The sultry temperatures outside that continue to soar make it seem as though the summer will be endless this year, and that sundresses and tanks will be our go-to staples forever. But all of us in Northeastern Ohio know that the inevitable windswept, wet days are ahead, providing the opportunity to bundle up in more substantial threads. The summer to fall transition in terms of dressing is quite a turning point, and this year the trends shown in the catwalk are blissfully femme and beautiful.
The “hue to do” is gold and can be worn day-to-night when done properly. Mixing the metallic with grungy green military-inspired jackets is a good way to rough it up for day while the tone-on-tone trend and fur trend make gold swished up enough for evening. Of course, designers like Victoria Beckham, Burberry, McQueen, DSquared and Fendi (among others) make all of these trends look hot on the runways and upscale retailers like Barneys, Saks, Bergdorf and Neimans charge accordingly. So what’s a fashionista on a budget to do? Fear not, there are several retailers who make runway to real way pieces that will most certainly NOT break the bank.
Military
Want to channel your inner-army girl? Try the military trend on for size. Burberry Porsum featured a fabulous olive jacket over a chartreuse dress for a pretty penny, but a smart shopper will instead visit retailer Forever 21 to nab this fabulous boxy piece for a mere $24.80. Pair this versatile piece with your favorite dark skinny denim and add a shock of shiny metallic beneath with this super fab sequins tank again from Forever 21 that retails for $12.50 – how can you beat that? Visit your nearest Forever 21 store to nab one or more of these great prices items at Great Northern Mall, SouthPark or Belden Village.
Retro
Another BIG look for fall is the prim and proper 1950s silhouette characterized by full skirts, fitted bodices and belt-cinched waists. Utterly femme, this is a classic look that will bring out the manners in you. Online shopping is a great way to find one-of-a-kind pieces at low-low prices. Check out modcloth.com, where you can snatch up this super girly amethyst high-waist skirt that would be fabulous worn with opaque tights and round-toed t-straps. To finish out the retro-theme top off the bottom with a lilac fitted top with puff-sleeves. You’ll not only cinch the prim look but you’ll take the reins on the tone-on-tone trend as well. Hate separates? It’s easy to do the trend with a dress too just choose one will a FULL skirt and nipped in waist like the one shown. This look is also courtesy of modcloth.com and runs about $150. Log on now!
Fur
Fuzzy wuzzie fur is so hot for fall and - believe it or not - will not leave you penniless. While real fur pieces are luxe and will last a lifetime, those on a budget can get away looking super current in a well-chosen faux number. Experiment with fur by starting with a vest that can be worn over turtle necks and jeans or over a really swishy night-time frock – think swingy trapeze style, or multi-tiered frills. Head to Express for this very chic jewel neck piece for $95 or for even less run on over to nationaljeancompany.com where you can pick up a cozy number for $65.
Lace
Lady-like sexy lace is another gorgeous autumnal look. Luckily there are lots of lace options out there. Don’t be afraid to layer lace with jeans, leggings, skirts, or go full-on in a dress. The options are limitless, ageless, timeless, and universally flattering. Do this Chantilly lace top from Forever 21 ($19.50) with high waist black skinny pants.
Shopping on a budget is actually more fun, more creative, and will make your fall ensemble more unique than those donning a cookie cutter off the runway look. So shop on fashionistas! The opportunities to stay current without begging, borrowing, and stealing are limitless.
Need more style advice, guidance or ideas? Email me at SeeJaneStyle@hotmail.com.
