Fall ... At First Glance

You already know how much I love summer. And I hate the idea that fall is around the corner. But whether I like it or not, fall is hitting me hard this week as I deal with temps dipping in the Northeast and preparing to send my kids back to school! YIKES!

So with fall on my mind, I’ll take this time to touch on the trends that I’ve seen so far and give you a head’s up on what to expect. First off, the sweater blazer is everywhere! It gained popularity last season and continues to build off that this season. It’s a versatile piece most likely available at your favorite retailer so definitely worth the consideration of a purchase. The midi pleat skirt is also popping up all over. This skirt works as a day to night option (perfect for the office or date night).

Also trending this season are prints varying from leopard print and floral to gingham and paisley. Whether you are pairing prints or wearing one print as a standout, there are options in how you wear this trend. Same goes for texture which is trending this season. From faux fur to leather, lace and silk, there are plenty of options that will provide the added texture to complement your style. Finally, sequins are hot this season and appearing in a variety of items from casual to formal!

There’s a lot to unpack here but I have all season to share the details with you! The most important thing to remember is to have fun. What you wear should make you smile when you look in a mirror. Love your clothes and it will make all the difference. Buy what you love, no matter what the trends say!

J. Crew Colette D’Orsay Pumps

J. Crew Sophie Open-front sweater-blazer

J. Crew Pleated Midi Skirt

J. Crew Leopard Faux-fur Coat

Current Air Olivia Snake-Printed Maxi Dress

Mynah Designs Bidie Embroidered Peplum Blouse

Scotch & Soda Thalia Pleated Midi Dress

Varun Bahl Lynnie Sequined Blouse

Band of Gypsies Whole Lotta Love Fleece Jacket

New Arrivals Catching My Eye

New Arrivals in retail are starting to trend towards fall. Colors are getting deeper and fabrics are getting thicker. There is still a touch of summer thrown in for those of usnot yet ready to move on. (I fall into this category.) But I can appreciate the trend towards fall and look towards incorporating these pieces into my current wardrobe.

The new arrivals at J.Crew are distinguished by their detail. Ruffles, bows, pleats and patterns set items apart and make them standout items in your wardrobe. Pair them with simple items to make them standout. Pair them with other distinct items to make a statement outfit!

These latest new arrivals from J.Crew are catching my eye! I've been wearing a lot of blue lately so maybe I'm biased but regardless there are plenty of colors and patterns available for all preferences. A few of my favorites are listed below. Check out the full list of new arrivals here.

One Shoulder Bow Top in Stripe

Ruffle Chino Jacket

Merino Wool Cold Shoulder Sweater

Wrap Around Tie Skirt in Shirting Stripe

Put a little more FUN in your wardrobe for Summer

I happened to be alone in the car the other day and Madonna's Like A Virgin came on the radio. I haven't heard this song in ages but of course I remember every word. As I'm singing along in my car, I think back on when I was young (growing up in the 80's) and how we would dress up in high 80's fashion. It was fun! Maybe we looked a bit ridiculous but we certainly had fun.

As we get older I think we lose a little bit of that. When we're younger and have the time to get all dolled up for a night out, it's easy to have fun with our look. As we get older, with more responsibilities and less time, getting dressed becomes a hassle we don't have time for. Suddenly coordinating outfits and looking put together is a burden. We forget to have fun with it.

I think that if we could remember to add some of that fun back int our wardrobe it might make a difference in our mood and confidence levels. There are all kinds of fun styles in retail now, we just need to considering adding them to our closet. They may not be the items we would naturally gravitate toward these days. We tend to buy for more practical reasons. Items for work, a dress for a wedding, clothes for the gym... this is how we shop. But what if we shopped for items that we thought were fun?

Take a look at the Anthropologie landing page:

Don't these girls look like they're having fun? From the retro sunglasses to the endless ruffles, these looks are simply fun. Don't we need a little bit of this in our lives? Go back and listen to a little high energy 80's Madonna or Cyndi Lauper and you'll be feeling it before you know it! What makes clothes and accessories fun is personal. Your idea of what is fun for your wardrobe won't be the same as someone else's. Just like the idea of style, it's based on your personal preferences. Find what makes you smile when you shop. It might be bright bold color or vintage styles. There are no rules to follow. Just wear what makes you feel good when you look in a mirror!

Now that you're feeling inspired , here are a few ideas for items that will inspire a little fun in your wardrobe (all courtesy of Anthropologie):

Meadow Floral Romper

Remy Swing Top

Flora Mini Dress

Riley Off the Shoulder Top

Abstract Geo Blouse

Vienne Open Shoulder Jumpsuit

Structured Lace Peplum Top

Leonie One Shoulder Top

Bows & Stripes Sheath Dress