Top Trends – Fall/Winter 2012

BySuzanne Newman

Merlot to Cabernet.  Deep reds are so in!  From the richest maroon, to crimson and oxblood, these shades are the biggest color trend in stores.  Update your wardrobe with a burgundy sweater, jean or dress, or try a wine-hued shoe or bag.

For makeup…rosy cheeks and wine-tinted lipsticks, like Revlon’s Sugar Plum, are big this season too.  I highly recommend Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Advanced Therapy. This is the first lip balm that actually prevents my lips from chapping.

leatherLeather – Lots of options, price points, and colors – make it more wearable than ever before.  Although there are plenty of color choices, I most prefer a neutral, or rich (not bright) color.  Softer leathers appear more feminine, and if you want a little less, I’ve seen leather piping and  insets in dresses, sweaters, jackets, and even leggings.

Fall printsFall Prints. Brocade, winter florals and sophisticated geometrics bring Fall prints to life.  I love these prints anchored by black (particularly if they are of a medium to larger scale). Think floral skirt or dress, and then black (or other dark color) tights and accessories.

trapezeHangbags – The newest shape around is the Trapeze or Winged tote.  This shape is great because it not only looks fresh, but it holds a ton of items in an easy-to-reach way.  Structured satchel handbags with top handles are big this season – my favorites are the ones with an additional shoulder strap.

Other Accessories: Shoes, Boots & Jewelryshoes

  • Metal accented shoes are a chic look this season.  A little bling of gold or silver on the heel or toe can really change your look!
  • Boyfriend flats – stylish loafers, oxfords and slipper flats are fun and give you a lot of comfort.  I like them in animal prints or with distinctive details
  • Knee high, mid-calf and ankle boots continue to be very available in all kinds of styles: rugged, classy, dressy, edgy and equestrian. Ankle boots teamed with leggings, skirts and jeans are very fashionable.  I prefer this trend when the boots match your tights or leggings.
  • For jewelry, big and bold large cuff bracelets and bold statement necklaces are hot.  Whisper-thin scarves are big this season too.

equEquestrian. Classic autumn pieces with equestrian accents are Fall staples. This includes English country themed items such as tweeds and soft cashmere sweaters worn in a modern way.  This is a great time to find “forever” investments such as riding boots or a leather saddle bag, or just enjoy a piece or two for the season.
Animal accents.  Have fun with animal motifs such as a printed blouse with tiny horses or a small fox adornment on a bracelet. I love this look when the print is so tiny you don’t even realize it’s an animal until up close.  Also fun are the Cleopatra style snake bracelets.

blouse1Silky button down blouses. Think flowy and a little sexy – not your typical business look – worn tucked or untucked with jeans, leggings or a skirt  Try a blouse in one of the jewel tones that are so big this season (emerald green, sapphire blue or amethyst).  This could be your new favorite!

Statement Coats with a “roomy” look are quite fashion forward.  Eye catching colors and architectural collars make this look a huge style statement.  At my age, I love a little extra room in the armholes but prefer a coat that is not too voluminous.