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Longevity out of our wardrobe. Isn't that what we all strive for? The most popular in my repertoire of personal styling services are closet purging and outfit coordination (using what already exists in your closet). That's not surprising. You'd be astonished what you have access to in your very own closet, with an expert lens on your wardrobe.

That's not to say we shouldn't freshen up our wardrobe a few times a year. Every season brings new possibilities. Tie-ins from past seasons allow practicality, while bringing in the new adds a fresh twist. However, let's make wise shopping decisions ... together. If you are not sure of your body type, coloring or style personality, we have some work to do. If done right, you will never waste another dollar on fashion items that are not suited for you.

What To Expect This Season

As a stylist and editor, I attend Fashion Week twice a year — a truly exhilarating experience. The runway provides insight into designers’ inspirations and how they interpret the season ahead. And as such, here is my forecast for Fall/Winter 2010

michaelkorsfall2010This year, fall walks in quietly. More subtle and subdued, as compared to last year. Remember those screaming neons of fall 09? They are a thing of the past. The classics — in both cuts and colors — are welcomed back with open arms. While accessories continue to grow bigger and funkier than ever, they will complement the natural, refined style of the season's garments.

While a few themes from spring bleed into fall, such as utilitarian, a few new themes will be ushered in. Menswear Inspired: sharp, masculine tailoring will make an impact this season from clothing to shoes. Western Girl: from chic to preppy, every look will be sleek with scrumptious fabrics. Color Blocking: it's back in a modern way that will have you embracing the look weekly.

Leggings continue to be a must have essential item. However, thanks to designers such as Alexander Wang and the likes, plush fabrics will be introduced into the line up. Leather leggings will make an even bigger impact, as well. Talk about leg expression! Leg wear will come in all shapes and sizes, from leg warmers, shoe warmers and socks layered over tights. Speaking of tights, while black opaque will always make the list, ivory opaque is the up-and-coming super fresh go to!

Fabrics will range from flannel, tartans, houndstooth, cashmere, sheers, leather, velvet and fur. The best of the season = the royal plush: leather, velvet and fur. Leather — whether in small details or massive expressions (read: leather funnelneck cropped jackets and pleated leather skirts) will be worn in a modern way ... even layered upon more leather! Velvet will be a warm welcome in lush colors, such as reds and purples (of course). And fur becomes over-the-top. Last year's fur was limited to the vest. This year, fur touches every last detail in outerwear, shoes and handbags. Fur mixed with leather will also be a natural.

The neutral color palette continues into fall, with gray taking center stage. Pair gray with camel and ivory and you'll get a standing ovation! Green is still getting lots of love for yet another year.

Longer hem lengths in skirts and dresses have been revived, so don't be shy about whipping out that to-the-floor length skirt, ladies. However, be careful with hem lengths that cut you at the calf, as that can be a very unflattering look (and breaks so many rules in educating what serves our body shapes). Likewise, I caution against the straight leg clam digger length suit pant. While this may appear really great one day, the very next day you'll be over it.

fall2010shoesI am all about layering. However, the concept is making a shift for fall. It's not just the long sleeve tee under dresses from casual to formal, but also angled layers ... almost as if you emptied out your entire closet's contents onto your body. There is definitely skill involved in pulling off this look.

Shoes get a little tricked out for fall. Time to amp up the style factor with ladylike men’s-inspired heels, diamond studded and chevron patterned pumps, socks-attached boots, retro pumps and flats, and rugged soles on a fancy foundation. And guess what? The OTK boot has lasted another year! Perfect for all the winter shorts will you wearing. Go for a relaxed pair of shorts with a tailored top and thigh high boots. Mmmm, delicious!

Accessories will be fun and carefree. Experimentation can only lead to the next new trend! Take note of python scarves, serpent broaches and bracelets, and the ever-classic leopard, zebra and giraffe print shoes and handbags. Speaking of handbags, aside from all the hobo styles, you will see more structure this season, with fur and leopard print detailing. Animal magnetism comes in all shapes and sizes!

Square sunglasses are made of-the-moment, thanks to Tod’s, Bulgari, Gucci and D&G. And your simplest of leather belts will be wrapped around just about anything from evening gowns to outwear. Chain belts will again double as necklaces (or bracelets), thanks to the iconic YSL.

Time to get back into your closet to take inventory. There are so many great looks waiting for you (or me) to put together!

Top 10+ Must Haves
  1. Over-the-top fur: coat, shoes or handbag
  2. Lush leg wear
  3. Structured cropped jacket
  4. All over belt
  5. Titillating heels
  6. Animal print something (python preferred)
  7. Multi-functional long chain belt
  8. Long sleeve black jersey tee
  9. Deliciously plush velvet jacket
  10. Leather dress or skirt
  11. Ivory tights
  12. Winter shorts (especially worn with thigh high boots)
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