Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Carytown Street Chic


A number of exciting trends have hit the scene this season, from minimalism to maximalism and everywhere in between. Getting lost in the fashion landscape? Ground yourself by mixing some of this season’s top trends with classic pieces.




It’s the call of the wild this fall. Animal prints and fur have infiltrated the runways of multiple designers. Chanel turned out everything from yeti boots to full out suits made from faux fur while seemingly everyone including the likes of Dolce and Gabanna showcased tops, dresses, and accessories galore in leopard print. It’s a wonder PETA didn’t spring to action. Just remember there is such thing as too much of a good thing. Try to limit yourself to one leopard print garment or accessory. A fur vest, one of the season’s top pieces, is the perfect finishing to touch to spice up a simple ensemble. Or for a more sassy look, try mixing fur and animal prints together. You’ll look positively ferocious.


Menswear inspired suiting is a major trend for fall 2010, with the pièce de résistance being the boyfriend blazer. Blazers are extremely versatile, allowing you to stretch out your closet by obtaining a variety of look form one piece. Don’t be afraid to get a little experimental with loud colors or prints, the blazer will tone it down. Pair your blazer with a pair of skinny leg jeans for a lunch date in the fan or with leggings and a tunic top for bar hopping in Shockoe Slip. For a trendier look, you can also try rolling up the sleeves, which looks especially great with a colorful lining. This go-to item is not only versatile but flattering and comfortable as well. Pairing a long, tight fitting shirt underneath will give you a long and lean silhouette.


Longer lengths are in this season. But who could resist this leather mini from Pink? Leather will always be in and this is one statement piece that will turn heads. A leather mini skirt is a great way to show off your curves. To achieve the best look wear heels with your leather mini. This will take your look to the next level. Not into short hemlines? No sweat. Leather mini skirts will always be around, but this season leather skirts don’t just mean the mini. A number of retailers are producing leather skirts in longer lengths with A-line silhouettes as an alternative to the mini.


Fall 2010 runway collections were filled with metallic gold hues, from the gold lamé frocks of Dries Van Noten to the gold metallic accents present in Jason Wu’s collection. This fall’s metallic style looks great from top-to-bottom. But beware when wearing metallic gold clothing, shimmering fabrics can highlight bulges. Generally, shiny satin and high-tech fabrics look great in metallic. When in doubt gold accessories will give you the perfect element of understated glamour. Add a bit of decadence to your outfit with gold metallic accessories. These shoes from EuroTrash provide the perfect touch of vibrancy to a dark colored palette.


Every wardrobe needs strong tailored garments to keep it all together. This short tuxedo style jacket offers another great play on menswear inspired suiting. Pairing it with a simple dress draws the eye to the detailing of the jacket and offers an updated look to the simple silhouette of the dress.


The dress shirt is a classic staple item. Fall 2010 styling updates the look by offering a slightly oversized fit, perfect for pairing with leggings or skinny leg jeans. Loose fits have become increasingly popular in womenswear of late, and this season the oversized trend has really taken off. When worn correctly, well tailored loose fits offer an effortlessly sexy look. These black snake skin leggings from Euro Trash offer the perfect edgy element to this oversized dress shirt while cutout booties give the outfit a look perfect for a night on the town with the girlfriends.


The cardigan is a quintessential piece in any women’s wardrobe. A cardigan can easily give an outfit a look of nonchalant sophistication. This fall’s trends in cardigans include chunkier knit fabrics and oversized fits. You can wear this staple item in a variety of ways to keep your wardrobe feeling fresh. Leave it open over top of your favorite tunic top for an easy day look. Or for a more traditional look, simply leave it closed. If you’re interested in a more fashion forward option, leave it open and pair it with a pencil skirt, then fasten a skinny belt around your waistline to accentuate your figure. Any way you wear it this piece flows easily from work to play. Try adding a brooch to your cardigan for a vintage flair.


Model: Courtney Culbreath
Special Thanks to Pink (http://www.pinkstore.com/) and Euro Trash (www.shopeurotrash.com) of Carytown! Remember to shop local.


This story was also featured on Richmond.com http://www2.richmond.com/content/2010/sep/01/carytown-street-chic/

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