppers — as in sweaters, vests and jackets — are making an appearance, yet again. Think of it as adding a layer of attitude. However, look for pieces with clean lines that follow your natural silhouette. Layers are always welcome, season after season. From the new sweater coat to longer cardigans to high performance long-sleeve tees, keeping warm never looked so good. Simple basics that feel good against your skin always win out over complicated matter.
Outerwear becomes the investment piece of the season. Signature coats, trenches, ponchos, capes and furs will be attention grabbers this fall. It's all in the details. Texture, pattern, weight, color, piping and more make for a season of collectibles. While design and construction are especially noteworthy, stay away from outerwear that seems too of-the-moment. In addition, the boxy cuts that are back are not a surefire winner. In fact, if you have any curves at all, this style will do you no favors.
Accessories are noticeably bold this year. Jewelry runs the gamut from simple but grand to gold and glitzy. Shoes become more sensible in height with many an option, such as lady-like heels, fur embellished, wedge booties, riding boots, low-rise biker boots + sleek mid-calf boots, menswear-inspired heels + loafers and two-toned + color blocked footwear. Handbags go high brow, yet stay minimal with a bit more structure to them.
While prints are always embraced no matter the season, it's fall that allows those of us with mostly solids in our closets to leave the excuses behind. There is no better time to try on a print or two. With the glorious colors of the season, no doubt you will find a fast favorite and fall madly in love. Polka dots, thanks to Marc Jacobs and Stella McCartney, make a huge impact. Not a big fan? That's what tights are for! Speaking of, legs can express themselves easily this fall with amazing textures, patterns and colors to choose from in tights and socks (of all lengths).
Fabrics continue down the path of luxury, with leather and fur leading the pack. Items to pay close attention to —leather dresses and tops, in addition to fur embellished garments. Heavier weighted fabrics find their way into retailers for fall. However, your wardrobe should be partial to the climate in which you live.
With the longer hem lengths of the season, it's best to play it safe and stick close to the knee or go all the way to the floor. I adore floor length skirts and dresses. The styles and cuts this season are classic — less trend ... more of a timeless treasure. Dresses and skirts that fall 2 inches below the knee are only flattering on those who are slight of frame and have a height advantage. If you're tempted to try out this trend, do so with caution and be sure to create visual balance.
While on the subject of cuts, cropped toppers — as in sweaters, vests and jackets — are making an appearance, yet again. Think of it as adding a layer of attitude. However, look for pieces with clean lines that follow your natural silhouette. Layers are always welcome, season after season. From the new sweater coat to longer cardigans to high performance long-sleeve tees, keeping warm never looked so good. Simple basics that feel good against your skin always win out over complicated matter.
Outerwear becomes the investment piece of the season. Signature coats, trenches, ponchos, capes and furs will be attention grabbers this fall. It's all in the details. Texture, pattern, weight, color, piping and more make for a season of collectibles. While design and construction are especially noteworthy, stay away from outerwear that seems too of-the-moment. In addition, the boxy cuts that are back are not a surefire winner. In fact, if you have any curves at all, this style will do you no favors.
Accessories are noticeably bold this year. Jewelry runs the gamut from simple but grand to gold and glitzy. Shoes become more sensible in height with many an option, such as lady-like heels, fur embellished, wedge booties, riding boots, low-rise biker boots + sleek mid-calf boots, menswear-inspired heels + loafers and two-toned + color blocked footwear. Handbags go high brow, yet stay minimal with a bit more structure to them.
As for fall hair — bangs, bangs and more bangs! Anything low-key and easy, such as straight cut bangs with long slight waves. When in doubt, whip out a side swept braid. Nails go metallic, eyes go dramatic and lips go matte.
Time to get excited about what this season has in store for you. And if you feel like your wardrobe could use a little hands-on attention this season, call me. Then, get your fall on!
