When people find out that I’m an image consultant and personal shopper, they are always eager to hear what the latest hot trends are. While I can surely list them, I also forewarn people that just because something is “in” it doesn’t mean that it’s right for them. The savvy shopper will be aware of the trends, and then only purchase what fits their own personal style, body type and personal coloring.
Not only do you need to assess the trends before heading to the mall, but I highly encourage you to put on your creative thinking cap as well. In many instances, there are ways to save money on the current styles, and you may just very well find some solutions right in your very own closet. Here are some of the season’s hottest trends and how to look at them with a new perspective.
Fur Accents: Now I don’t want you to get your PETA panties in a bunch on this one. I’m not recommending that you go out and buy fur. Instead, there are a couple options. First of all, faux fur has come a long way in the past 10 years, and you’ll find it at every price point. From collars to vests to handbags, fur is all the rage. I just found this darling little bag at Kohl’s.
Some of you may have inherited some real fur from your relatives and aren’t quite sure what to do with it. If you take an old stole from your grandmother, a qualified seamstress can easily turn it into a collar and cuffs to add to your favorite denim jacket or coat. You just need to be creative. Why not use it, if it’s just sitting there gathering dust in your closet?
Menswear: I think one of the easiest and most affordable ways to incorporate women wearing menswear trend into your wardrobe is through hats. Both the fedora and newsboy styles give a fun pop to your ordinary t-shirt and jeans.
I bet if you peeked into the closet of your dad, grandfather or boyfriend, there’s a fair chance that you’ll find an uber-cool hat just waiting to be worn. If not, I have found some stellar choices at my local Target.
The Structured Handbag: Mad Men clearly has influenced the course of fashion, right down to handbags. This season you’re seeing more lady-like, structured bags with short handles, in addition to the ever-popular hobo. (They are also often referred to as “satchels.”) Vintage stores (or your grandmother’s cast-offs) are a great place to find this exact look for a fraction of what the designers are charging. This bag from Nine West captures the look for $99. I’m sure that you can find similar styles for less at your local Kohl’s, Target or Wal-Mart.
Layering Necklaces & Stacking Bracelets: You may often hear people referring to the “statement necklace” as a big hit this season. While that may consist of one, stand-alone piece, it can also mean layering necklaces to get a modern look with some pizzazz. The same goes for piling on the bracelets, as you may have noticed on people like Julia Roberts. To get this look, you don’t even need to leave your house. Just dive into your own jewelry box and play with new combinations.
Metallics: Let me preface this trend by saying that a little goes a long way. For the average person, head-to-toe shine and sparkle is not what we’re going for. Instead, a hint of sequins on a tank paired with a blazer, or a metallic leather pump is more what we’re aiming for. Again, you don’t need to spend a fortune to look hip and current. This sequined shrug from the Gap will look spot-on with a tank top and skinny jeans. It will have a more elegant look paired with a cocktail dress. Remember, you get more value for your money when something can be worn with various outfits.
If you want to add a dash of sparkle to your feet, there are plenty of metallic shoes to try on. This darling pair of flats from Payless Shoe Source is a steal for only $16.99.
So with your mailbox undoubtedly filling up with fall fashion magazines and catalogues, don’t fret about doing into debt just to look current. With a little creativity and savvy shopping, you don’t have to break the bank to look like a million bucks.
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