Stripes have taken the stores by storm. Last year stripes appeared everywhere and this year they are back!

I’ve read and heard that anyone can wear stripes. I can’t completely agree with that or endorse every type of stripe for absolutely every body type. However, let me point out that not all stripes are created equal. So let’s take a look at the variety of stripes we are seeing this season. I will try to point out the differences. You will soon start to notice what designers do to minimize and maximize in the right places.

Typically women have stayed away from wide horizontal stripes as they felt the wider stripes added volume. I’m not a fan of the wide stripe. However, the dress below coupled with the jacket with a narrow stripe works. A big part of the success of this look has to do with the cut and shape of the dress. The belt also brings in the waist. You will see in the following examples that the cut of the garment is going to make all the difference.

The sweater has wider stripes that appear to get a little more narrow towards the top (at least from the photo) While this particular piece works fine on the model, I would NOT recommend it for someone with broad shoulders who carries their weight in their upper torso. Note how those stripes and the neckline of the sweater visually extend the shoulder line. If you were trying to balance smaller shoulders with wider hips–this would be a great style for you. Both available at LOFT.

The jacket and zip sweater below work because the stripe is narrow. I like how the red/blue striped jacket is designed with varied stripe widths with one darker bold stripe. I have seen this jacket on a number of women and the shape is extremely flattering especially in the back. The type of stripe along with great fabric and cut makes this one a winner on many body types. Caslon Jacket from Nordstrom

This sweater from LOFT also has a great shape. The zipper as well as the pockets break up the continuous horizontal stripe. (did not appear to be online now, you could check in stores)

Below, notice how the wide horizontal stripes are at the bottom of the dress where most women can handle a little more volume. It visually creates a flattering A-line. Imagine this same dress with those wide stripes through the whole dress–it just wouldn’t work. The solid green band makes a difference too because it brings in the waist. I also think the striped tee works because of the varied width AND color. It’s much more interesting and visually appealing. Do you ever look at striped pieces and get dizzy? I like the variety. Nanette Lepore and Payton from Nordstrom

Next is a great example of a B/W stripe. Again, the narrow stripes are great with a solid block at the bottom. Now imagine this same top with stripes from top to bottom. If you have wider hips, the stripes on the hips would make them look wider. Instead the solid black will minimize the hips.

The other top is a great example of stripes going in a different direction. This piece is perfect for a body type with broader shoulders and smaller hips or for the typical rectangle figure. The stripes come in at an angle minimizing the shoulders and upper torso. The blousy style camoflauges the middle while the horizontal stripes at the bottom add volume to balance the top.

Lauren Hansen and Olivia Moon from Nordstrom

Here is another style of top that I’ve seen on women and the vertical–almost horizontal combined with a blousy style has been extremely flattering.

Pleione from Nordstrom

Note how the stripes are varied in this cardigan. I think the wider stripes on the top are a nice contrast to the narrow ones in the middle. The sweater is lying flat, but I can visualize this on someone and the darker narrow stripe would bring in the waist and minimize it in comparison to the wider stripes on the top.

I’ll be anxious for you to weigh in here. What say you? Will you be looking at stripes with a more critical eye? Will you give them a try?

If stripes still are not your thing, pair a striped piece with a solid color jacket or sweater. The stripes add interest and I think you’ll be pleased with the variety they can add to outfits.

Now it’s on to shoes. Last summer when I linked to the What Kate Wore website a reader asked about boat shoes. Kate had worn a pair of Sebagos during their trip to Canada and the US. She asked what I thought of these shoes and how to wear them. I admittedly was a little behind. I knew these shoes were making a comeback as my son had also asked for a pair of Sperrys, but I really had not fully embraced them as an upcoming trend.

Now you will see them everywhere–reminiscent of the 80s with a spin. Two tone, a little bling, bright colors…What do you think?

Sperry Top Sider is one of the main brands for boat shoes for men and women. You’ll see at Zappos there is much more–everything from a flat to boots. Check out all the options!

Boat shoes look great with a straight leg jean or casual pants that require a flat shoe. It seems to be just the right cut to show them off. Remember, as we get into spring straight cut jeans look great rolled which shows off the shoes even more. Some of you will like them a skinny jean, others think their feet and these shoes will stand out too much. I also think they will look great with a walking short in the spring/summer.

Thought it would be fun to show a little bit of spring. I would love to hear what you think and if you’ll add these to your spring shopping list.

“Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.”

 I know what many of you are thinking… Orange… not ORANGE! I’ve found from working with many women that you either LOVE or HATE the color orange. Last summer I wrote about my journey with orange. The past year we have seen orange re-surface and we saw all sorts of shades. Personally, I’m partial to a softer coral rather than an overpowering fluorescent shade. But, I have to say that even the brighter shades are growing on me. I get so many comments when I wear orange.

Hands down, the biggest fear women have with orange is “it doesn’t look good around my face.”

I realize I cannot do an extensive color analysis with every person I meet when I am in a retail setting. However, I am often surprised at how quickly I can get an idea from carefully noting hair color, skin tone and eye color. Many women have warm colors in their eyes they have never noticed until I point it out. The trends in hair colors and highlights are definitely warm. Bottom line: Many of you will look great in the color orange.

Still skeptical? Here are some ways to work in tangerine tango into your wardrobe.

1. Start with very muted shades that do not overpower or separates with just a touch of orange.

2. If you have very fair skin, blue eyes, pink tones in your skin AND you are just scared of orange, start with a pinkish coral shade instead.

3. Add in orange with some accessories: handbags, shoes, a bracelet or even a little orange in multi-colored scarf.

4. Wear orange as a layering piece only

Are you getting tired or your winter clothes and need something to brighten your mood. Orange is the answer. Layer it under any neutral!

Caslon                                        Sanctuary                                  Bobeau

            Velvet Heart                                                                     Not Your Daughter’s Jeans

Nic and Zoe                              Trouve                                        Halogen

All photos from Nordstrom.com. Search the brand name for these styles and many more.

What do you think? Will you give orange a chance?

You may be used to seeing the familiar names of these high-end brands in fashion magazines only. You will see everything from D &G  to Uggs to Levi’s at my-wardrobe.com.  Enjoy a taste of some of the finer things in fashion today.

In many regions of the world, the weather is still only just beginning to cool off, meaning that the fall season is just now kicking into full swing. With this in mind, a lot of fashion-conscious people are still working on their fall wardrobes, trying to figure out what exactly the hot styles will be this season and in the coming months. Of course, there will be plenty of options in local malls and independent shops, as store owners proclaim the “latest fall fashions” in loud window displays. However, if you are truly looking to make a statement this season, you may want to consider something nicer – perhaps a respected, high-end designer like Barbour, which is offering a number of attractive fall clothing options – particularly outerwear for both men and women.

For women, Barbour is currently featuring a number of different jackets on my-wardrobe.com that are casual but stylish, and which make good use of the darker colors typically associated with the fall season (namely, blacks, greys and browns). Check out the brown ryder faux fur collar jacket for a relatively affordable option that is both lightweight and warm, and which can be a thoroughly fashionable addition to any outfit. Or, if you live in a colder area or are simply looking for something heavier, take a look at the Barbour olive mercury down bomber jacket, which is a sleek and warm option for outerwear. The down material and fur-lined hood make this an extremely comfortable and insulating item.

The Barbour men’s collection for the fall makes a similar use of dark-toned, warm and fashionable jackets, and actually has quite a large selection in this department. Any fashionable man ought to be able to find an attractive outer garment in this collection. Additionally, the Barbour men’s collection is full of various outfit accessories, from hats and scarves to bags and umbrellas. All of these accessories are designed to fit with fall outfits and colors, and each one can be a valuable addition to a wardrobe.

A look at collections like the ones discussed above can provide a good deal of help for you if you are still working out your fall wardrobe options. Of course, material from high-end designers like Burberry is generally a good bit more expensive than what you may be able to find in more commercial brand stores, or in shopping malls. However, for the extra price you will be receiving unmatched quality, as well as the very best in fashion. Even a few items of this caliber can go a long way toward helping you to establish a sharp image this fall.

Karen’s Note: I was not familiar with my-wardrobe.com. I really enjoyed seeing what they had to offer. At first glance, you may skim through the photos and think it is a little out of your price range. My goal with this blog is to introduce you to many different sides of fashion. Here are few of my favorites:

Michael Kors: I’ve been a MK fan for years. Love the bags and now the watches!

I found this Alexander McQueen top for $156. Would love to order that just to say I had something by this great designer who passed away last year. Such a loss for the fashion world.

Here are two of my favorites from Barbour–classic styles that stand the test of time. When it comes to coats, I think it’s wise to put your dollars into classic, well constructed styles that will last for years!

Check out the Mid Season Sale at 25% off!

What did you find that caught your eye?

Two years ago I found a great black pencil skirt by BCBG at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I was quite enamored with it because immediately I noticed there was some “give”. I could actually move and sit comfortably in a pencil skirt. It became a favorite.

Here is one current available option in ponte. This skirt is awesome and comes in a variety of colors.

Shortly thereafter I found those Michael Kors pants that I’ve raved about over and over. They’re still available.

NYDJ has some great options as well.

So what exactly is ponte? It’s a combination of RAYON, POLYESTER and SPANDEX. For all of you out there who love natural fabrics,you may want to click off of this post right now. Hear me out. Ponte holds its shape because the fabric is tightly woven. It travels well, doesn’t fade and is super comfortable. For some, it may feel too “polyesterish”. I get that. It’s been a lifesaver for me when I put on a few extra pounds. I’ve recommended it to many clients as well. I consider it to be chic polyester!

This fall, CABI (Carol Anderson by Invitation) has more ponte garments than ever. If you are not familiar with CABI, you should be able to find a consultant close to you on their site. If you are local, I can direct you. Note the last photo is a boot cut pant–and you don’t see this cut in ponte very often. It’s the best pair of pants!

Now that you’re in the know, the next time you are out shopping, ask the salesperson to direct you to PONTE. Most things will NOT be marked ponte knit per say, you need to look at the fabric content: Rayon, Polyester and Spandex.

If you own something or have tried on this great fabric, I would love to hear from you. What do you think?

Leopard is one of my favorite patterns. It goes with black and several shades of brown. I like it in small doses. I think it adds a little “punch” to an ordinary outfit. It’s a great addition to all the camel you will see this fall.

If you don’t feel like being draped in leopard dress quite yet–start small: Belts, scarves, bracelets or a small handbag. Then think about adding shoes, a sweater or top.

Leopard never seems to completely go out of style. I was visiting with my sister-in-law recently and I mentioned my next blog post. She is a leopard fan and listed several pieces she’s had for years. Leopard pieces can be tucked away and brought out and worn in a different way years later.

Leopard print is everywhere and you won’t have much trouble finding it. A little leopard goes a long way!

Here are some accessories from Accentuate Boutique. The belt adds some interest to this black tunic sweater with texture and color.

You can never go wrong with a leopard handbag from Hobo!

Lodis I-pad case and wallet clutch.

Next, a few fun things from White House Black Market:

 What do you think? Do you have a leopard piece or two in your closet? Are you ready to add more?

So much for that post on late summer dresses I had ready.

The Nordstrom Anniversay Sale is the time when I really get a jump on the new seasonal trends. And of course I follow Fashion Week twice yearly in New York City. In fact, Fashion Week is just coming to a close right now showing Spring 2012 styles. Some day I dream about blogging from a NYC runway show. For now, I’ll make do living through other bloggers and focusing on showing you clothes that are realistic for your lifestyles!

What are we seeing for Fall 2011?

1. Capes especially in the color CAMEL

Calvin Klein                                    ECI                                                     Sejour

When you click on the links, be sure and check the view from the back. These belted styles still show your shape. I especially like the 3rd choice. This is a plus size model and this cape almost has a full sleeve. They refer to it as a “capelet”. 

Remember to pair fuller capes with a straight cut jean/pant to balance out the volume on the top. OR if is a flare, make sure it is cut slimmer through the thigh and add a heel.

2. Flashback to the ’70′s. If you lived through this decade, typically you don’t want to return to it. However, depending on your own personal style, body type and your age, you may be ready to embrace some of the funky new styles. Personally I cannot. Bell bottoms did not look great then, and they do not look good to me now. Please do not confuse the flare style with a bell bottom and the straight cut with a skinny. Review this post with photos. The variance in flare will depend on brand.

 Bell bottoms are in a league of their own. I just couldn’t resist the second photo! Elliot and Free People from Nordstrom.

3. The Mad Men Look.  Banana Republic has gone “mad” with their collection, and personally I love this look. I do not watch the TV show; evidently I need to start.

4. Blouses have been outnumbered by tops in years past. I think you will see that change. I actually tried on a blouse last week similar to that first photo that I liked, and I have not been a blouse person in several years because they do not fit me well. The choices below are from CABI.  You’ll also see the ”dropped bow” style in the Mad Men collection.

5. Fur. We saw a bit of  faux fur last year. It is back and bigger than ever! I LOVE LOFT.

6. The Midi Skirt. Many of you will be happy to hear that the skirt length is coming down. Just the word “midi” brings me back –to the days of Midis and Maxis and I had both!

Really any length is in which you’ll see from the Talbot’s selections.

7. Bright Colored Denim. Preppy with a twist!

8. Boots, Boots and more Boots. This fall I noticed way more selections in the riding boot category. I believe this is because so  many more women are tucking in their jeans. We want a lower heel for when we are “on the go”. For the money, this riding boot by Enzo is the best genuine leather boot I’ve seen at $149.95

Of course I still have my eye on a couple of pairs from Frye: The Melissa Button in an awesome shade of gray and the Frye Shirley. Since I’m dreaming, why not a pair of Burberry? Nordstrom has some great choices, but there are dozens more sites to choose from!

I won’t be jumping on every trend. How about you? Is there a style you’d like to try. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Fall Trends. There will be a lot more coming in weeks ahead.

When it comes to jewelry, my taste varies. I’ve gone from small delicate necklaces, to layering and making bold statements with my jewelry. There is something about vintage jewelry that intrigues me. I’ve done a lot of antiquing over the years. The jewelry catches my eye. It sparks my curiosity and I think about the history behind each piece. It is interesting and original. If I had lots of extra time on the weekends, I would be at Estate Sales.

My mother wore very little jewelry, but I was always fascinated with her small jewelry box as a young child. I loved playing with those clip on earrings. My sister inherited a few of those pieces, and recently we had fun discussing our memories after she sent photos. She claims the bracelet is too heavy. I told her I’d be happy to take it off her hands! I would wear it with the lighter plum, purple or dark red, and add a brass earring to match the metal.

 I’m not sure if I’m ready to break out clip on earrings, but you never know! I’ll bet many of you reading can relate to seeing similar styles.

I have found a number of vintage inspired pieces over the years. When I re-did the design of my wedding ring several years ago, I again went with vintage inspired. Although it’s an original design (thank you Erik Runyan Jewelers) created from about ten different pictures, I have to laugh because this style now has become very popular. Many women comment that it is so similar to their brand new engagement ring–I thought I was being somewhat unique!

This past spring a trip to the Oregon Coast encouraged me to once again “get my vintage on”. Divine Decadence in Florence, Oregon features a great combination of vintage and contemporary jewelry. In fact, this post has been in the works since my April visit. I was there 8 years ago and bought pieces I still wear. I was happy to see they were still in business. I could spend hours in this store.

In addition, I credit the Stella & Dot catalog which gave me even more ideas. This company is truly the epitome of “Vintage Inspired” when you read the stories behind their designs. This brooch got the creative juices flowing and I started playing with my strands of pearls to create my own ideas seen in my Pearls Etc video. I attached the brooch to a chain to give it a different look. I even paired two S & D rings with my Grandma’s wedding band–now 100 years old which I wear frequently. It didn’t take long, and I saw the beauty of combining the old with the new.

I typically do not buy matching sets. When I purchased this S & D necklace in November, I waited for earrings.

Good decision. Months later I found this pair of earrings and bracelet at Divine Decadence that worked perfectly with the necklace as well as other things in my jewelry collection. 

The store owner threw in this set when she heard I was doing a blog post. I’m eager to work with this one!

Anything VINTAGE is presently a popular fashion trend. If you love the look of vintage jewelry there are many sources. I’ve already mentioned estate sales and antique stores. Goodwill, flea markets, and stores devoted to vintage clothing are all great places to find inexpensive treasures. Once you start looking, you will see vintage inspired pieces everywhere.

Downtown Camas has a new antique store called A Twist in Time and I’m happy to highlight their business! I found this piece for $32. A brand NEW vintage inspired piece would probably be 3 or 4 times that price. I can’t wait to show some great ways to wear this later this fall.

As much as I enjoy the search, it takes time. Thank goodness for eBay which allows me to look at dozens of vintage pieces in the comfort of my own home. I’m drawn to pieces from the ’40s and ’50s. I gave myself a budget (eBay can be addicting) and found these 3 pieces for under $50 including shipping! I was on the hunt for lockets with heavy chains which also double with a brooch as seen above. One of the lockets came with the photos that looked to be from the ’40′s era.

So how do you incorporate vintage jewelry with your outfits? At first you may be a little hesitant because it may not be your taste at all. Many women feel it reminds them TOO much of something their grandma wore, and they don’t want to re-create that look. My best advice is to start small with a couple of pieces and mix them with the jewelry you already own. Brooches are really in this fall, but if you can’t quite go there, then wear it as a necklace. I think you’ll find that with a little bit of effort, it’s pretty easy to mix old and new. Below are vintage earrings with a clearance necklace from Target!

Are you drawn to vintage or are you purely contemporary? Have you inherited something from a relative and it sits in your jewelry box unworn? I would love to help you and give you some ideas. If you have something, send me a photo and I can share ideas in a future post. Stick with me and I will be showing some of these vintage pieces with my clothes this fall.