bossy fashion police: October 2010

HOT FALL ACCESSORIES

Snuggle-worthy materials don’t sacrifice warmth for style when paired with skinny jeans and a blazer

Minimalist shapes pop against sleek outfits and black-and-white patterns.

The dainty fabric reveals its tough side when covering biker boots and oversize bangles.

Black leather and thick chains transform the demure into the daring.

More fashion for fall 2010, trend for my trendsetter

We saw the military look this summer, and it’s about to head on over to fall as well. Look for chic and feminine military-inspired pieces.

Lengthy, flowy dresses were all the rage in London as well as New York. These might need a little getting used to, but they are definitely dramatic!

Sensual, feminine, 50s inspired dresses are back, and the beautiful A-lines are just perfect for fall!

Fur was a big hit at New York Fashion Week for fall earlier this year, but will it actually catch on? I’m definitely not a fur wearer myself…but maybe some faux fur pieces will catch my eye.

Ah…how we love layering! And this fall, layering your faves is back in full swing. Look for pieces in shades of gray, stone, and beige.

With all the black and gray gracing the NY, Paris, Milan, and London runways, sultry sheer blouses stood out and made a big statement.

Long, tailored coats are back in full swing this season with a hint of the blues. Look for dark blue, navy blue, and cobalt shades that will definitely stand out against the otherwise drab black.

i think its time for tips for the men.... i can tell yall better than i can show yall... we all kno yall a lil slow

It's no secret that when it comes to fashion & style, most men are in the dark about the do's and don'ts. So for those fashionably-challenged men out there, here is a list to assist you in this foreign land:

Do ask for a woman's help. If you aren't sure what is in style for the season or if a certain shirt goes with a pair of pants, ask your nearest female counterpart (friend, girlfriend or that cute girl at the office) for aid. She will be more than happy you asked and even more happy to help you.
Always have a great pair of black (or dark blue) jeans or trousers. These can be paired with a trengy skrit for a fun night out on the town or with a black jacket to dress it up for a business meeting
Do realize that dressing up does not mean wearing an Abercrombie & Fitch shirt with a pair of jeans. Although this is a step up from most guy's wardrobe, all you need to assist you is a current issue of GQ or Esquire for the season's latest style fashions.
An important feature of style in a man is to choose garments that fit properly. When men try to squeeze into sizes that are too small for them, this detracts from the overall impression and can be as bad as clothing that is too large. The variety of clothing on offer in the fashion world means there is no real excuse for a man not to dress with style.
Please, please, please do NOT wear socks with sandals! Does any more really need to be said?
On the topic of socks, white tennies with black socks is another no-no. (Especially when paired with shorts.) A good rule of thumb when pairing socks and shoes (and this relates to dress shoes as well) is to keep it consistent: black shoes - black socks, brown shoes - brown socks, etc.
Short sleeve, button down shirts with ties is a BIG don't! (Please refer to #3 for further assistance.)
Another don't - the sweater vest - unless it was a gift from the grandkids. (And even then, take whatever means necessary to wear it only when absolutely necessary - ie, when the gift-giver is visiting you at your home and/or you will not be making any public appearances.)
On the other hand, a cashmere sweater is a must do for every man. It pairs nicely with jeans or trousers and updates your wardrobe from geek to sheik in an instant.
Do make it look effortless. (Use the KISS model -keep it simple stupid!) You can't go wrong with a great pair of jeans from Buckle, a clean cut tee from Banana Republic and a great pair of casual shoes from Piperlime. (Visit the Buckle and Banana Republice at the Chandler Fashion Center for live fashion assistance.)