Editor’s Note: Today we introduce a new feature! Do you remember The Elements of Style, the little gray book by Strunk and White that for four years was the bible for those of us who went to journalism school? Well, this column has nothing to do with that, but we thought The Elements of Style would be a great name for our new fashion column, which will feature tips on how to look great on a writer’s budget and include content to inspire our readers who are fashion bloggers. Enjoy!
By Chanda Temple
During a recent presentation on fall fashion, Arlene Goldstein, vice president of trend merchandising and fashion direction for the department store chain Belk, discussed how to wear the latest trends.
Goldstein suggested to look for fall clothes with strong lines and modern shapes that will create a fun style that exudes cool and confidence. She also stressed the importance of having the “basics’’ such as the crisp, white shirt and nice, black slacks.
Afterward, I asked her what’s one fashion tip she’d give women. Know what she said?
“Be more adventurous. Don’t pigeonhole yourself. Branch out.’’
Such words resonated with me because Goldstein was so right. There was a time when all I wore was black. I sometimes switched things up with grey or a splash of red, but the majority of my clothes were black, both for work and play.
Then someone told me that all that black didn’t fit me. They said it wasn’t my personality. I’m bright and bubbly and bold colors were a better fit for me. The black, they said, just weighed me down.
Reluctantly, I tried more colors. After a while, I started to see the light. Bright colors really did make a difference. People noticed. The compliments flowed. I felt lighter.
Just like how we try different things in writing, trying something new in fashion will impact your life. It will change you.
If you are willing to step outside of your comfort zone and do something different, here are some fall fashion tips from Goldstein that won’t break the bank:
Photo Courtesy of Belk
Choose a statement piece and embrace it. Consider bold jewelry or long, layered necklaces. There’s something beautiful about having jewelry that frames your face. It sparks a conversation and can finish an outfit. Look at the item as an investment and see how many ways you can use it.
Turn heads with cool coverups for fall. A studded motorcycle jacket, a fitted blazer or a Chanel-inspired jacket could do the trick. The day coat, an oversized piece, looks good when paired with a sheath dress that fits close to the body. A baggy dress just won’t do underneath that large jacket. And don’t forget those cardigans. First lady Michelle Obama is a master at working them into her wardrobe.
If you’ve been wanting to try the ankle boot, a must-have for fall 2013, go for it. Pair it with short or mid-calf skirts, skinny jeans, or leggings and an oversized fashion coat. For a splash of drama, try the open-toe ankle boot adorned with hardware. They give your outfit a certain edge. Savor the moment of how good change makes you feel.
The heat is on right now, but start looking for a leather jacket. It’s a chic way to cut the chill when the temperatures start to dip.
Look for a statement piece like this necklace from Belk, left, to bring drama and interest to your fall look. Or borrow from the boys, right, for something with a casual edge.
Borrow from the boys. Consider tweed, plaid pants, military jackets or a women’s officer’s coat with brass button details this fall.
Final note: When looking at pieces, ask yourself this: Does it add value to your wardrobe? Said Goldstein: “Fashion should liberate us and not fence us in.’’