Oh, that's so last year!
I've often heard that the only constant in life is change. Well, the fashion world perhaps changes the most so I want to make sure that everyone is prepared and well aware of what's in and out for 2012. It's time to think about different colored metals, swap out those crewneck cardigans, rethink shearling and leggings, and get back to sensible, walkable shoes!
While silver and gold jewelry will always be chic, there are some new metals to think about. Rose gold and pewter have become very popular. The pinkish hue makes rose gold a bit unexpected yet very feminine. I love these Argento Vivo etched teardrop earrings. They're a great everyday pair of earrings and are a chic addition to turtlenecks and high neck sweaters this winter.
The good news is that you can wear rose gold with the gold and silver pieces you already own. Rose gold is a great way to spruce up your neutrals like black, grey, navy and white. Remember, jewelry is the easiest way to make your existing pieces a bit more exciting. Try layering a rose gold necklace with a silver one for a unique look.
A great layering piece is a staple in any woman's wardrobe and most likely, it's a cardigan. While crewneck cardigans are very common, v-neck cardigans are a bit more modern. As I've mentioned before, a v-neck is the most flattering neckline - on anyone of any shape, age or size. I also love v-neck cardigans because they're easier to layer and the top half doesn't flop over like it can with a crewneck.
I like this Tory Burch cardigan because it's not too long and comes in several colors. (No matter what type of cardigan, I would not suggest buttoning all the buttons - too fuddy, duddy! Always leave one or two buttons undone at the top and/or bottom).
This doesn't mean that crewneck cardigans are dated, but keep a v-neck in mind when you need to replace some of your closet staples. A v-neck is still classic and versatile, but not quite as saccharine as a crewneck cardigan and looks a bit more fresh.
I can't talk about fashion and style without talking about my favorite item - shoes! We've gone through a lot of shoe trends, but it appears that the super high stilettos and uber platforms are on their way out. I know many women will breathe a sigh of relief as we return to sensible shoes. This doesn't mean that you won't still see these skyscraping heels, but small platforms, 3 inch and kitten heels are dominating the shoe department.
These Via Spiga shoes are a classic black patent slingback with a bit of a twist. These are classic but still fun (and also come in grey and nude - yum!). These may not get the oohs and ahs of those glitter platforms, but these add polish and style to any ensemble. I see these with a wrap dress, jeans, or try pattern tights with a black skirt and a white blouse... and maybe some rose gold jewelry! (Click on the picture if you just can't live without these shoes in your closet!)
Shearling is a popular winter option, but faux fur is now the preferred option for outerwear. Shearling can be warm, but it's bulky and is very 
susceptible to stains. Faux fur doesn't mean that fur coats are in, but touches of faux fur are very 2012.
Usually faux fur is used at the bottom of a pair of gloves, to trim a hat or lines the collar of a coat - all the places where it's crucial to keep the cold out! I love this Laundry coat from Nordstrom that comes in petite and also has a removable fur lining. Warm and it defines a waist?! I can't ask for anything more!
Lastly, I feel have to talk about leggings. To put it simply, are we done with these yet? I understand that they are comfortable and that when something is too short, you can just throw on leggings however, I think these need to go away. Why? First of all, I think leggings give women a chance to wear long, oversized (and usually), shapeless tops, sweaters or tunics. You do have to cover the crotch when wearing leggings (because they're not pants!), but when you do this, you cut off the line of the leg. Your legs end up looking shorter as we can't see where they begin. To 
counteract this, it's helps to wear a belt (so we establish where the leg line begins) or wear something with a defined waist. This usually doesn't get accomplished with oversized, long, crotch-covering tops.
In addition, I think tights are ageless, timeless and go with just about anything. Leggings can start to look a bit too young. While we may not want to show signs of aging as we reach for the Botox and Juvéderm, I think there is something quite beautiful about evolving in our sense of style and stepping it up a bit. Opting for chic and sophisticated are qualities that aren't usually associated with youth, but are still very desirable. Opaque tights are the perfect alternative to the things with no zipper... ah, I mean, leggings!
I have tights from Hue, DKNY and Ann Taylor, but my favorite is Wolford. I especially like their "velvet" tights - they're not velvet, but use that name to describe how soft and silky they are. And because of the smooth finish, you won't have any static cling. Since you're paying a bit more, they hold their shape and are comfortable to wear.
This newsletter is not about the trends, but instead is meant to give you ideas on how to modernize your wardrobe. None of these items are "bad" or extremely dated, but being aware of some more stylish options is always good. A stylish woman should always know when to let something go and when it's time to replace. Some rose gold accessories, a faux fur piece, a good pair of tights and sensible shoes may be all your closet needs! If you want help putting it together or picking the right pieces for you, please give me a call!
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