Trends for Fall (You Might Actually Wear These)

As couture is meant to serve as part art/ part inspiration, I realize that my previous Fashion Report for Fall 09 is more conceptual and a tad less practical. Thus, I wanted to share some of the looks I am in love with this season and some ideas on how to incorporate them with an outfit. Here is a list of the trends I can't live without:

Boyfriend khakis and jeans.

I love the boyfriend jean look, and for once, my jeans are actually comfortable to wear. Since they are meant to be baggy, it can be a bit tricky to put an outfit together without looking "dumpy." My rule of thumb for almost every ensemble is to compliment a focal piece by wearing an opposite fit on your other half. For instance, pair loose fitting jeans with a tank top or slim fit sweater; longer, bulkier sweaters should go with skinny jeans or leggings (Which are also on my trend list, however this season, wear leggings ankle length, not cropped. Footless tights are also a great look). Alternating fits in an outfit is figure flattering without showing or hiding too much.

As a newer trend, it's hard to predict how long boyfriend jeans will last. Current Elliotts, the first brand to get their version on celebs and mainstream this style, run about $225. This isn't bad for a pair of jeans that will be around for awhile. However without that guarantee, I shopped around for a good knock off. Old Navy had a pair that was spot on and only $25. Can you tell which is which?

As an alternative to the jeans, I also resurrected my bootcut J Crew khakis from two years ago and wear them loosely cuffed and with heels. My inspiration came from this look Jennifer Aniston sported over the summer.

Sequins:

Though sequins are a huge hit these days, they may be a bit daunting to wear for fear of the attention they catch. No one wants to look like a walking disco ball. If pushing the glitter envelope isn't your style, try this trend out with smaller accessories like a hat, sequin-trimmed scarf or lapel pin.

I have this beret in bright silver and a more subdued black... depending on how daring my head feels.

Long sweaters

As mentioned before, long sweaters should follow the complimentary rule. Match chunky sweaters with a slimmer bottom. For an alternative form fitting look, I wear a thin jersey sweater (the Splendid one pictured is my favorite) buttoned down and belted with a pencil skirt or jeans.

Boots and Shoes:

The magical thing about platforms is they appear to be an uber high heel, but secretly, your feet are not suffering as the angle is slighter. Lucky for me, they are everywhere this year.

These Jessica Simpson platforms are a muted red, perfect for daytime, but bright enough to make a statement.

One thing I am very excited for in my upcoming move is wearing more boots. Austin is usually too warm for them. Styles that are easy to wear and look amazing on all legs are mid-calf and knee-high (short booties can be a bit trickier). Higher boots can be worn with skirts, over leggings, over or under jeans.

The buttons on these boots give them a vintage look. So cute!

All shoes styles found at Nordstrom

Layers.

When in doubt, add another piece. Mix and match feminine blouses with hard metal accented jackets. Switch out last season's thick belts for a couple skinny ones. Don't be afraid to accessorize with multiple pieces. I've also been wearing some of Nick's belts and tying them in a knot. Like the picture below, it adds a trendy masculine edge to any outfit.