Fall Fashion Tips 2013

   With September almost here and the cooler temperatures coming, it means that time is near – to switch out your closet!! Some view this with dread, and do as needed (you will still find summer items in their closets in January) and some view it as a good time to purge & donate perhaps. Regardless, if you are shopping for a few new items this season, keep these ideas in mind. After hours of scouring fashion mags for you, here are the best ‘not so trendy trends’ & reminders of the styles that are here to stay & will give you style.

~ Jeans – especially skinny are in full force. There are patterns, colors (even ombre) to choose from & these days skinnies can be found to fit all body types.

~ Boots – wearing boots will always make you fashionable not matter if you are dressed up or down (sorry down does not mean ‘pajamas/yoga pants’ at the grocery store or bus stop or dropping the kids off). Stacked heel is back & lower bootie styles are everywhere. Wear with jeans (boot cut or skinnies) or with tights and a dress.

~ Leather in a skirt, pant or a detail in dresses, jackets or tops. Color blocking is still in so here is another texture for you. Extremely classic.

~ Prints are full force in pants, jeans, tops, dresses, scarves, nails. Polka dots (thanks Princess Kate), floral, animal, stripes, houndstooth, graphic, plaid/tartan (Go Scotland!!) Unless you are expert at mixing, keep the pattern to one piece.

~ Statement necklaces (or earrings – don’t combine both!) – A store like Charming Charlie has everything in accessories you can imagine & sooo inexpensive. But go with a plan, there is so much to look at (all divided into color families) your head will spin. I was recently at a store on vacation when a woman came in & said “I need red.” I thought, “I need to do that.” Here’s the link to find a store:

http://www.charmingcharlie.com/

~ Bomber/motorcycle jackets /denim jackets – quilting also ‘in’

~ Cobalt & all jewel tones

~ ‘Fun’ manicures

~ Still in style – belts & scarves, pumps (single color & color blocked), peplums in dresses & tops, great bags in all kind of colors, shapes & sizes (good place to make a statement!).

    Just remember to follow these Marypause 50 rules: Never shop with an empty stomach & make sure you are hydrated. Try to purchase items that don’t already exist in your closet now. (think outside your closet) If you have a ton of black, try a jewel tone. Try everything on in the store & then again in the comfort of home. Fit is the most important factor here – embrace your curves & don’t try to hide them with oversizes or shlump-a-dinka styles. Ask yourself, does this have style? Do I need this color? And finally, when it comes to shoes & boots & you’ve already made a connection, never ask yourself do I need this?  Happy Shopping!!