A Blast From The Past - Denim Jackets

In my opinion the denim jacket has always been relevant. And, this fall the fashion world is saying so too. So, it's time to dust off your jean jacket because this denim staple is making a bid to replace the leather bomber this fall.

Celebrities like Cameron Diaz and trendsetters like Pippa Middleton have already been spotted layering snug, faded denim jackets over feminine looks for an edgy update. So, how do you pull off this look without looking like you've just stepped out of time machine from the 1980s? Here are a few tips....

First, be sure it has a shape, meaning it's defined at the waist. Snug fitting around the waist is always most flattering.

Second, never wear it with jeans. Denim on denim is a bit 80s. Instead layer it over a dress, skirt or shorts of any other material.

Third, a cropped version is usually chic. And, if you really want to edge it out, wear one with studs or embellishments - just make sure the embellishment don't over do it.

Lastly, try rolling the sleeves to 3/4 length for a cool, chic look.

So take a blast from the past and wear a denim jacket to usher in the fall.

Bows, Ruffles, and Chiffon .... Oh My!

As we continue to review ladylike looks for the fall, don't forget three important aspects....bows, ruffles, and chiffon. The runways and fall catalogs are filled with these three things. However, the trick is to not wear all three in one - two is okay but not three!

Let's look at the bow top first. There are plenty of ways of wearing the bow top - tied in a true tight bow, tied in a loose bow, tied in a sailor's knot or tied like a scarf. This fall all ways will work and will look chic. If you are feeling a little like Bozo the Clown with your bow, try layering the top with a cardigan or sweater - this will lesson the impact of the bow.

Ruffles too are all the rage this fall. I feel like this is a trend that keeps coming back fall after fall so you are bound to have something in your closet with a ruffle. Again remember, you are going for a ladylike look - not a school girl - so be sure to pair it with the appropriate pants or skirt. And, if the top is to billowy, belt it so the ruffles don't take over you.

Chiffon tops can stand alone but also work great with bows or ruffles. If your top is chiffon, be sure to wear a camisole so no one sees anything extra. It's always safer to wear either the same color camisole or nude camisole under the chiffon top.

So, enjoy being a lady this fall and really show your feminine side!

Lovely Lace

One thing that fall is all about is being a lady - thank you Duchess of Cambridge...AKA...Princess Kate! You will see lots of chiffon, lace, ruffles and ladylike accessories. Over the next few days, I'll highlight a few of these trends.

Today we will start with lace. In my opinion this is a tricky trend. It is very easy to go from looking ladylike to looking trampy. Here is how to overcome it....

Be sure the lace is in appropriate places and no unnecessary body parts are showing. Also, instead of going from head to toe lace, try just a top or just a skirt. And, be sure to wear something under a lace top - usually the same color as the lace - sometimes nude works under black lace or black works under nude lace but be careful that it stays classy.

If lace isn't your thing and you still want to take part in the trend, try a lace shoe, bag or jewelry. This kind of delicate detailing lends a sophisticated edge to fall's ladylike looks!

Brights for Fall???

I know it's hard to image in all this heat but the fall season is around the corner. That means cooler weather and new clothes! One problem with the changing of seasons in this economy is that not everyone can buy all the new trends coming out for fall. Well, the great news is that no alot is changing from summer to fall.

One trend that is hanging around is BRIGHTS! It's as if the fashion world has realized the summer's colors can help brighten up a drab fall wardrobe. So, this fall there is no reason to tone down the bright pieces you already have. All you have to do is work them into a fall outfit.

An easy way to bring a bright into the fall is to layer. Get any bright colored top and layer with a chunky knit sweater or cardigan. Or, pair with black or brown so you still have a fall flare.

Bright dresses also work for the fall. Again, try pairing with sweater, jackets and cardigans. Or, add tights and boots for an instant hit.

I know we are all wishing the heat away, but when it gets cold and dreary, brights are going to be a great way to keep a little of summer fun in your fall wardrobe!

Karl Lagerfeld for Macy's

When I think of Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld, I think elegance, classic beauty and expensive! Chanel is one of my favorite brands for it's timeless beauty but not all of us can spend $1000 on a blazer. Well, we are all in luck. Karl Lagerfeld has joined with Macy's and is putting out an affordable line. And, in my opionion it looks amazing!

The 45 piece collection is comprised of flirty dresses, thick tweedy separates (shorts & vests), faux leather jackets, classic silhouette dresses, and tees with Lagerfeld's image on them. There are pieces that look totally "Chanel" - black and white dresses with sharp collars. So, you can look the part and pay on a fraction of the price - that's because pieces will start at $49 and range up to $170 - a fraction of the price of Chanel.

Lagerfeld was quoted as saying, "To me Macy's is the perfect department store in the US where everyone can find what they're looking for without ruining their budget." And, I am very thankful he feels that way. The collection hits the stores and online on August 31st so set a reminder cause I predict items will fly off the shelves.

Here are a few of the looks that I'm totally in love with.....