What to wear now

French Elle

I have a hunch that you’re probably figuring out your fall wardobe right now—a tricky task for even the most seasoned shopper. Now that we are into October, (don’t let this Indian Summer trick you), it is time to look through your closet and determine what you have and what you need. Most of my favorite looks from the past runway shows are in stores now. As the weather begins to cool (believe me it will) and the leaves begin to turn it’s time to edit your look.

This season I am taking my cues from the new Bravo Show Fashion Hunters. Whether it is a classic Chanel suit or this season’s hottest Jimmy Choo shoes, the Hunters follows the fashionistas at Second Time Around as they go out searching the attics, closets and garages of New York’s elite. There has only been one episode so far, but basically the premise of the show is this: How do you get a killer wardrobe without spending a boat load of money? Tricky question, tricky answer. Start from the outside and work inwards. Trust me, I myself have many years of experience as a personal shopper and as a fashion stylist and that first impression is the most important! It is easy to work with what you have if what you currently own are great staples like cashmere sweaters, a myriad of jeans, blazers, basic tops, fitted skirts and on-trend dresses. I can’t promise you can do this yourself, but with these options below—including the must-have fall outerwear pieces like plaid and mohair, you will be on-trend. If you’re still feeling clueless, give me a ring –I do make house calls. 🙂

Me in my favorite fur poncho and fedora

Capes and Ponchos

Why I love it? The cape is the perfect transitional piece of outerwear. This style showed up on many of the fall 2011 runways, and the latest versions are “everyday” wearable.

How to wear it? I wore mine to work last week over tights and a dress. Toss one over a button-down shirt and relaxed jeans for the weekend. Pair it with a chic striped sweater and frock for work, or rock a dramatic cape with black leather leggings and edgy boots for a night out. So what do we think, ladies? Are you ready to tap into your inner Marcia Brady ?

Capes. Photo courtesy of the Budget Babe

Suno Cropped Mohair Cape

Cool Capes

Fun fuzzy chunky furs

Why I love it?
Memories of last year’s record snowfalls have inspired an avalanche of let’s-get-cozy clothing: Fur (both real and fake)has gone a bit mad this season with wildly bright colors (Gucci 2011) and shoes and goggles with fur pom poms (Alexander Wang). What makes these pieces so desirable is not only how functional they are, but how truly fashionable and cool they make you feel. Don this seasonal armor and you will shiver no more.

HOW TO WEAR IT
Your best plan of attack: Make a statement with an extraordinary coat—one with a lush collar or a shrug. Keep the look simple with trousers and a turtleneck (which are bigger than ever). You can also opt for a touch of plush with or a furry hat or fuzzy boot. Each will generate a little heat on its own.

Love this look

It just so happens that one of the top accessories trends for fall is also the most practical: a big, cozy cap, is sure to keep us warm and stylish during the upcoming chilly months.

Fur hat

Gucci Fall 2011. Photo, Fashion Catalog Trend

Altuzarra

And to top if off?

The Fedora.

Why I love it? Duh. To top off your look. But really. It is ULTRA 70’s glam. Work a fedora that Farrah would be proud of. Floppy fedoras have been a mounting trend on city sidewalks, but their must-have status was made official this past fashion week.

How to wear it? Put in on your head and don’t forget to smile.