Gold is sun kissed. Gold is romantic. Gold is rich. Gold is the IT metal this fall! My theory is that anyone who grew up in the 80's or 90’s thinks of gold as being tacky or gangster. Not anymore! When it comes to gold clothing, one great piece goes a long way. Keep everything more subtle or classic if you go with a gold statement piece like a dress, jacket or pants. I just bought a gold sequin jacket myself. I'll pair it with a sleek black tank and skinny jeans. Coordinate your gold piece with neutral colors like black, brown or cream to offset the shine. If you aren't ready to take the plunge, start with your accessories. A gold multi-chain necklaces or bracelets are easy to do. It's all about taking this trend and adapting it to you. Whether you decide to baby step into gold with accessories or jump in with a sequin dress...it doesn't matter. Just go for the gold!
Fall fashions have been in the stores as early as July. August is the time to replace worn out items from last year and update with a few trends from this year. Even if it is still 90 degrees where you are, now is the ideal time to get the best selections. The good news about the fall trends this year is that you will find many trends have carried over from last year! We love this because the more you can wear something the more value you can get out of it! Jackets: You can't have too many jackets this season. Jackets are being seen in all sorts of materials including leather, suede, faux fur and colored denim. Military style jackets are particularly popular. They are the perfect way to layer and stay warm this winter. Tailored jackets also naturally have a slimming affect. This is one item that everyone can wear. Look for a perfect fit or get it altered to look just right! Over-the-knee Boots: Boots in general are very in this fall. If you tried getting a pair late last winter, I hope you learned your lesson and will start shopping for your perfect boots now. They will likely sell out again this year as more and more people are pairing them with skinny jeans. Riding boots and boots with cuffs on the bottom are also popular. Skinny Jeans/Jeggings: I remember years ago trying to convince people to buy a pair of skinny jeans. Many didn't want to invest in these stylish jeans because they thought they would be out of style. I've had mine for 5 or so years now...I don't think they are going anywhere. In fact, the jegging, which is a combination of a legging and a jean, is very hot too. You can't go wrong with a simple legging either. Pants that elongate and narrow your leg are in!
Your summer wardrobe should be just as versatile and long lasting as your fall and winter staples. What really differentiates you summer look from your fall look is the light feel, color and style of everything. As the temperature heats up, you want to lighten up. Choose colors that are brighter, like yellow and lighter like peach. Breathable fabrics like cotton versus our heavy fall fabrics like wool and corduroy will lighten your look. The style of each piece should also lighten up. For example, tops should have open necklines and shorter sleeves. Shoes should be open toe and have less volume overall.
Creating the perfect summer wardrobe is easy if you have some of summer’s most versatile basics. Remember, embellishments and details like beads, sea shells, straw, floral prints and fruity colors will give each piece that light, signature summer feel!
White T-Shirt or Tank Throw a lightweight scarf or a fun dramatic necklace with this all-American staple. Opt for higher quality t-shirts since they often are more substantial to hide any imperfection and to keep this look polished.
Camisole Perfect layered under a jacket or layered with other camis. Try it paired with dark skinny jeans and a long necklace.
Sundress My favorite summer piece! A dress is always feminine and so easy to wear. A cotton sundress can be paired with flip flops for a casual beach day or glammed up with heals and a fun necklace for a night out.
Swimsuit Probably not your favorite piece to shop for, but finding one that works is key to making a splash this year. Check out the article How to Not Look Fat in a Swimsuit for great tips on finding the most flattering suit.
Jackets I love jackets any time of the year. Wear them as an outfit or as a jacket, they are so versatile! A nicely contoured jacket can also enhance any figure. A shrunken leather motorcycle jacket can be sassy or a simple cotton jacket can be easy to wear for cool evenings.
Handbag Your summer handbag can also lighten up with materials like straw or canvas for a great day bag. Pick bags with neutral tones to keep them more wearable from year to year. If you are a leather lover, like me, try a fun color like papaya or a neutral cream.
Sandals Finally your toes can breath and you can show off your pedicure! Sandals with narrow straps and heals look best in the summer. Espadrilles or wedges are great for adding height to a pretty skirt or dress. Embellishments on flats can make up for any loss of height. Peep toes are perfect for a business casual office.
We are ripe on 2010, but closer to embarking on the next decade. If your clothes are still living in the 90's, wake-up and realize they are expired!
By far the most common New Year's resolution this year was to lose weight and exercise more...but did you know that less than half of American's actually achieve their New Year's resolution? In fact, most have abandoned their resolution by the third week in January! Why? Not only do we not always believe in them, but we aren't taking the extra steps to fully engage ourselves in our goals. 






