Fall 2011: Jewelry Trends

Big, bold, and extravagant are the words that should come to mind, when you go accessory shopping this season. Metal (lightweight) jewelry is a hot trend this fall, especially in yellows and whites. Layering necklaces is also in vogue as are extra-long earrings, feathers, and geometric, angular and irregular pieces that make a daring statement. Square bangles, extravagant bracelets, and huge Retro rings are all the rage. Adding any of these pieces to your look, will showcase your fierce, and fashion-forward sense of style. But, if you do go down the daring route; remember to tone-down the rest of your wardrobe. You don't want to attract the wrong kind of attention; so choose your look carefully, and add one or two dramatic accessories. Most importantly, use your judgement.  If at first glance, you think it's "too much," go with your instinct; otherwise you'll probably end up overdoing it!

The Revealed Necklace by Anthropologie features rough-cut-then-polished rose quartz and hammered rings. It's fierce and feminine, and is a perfect embellishment to Fall's "Romantic Femininity" trend.  And, the best part is, The Revealed Necklace is on sale at $29.95 (Orig: $58). And, at that price, it's a steal!

Peacock Ring by Presh 


I absolutely fell in love with this Peacock Ring by Presh. It's fierce, and features three of the season's hottest fashion trends: bold colors, yellow metals, and zoological inspiration. It's a classic piece, you'll be sure to rock season after season. While it's a bit pricey at $149.95 (Orig: $258), it's worth the splurge. The best part about this gorgeous ring, is that it's adjustable, so even if your fingers are temporarily swollen, you'll never have to worry about sizing.

Looking for something less pricey? I absolutely adore the Ancient Rings Bib Necklace by Free People. It's made of lightweight brass, and is part of yet another hot trend this season: yellow metals, and it's layered. It's super versatile, and makes a bold statement. Pair it with a deep-cut solid blouse, and a navy blue or black cropped-blazer or short-suit jacket, and wide-leg trousers for a fabulously chic look. Perfect for the office or weekend; priced at $19.95 (Orig: $38), it's the perfect accessory for any budget.

Ancient Rings Bib Necklace by Free People



Ocean's Floor Ring by Dara Ettinger 


Once again, bold colors like sky blues and cobalt are among the hottest trends this Fall. Make a dramatic statement with The Ocean's Floor Ring; its a truly unique ring that's made from natural stones, so it will vary in color, shape and size. Giving you a one-of-a-kind personal flair, featuring fused metal, and a wrapped design. Priced at $49.95 (Orig: $80), The Ocean's Floor Ring, is an awesome Retro addition to your jewelry collection.

The Brown Printed Resin Bangle by Kenneth Jay Lane makes a bold statement, and features this Fall's zoological trend. Priced at $23.99 (Orig: $45; available at Bluefly, it's a perfect accessory for the office or the weekend. Super versatile, and chic. You'll be sure to showcase your individual style with this great piece.

Top 10 Trend List: Sheer & Lace: Romantic Femininity

The Top 10 Trends this Fall. Sometimes, it's hard to figure out what's in vogue this season, especially if you're browsing through high-fashion magazines. Some of the things on the runway, don't always necessarily translate into the "real way." So, I went through all the reviews, editor's picks, fashion week reports, and did my own research (visiting store-after-store) to find the most glamorous and chic looks for any budget.


1. Sheer & Lace: Romantic Feminine Charm

One of the top trends this fall is Romantic femininity; frills, ribbons, pleats, sheer fabrics, lace, rosettes and embroidery are some of the lovely accents to be featured on pieces by Christian Dior and Valentino this season. Combine elements of romanticism with "androgyny" another trend this fall; pair a lace top with a dark or neutral-toned suit jacket and trousers for a soft and bold statement that will showcase your fabulous fashion sense.

Here, are some beautiful, and affordable "Romantic-inspired" pieces that will be sure to make your look shine. After all, who wouldn't want to be at the center of attention? And, the universal object of fashion envy this Fall? 

Scandalous Lace Top



The Scandalous Lace Top by Free People comes in three gorgeous colors: hot berry, (baby) pink and black. This gorgeous sheer lace top is the perfect compliment to any fall outfit. Pair it with jeans, black pants or wear it with a suit jacket and trousers. Hot Berry, pictured above, is part of another fall trend: bold colors! Make a statement with this beautiful and elegant top; priced at $19.95, (Orig: $48) it's a total steal! Sexy, and scandalous.



Sheer Tea Length Tank Dress



The Sheer Tea Length Tank Dress by Free People, is a gorgeous solid sheer tank-style dress with a deep scoop neck. Featuring, delicate eyelet detailing, and floral embroidery, it comes with a removable slip, making dry-cleaning a breeze. It comes in two gorgeous colors: tea (ivory) and black. I absolutely adore the version in black. It's elegant and is the perfect day-to-night transition dress. Simply add a cardigan, or cropped suit jacket with pearly-buttons, ruffles and other feminine touches for a soft, beautiful and glamorous look. Pair with black suede platforms for a flirty, feminine look. You'll be sure to steal the spotlight anywhere you go.

Looking for something a little flirtatious? The Off-Shoulder 3/4 Sleeve Lace Top by Bebe is the perfect solution.  This sexy, semi-sheer lace top cones in two colors: Cuban Sand (Ivory) and Rose Smoke (Light Blush). It's a great addition to any wardrobe this season. It's super versatile. Simply pair it with a bandeau or camisole or wear this sexy top under a cropped-blazer or suit jacket. You'll be sure to make everyone's jaw drop, rocking this fierce yet feminine look.

Fall 2011 Trend-setters: Getting Started Guide

Okay, let's face it: Times are tough, and many of us don't have the extra cash to drop on high-fashion, designer labels, but that shouldn't stop you from looking fabulous this season. Being on a budget myself, I'm always on the lookout for the best deal. Because honestly, with all of the bills we're expected to pay? Why splurge on something that you might wear once or twice this season, when you could be buying trendy clothes at bargain prices?

Before you go on your next shopping spree, do a little online research. Visit your favorite clothing, shoe, makeup and accessory sites. It will seriously give you some great inspiration, which you can tailor to your own personal sense of style.

Comparison Shop. I can't stress this enough!

I'm what you'd call, " a comparison shopper," I look through fashion magazines, fashion designers' websites, and at celebrity trend-setters before I hit the mall, department store or online clothing store. Start on the web; online clearance stores are my favorite places visit after I've scoped out the season's hottest trends. I go through these sections, looking for trends like "Sheer Lace tops," I look through blouses, dresses, etc., and see if anything resembles what's in vogue this season. It's the best place to find less expensive alternatives to thousand-dollar price-tags (Check Bluefly.com regularly; they're constantly adding to their "New Arrivals" section).

Also, I recommend hitting up department stores' clearance racks (like Macy*s and Bloomingdales). Other great places to visit after you've gotten your trend-setter's checklist down are: H&M, Charlotte Russe, Marshalls, and my personal favorite, Filene's Basement. (Later on, I'll share some incredible thrift store finds).

So whether you've got a ton to invest on a new wardrobe or you're on a tight budget, there's something for everyone. Remember to do your research. Be a smart shopper, but more importantly, remember to have fun.

Why? Because think of how many times that have you bought a pair of shoes, a bag, a dress or a blouse, only to see it marked down somewhere else. It makes me so mad to think I paid full-price, when another store had the same exact coat marked down 60%! And, while bargain hunting takes a little time, and requires some patience; the savings are totally worth it! Think of how many more belts, bags, earrings and manicures and pedicures you'll be able to afford!  My advice: be smart, and do your research. Because honestly, who wouldn't want to look fashionable, and fabulous every season?