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Beauty: Fall Fashion

 








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By Samantha Sumpter
Images by Sam Sumpter

Autumn is here and although the heat of summer is almost gone for good, it doesn’t mean you can’t still look hot. But just like the leaves change, your style needs to evolve with the seasons. Here’s some advice for tweaking your wardrobe and forging fashionably into fall:

--TIGHTS ARE RIGHT--
Never fear! That summery dress you bought on clearance at the end of August need not be locked in your closet until May to make its debut. It just needs a different perspective. And what better way to rework it than with a pair of tights?

Add a black base to amp up the volume on your floaty white dress or floral frock—try an opaque pair of tights with some patent black heels and a black blazer to take these summer staples into autumn in high style. Or you can pull on a nubby pair of tights and some rugged brown boots and throw on a cozy cardigan for a bohemian/countryside look that will look as at-home in the city. However you style them, tights will help you ward off chill and fashion faux pas.

Girl wearing black tights and a blue jacket


--FLANNEL--
When I talk about reworking your wardrobe, I’m often talking about borrowing from other people’s closets. Your dad, your brother, an ex-lumberjack great-uncle; someone in your family tree is bound to have an old flannel button-down lying around. And this old flannel can quickly become a new outfit. If said family member is… umm, large enough, the flannel can be a dress all on its own. Belt it to avoid swimming in a sea of plaid and throw on some gold hoops and slouchy boots so you’re good to go. If the victim of your thievery (it’s for the sake of fashion…don’t feel bad about your crime) is more on the petite side, use the slouchy shirt as a topper for your favorite leggings. But accessorize and consider some vibrant lipstick to keep it feminine. Think Scarlett Jo, not Scarecrow.

--JUST SAY NO…TO SWEATS--

Comfortable? Yes.

But flattering? No. Stylish? NO.

Leggings look ten times better and still have the stretchiness appeal that allows you to devour all of your little brother’s Halloween candy and go back for seconds (and thirds) at Thanksgiving. Label your butt “Juicy” or “Pink” in the privacy of your own home.

--TOP IT OFF--
Newsboy hats, cloches, beanies, berets - there’s no better way to get a HEAD start on fall fashion than with a fabulous hat. There are so many fabulous options and they’re a cheap way to add a splash of personality to an otherwise drab ensemble. And since the chill of fall makes oversleeping so much easier and more delicious, a stylish topper is an excellent way to cover up that bed head.

Picture of a girl with a red hat


--THAT’S WHAT IT’S ALL A-BOOT--
Whether they be brown, black, caramel or charcoal, there is nothing more scrumptious than taking your boots out for an autumn stroll…and then gleefully jumping into crunchy leaf piles like a five year old. Immaturity and childish antics are often frowned upon, but with some sophisticated footwear—flat or high-heeled, leather or suede, Equestrian-esque or rocker-chic—you’ll look so good you’ll get away with it.

--GIMME, GIMME MORE--
In the oppressive summer heat, less is more and people strip down as much as (legally) possible to avoid sun suffocation. But with Fall comes falling temperatures and the opportunity to sport all of your favorite apparel at once, so pile it on. Gloves and scarves are easily overlooked, but they can add to the allure of your autumn ensemble in a most ladylike fashion. Your coat will be the first and last impression everyone will have of you—so make it a good one. You don’t want to slink out of rooms in a battered parka or a worn denim jacket (unless it’s worn with lots of black and tough jewelry, in a totally intentional rock-n-roll manner). Imagine being clothed in bold purple or swathed in a lush faux-fur so you’re just a fabulous leopard print blur as you whip from soiree to soiree, leaving everyone wanting more. Yes, if you’re going to invest in anything—make it a coat.

The leaves are turning gold and the temperature is getting colder and you - well, you’re just going to look plain fabulous this fall.

Girl wearing long black boots


October 2009

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