Fall 2013 Trends for Women

Fall is already here, and the fashion magazines are two inches thick with “What to Wear Now” advice for women.  They want to get you excited to go out and buy NEW clothes and accessories, and you can do exactly that — even on a tight budget!  Bottom line, ladies, continue to wear what looks good on you, and let the other trends go.  The key is to wear clothes that give you an elongated body, complement your coloring, and bring you comfort and joy.

Not all the new Fall looks and colors (emerald green, charcoal grey, hot pink) are going to look great on you, so you need to be selective when you adopt the new trends.

And if money is a little tight for you right now, choose one new trend and go hunting for it in consignment and thrift stores:

Colors

Winter white and, of course, black, is hot this fall.  Remember my viewpoint on black?  It’s not for everyone, but everyone has their own version of black.  Pantone’s fall fashion colors range from Mykonos blue to Acai purple to Vivacious hot pink.  For those who are familiar with the True Color palettes, Mykonos blue looks great on COPPERS and PLATINUMS, but it has a wide appeal so try it on. Acai purple looks great on everyone (depending upon the tone). Vivacious pinks and emerald green are best on a SILVER.  Linden green is a great GOLD color.  Samba red will make a COPPER pop!

Leather

Zoe Saldana is showing off a gorgeous leather coat over skinny leather pants. Leather is really in this season, and you’ll find combinations galore — leather sleeves, leather skirts, jackets, in combination with other textures.

Sweater and Skirt Pairing

Reminiscent of the 1940’s oversized look, the best look is a chunky, cable sweater over a feminine, flowy skirt.  Play with the texture combinations, but keep it monochromatic or muted to give it a chic look.  What makes this look new and fresh is a mix of the casual sweater with an ultra feminine skirt.  Hot tip:  borrow your husband’s cable knit sweater!  Be aware of your body shape, and don’t wear boxy sweaters that add weight.

Peplum

This is such a put-together, flattering sophisticated look that plays up your waist.  The length, volume, drape and choice of fabric of the ruffle makes a difference. Here are some tips for different body types:

• If you’re short, choose peplum with less volume, a single color will help lengthen your frame
• Boyish figure, structured or flared peplums create curves
• If you have a slight tummy, choose a slightly higher waisted peplum with a streamlined, soft ruffle.
  choose peplum with less volume if you’re on the shorter side; the width of the flare should, ideally, be eight inches or less. A single colour outfit will also help lengthen your frame – See more at: http://www.estylista.com/2013/07/peplum-how-to-wear-it/#sthash.dJ44NcZE.dpuf

Faux fur

They’re everywhere!  Check out Express, Old Navy, Piperlime, and even your local thrift store (I picked up a short faux fur vest at my local Goodwill in perfect condition!). Oversized, inspired by menswear. These animal-friendly vests can be layered over t-shirts to dresses and keep you snuggly warm!

Mixed and Matched Textures

Finally, tweed is back!  All you COPPERS out there, pay attention and go shopping.  They’re mixing all sorts of textures, from leather, lace, wool, knits, tweeds, and furs.  This gives you a definite statement look, so take it easy!  My advice is to layer your looks tastefully, like this Marissa Webb tweedy short-sleeved tee, edged with leather details, worn over a silk blouse.