Fall's Instant Updates

Louis Vuitton Fall '12 Ad Campaign shot by Steven Meisel

Originally posted in The LOOK

The other day, I was walking through a massive cavern of a big-box store and what to my wondering eyes should appear but Christmas cards and a light-up reindeer. What the...?  Didn't summer just start?  Sure, I'm used to seeing Hallowe'en costumes in August, but breaking out the holly jolly in the middle of a heatwave?  I mean, I love to plan ahead but this is getting a little ridic.  Seems like just as summer really gets going, the fashion world is already one season (or two) ahead.  And although I'm reluctant to admit it, September really is just around the corner. Since fall is my favourite fashion season, shopping always helps to lessen my end of summer blues and this year I'm especially stoked.  

We've entered a new era of opulence this fall, complete with super rich colours, unapologetic prints and embellishments worthy of a Russian czarina (scroll down if you missed last week's post).  And while our economy might still be on shaky ground, we can all achieve that feeling of luxury for less since retailers at every budget seem to have joined the movement.  From this fall's hottest colour to the latest silhouettes, read on for 10 instant wardrobe updaters to set you up for a stylish season.  In the meantime, let's make every summer moment count.  And really, if this September's anything like last, our sunny summer days are from over.  Yay!

1.  The Shirt Collar Necklace

Ardelia Metal Shirt Collar, $12.98, ALDO

While a good white shirt will always be chic, a fun shirt collar necklace is the 2012 update.  Add one on to dress up any of your basic button-front shirts as a cool alternative to a necklace.

2. The Leather Shirt 

Leather and Jersey Tee, $249, Danier

Leather is always a popular fabric for fall but this year, designers employed it in totally new ways, from pleated skirts to laser-cut leather dresses.  Instead of a bomber, try out a mixed media leather and jersey shirt for a comfortable way to edge up your look.  

3. Burgundy:  The New Black

Bordeaux Skinnies, coming this fall to RW&CO. and Varsity Jacket, $349, Danier

Whether you call it burgundy or bordeaux or plum, this wine-coloured shade has made a major comeback for fall 2012.  Pair your burgundy pants, sweaters or trench coats with grey, black or cream or opt instead for an oversized bordeaux bag to look totally current (or should I say currant?) for fall.

4. The Concealed Wedge Sneaker

Leather-Like Colour Block Sneaker, $69.95, Le Château

While Converse will always be cool, sneakerphiles have been stepping up their game of late; Thanks to Isabel Marant and a host of other designers, the latest way to achieve instant weekend cool is with the concealed wedge sneaker. Though this trend's being brewing for awhile, you'll be seeing these kicks everywhere for fall, whether you go for the flash with a metallic pair, or keep it more subdued with a muted hue.  Either way, these shoes give you both comfort and height in one pretty package.

5. Black and Blue

Zip-Front Dress, coming to RW&CO. this fall

Instead of an LBD, a cobalt blue dress will help you stand out at any of your fall fêtes.  The key to looking current?  Ignore the old-school rule and pair your blues with black for a look that's reminiscent of royalty rockstars.  If it's good enough for Kate...

6.  The Peplum

Lace Peplum Hem Top, $59.95, Le Château

It's official:  Peplum is the silhouette of choice for 2012.  A black lace peplum top will perfectly dress up a high-waisted black pencil skirt or slim-fit pants for 9 to 5.  Plus, the exaggeration of the peplum will make your waist look wee and help you flaunt your womanly curves.  Genius!

7. The Slipper Loafer

DV by Dolce Vita Marcel Loafer, $79, American Eagle Outfitters

Looking for a cute alternative to your old ballet flats?  Meet the 'sloafer' or slipper loafer, your new go-to flat. The broguish details add interest to this neutral pair, or have fun with jewel-toned versions to kick up your fall look.

8. The Fun Blouse 

Polka Dot Chiffon Shirt, $29.90, Garage

A navy polka-dot blouse is both playful and sophisticated and a perfect way to bust a work wardrobe rut.  This season was also all about the embroidered blouse, as seen everywhere from the runways of Isabel Marant to Stella McCartney.  If you're a little more daring, this chiffon version from American Eagle is totally on trend for fall.

9. The Bow Belt

Snake-Print Bow Belt, $15, Le Château

While wide belts are definitely making a comeback, the pretty bowed belts seen at Burberry are an ultra-feminine way to cinch your waist this fall.  The python print on this version adds great texture to the black.

10.  The Tall Boot

Tall Leather Riding Boot, $170, ALDO

I'm all about great deals but a well-made pair of boots is always worth the splurge.  This pair of leather riding boots from ALDO are practical yet chic and at under $200, won't completely break the bank.   Wear them over your skinny jeans and leggings all season long.

Weekend Update

When the weather starts to heat up, so do our calendars and though the coming months will be filled with loads of backyard barbeques, patio cocktails, and afternoons by the pool, certain occasions call for something just a little more chic than shorts. Whether you're heading for a Mother's Day Brunch, fêting a bride-to-be or oohing and aahing at a baby shower, these three chic spring looks will help you look polished and pretty for any celebration. 

  

 A matchy-matchy pencil skirt and blazer in bold cobalt and black are totally on-trend for spring. The top to bottom stripes make a serious statement but when you want to tone it down, you can always pair the blazer with great black pants (or tailored black shorts), a black pencil skirt or even your fave pair of jeans. The patent red clutch helps break up all that pattern.

I loved Blake Lively's super-feminine look with its pretty pastels and intricate lace detailing. Achieve the same pretty vibe with a good pair of white trousers, an eyelet tank and nude heels, then add in a pastel topper - be it the gorgeous blue bomber pictured above, a pastel cropped jacket or a great little cardigan in soft pink, blue, yellow, orange or minty green.

     A flowy maxi dress is the easiest way to look put-together, especially for spring when you never know what Mother Nature's going to throw your way (plus it's super forgiving, which means you can say yes to that extra cupcake) Toss on the dress, add a pair of woven sandals (flats or wedges) and you're ready to out-style anyone in the room. When the forecast calls for rain or cooler temps, take a cue from Pippa Middleton and add a cropped white denim jacket for extra warmth.