Fall For It

What a difference a year makes!!! The last glimmer of summer, always includes two of my favorite rituals; Digesting bicep building September fashion issues, while relaxing on the beautiful beaches, in the Hampton's...sheer bliss!

This year, with the exception of In Style (celebrating their 15 year anniversary), all the major books were significantly lighter, due to steep declines in ad revenue. While I don't exactly miss them, (let's face it, the only way Dillard's was gracing the pages of Vogue was due to a hefty advertising budget. Even lithe Anna, turned a blind eye, in the race to be the fattest September book on the newsstands), I am sobered. I know just how hard the fashion industry has been hit by "the new reality".

There is plenty of good news though...Despite a dizzying array of trends, the designers did not disappoint us with maudlin basics. Some trends, however, are not for everyone---over the knee boots for example, are divine and I promise you, will be worn by the chicest girl in the room. Ask yourself this question. Do I strut? If the answer is no, do not attempt.

Here's what I am loving and why:

Color Me Beautiful Black and grey are the anchors. They look great paired back to pops of peacock, sapphire, red and pink, in coats, quilted vests, jackets, and clutches and T-Strap, peep toes shoes. White shirts are everywhere and look good on everyone, paired with everything...stock up. Rich plum is delicious, as a stand alone color. Cool camel and taupe look luxe, in a multitude of capes and coats. I love that this is not just another redux of typical autumnal tones. It looks fresh and edgy.

Bottoms Up- Lots of great pant choices. Skinny- If you have long legs and narrow hips, have at it, in black leather, suede, baby corduroy and stretch wool. Cropped- Love this on a more petite frame paired with a strong shoe. Pleated- Pears rejoice! Pears tend to carry their weight in their tush and thighs, but are usually blessed with great shoulders, small waists and flat stomachs. Pair them with a sleeveless, draped jersey top, a belt. a sculptured cuff and a platform shoe.

Hey Lady- Terrific dresses with 40's flair. Sleeveless sheaths with origami pleating, stark architectural shapes in dresses and pencil skirts. One shouldered, draped cocktail dresses, belted or worn with ornamented necklaces and a 90 mm pump. Elegant. On a casual note, printed long sleeve dresses, worn short, with a weighty boot looks new. Dark hose looks right with all.

My Boyfriend's Back- It's been ages since jackets were important, but they have reemerged with a vengeance. Long, strong shouldered, one button boyfriend jackets, will hide a multitude of sins with skinny pants. They also work well over evening shorts, if you have the legs of a thoroughbred and were born after 1980. Shrunken Biker Jackets, in leather and wool, zippered or studded, look right with everything, including dresses, as do collarless jackets and those with strong upturned shoulders.

1984- Many of the dominant looks...the skinny pants, leather jackets, padded shoulders, pleated pants, studs and platforms as well as sequin tee-shirts and mini dresses, pay homage to Mugler, Alaia and Charles Jordan and Mr. Armani. Wear one or two together, tops. Anything else and you risk channeling Grace Jones.

So there you have it! Many of us caught our breath over the Spring and took a breather from shopping. Good timing! It's a lot easier to resist Spring offerings than Fall, but I hope you are inspired to go visit your favorite store, (preferably Richards/Mitchells/Marshes)!, and treat yourself to the things you find irresistible...it's time.

xox,
Dd