9.09.2009

I have issues.

One million September issues, that is. As if my loss of creative, constructive writing (which is now called 'blogging') weren't enough, we lost:
1.) Dancing-singing-colour-changing-extraordinaire Michael Jackson and
2.) feather--weight and hair, Farrah Fawcett in the same day.




3.) Then, came the truly tragic loss of director John Hughes who gifted us a reservoir of cult-classic 80's hits such as Pretty in Pink by which to reference for this fall, y'all.

4.) Now, I recently learned DJ A.M. was found dead alongside (or on top of--wee're not sure) a crack pipe. Do crack pipes kill, you ask? Idk, but the message here is: Pop Culture. What a way to go. And "Crack kills." But that one's not mine.

Therefore, it must be said, I have briefly thumbed through said pages. I actually intend to say it is by choice I refrain in doing so as I consider myself a 'Trend Analyst'--c'mon, let me have something..., for the purpose of this blog. 'Trend Analyst' by definition means to me n.: one who studies the evolving interpretation of style. What works on the East Coast rarely works on the West Coast and let's face it, most of those issues don't address the subject of everyone in between.

So, before I lose my train of thought*, the following trends are the most optimal and available style perks at a retailer near you.

*Just because I can't leave a hanging star: my brother diagnosed me with A.D.D. whereas I've diagnosed print media with R.A.D.D.: Regional Attention (according to interpretation) Deficit Disorder.

1.) The New Scarf is Bejeweled. The New Bejeweled Scarf Goes Round and Round.

The new take on the scarf this season is really fun and feminine and even merits bonus points as a finishing layer. While there is little need to purchase this specific new take, stores have stock piled an impressive array of prints, fabrics, and colour due to demand. If you're like me and can't resist an eye catching dash of colour, keep in mind this seasons prints and colours, which will be further discussed within this post.
The simplest way to update your favourite scarf is to drape and entwine a 35" or longer necklace atop a full, loosely wrapped scarf for instant bejewel. Warm colours call for gold or bronze while cool blues and purples will pop a clean silver; think winter white and the reflection you want to cast.
While a full, lengthy scarf will serve many functions, the classic silk square makes a gorgeous come back for all ages this season. Corner by corner, tightly roll the fabric to create a double loop necklace and simple knot. While it is a closer fitted scarf, play with the material to expose pretty colours, print and comfortable fit. Equally, feel free to display a delicate chain necklace atop your custom creation. The contrast in textures gives edge yet maintains a truly chic look.



2. Everyone loves a Cougar

Granted, many of the current associations with the feline variety aren't the most ideal, but I myself have come to embrace my inner Puma, since I am not of Cougar age. (Apparently, there are rules for this, as well.) Thankfully, as the pride ages and matures, so do the styles as leopard print has made great stride toward tasteful variations. Look for a painters brush stroke or splotchy multi-sized print. The most versatile looks can be found in pieces using the same print but with multiple colours: blue and white, red and black, or all of the above. In which case, a little goes a long way; unless you are a master of tasteful prints, the safest bet is start with accessories: belts, heels and flats, then progress to finer knits such as sweaters and trench coats.

3. Q: "What if you only have $20 to spend on a fall update? What would you buy, then?" -David Letterman

A: "You can buy red lipstick!" -Anna Wintour

As declared by fashions' most notorious trend analyst, red is the biggest, punchy, poppy colour this season. Be it The girl in the red shoes, The girl in the red trench, or The girl with the reddest lips, the point is to be pointedly haute in the hue. According to PCD resident make-up maven, AbsolutelyRachel suggests Chanel's "Vamp", $28.50 available at Nordstrom or on sale now at Smashbox.com, multi-award winning Photo Finish in "Ravishing", $16.50.


4. Get Lifted

While some may opt for the illegal sort, the one I speak of is indeed killer: platforms. Here's the thing: if they look like you can't walk more than 50 feet in them, then you are right. Makers realize not all are comfortable at such great heights and have therefore adjusted their footing to fit. If the heel reaches four inches, the padding should balance at one inch allowing for a comfortable, stylish, three inch heel. For a more day to day, casual look, opt for a stacked heel and eventually build toward a sleek heel. Also for fall: opt for a matte finish or suede feel such as these from Nine West, $89.

5. White Shirt

Oh, White Shirt. It's been a while.

A classic staple, indeed, the white shirt is the perfect palette for the seasons many looks.

Print silk scarf + white shirt + skinny blue jeans

White shirt dress + leopard print skinny belt + a red heel

His white shirt + your red lipstick + suede platforms---you get the picture.
J. Crew Tuxedo shirt, $69.50


While there are many more incoming favourites this season-- the messenger bag, the return of Doc Martens, dress shorts for evening--I'm even forecasting applied fur!, an update or addition of these top five will undoubtedly expand your reserve and look book.

Keep in mind, this season pulls heavily from iconic 1940's fashion with luxe ladylike details such as heavy tweeds, patterned hosiery, and even red lips. Not your style? Go gradual by incorporating details, piece by piece; start tonal, move toward a pattern, and by fall's end, you will be in full force. Any combination of the suggested looks will work no matter your locale.

Remember being a woman of style means you're not tied to one look, i.e., your comfort zone. Actually, I got that from Usher, who arguably got it from his dealer. Er, stylist. In style: what a way to go!