Stepping Out

A fall fashion preview.

Fall Fashion is full of surprises! It has been a while since we had a season with such strong choices, so I would be remiss not to entrée the beauty trends with out a
quick definition of the season’s rebel looks.

GRAY: It really is the new black. Elegant and simple gray dresses are everywhere!

THE ’80s: Harness more the hard-edged party girl of the 1980s with skin-tight mini-dresses and padded shoulders. Leather and neon are hot! Caution: This trend isn’t about “investment dressing,” but is about strong women who want to have fun and be rebellious during a boring recession economy. You will be safety dancing (and killing radio stars) in no time!

BIKER/ROCKER CHIC:
Your fave jeans, a black motorcycle jacket and a studded pair of ankle boots. This trend is suited for those who want something a little unique.

THE POWER SUIT: Leave the 1980s to the rocker chicks. The classic glam girl embraces the neutral, austere elegance of the ’40s in tweed skirts and statement heels, and knows how to turn on star power with fabrics in satin and brocade.

“OTK” BOOTS: If you’re looking to add a new “kick” to your wardrobe, this is your must-have. Over-the-knee boots are a major trend. Wear them with shift dresses, opaque tights, leggings and slouchy knits.

ANIMAL PRINT: This trend really never goes away, though a small splash is all you need. Shoes, ankle boots, a fabulous handbag or a belt will update your classics.

GRAY SMOKY EYES:
Gray is huge! The look is smoky but diffused; blend together a few different shades of gray. Use a sooty, gunmetal gray on upper lids, and rim the inside of lower lash line in black for contrast.

REBELLIOUS LIPS: The runway may be opting for gray, black and gold lips, but for mere mortals I suggest applying a natural shade of lipstick and dabbing a little gold on top. Leave the gothic lips to couture shows.

PERKED-UP PONYTAILS: Sleeked sides and high-teased on top, from all sides it looks like different style – very sculpted and strong.

WONDER BUNS: Fall’s chignons utilize intricate twists, French braids and chic adornments; your “shopping bun” has become the glamorous style du jour! Make sure that it’s tousled and twisted – nothing too finished and very organic.

KOHL-RIMMED EYES: Maybe it’s a sign of the times … go for a tough yet chic look with black-rimmed eyes (by smudging the lids with black liner and shadow), while leaving lips nude. The look is a little punk, and pairs well with the 1980s graphic clothing.

RED LIPS: Perfectly sculpted matte red lips were a hallmark of the late 1920 and early ’30s, and they’re back. OK, so they’ve been back for the past two falls, but now we finally have a link: 1929 Depression, 2009 Recession. Women wear red lipstick during recessions, because red lips have impact and change the look of everything!

The message of the season? Don’t give up! Be brave, bold, stunningly beautiful, edgy and even aggressive (style-wise).

 

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