Must Have Now: Fall Trends

We don't need rain to tell us that it's time to start shopping for fall. As your very own personal stylist for women, it's time we start talking about fall trends. 

2015 Fall Trends You Can Wear.

1. Boots with an eye-catching heel.

Elevate your outfit effortlessly with a clear or metallic heel. Or, opt for an unusual shaped option (Jeffrey Campbell is the master of this approach.) The continuum of wacky to sophisticated is out there just for you. Find the pair that communicates your personal style and functions for your life. Ankle boots and mid calf options continue to reign supreme. (Knee high boots are coming back slowly. Opt for those that have a 70's vibe for the most current approach.) Express yourself by revealing your socks or keep them tucked inside your boot for a more polished look that elongates your leg. A nude or brown option is especially flattering, but there is no need to let that rule your life. Experiment. 

2. Faux fur stoles.

Why not get a jump on something cozy and glamorous for fall and winter with a faux fur stole? This is one of those trends that will instantaneously appeal to you or repel you. Either response is just fine. As a personal stylist, I'm continually reminding each client to embrace her own personal style. If you can see yourself rocking a stole, consider using it as an alternative to a winter scarf this year. It can also fill in for your oversized silk scarf from last year when you where it vertically and tuck it into your belt. Now that's sophisticated. 

3. Suede!

Believe it. Leather and faux leather continue to work wonders for your look and now suede enters the picture. It's true, in the Northwest we tend to be apprehensive about the material that is in no way rain friendly. But, if you love it, try rocking suede in a skirt or dress rather than shoes. After all, your stylish coat protects your prized posession. Look for a-lined skirts with snaps and other 60's mod-inspired styles. If you are past 40 and aren't feeling that a mini skirt is really maximizing your assets, consider a suede pencil skirt or midi with a 70's feel. A suede clutch is another fun option that is endlessly useful.

4. Brocade. 

Integrate brocade into your wardrobe by balancing the fabric with ultra modern pieces. Boots or shoes with a metallic or plexi heel is a great place to start. Leather or vegan leather can also make a more traditional piece feel younger. Personally, I've been an enormous fan of brocade for years. The stiff fabric is the polar opposite of jersey so if you are looking for something that hides any undesirable lumps and bumps, this is a nice way to go. A visit to your local vintage store often reveals a quality brocade find. A number of my favorite vintage brocade dresses were purchased over 20 years ago at Wasteland in San Francisco or at Red Light in the U District. All of them are still going strong. It's not an accident this fabric is often used for upholstery. 

5. Skinny silk scarves as ties.

Here's something we haven't been doing for the last few decades: using a skinny scarf as a tie. This throwback can be a nice way to reintroduce narrow scarves into your daily look. Have a scarf you once wore as a headband but have just been staring at in your closet for the last several years? It's time to break it out. This approach elongates your body and draws the eye inward. 

I'm uber inspired with so many of the upcoming fall trends. Expect more posts to fill you in on additional approaches you can try to expand your wardrobe and remind us all to have a little fun when getting dressed each day. You deserve it. 

P.S. If you aren't already on the Poplin Style Direction email list, jump on! This fall's exclusive Poplin Client event will take place at Vince in Bellevue Square and will include a 20% discount! Two spots will be held for a lucky Poplin subscriber. Make sure you are in the drawing to win!