Soon enough, the leaves will change colors and fall from the trees in the mini forest that is my backyard. Therefore, it’s time to unpack my sweaters to accommodate cooler temperatures and other seasonal trends. Are sweaters still in style? I’ve recently seen shelves of button-up cardigans in some of my favorite stores, but does that even matter if celebrities aren’t wearing them? (Note: Just in case my sarcasm detector fails to come through in my blogs, well … that was sarcasm.)
Unlike Colleen McKenna, PM’s production editor and resident fashionista, I was unable to attend any of the Philly Fashion Week events. So, again, thank you, Internet for providing me with a brief guide to stylish living. With so many trends to follow and so little time to research, how do you ensure you get that fancy magazine cover shot look that draws consumers? And, if you don’t want to be an XYZ celebrity copycat per se, how do you incorporate certain elements of his or her look to meet your individual needs? Simple: You find someone to do the work for you. For example, VH1.com recently published an article by Ambika Muttoo entitled: “Fall Fashion Watch: The Top 10 Trends That Celebrities Are Wearing.” Here are just a few ways to help you get started in your quest to look good, feel good and, in turn, pass this wisdom on to your clients:
• Burgundy
According to Muttoo, “Burgundy is the plum shade for fall.” I’m sure a friend of mine will be pleased to learn this since she picked burgundy (okay, wine if you want to be technical) for our bridesmaid dresses in her upcoming November wedding. Fancy gowns aside, burgundy is one of those classic colors perfect for everything from shirts to outerwear. Sorry, fans of the summer neon trend.
• Oversized Coats
I have mixed feelings about this one. I don’t want to look like I’m swimming in my jacket. Sure, depending on my mood, I like to hide from passers-by in public, but I don’t want to be overpowered by a piece of outerwear. Some of your clients might share these sentiments, while others are fine with dressing like Claudia Schiffer.
• Monochrome
I appreciate this look. It’s slick and offers enough versatility, enabling you to channel the classic style of Kate Middleton or the funky pace of Rihanna.
• The Waist
Perhaps when you read this subhead, you wondered how the waist could be a fashion accessory. It’s really about accentuating the waist. Think belts—different sizes, colors and patterns. If you have studied Michelle Obama’s fashion choices over the last several years, it’s a safe bet that she is shining those pearly whites—and I’m not referring to her trademark “Jackie O-inspired” necklace.
• Baroque Embroidery
Exotic baroque designs can be used to enhance any piece of clothing. For instance, Dolce & Gabbana is capitalizing on this trend with its Baroque Embroidered Lapel Jacket.
• Leather
I’ve been hell bent for leather since Judas Priest wrote a song about it (okay, I apologize for that joke, but it’s true that I like leather). It’s perfectly acceptable to use leather in small doses instead of donning a head-to-toe ensemble. Think accessories (e.g., purses, wallets, belts or on the trim of focal pieces such as pants and dresses).
(Editor’s Note: Don’t reference Judas Priest when trying to sell your clients on the coolness of leather. Reference Rob Halford and Co. to show them how awesome Judas Priest is … here is my personal favorite, “Breaking the Law.”)
