Fabulous Fall Fashion Brings Excitement

August 31 , 2007

Marie Green is a fashion stylist and writer from San Diego California. She is the former Fashion Editor of FINE Homes and Living Magazine and her column, “Fashion Focus” has appeared in FINE Magazine as well as LaJolla Light, The Del Mar Times, Del Mar Ink, The Carmel Valley Leader, Rancho Santa Fe Record, and The Solana Beach Sun. Marie is also the co-founder of SheWants.com.

As summer fun comes to an end, the excitement surrounding fall fashion begins. This year marks a return to sophistication with the resurrection of polished styles and pulled together looks that have taken a backseat to casual cool in recent seasons. This fall’s best and brightest feature brighter hues and lots of gray, the new neutral. The time has come to choose your favorite new trends and embrace autumn while maintaining your southern California style.   Click to view Fall Fashion Favorites Pictures & More »

Like my fellow fashionistas, I have been devouring the oversized September issues of my favorite fashion magazines, interviewing retail professionals and reviewing the fall runway shoes. For style mavens, fall fashion IS fashion but you don’t have to be a slave to fashion and try every new trend. Pick three or four of your favorites and update your look. The weather may still be sunny and warm, but it’s the perfect time to do some advance scouting and get your fall fashion game plan together.

Here are some of the top fall fashion trends you won’t want to miss:

  1. Gray is the new black. It is a perfect backdrop for a bright colored accent or accessory.
  2. Patent leather: popular this summer, patent leather hits its stride this fall. You’ll see patent shoes, accessories, accents and even jackets and trench coats.
  3. Leather jackets are back: bombers, coats and vests in classic black or brown and everything in between. Check out the gorgeous lightweight styles at European Moda in the Del Mar Plaza.
  4. Sexy animal prints: fun, sexy and stylish-need I say more?
  5. Shimmer in style: the bling look has faded and been replaced by sequined tops, jackets and accessories, as well as lots of beautiful metallics.
  6. Boxy jackets with bracelet sleeves and cardigan sweaters: always a great way to pull an outfit together.
  7. Wide-legged and high-waisted pants or jeans: love ‘em or hate ‘em, they’re back. They’re the trendiest style for pants right now; however, narrow cut and low waisted styles are still fashionable.
  8. It was the summer of the dress and it remains key in the fall. The sheath dress is very in and so is anything form fitted and figure flattering. In the cooler months, pair dresses with opaque hose and boots or platforms.
  9. Booties: they’re the next big thing. Not baby booties mind you, but high heeled boots that hit right below the ankle. These are great with pants, skirts or dresses.
  10. Ballet flats and platform shoes: popular this summer and still fashion forward, this trend is sharing the spotlight with more lady like pumps and high heels.

Leather jackets are back...

Patent leather hits its stride this fall...

Ten Fall (2007) Favorites See More Pictures »

As you can tell by my list, there are lots of opposites, which means a little something for everyone. For example, voluminous style dresses are popular but so are tailored ones. You can look just as fashionable in a high waisted, wide legged jean as in a low waisted skinny pair. Ballet flats can look just as good as a platform heel, it’s all about personal preference. Boots to the knee are as trendy as booties. Neutral gray is everywhere, but you’ll see lots of bright colors too. Leather is key, but so is shiny patent leather. Feminine lady-like looks are prevalent, but so is a strong modern look.

The best thing about current fashion is that almost anything goes. It’s all how you put it together, so don’t be intimidated. Fashion is supposed to be fun so know your personal style, choose what you like and accessorize with lots of confidence.

INSIDE SCOOP:
Join supporters of the Susan G. Komen Foundation for Fashion for the Cure: Pretty in Pink on Saturday, September 15 at Estancia Hotel in La Jolla. Hosted by La Jolla Spa MD, Pretty in Pink will showcase internationally renowned designer Isabell Kristenen’s latest couture designs and will include dinner and a silent auction. Rumor has it, Chair Dianne York-Goldman’s personal friend, Prince Albert of Monaco will be in attendance. Contact the Komen office at 858-573-2760 for reservations.

Do you love Fendi, Gucci and Pucci? See fashions by these major designers and many more at the Art of Fashion runway show at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe on Thursday, September 20. This 52nd annual runway show is presented by The Country Friends and sponsored by South Coast Plaza. The event features a luncheon, fashion show and shopping. For reservations call 858-756-1192.