Friday, Sep. 25, 2009

Transition Summer Attire Into Fall Fashion

by Rebecca Homitz -

With the fall season nipping at our flip-flops, hanging up those pretty sundresses, sleeveless blouses, and flirty skirts doesn’t have to happen just yet. Living in a warm clime like ours has its advantages, and extending your summer wardrobe into fall has become easier this year thanks to fall fashion trends.

Most summer staples can transition into fall when paired with carefully selected layers and accessories. Fall fashion includes a lot of collective pieces that work well on most body types: ankle boots, belts cinched at the waist, black and white compilations, bold necklaces, and bright hues.

Utilizing three key summer wardrobe pieces for women – the sundress, sleeveless blouse, and skirt – we’ll examine how thrifty Grand Strand fashionistas can make the most of their summer wardrobe while transitioning into fall.

Sundresses

During summer months, throwing on this summer staple is easy and fast. As fall sets in, adding a few layers will still keep you looking chic and comfortable. Throw on a favorite bold colored sundress and add dark-hued chic separates and accessories for full fall conversion.

Slip into the ND New Directions Black Fitted Blazer ($65) and belt it with the Nine West Reversible Black & Brown Belt ($28). This dark addition will make the dress color pop. Step into the Bandolino Jenkins Slides in Black ($69), or the Bare Traps Tarlene Booties in Black ($79), and add a statement necklace like the five-tiered Kristin Davis Long Gold Link Chain Necklace ($25) to complete the look.

Sleeveless Blouses

These simple shirts can convert into a favorite fall look very easily. Layering distinct colors and patterns is hot for fall. Start with sleeveless blouses to build a fun and functional look.

Pick a sleeveless blouse in a basic color or with a contrasting pattern to pair with the Kristin Davis Drape Front Open Cardigan in Berry Bliss ($78) and belt it with the Nine West Reversible Black & Brown Belt ($28). Finish the look with a pair of the Izod Jeantically Slenderizing – Be Skinny Jean in Dark Wash ($50) and a pair Kristin Davis Sara Platform Slingbacks in Brown ($89).

Or, go for a laidback look and add the Levi's Boyfriend Jean in Tarnished ($44) and the Bare Traps Tarlene Booties in Black ($79). Top the look off with a piece of jewelry such as the Kristin Davis Gold andTeal ChunkyLink Necklace ($18) or Kristin Davis Silver Ring Chain Link Necklace ($35).

Skirts

While ruffle details and flowing, flirty skirts were fun for summer, make them fabulous for fall by adding small details and statement accessories.

Wear a denim mini with the ND New Directions Ruffle Front Shirt in Blue (pictured left $40) and ND New Directions Self Tie Cardigan in Blue ($46). This structured look will add coverage but keep sex appeal intact during cooler temps. Step into the Kristin Davis Sara Platform Slingback in Brown ($89) to show off those tanned gams.

Another option is to pair a ruffled or a-line skirt from your closet with the ND New Directions Basic Scrunch Neck Top in Current Red (pictured below $26). Pair it with a few bold accessories such as the Kristin Davis Black Embossed Belt ($36), Kristin Davis Gold Cuff ($25), and Bare Traps Tarlene Booties in Black ($79) for full fall style.

These pieces were found at Belk, Inlet Square Mall, at the junction of U.S. 17 Business and U.S. 17 Bypass, Murrells Inlet. Call 651-6377 for more information. Belk department store has four additional locations along the Grand Strand; visit www.belk.com for more information.