13Nov

Fashion Trends: Love Them or Leave Them?

November 13, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Your Ultimate Guide for Deciding Which Fashion Trends Will Work for You

Are you a trend chaser or a trend avoider? What thoughts inevitably come up when you hear the word “trend’? If trends are working for you, I would never challenge you to leave them. Of course, fashion is meant to be playful and fun. But, if you are a trend chaser familiar with the cycle of buying clothes, neglecting them and ending up with a closet full of “nothing to wear”, then this article could be your saving grace.

If you avoid trends completely, you could be missing out on some exciting new ways to showcase your personal style. The following tips will help you embrace changing trends in a way that doesn’t intimidate or fill up your closet with trends you won’t wear in six months’ time.

Trends come with the seasons and we sometimes have a love/hate relationship with them. You see a new trend made popular by a celebrity, you buy it, wear it once, and then never again. Sound familiar? So, how can you know whether to embrace a new trend or to let it be? Trends can be a fun way to experiment with fashion and self-expression. They can also be challenging to fit into our current wardrobe if our goal is to create longevity with our clothing.

Here’s how to decide whether to welcome a new trend or to leave it on the rack – The next time you’re tempted to try a trend, ask yourself the following questions:

Will the trend seamlessly fit into my current wardrobe?

We want to create and maintain a fluid wardrobe that works well as a whole unit. A wardrobe works best when we can step into our closet and easily choose an outfit, for any event or situation. Wardrobes should be cohesive. If the trend is the opposite of anything you typically wear or if you would have trouble pairing it with your current clothes to make an outfit, then don’t buy it. However, some trends can be easily worn and introduced into your wardrobe; these are the trends you’ll want to invest in. You will be more likely to wear a trend that easily aligns with your current wardrobe.

Is the trend classic or ostentatious?

Some trends are classics that come and go over the years. Classic trends include prints, colors, and fabrics. For example, you’ll notice prints such as stripes and florals pop up over the years, then disappear, and then reappear over time. With a classic trend, you will never look back at old photos and wonder, “What was I thinking?”. It’s the best of both worlds: you get to wear something on-trend and you can wear it for seasons to come.

But how do you differentiate between a classic trend and one that’s ostentatious? The classic trends tend to be more subtle, like a hot color or a popular fabric. While an ostentatious trend is meant to make a statement, such as unique styling. Some trends we’re seeing this fall are satin, shades of purple, and bike shorts paired with blazers. Items in purple or satin might be safe bets to add to your closet, but what about bike shorts with blazers? If this trendy look is a far stretch from your personal style than it may not be for you. However, if you’re a statement-maker, then give it a try! If not, try a more classic trend so you’re still dressing in a current fashion.

Some trends are merely showy and may be popular for a season but won’t stick around as effortless classic trends do. Ask yourself if a certain trend will be worth buying for the long-term goals of your closet.

Does the trend flatter my figure?

Trends might look fabulous on a model, celebrity, or even a friend, but will the trend flatter your own unique body type? Wearing clothing that flatters your body is important for your confidence and for creating a wardrobe that excites you every day. You want everything in your closet to comfortably fit and flatter your curves and body type. If it doesn’t fit in a way that makes you look and feel wonderful, then leave it. Comfort and confidence trump a trend every time.

Does this trend work with my personal style?

Okay, here’s where I can help. A lot of women don’t know how to define their personal style. If you can categorize the way you dress in a couple of words, you will have a template to consider for all your future clothing purchases. You will be able to easily decide what works best for you and your lifestyle, including colors, fits, fabrics, and more. Building a wardrobe is suddenly easier. This step can be especially trying, but an extra opinion from a stylist can be a huge help. Want to define your personal style and make your wardrobe work for you? It’s my specialty! And I always welcome calls or emails if you have questions.

23Sep

The Continuity of Classics: How to Build a Functional Forever Wardrobe

September 23, 2019 Melrose Fisher

“I feel like I’m constantly buying new clothes and I still feel like I have nothing to wear.”

“I typically wear the same outfits week after week.”

“I feel overwhelmed when shopping for new clothes.”

“I have so much trouble creating new, fresh outfits from what I have to choose from.”

Sound familiar?

The conundrum: a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear. It’s all too common. So, how can we fix a problem like this and have plenty of clothes to choose from, shop smarter (without the dread) and always feel like we have a fresh mix of classics and on-trend clothes?

If we focus on keeping classics and adding in a few new trends each season then we can accomplish putting together a functional wardrobe that will last – timeless yet different each season.

HERE’S HOW TO GET IT DONE:

1. START WITH THE CLASSICS

Build the Basics

Classics in neutral colors will never go out of style. The bulk of your wardrobe should come from classics. This way, you always have a solid foundation of clothing to wear, no matter the trends nor the season. Pieces like button-down cotton shirts, solid-colored tank tops, little black dresses, cashmere sweaters, black slacks, and blue jeans are classics that never go out of style.

Choose a few of each of these basic pieces in neutral colors. A neutral color palette will give you the option of building a variety of outfits from just the basics. You can mix-and-match separates, layer additional pieces, and add accessories to create a variety of different outfits.

Layers on Layers

Next, focus on layers. Keep these classic and neutral too. Denim jackets, camel trenches, leather jackets, and cardigans are some good layers to add. Again, these can be added to neutral outfit basics when the weather gets cool or simply to make outfits more interesting.

Functional Shoes

Shoes can change the whole look of an outfit. Be sure to choose shoes in neutral colors that will be a functional part of your wardrobe… and lifestyle. Some basics to consider include neutral-colored pumps, casual sneakers, tall boots, flats, and sandals. Having timeless shoes on-hand will always lead to a perfect match for your classic outfit choices.

Add Accessories

Curating a collection of timeless accessories will allow you to easily match your accentuating pieces to any outfit. Accessories like classic-printed scarves, neutral-colored handbags, leather belts, and simple jewelry will add a timeless finishing touch to any look.

2. ADD IN SOME TRENDS

A wardrobe without some trends can become a tad boring. Trends elevate our outfits, giving our classic pieces that little bit of extra umph to turn them into new and interesting outfits each season.

But don’t start your shopping trip seeking out the hottest trends. If you start buying trends first, things get messy. You buy too much, you will end up with too many outdated pieces, and not everything will match. This is where wardrobe trouble starts and it is quite literally a closet full of (trendy) clothes and nothing to wear. This is why it’s important to build up a wardrobe of classics first. Once you build the foundation for your wardrobe, adding trends is simple and easy.

Trends are fun and allow you to experiment with your unique style, but they aren’t the building blocks of a functional wardrobe. So, add them as individual pieces to your classic looks, like through the use of an in-style print, a statement-making accessory, or on-trend pops of color.

If you have a closet full of basics in neutral colors that you can layer, you will always have enough to wear. Adding on-trend pieces will boost your personal style and help you to mix-and-match, creating unique looks with each new season.

Need more help?

If you aren’t sure where to start, I completely get it. You aren’t alone! Strategically building a wardrobe is some work and it can be overwhelming. This is what I do – I can help you build a working wardrobe of basics, sprinkled with season trends that fit your style. Our Carlisle and ETCETERA collections make this easy; each include both basics and seasonal trend pieces. Call or email me and we can set up an appointment that works for your schedule.

12Mar

10 Ideas to Easily Transition Your Wardrobe From Winter to Spring

March 12, 2019 Melrose Fisher

It’s that time of year again – those few weeks between the chilly winter weather and the soon–to–be budding springtime. Dressing for this time of year, or in between any of the seasons for that matter, can be tough.

I’ve created 10 tips to help you transition from winter to spring with ease! The weather might not be predictable, but I can show you how you can work around it while looking flawless no matter the weather.

1. Wear Scarves

There’s still a chill in the air and scarves are great accessory for 2 reasons: they’re fashionable and they’re functional. All you have to do to make your outfit more spring–forward is to add an eye–catching scarf. Try stripes, floral prints, or checked prints in lightweight wool.

2. Choose White

It’s time to add lightness to traditionally dark winter clothing! Adding a pop of white to any outfit brings light to it and it’s super easy to incorporate into your winter wardrobe. Pull out your white blouses and start wearing them more often. Add a necklace with some luster or sparkle and you’ve pulled together a perfect winter to spring look.

3. Show Some Ankle

Jeans are a favorite for any season. When the weather is still cool but slowly warming up, roll up your jeans or choose a cropped length to show some skin. Pair jeans with sandals, sneakers, or pumps.

4. Add Colorful Accessories

It’s time to add a pop of color to your winter wardrobe. A colorful accessory like a bright moto jacket or anorak or a bold bag can instantly transform dark clothing.

5. Denim Jackets

Ditch your heavy coat for a lighter jean jacket for an added spring vibe. Denim is versatile, looks great, and adds a layer for warmth.

6. Lighter Knits

When it’s chilly but you still want to look season-appropriate in spring, reach into your stash of lighter-colored, finer-weight wool sweaters. You can also swap out pants for skirts to wear with light–weight sweaters.

7. Transitional Footwear

Booties and mules are great for winter–spring transition. Show a bit of skin or pair them with nude fishnets or lighter colored tights. Perforated, lighter-colored booties are a great fashion catch if you can find them.

8. Wear Layers

Layering is multi–functional because it looks great and it will help keep you warm when the temperature is still low. When wearing loose knits, layer a tank underneath in silk or polyester. The tank will cut the winter chill that could still be lingering in the air.

9. Put on a Poncho

Ponchos, capes, wraps, or shawls are transitional must-haves. They’re warm, stylish, and they are made for in–between weather. Heading into spring, choose a wrap in a pastel color – baby blue, blush pink, or mint green. Or if you prefer neutrals, look for one in sand or dove gray.

10. Trench Coats

Trench coats are a perfect transitional piece since they are more lightweight than heavy winter coats, yet still provide protection from the elements. Instead of black, go for classic tan or white, or introduce trenches in fresh, unexpected colors or patterns. Checked or striped trenches are also perfect for spring.

Transitional seasons can hang on longer than we’d like. Call me at (919) 819-9054 for a styling session. I’ll pull pieces from your closet to make outfits that look like spring but feel warm enough to wear if winter is lingering. We could also do some shopping to get your wardrobe working all year round. I’m eager to help!

20Feb

Spring 2019 Fashion Trends

February 20, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Spring is an especially celebrated season for many reasons, including in the fashion industry. Spring is a time for new beginnings and for warming up after a long winter. So, in the spirit of spring, here are the trends from Carlisle and ETCETERA for this year’s upcoming season.

Natural Neutrals

In the spring of 2009, Vogue said, “Fashion’s strength this season comes from its quiet authority; dress softly and carry a leopard-spot purse.” Neutrals were big that year and, although neutrals have never left us, they are big again this spring. Neutrals come in all shades of beige: camel, cinnamon, coffee, and chestnut. Earthly neutrals are the perfect basics for building your spring wardrobe. Head-to-toe neutrals are a trendy way to wear a luxe monochrome look. Feel free to add pops of color to neutrals if that’s your thing. Neutrals provide us with plenty of options. Natural colors are graceful and elegant, and they can be easily styled.

Bold Brights

On the flip side of spring’s neutrals, comes spring’s brightest colors. Vibrant shades can enliven your wardrobe whether you choose brights for the office or casual wear. The shades of this season’s brightest colors include taffy, persimmon and all shades in between. Office style gets more than a pop of color this spring. Don’t be afraid to mix spring’s brightest shades for a fun, fabulous look. Color blocking is in style this spring season, and many styles of color blocking are using either bold brights or sandy neutrals–or both for a fresh look.

Fresh Florals

Florals are an absolute spring classic! Florals are far from new, but they are feminine, whimsical, and flirty. Nothing lightens up a wardrobe quite like fun florals. Wearing florals can be casual and light or even dressed up for the office. This year, spring’s blooms come in prints, lace, appliques, and embroidery. If florals aren’t typically your style, try black florals for a more demure look. Edgy black florals are a glamorous way to add flowers to your wardrobe.

Beyond Beige

The season’s new neutrals come in a plethora of earthy shades in a spectrum that flirts with yellow, grey and brown. Neutrals are incredibly easy to work with, especially when adding to your wardrobe. Neutrals can be easily added to build a number of different outfits to choose from.

Think Pink

This spring delivers exciting shades of pink ranging from pale blush to hot fuchsia. Blush is one of the universally flattering colors because, regardless of your skin tone, blush flatters everyone! Wear your favorite shades of pink as solids, stripes, ombre, color blocks, and more. Spring has never looked so bright!

Neutral Ground

Black and white is a classic combination that always delivers. Go graphic this season with a myriad of ways to mix black and white. The elegant and dramatic opposite shades provide a canvas to add to. Black and white clothing comes in color blocks, stripes, solids, and even stunning python. Add a bright scarf or blazer to black and white to automatically upgrade the look.

Bright Lines

This season’s lines go beyond simple stripes, playing with texture and tones for modern twists on a classic. A new take on pinstripes is chic for the office and is a great way to add texture and something new to your wardrobe. Stripes are an easy way to make any outfit a little bolder.

Need A Fresh Spring Makeover?

I’m here to help! If you need a styling consultation to renew and refresh your wardrobe for spring or are in a dilemma with what to wear for a special occasion, it would be my pleasure to help you decipher what you need. Wardrobe styling and shopping when you aren’t sure what exactly you need can be overwhelming and frustrating, but I can take the confusion out of it.

If you’re ready to take your wardrobe to the next level, organize, fill–in, and revitalize your closet, give me a call! Or, get in touch here.

08Jan

How to Build a Dream Wardrobe in 7 Easy Steps

January 8, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Building a wardrobe is a truly daunting task. How many of us can devote the time to create a flawless, versatile wardrobe that never leaves us wondering what to wear?

Most of us buy more and more clothing without consciously building a wardrobe that allows for easy access to outfits for every occasion. If we don’t build a functional wardrobe, then we are likely to end up with a closet filled with clothing to mix and match at random. Of course, it ends in wearing the same outfits repeatedly or obsessing over what to wear.

It’s worth it to create a wardrobe that suits your needs, but you may be wondering where to start. It takes some time and strategy to build a wardrobe, so how is it done?

Starting with your own personal wardrobe stylist; I can help you do each of the following steps in order to build a cohesive, varied wardrobe. The end result will be a wardrobe that suits your lifestyle, flatters your body, and expresses your personal style. Here’s the run-down of the steps to create a dream wardrobe easily and quickly.

Establish Your Body Type

You must know what body type you have before building a wardrobe. We are all unique in shape and size and knowing the types of clothing that suits your body type is crucial to looking flawless all of the time. Finding clothes that flatter your body can boost your confidence and ensure you have a closet full of clothes that make you feel great.

Determine Your Color Palette

Just like with body types, we all have a unique skin tone. Skin tones range from not only light to dark but also cool to warm. Knowing your skin tone is key to knowing which colors enhance your look and which colors don’t. Wearing colors that don’t compliment your skin tone can make you look tired, washed out, or simply not your best. Conversely, choosing the perfect colors for your skin tone can enrich your look automatically.

Shop to Fit Your Lifestyle

It’s important that the clothes in your closet suit your daily needs. We can easily buy clothing that is momentarily trendy on impulse, but does it really suit our lifestyle? For example, a wardrobe filled with 40% career-minded outfits, 30% clothing for social events and outings, 20% leisure, and 10% formal special event attire could be suited for your lifestyle.

Detox and De-Clutter

If you’re going to build a wardrobe you love, you will have to get rid of all of the items that you don’t love. Sort through your closet and remove any ill-fitting, unflattering, out of style clothing. Make room for pieces you’ll love and wear frequently.

Create a Foundation of Basics

Building a wardrobe around classic basics makes dressing simple. Choosing neutral-colored tank tops, black pants, pencil skirts, white button-ups, and cardigans are good basics to build from. Most of your outfits will begin with these basics, so having many on hand will create the foundation you need to build a wardrobe.

Add Statement Pieces

You’ll need to let your personal style shine with statement pieces in the colors and fabrics that you love. These statement pieces can be added to your wardrobe basics for easy pairings. Tailored investment pieces can be added here as well.

Maintain your Wardrobe

You’ll need to add to your wardrobe to keep things fresh. This will ensure you’ll always have something new to wear and new outfits to create. The easiest way to maintain your dream wardrobe is Box of Luxe, a time-saving home delivery box of 4-6 hand-selected pieces of clothing.

If you don’t have time to shop and maintain a wardrobe, this is the answer for you! It’s as easy as completing a quick style profile and your Box of Luxe will be delivered to you filled with pieces that suit your style needs. You’ll have five days to try on the clothing and if you decide something isn’t for you, simply return it hassle-free.

Another option is to schedule a consultation call or to meet me for a cup of coffee. In 30 minutes I can help you determine your wardrobe needs and guide you through the services provided by Lots of Luxe. A Personal Stylist could be your answer to a wardrobe that works.

10Oct

Add These Accessories to Your Fall/Winter Wardrobe

October 10, 2018 Melrose Fisher

When it comes to a new fashion season, the thought of shopping for a new wardrobe might be overwhelming. A great alternative is to choose a few new accessories to make your existing wardrobe feel brand new.

Here are some ways you can do that.

Scarves

The newest style in scarves is long, long, long. Don’t be surprised if you wrap a scarf around your neck and the tails come to your thighs. In addition to long, cozy scarves are blanket scarves. These scarves come in fabrics that are rich, lush and voluminous. Even more than an addition to your wardrobe, they can become the main attraction of your outfit.

Fingerless Gloves

You know we need our fingertips free for on-demand texting. This accessory is functional and beautiful when it’s in velvet or suede. Choose gloves that come close to the elbow for glamorous flair. Have fun with all the colors available to you.

Tights

Black tights or bare legs are so last years. Branch out into tights of many hues. Wear them with your skirts and dresses for pure fun. If colorful tights are too bold for you a lace tight will update your look.

Hats

Hats add so much personality and punctuation to your outfit. Maybe start by identifying your favorite historical period. Styles include the sombrero, the cowboy hat, the matador, the fedora, and other wide-brimmed styles. Do you prefer caps? Try one in plaid. Use hats to express your personal style. This could be the accessory you wear all season.

Statement Earrings

Are you ready to make a statement? “Ears” how to do it (wink, wink). Big on the earring scene are oversized double and triple hoops. Feathers flock the ear whether they’re real feathers or silver ones. Large jeweled crosses bring lots of bling. Tassels continue to adorn the ear.

Statement Necklaces

Or should we say necklaces! Whether you layer multiple necklaces from your collection or buy one that does all the layering for you, this look could cover your whole décolleté area. This look may not be best on a larger chested person. You decide if you’re a good candidate for this trend. Other choices are chokers high on the neck or necklaces layered over turtlenecks.

Statement Bracelets

Bracelets aren’t just for summer over bare arms. Wear bracelets of different widths and stack them on your wrist or on top of your sweater sleeve. A very pretty look is to wear large cuffs full of lustrous colors. A cardigan, jacket, or coat with three-quarter sleeves is just begging for a statement bracelet or two or three.

Belts

Belts ruled the runway. Looks included buckle belts, leather belts, tie belts, corset belts, bustier belts, and the doubling up of belts. Use any of these on coats, dresses, or skirts of any length. Consider wearing belts that contrast with your outfit colors or choose one in animal print.

Purses

Logo purses are big for fall. Enter the fanny pack, the belt purse or the backpack. For ladylike looks, go for a framed handbag. If you have a busy running-around lifestyle, a tote may be best for you. A new purse adds so very much to your look. Getting a new one could be your number one fashion priority.

To ease into the season, consider starting with accessories. I can help you find the right ones or help you begin to incorporate them into your transition wardrobe before all the woolens come out. The great thing about accessories is that you can start wearing them right away! Let’s get a date on the calendar, okay?

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!

05Sep

The Top 5 Denim Trends For Fall 2018 And How To Wear Them

September 5, 2018 Melrose Fisher

It seems that 2018 is bringing back denim trends that you have probably already worn in recent years. The last few years of denim trends have featured most tight skinny jeans but if you’re ready for some comfier options, this season is full of them. Retro denim styles are back in full force. You might already have some of these styles tucked away in your closet, but if not, get ready to bring them back into your wardrobe. Master how to wear the top denim styles for autumn 2018 with the following tips.

80’s Distressed

The ripped jeans of the 80’s are back. Well, perhaps distressed denim never really left us, but our tastes may have changed. The 80’s was a wild time for denim; from acid-washed to jeans slashed at the knee that was quite the decade for jeans. If you dare, the distressed look is trending for 2018. If you have an old pair of Levi’s from 30 years ago, revive them! They might have faded throughout the years, maybe they are worn at the knee and if so, perfect. Your throwback jeans are perfect for the fall of 2018. Ripped denim and frayed hemlines are all on trend for the fall, too.

Wide-Leg

Many women will shy away from wide-leg pants for fear of them not being flattering, but to the contrary, wide-leg jeans make the legs appear elongated and make the waist look smaller. To wear this trend, try neutral colored wide-leg jeans. Navy is great for office wear or try olive, cream, or black wide-leg denim.

Remember that pleated details will flatter your legs. Also, it’s good to always wear a close-fitting top with wide-leg jeans because you don’t want your silhouette to get lost in too much fabric. It’s all about balancing the wide-leg jeans with more fitted tops. Lastly, a tucked in top will accentuate your waist when wearing wide-leg jeans.

Colored Denim

Blue denim is known as the perfect casual or chic everyday wear, but you can most definitely wear colored denim every day too! You can get your feet wet with neutral colored denim like cream or gray to get in on this trend or go all out with mustard, olive, or royal blue. Don’t be afraid to embrace dusty pink, cranberry red, or printed denim either! Pair colored denim with chunky sweaters, ankle boots, puffer vests or sweet, feminine blouses. You can treat colored denim as you would treat regular blue jeans, as long as the colors you pair with these pants are complementary. Royal blue denim will go nicely with a white t-shirt and a textured scarf. Wear mustard or olive jeans with a striped sweater and sneakers or boots. Burgundy jeans look sharp when paired with navy blue.

Flared

After several years in the spotlight, skinny jeans are taking a backseat and the wide-hemmed flared jeans are back! Flared jeans are boho-inspired and reminiscent of 70’s fashion.

The great thing about flared jeans is that everyone can wear them. These are flattering for all shapes and sizes. Make sure to watch the length of the hem on flared jeans because if they are too short or too long, it can ruin the look. The length of the hem should just nearly touch the ground so be sure to choose your shoes accordingly. Keep your top somewhat fitted since the flow of these jeans is flared out, especially if they are also more of a wide-leg fit. Wearing a flowy, wide tops balances out skinny jeans but when paired with flares, it can make your silhouette appear larger. Pair flared jeans with a lightweight, close-fitting blouse or a blouse with a thin belt cinched at the waist.

Utility Denim and Trousers

Utility pants are this season’s versatile pick for denim trends. Utility jeans are androgynous and are best styled with a feminine flair. Because utility denim has a masculine edge, pair these with an ultra-feminine blouse to balance them out. Using this same styling idea, wear a delicate silk cami with utility jeans for a night out. For an office look, pair utility pants with a crisp shirt or a blazer and heels. For a fresh palette idea, try pairing olive, navy, and white for a utilitarian-chic look.

Whether you prefer trouser jeans, distressed, wide-leg or colored jeans, we’re here to ensure they have the best fit for your body type, they fit your lifestyle and work well with what’s already in your closet. If we can help you navigate the denim trends this fall/winter season, please get in touch.

To see what denim pieces are available in the Carlisle & Etcetera collections, take a look at last weeks blog “The Jeans Report.”

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