Fall Trend Watch: Precious Metals

I actually can’t believe that Halloween is over and that the Holiday Season has officially (in my eyes, anyway) begun.  That means warm sweaters, leggings, and jackets (oh my!).  Naturally, the change in seasons doesn’t just involve the weather, but fashion as well.  So, while you’re dusting off those sweater boxes, start thinking about ways you might be able to spice up your fall wardrobe.  Instead of purchasing new clothes, try updating your look with some new accessories.  A few carefully chosen pieces can breathe new life into that old ensemble!

One of the hottest trends for fall will be more hardware-focused items.  Far from dainty, these pieces are bold, metallic, and above all, they make a statement. Grab a few metal cuff bracelets, or some dazzling bangles.  You can play up a simple top by pairing it with a necklace that is a bit bulkier than your normal comfort level; pieces this season are all about making a statement.  Of course, only choose items that you can wear with confidence, because if you don’t feel amazing wearing it then no one else will notice it!

I love the bold, industrial feel of the Dannijo Frankie Chain Link Cuff – ($390 at Net-a-Porter) though it is most certainly on the “splurge” list. If you’re looking for an option that won’t break the bank, check out the  Multi-Row Silvertone Chain Bracelet (Target – $12.99).

These definitely aren’t your grandmother’s pearls!  Classic, elegant pieces certainly have their place, but you can strike a balance between classic round pearls and modern metal with this gorgeous Golden Orb Choker. (Anthropologie $118)

I’m lusting after this braided metal necklace that can really help me to “tie” the perfect outfit together.  (Serpentine necklace, $29.99 at Urban Outfitters)

And lastly, don’t think this trend is isolated to jewelry alone.  Have fun with it, but go for something simple like this Deux Lux Chain Flap Clutch ($29.99 at Urban Outfitters) that you’ll be able to use long after the fall trends have faded.

Fall Trendspotting: Denim Leggings

Leggings are back for fall, but this time they are disguising themselves as our favorite wardrobe staple.  Or, perhaps it’s the reverse, and denim is trying to look like leggings.  Either way – this is a trend you won’t be able to miss – I’m already seeing them pop up everywhere.  I’ve gotta say, though — I’m not sure I like it.  Even if they are disguised as jeans, I’m just not sure leggings should be worn as pants.

That being said, I don’t think imposter denim is the worst thing to happen to fashion.  My tip to you, should you decide to try this trend, is to treat these as leggings and not as jeans. I’ve laid out a few ideas for ways you should and shouldn’t wear this style if you decide to try it.  

Do: tuck them into a pair of boots this fall, pair them with a fantastic pair of heels, wear longer tops and tunics with belts over them. 

Don’t: pair them with your Pumas, wear them with shorter shirts, select an acid-washed style that will make your legs look bigger than they actually are.  Heck, in my humble opinion, even size negative zero chicks should avoid the acid wash style.  Just sayin’.

If you want to try out a pair of jeggings (jeans+leggings=jeggings) – try this relatively safe option from Juicy Couture.  While it pains me to pay $88 bucks for a pair of leggings, I don’t think this is a style you can go the inexpensive route on.

So tell me, what do you think about this trend?!  Are you a friend or foe of jeggings?

Fall Trendspotting: The Military Jacket

If you’re already contemplating a new piece for your fall wardrobe and want to update your look, consider spending your hard-earned dollars on what I think will be one of the most promient pieces for fall — the Military Jacket.  You can make a simple outfit trendy for fall by simply throwing on this jacket over a basic top and jeans (or denim leggings, as the style may be!).  Jazz it up with boots or heels and some awesome accessories and you’re ready to make a statement.

Shoulder pads are back for fall, and while I’m still not sure how I’m feeling about it, Posh and Beyonce are already feelin’ it – as both of them have stepped out in this Balmain Military jacket.  I believe I prefer the white jacket with the middle panel removed, a la Beyonce.  Still, I think without the right kind of build, some of us (me included) should probably continue to avoid shoulder pads — unless we are planning to play in the NFL.  What do you think?

Arden B Military Jacket

If you want to try out this look, but don’t want to spend a fortune, try out this option from Arden B.  Priced reasonably at $58, I chose it out of an extensive lineup as one of my favorites before even realizing it was one of the more inexpensive options. I love how it comes together at the waistline with feminine pleats and has the slightest puff to the sleeve.  Made of taffeta, you’ll have people thinking you stole your boyfriend’s style, but not his jacket.