03Oct

Here’s What’s on the Menu for Fall Fashion

October 3, 2018 Melrose Fisher

Are you ready to try some new things from the fall/winter fashion offerings? Whether you sample one item or several, there are some tantalizing treats to choose from. Here’s a sample menu of what’s available to you.

1. I want to draw your attention to the different shades of green. Are there fifty shades? I want to say yes! Whether you like your greens light, dark, deep, intense or muted, this is the right time to explore your options. Green is not just for garnish anymore. It can be the main course of an outfit.

2. For people who’ve been wondering where brown went, it’s back! It comes in all shades of chocolate and on into burnt caramel. Time to stock your shoe and handbag shelves with this rich color or choose a few separates to blend into your existing wardrobe.

3. Velvet has been spanning the seasons. People even wore velvet this past spring/summer. It seems best for cooler weather. Look for it this season in dresses, blouses, and jackets.

4. Prairie dresses look romantic and innocent with high necklines, roomie sleeves, and a floor-length hemline. This is a great option for those looking for something new in the dress department.

5. Floral prints just keep coming. Plan to wear floral print dresses with dark backgrounds. They’re great paired with a colored tight and a boot.

6. There’s an array of plaids just waiting for you to enjoy. Classic plaids of different colorations are being combined in the same outfit. For instance, you can wear a blue plaid pant with a red plaid jacket. Or wear red plaid boots with a blue plaid dress. It may sound less than appetizing but you won’t know until you try it!

7. Don’t know what scarf to wear with your outfit? It’s an easy decision this season. Designers are creating matching sweater and scarf sets. And if you’re just going for the scarf alone, make it long, long, long, like spaghetti-noodle long.

8. Cable knit, smooth knit, or textured knit sweaters all have something in common, they are voluminous and cozy. Make your knits jumbo size this year.

9. Mixing day and nightwear for both day and night keeps us on our toes. This can be a little confusing but if done right, it makes a lot of sense. Wear dressy tops with casual bottoms or dressy bottoms with casual tops and go out on the town.

10. Pants of any length or width are available. Wide, pleat front, flairs, cigarette, printed pants, and painted pants. If you wear pants well, get ready for a smorgasbord.

11. Skirts shimmy up and down the leg. Enjoy a mini, a pencil skirt, something calf-length, or go for the 50’s full skirt. For an easy garnish, add a thick belt to the waist.

12. Train your eye to see sized up jackets as the new normal. Many of them have broad shoulders. Hello, ‘80s! Get used to this new silhouette, it might be here for a while.

13. Blankets are now acceptable as fashion outerwear. It’s a no-size piece of outerwear that covers all. Whether it’s a western print or a solid color, this can beautifully drape over everything and be the centerpiece for your entire outfit.

14. Bring color to your fashion plate outfits with red lipsticks. Red lips go with everything!

Are you salivating over any of these fall/winter fashion picks? Pick your preferences from the fashion menu and let’s have fun exploring them together on a shopping trip. Give me a call. I’ll bring snacks.

25Sep

The Fall Color Trend Report

September 25, 2018 Melrose Fisher

The fall and winter colors have graced the runways and tried and true fall colors have returned but so have some shocking hues. This fall is about more than the typical neutrals, browns, and olives that we expect. While those are always go–to autumnal colors, we can add in some of the far–from–usual trending colors like bright fuchsia, nebulas blue, and intense violet.

Almond Buff

An understated camel hue that is just a few shades lighter and more delicate, almond buff is the perfect soft neutral for the fall. Almond buff is a rich, classic autumn color that adds warmth to a fall wardrobe. Instead of gray or white, add almond buff as a neutral to any outfit for a dreamy, delicate palette.

Soft Gray

Soft Gray is a subtle touch of gray that is incredibly chic and versatile. Gray as a neutral is great for pairing with bright colors or rich black for contrast. Accent gray with a brightly colored belt or shoes. This season, sunny yellow and russet orange are in for the fall, so adding a touch of color to brighten up soft gray is a great option.

Merlot

Deep burgundies, intense oxblood, and wine hues are autumn favorites and are trending this fall. Wine colors can be paired nicely with camel or almond buff, or even with rich navy blue. Merlot can look very eloquent and even romantic. Deep red is an easy color to find in nearly any kind of clothing this year, from stately burgundy trench coats to lacy satin dresses.

Vibrant Blues and Violets

The usual fall colors include the earthy tones of nature; red, orange, olive, tan, brown. However, the cooler shades of the color wheel are huge this fall. Several blues are making a big debut for the fall from the sophisticated navy, to sea blue, to vibrant nebulas blue. Usually, purple tones for the fall have hints of red to add warmth, but this fall they are going the opposite way. Intense, blue-violet and lavender with a hint of blue are both top trends.

Fuchsia

While this is not what we’d expect for the fall season, pink has been favored by fashion designers this year. From hot pink to mellow dusty pink and various shades in between, pink remains suitable for the fall. If you are a bit apprehensive about too much fall pink, then just add pops of pink to black or gray to tone it down but still rock the trend.

Whiskey Brown

Another warm autumn neutral that can be paired with so many colors, whiskey brown is a perfect addition to your wardrobe this fall. Whiskey brown, warm and caramel–colored, is flattering and elegant for all occasions.

19Sep

How to Easily Transition Your Wardrobe from Summer to Fall

September 19, 2018 Melrose Fisher

As one season comes to a close and we embrace another, we experience that in-between weather and dressing for the day can be a bit of a challenge. It’s too hot to wear fall attire and chilly mornings and evenings make it too cold for summer clothes. The best way to combat the awkward uncertainty of the seasons changing is to prepare your closet for a smooth transition into autumn with these tips.

Don’t put away your maxi dresses yet

Maxi dresses are great for the season change because they offer enough fabric to keep you covered if it gets a little chilly and during the day you’ll be cool enough. A shawl or cardigan will work to cover your arms if needed.

Just add tights to summer dresses and skirts

You can keep your summer dresses in your closet for a couple more months, as long as you pair them with some fall accessories. Autumn is perfect for tights, especially cable-knit and textured tights. They are cozy enough to keep you warm if you aren’t quite ready to wear heavy pants yet. Leggings are another great option too. If you still want to wear some of your summery tunics, wear them with a pair of leggings.

Layering was made for autumn weather

Layering is your best friend during the unpredictable fall weather transition. Leave home in the chilly morning hours and by noon, it feels like summer again. You can keep out your summer tank tops and pair them with light sweaters or boyfriend cardigans. Scarves are also a perfect option for layering. Be sure to add no more than three layers, e.g. tank top, cardigan, and scarf. And if you go heavy on top, wear slim fitting bottoms to balance out the look. You still want to keep layers long and lean and not too bulky, so avoid layering while wearing wide-leg pants.

Add rich fall colors and textures

Adding a few pieces of fall clothing to your summer wardrobe is a good way to ease into the next season. You can still wear summer colors but just add a few fall touches. Imagine pairing lavender with plum, sky blue with navy blue, and light yellow with mustard. You can add deeper autumn colors to complement your summer wardrobe with sweaters, scarves, and jackets.

Add a statement jacket and boots

Perhaps the easiest way to transition any outfit to fall is to add a military-style jacket, a trench coat, or moto jacket. A fall jacket can tone down an outfit and make it more suitable for autumn. Autumn is boot season! Adding boots to an outfit also adds some autumn vibes. Boots can be worn with most outfits too; wear boots with leggings, jeans, dresses, etc.

Looking to Transition?

Need some inspiration for transitioning your wardrobe? Check out some of Etcetera and Carlisle transition pieces, they may just be perfect for you. If your looking for some extra help you can alway contact us!

21Feb

Those Lovely Blues

February 21, 2018 Melrose Fisher

Because of the association with a clear blue sky and a calm blue ocean, our minds embrace the concept of blue as tranquil & constant. We translate that into a symbolic image of dependability and loyalty. Blue inspires confidence. It is also restful and makes us feel calm. When wearing blue, we can have a calming effect on not only ourselves but those around us.

Blue also represents honesty and trustworthiness. Wearing blue has the ability to soothe, calm, inspire confidence and imagination. All great reasons why blue is one of the most common clothing colors.

The blues take on a whole new meaning here on “Tobacco Road” though, Carolina fans love their Carolina Blue and Duke fans their Duke Blue.

Whether a Carolina or Duke fan it doesn’t matter, we’re thrilled to tell you that the Spring CARLISLE & ETCETERA collections are loaded with beautiful shades of blue.

STEP INTO THE BLUE

CASTAWAY Style #210551

With diagonal ribs, this knit sweater has an unexpected edge. Pointelle knit sleeves and a washed silk reverse charmeuse shirttail hem finish this piece off.

CARI Style #110503

Add this long cashmere cardigan with a cascade front to any look for warmth, comfort, and polish. Layer it over its coordinating CARI shell in a soft shade of Dark Voyage for a put-together look.

PASSPORT Style #205552

This cropped tweed knit jacket is a subtly sophisticated piece that will add a finishing touch of style to any look. Dress down this jacket by pairing it with a white t-shirt and the BRILLIANCE jean.

MERRELL Style #310765

Add a touch of the unexpected to your ensemble with this multicolored cropped open cardigan with fringe detailing.

SPLASH Style #210510

A classic with a twist. This knit sweater sports a double V-neck and a chic tie at the neck for a certain je ne sais quoi. So cute!

PIPED Style #209552

Look closely at these pants. Especially the side stripe trim in the palest blue.

DREA Style #510525

With a touch of military inspiration, this cropped sweater is a sophiticated and on-trend piece that will add flair to any look.

TRADER Style #205519

You will stand out in the rain with this water-repellent jacket. Carolina fans will love the bold metallic Pale Blue hue. We talked about this jacket in a little more detail in WARDROBE MUST HAVES: An Anorak & A Trench.

SEA BREEZE Style #212505

This shirt is the perfect shade of blue. It’s an easy-fitting menswear-inspired shirt in a textured striated chambray Perfect with those BRILLIANCE jeans.

SNAKESKIN Style #305771

Drama and polish live in our embossed printed snake leather jacket with ribbed sweater panels. This piece is sure to become your chicest layer. More about the animal print trend in Animal Instinct.

HARLOW Style #215591

Pointelle accents, a touch of lacing, and a chic fit and flare silhouette all help this sophisticated dress stand out. Carolina Blue is always a standout!

BLUEMARINE Style #315500

Polished and perfect, this stretch double crepe sheath dress sports peekaboo details for a twist on a classic sheath dress.

DECK Style #215548

In the palest of blue, this 60’s retro-inspired sheath dress will add a flirty touch to any occasion.

MARISSA Style #215517

Embrace your Carolina Spring in this striped belted shirt dress. Be sure to check out the flirty crochet lace trim.

LAGO Style #412610

This blouse has the half-tuck mastered. The faux wrap, multi stripe print, and flattering V-neck make this blouse a gorgeous essential for every woman’s wardrobe.

HALLE Style #512743

With an engineered floral print detail, this silk double georgette button down blouse is darkly romantic.

BLUEBERRY Style #410625

And finally, we have this silk-enriched jersey sweater with a woven pure silk back panel. The mixing of textures is super fun.

Well, there you have it sports fans and fans of the color blue. We’re showing the Spring ECETERA collection in our Chapel Hill Studio now through Tuesday, February 27. If you’ve not made your appointment, get in touch with us now. We’d love to see!

16Nov

A New Twist on Traditional Holiday Colors

November 16, 2017 Melrose Fisher

Melrose W. Fisher

It’s that time of year again where everything we see seems to be blinking red, green, gold or silver especially when we go to holiday parties. The holiday season is the time everyone pulls out their favorite red sweater or jacket with gold metallic threads running through it or that Christmas green cashmere sweater with their red, green, and white reindeer motif scarf. You know what I’m talking about. They even have parties called the “Ugliest Christmas Sweater” party.

Dare to be different this festive time of year and dress in a variation of the traditional holiday colors. Below are examples from our Carlisle | Per Se and ETCETERA collections that will make you stand out -in a positive way- at all the holiday parties and events you’ll be attending this season. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day and beyond.

Each of these pieces can be dressed up or down depending on the dress code of your party. Have fun and look stunning all at the same time.

Instead of the traditional ‘Holly Green’ or ‘Christmas Green,’ try these colors: PINE, MIST, TEAL, or TOURMALINE for a change. Switch out the tops for entirely different outfits and looks; taking you from casual to festive.

CARLISLE – Fitzgerald Velvet Topper & Pants
CARLISLE – Seafoam Silk Blouse

ETCETERA – Minty Knit Cardigan
ETCETERA – Sprig Knit Sweater

CARLISLE – Andromeda Blouse
ETCETERA – Whitney Knit Top

CARLISLE – Andromeda Knife Pleated Skirt
CARLISLE – Andromeda Skirt & Cami
CARLISLE – Satin Cami

Think MAGENTA, AUBERGINE, BURGUNDY this season instead of “Poinsettia Red.” Much more sophisticated, chic, and on trend.

CARLISLE – Mums Blouse
CARLISLE – Trouser – Magenta

Once again, take the basic pant or skirt and change out the tops to take you from day to evening during the holidays.

CARLISLE – Lady Lace Blouse
CARLISLE – Damson Jacket

ETCETERA – Grappa Skirt
ETCETERA – Sorrento Sweater

Blues are fabulous colors to wear during this time of year. Especially SAPPHIRE when made in velvets and satins.

ETCETERA – Ensemble Vest and Tuxedo Pants
ETCETERA – Hamilton Velvet Jacket
ETCETERA – Voltage Dress

CARLISLE – Delicate Lace and Netting Blouse
CARLISLE – Palazzo Pants

CARLISLE – Stone Velveteen Jeans
ETCETERA – Opaque Blouse

To see more “Twist on Traditional Colors” for this Season, visit our Carlisle and ETCETERA websites. You’ll find lovely dresses, traditional black & whites along with gorgeous gold & silver pieces. Lots and lots of sparkles to make your holiday merry and bright.

If you are in a dilemma as to what to wear where, or say you have a great bottom but need help finding just the right top, click on your personal stylist’s name below. She’ll be more than happy to help. If you don’t have a Lots of Luxe personal stylist, contact me, and we’ll connect you with one. We’re here to make your holidays stress-free.

Happy Holidays to All!

Melrose

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