Color Blocking

This is hands down the number one trend of 2011. We’ve seen it everywhere this summer from makeup to footwear and the fun continues through this winter. For those of you who are adventurous try wearing bright pieces in heavier fabrics. A mustard blouse and green pants, or a red turtle neck and purple pencil skirt are bold, but fabulous when done right. Those of you who are more conservative may want to try adding a pop of color to neutrals with a bold shoe. A red pump is still the go-to piece for adding something unexpected. Also try a jewel toned bottom with your favorite black & white striped shirt. Even lip stick or nail polishes in bold shades are a way to get in on this trend. *Tip: hands and feet do NOT have to match for this.

Block & Wedge heels

Ladies, we all know that for the past 10 years our toes have been good soldiers enduring the agony of stilettos. Recently the platform heel has given them more support and increased the amount of time we can wear our heels. However, this season we are returning to an old standby…the block heel. Who would have ever thought I’d be glad to see the day when a “chunky” heel made a comeback?! In any case my feet will thank me. We are seeing this trend everywhere from Nine West to Louis Vuitton. It has also found its way on to the soles of knee boots and loafers. For those of you who are still repelled by a block heel, the wedge is also an alternative. From military inspired lace- ups to over the knee boots, the wedge is here to stay!

Wider legs & longer hems

Don’t get me wrong, skinnies have become a staple for many ladies, but this season we’re seeing the return of boot cut and wide leg pants. They are a refreshing break from the calf hugging silhouettes we’ve been seeing the past two years. Whether you opt for denim or a tailored pant both are sure to be a hit this season. Along with a wider leg, skirts are getting a longer hem. Mid-length and ankle length skirts, especially pleated are all the rage this fall! No matter how great your legs are, there is something very classic and demure about a little ankle love.

60’s & 70’s Retro

Charlie’s Angels, What’s Happening, Three’s Company, & The Brady Bunch should be you’re inspiration for this season’s throwbacks. Maxi lengths, floral and plaid prints, Mod dresses, bell bottom jeans, feminine suits, and pull over sweaters are EVERYWHERE! From Tommy Hilfiger to H&M these retro looks have been seen in every ad campaign for fall/winter 2011. Beware however of paying too much to achieve this vintage look. I suggest hitting the Salvation Army or your nearest Thrift store to search for key pieces. There’s nothing wrong with saving money, in fact it’s a fashion DO!

“Boyfriend” anything

Whether it’s his chunky gold watch, his oversize cardigan, or those roomy jeans, your boyfriend’s closet may become your new place to hang out ladies. We’ve seen the way Michael Kors take on the “boyfriend watch” spread like wildfire last fall, and this year it hasn’t lost steam. Menswear inspired jewelry for women is still in demand and has spread to clothing as well. The boyfriend jean has become a new weekend favorite because of its versatility, not to mention comfort. Also wearing his button down with a belt around the waist and a pair of “skinnies” is a go-to option as well. Not to mention we all love how a man’s cardigan covers the hips and provides the perfect cover up for your leggings during the week! So take advantage of this free inventory ladies…..while the trend last.