In my job as a wardrobe stylist and personal shopper, I’ve heard it a hundred times: “I hate my clothes; my closet is so boring!” And even before I’ve seen the wardrobe, I can predict what’s there: solid neutrals. Bottoms are khaki, black, white and denim. The tops are grey, white, black and brown. The jackets, sweaters, dresses and shoes …everything is neutral. Of course it’s boring, what else could it be? So, what’s a girl to do? Four simple words: Color, texture, pattern and shine.
This season, you’re in luck. Beautiful clothes are plentiful—just waiting to exhilarate your soul and energize your spirit.
Color: With luxurious colors in the fall 2013 palette, spicing up your wardrobe is easy (Photo #1). All shades of purple, red, blue, and green and are “IN”, so instead of another white blouse, try something in cobalt blue! Use your neutrals as a starting point, and then add accent colors to your outfit for POP. (Photo #2)
Texture: For the tactile individual–you know who you are because you touch every item on the rack while shopping—texture is everything. Texture adds richness to a wardrobe, so fabrics like tweed, silk, lace, leather, chunky wool, cashmere, fur, as well as embellishments like quilting, brocade, embroidery, feathers and fringe will make you feel like a member of the jet set. (Photo #3)
Pattern: “Pattern-phobes” fear clothing with patterns because they think that a solid color will be more versatile. And, to a certain extent, that’s true. The only problem is that now we’re back to square one—a boring wardrobe. This season, fall floral, hounds tooth (Photo #4), plaid, stripes and animal prints are abundant, and if you’re not sure about a print, you can always give it a try on a smaller scale, like a handbag, scarf or shoe, for example. If you like patterns so much that you dare to do what many designers are showing, and that’s combine patterns (animal print and plaid, for instance) in one outfit, then to you I say, “You are a bold and brave fashionista!”
Shine: Once worn for evening only, sequins, metallics, grommets and studs are now encouraged daytime wear. My current obsession is mirrored silver metallic oxfords from Bass & Co. (Photo #5). I think they’re fun and sassy, and will look great with jeans and colorful pencil pants. Think “Ellen,” but shiny!
Now, go shopping, incorporate the wonderful trends this season, and take your wardrobe to the next level.
For style tips and trends, subscribe to Carolyn’s blog at C2style.com/blog.
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