The Stylish Eye » Fashion

Hot for hot pink

Michelle A Heath — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:28:12 +0000

I was reading the November edition of InStyle and came across a great article called Color Crash Course – Hot Pink. I was hooked. Funny, when I read the article, I realized that I have several hot pink pieces in my wardrobe. Some cute tops, tees, a sweater, a dress or two with a mix of grey or black and hot pink. Not to mention some super-hot stilettos I bought in the Spring.

H&M Ladies Homepage

The misnomer about hot pink is that it doesn’t work for everyone. I hear that all the time and it makes me bananas! Hot pink can work on everyone – even you redheads out there. It’s all about the shade and the amount of pink versus blue or purple. Blondes and darker-skinned lovelies can really wear just about any shade of hot pink. Brunettes, red-heads and fair-skinned ladies should look for a deeper and darker undertone to balance hair and skin. You might need to try on several shades before you get it right. I love hot pink because it makes a statement while being ultra feminine and as the article says…”done right, it’s cool, not cute.”

Otherwise known as fuschia, this gorgeous color is a great way to really add a hot pop of color to your closet. My clients are always looking for ways to add color to their wardrobes and I love helping them experiment with bold colors like hot pink.

As for how to wear it, today – for inspiration – I paired a gorgeous silk ruffled blouse in hot pink with a slim black skirt and black patent-leather belt. Wolford tights (of course) and my Tory Burch leopard print wedges (my fave purchase from last season). The color makes me feel alive and is perfect for a Monday when staying in bed when the alarm rang at 5:30am was a much better option:) And I just happened to check out the H&M site today and there it was on the homepage…great timing and H&M is always on the trend.

So, my fashionistas…have you experimented with the power of hot pink? Do tell.

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Catwalking for a Cure: Meet Bryan Finocchio

Michelle A Heath — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 16:20:46 +0000

Bryan Finocchio

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Bryan Finocchio, Founder & Director of Catwalk for a Cure and wanted to know more about his organization and the event that’s coming up on Thursday, October 13th at 7pm at the State Room here in Boston (get your tickets here.) I’ve got my pink frock ready to go, along with my +1, the ever so fun and stylish, Marta Kagan. We’re ready for a fun night of up-and-coming designers, cancer survivors-turned-runway models and pink cocktails, of course. Thanks to Bryan for sharing the history of this fabulous event and for his passion and dedication to eradicating breast cancer.

Tell me about Catwalk for a Cure. How did it get started? What was at the core of how it all began?

In nursing school, many professors told us that “Nursing is your #1 priority, everything else comes second.” I guess I am defiant? Having a background in the performing arts, I have always wanted to do something different that incorporates my medical background and my arts background. I have had many women in my life diagnosed with breast cancer (grandmother, cousin, family, friends etc.) and one women in particular, my Women’s Health professor. She was a “tough broad”, or that’s what she called herself. She was very different from all the other professors. She understood everyone has their own separate lives and that you are able to do anything. Also, to be a women’s health lecturer, you need to have a sense of humor, and she did.

In April of 2010 she told the class, after waiting 2 hours that she was diagnosed with progressive Stage 3 breast cancer. I can honestly say there wasn’t a dry eye in the place. I remember sitting there speechless. I also remember thinking I am going to do something to give back. I am going to do a pink dress fashion show in Boston (something that hasn’t been done). I guess you could say she was the core inspiration for this whole idea.

I love the combination of fashion for a good cause. Tell me about some of the designers who will be featured on the runway?

Zack Lo - Bumble Zoo Cerise

This year we have eight designers participating in the show. Their assignment was to create a mini collection having one all-pink look and the rest pink accents. This approach is different than the all-pink fashion show last year. I wanted to give the designers more creative freedom to express who they are as an artist. We first start off with the cocktail hour. We will have eccentric shoe designer, Zack Lo, and environmentally-friendly designer, Janice Louise Miller dressing models to walk around cocktail hour and give the guests something new and fresh to look at. On the runway we’ll see six designers Nicole Herzog, Julie Montesion, Candice Wu, Julie Kontos, Drea Couture and Wesley Nault. The audience will be seeing fashion school graduates from School of Fashion Design on Newbury St, Lasell College, self-taught designers, ones who have studied abroad, and of course, Wesley Nault, our featured designer from Season 5 of Project Runway!

Susan G. Komen has done an amazing job raising money for cancer education and research. How did you come to partner with this organization for this event?

Before I started Catwalk for a Cure, I knew I needed a charity to give back to. My mother worked in Radiology for some time and used to do the walks for breast cancer and had mentioned Susan G. Komen. I wanted a charity in Boston where the money went to education and research, because that is where the knowledge and prevention happens. The root for it is education. If women/men are not taught self exams, signs and symptoms, new treatments etc., we will be in much worse shape with statistics off the chart. After researching, I met with The Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for a Cure in a Starbucks right in the Financial District and explained what I wanted to do. Right away I had great feedback, it was something new and fresh, and they were thrilled to help with this project.

What can people who attend this fashionable soiree expect on Thursday, October 13^th? Tell us about the venue, the program and the fashion!

I think telling people that it is at the State Room is good enough. The view from the 33^rdfloor of 60 State St. is absolutely incredible. Not to mention the modern architecture of the venue. Most people remember the place at the old “Bay Tower room”….I guess being 23, I have no idea what that meant. The event will start at 7pm with a cocktail hour and silent auction. Here guests will walk around, bid on items, enjoy a signature cocktail, fresh beer from Harpoon Brewery, hors ‘doeuvres from State Room, watch models walk and admire the looks, take a photo infront of our SOUL by Ludacris “step and repeat”, be interview by TTN-HD productions, and have their photos taken by “paparazzi”. The fashion show will start at 9:15pm. Here guests will enjoy our designers, music by Andrew Mason (DJ Dropl3t) and their collections as well as models, cancer survivors, and business professionals walking for the cause. After the show, guests will be escorted to the mezzanine of the Great Room for more cocktails, desserts from Five Bite Cupcakes, Pinkberry, and Chobani, as well as meet the designers and models who have made the night possible.

Where can people go to buy tickets?

Please visit catwalkforacure.eventbrite.com. Tickets are $100 and include signature cocktail, passed hors d’oeuvres, silent auction, fashion show, gift bag, and post reception and proceeds go directly to Susan G. Komen for breast cancer education and research.

What do you love best about the event?

Everything! I love the stress and excitement of planning it, the final product, but mostly the smiles on all the guests faces as well as the survivors. After all it is for them. When they smile, I smile. The survivors are who inspired me. I remember last year, a guest coming up to me, with tears in her eye, and explained to me how much she enjoyed the show…she was currently going through treatment.

Also, a few thank you’s to my team and the people making all of this possible. The event is hosted by Practically Broadway, Inc., a non-profit visual and performing arts organization. Also, I could not have done this without my team: Neira Pekmez: Event Coordinator, Christina Ruggeri: Model and Designer Coordinator, Iliana Galvez: Asst. Event Coordinator, Nick Mandella: Lead Photographer and Press Liaison.

And the big question…what will you be wearing?

That is a good question! I spend so much time planning, its usually the week of the event type deal. This year I have been looking at Express, Cole Haan, Nordstrom, and Brooks Brothers. I will most likely go with a black or gray jacket and pants, pink shirt and a pink tie, still keeping it fashionable and different. I guess you will have to wait and see! Be sure to follow us on Twitter for all the latest news on the show!

~~~

Well, Bryan, thanks so much for telling all the Stylish Eyes out there about Catwalk for a Cure and the event on the 13th…I cannot WAIT! I am spreading the word to all of my fashionable friends who are looking for a stylish night out for an amazing cause. Breast cancer has personally touched my life through too many family members and friends and I am thrilled to support such a great organization and a fantastic night out in the city. Great work, Bryan and team!

PS: Stay tuned…I’ll be interviewing some designers and breast cancer survivors over the next few weeks as part of my Catwalking for a Cure blog post series. Thanks for tuning in and hope to see you on the 13th!

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Talking Fashion on Get a Life Radio

Michelle A Heath — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:08:55 +0000

In case you missed it, the recording of my radio debut on the Loretta LaRoche radio show, Get a Life, with co-host and dear friend, Sue Burton, is now available online. I have to say that I am completely hooked on radio and loved every minute with Loretta and Sue. They are like the Howard and Robin of local radio!

Loretta LaRoche & Sue Burton

Looking for a good laugh and some great discussion on everything from pajama pants to capris, to fanny packs, to Crocs to maxi dresses? We also had some great questions from callers – maybe something you might have asked? Do tell.

You can listen here: www.lorettalaroche.com/getaliferadio

It’s the June 29, 2011: “Fashion: If It Doesnt Fit, Dont Wear It” episode.

Thanks, Loretta and Sue for having me…I hope I get invited back to talk Fall fashion!

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Pajama Jeans – the latest fashion faux pas

Michelle A Heath — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 16:58:00 +0000

I recently heard about the Pajama Jean – “Looks like denim, feels like pjs,” and I think I actually threw up a little bit in my mouth. I have to say, I am pretty outraged by this creation. Why? Well, there’s a bunch of reasons but let’s start with my practical reasons. First off, the pants have no zippers or buttons. Okay, last I heard, pants have zippers and buttons. Pants without zippers and buttons are usually called – leggings, sweatpants or…yes, pajamas. Even the jeggings I buy have some button/zipper styling. More than that, the idea of your pants being so comfortable you would wear them all day AND want to sleep in them? I just don’t get this. Yeah, I do get it on a pure comfort level. Believe me, I love my yoga pants as much as any other girl out there. But, there is a time and place for my yoga pants and they are not part of my “get dressed and go out” wardrobe and never will be (hint hint).

My biggest beef with this comfort-first invention is what it says about women and our ability to be stylish and comfortable. Ladies, do we really need to wear our pjs around town to be comfortable? I think not. I buy jeans and wear jeans a lot. And I have learned how to buy jeans that look great, fit great and feel great. I work full-time and my office is casual attire. I wear jeans to work almost every day. And, I sit at my desk most of the day in my jeans. I could not imagine wearing Pajama Jeans to my office. They are not jeans, my stylish friends. They are cotton pajama pants made to kinda look like jeans…but not really.

In my opinion, products like this are what’s wrong with fashion and style in America. Can you imagine a woman walking around Covent Garden London in a pair of these? Or down the Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau in Paris wearing jeans that look like pajamas? Never. It would never happen. I don’t know why here in the U.S., we have gotten lazy enough to think that it’s okay to wear sweats, yoga pants and now pjs to the mall, to the grocery store, to lunch with friends, on a date with your man – it’s just not okay. I grew up in house where my mother would never leave the house unless she looked “acceptable.” This meant: hair done, make up on, clothes to match the occasion. Her motto: “You never know who you’ll run into.” That was drilled into my head and it’s how I dress every day. Think about the impression you make – the first impression you make – when you run into someone at the mall or at the movies or anywhere outside your home. People are visual creatures like it or not and they check out what you’re wearing and how you look. It may sound superficial. It may sound ridiculous. But it’s true.

Please, my lovelies, leave the pajamas at home. There are so many other ways to be comfortable and look stylish. I promise.

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WTF are jeggings and why do I care?

Michelle A Heath — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 18:28:00 +0000

A dear friend recently Tweeted…

WTF are jeggings? #clueless

Dear Clueless, have no fear, your answer is here.

Take one part jeans. Add one part leggings. A dash of spandex. Maybe even some polyester or lycra. And, voila, you have yourself a jegging.

Jeggings really hit the style scene last Fall as models started parading them around paired with sky-high stilettos or knee-high riding boots. Though model I am not, I bought one pair last Fall at my fave local jean store in the North End, Injeanius, and was hooked.

What’s so great about jeggings?

1. They are the most comfortable pair of jeans you will ever own that actually look GOOD and are comfortable – something not typically attained in the fashion department.

2. They are NOT, I repeat not, leggings. Please dear fashionista, promise me you will never ever wear leggings as pants outside of your house. Promise? Phew, we got that over with. Jeggings have all the stylings of jeans – stitching, grommets, hems – but all the stretch and comfort of a legging.

3. They fit like a glove. Jeggings create a slimming effect, which is contrary to popular belief. I’ve heard people say they fear looking like a stuffed sausage. I say, try them and see for yourself. Just like a regular jean, you might need to try a few different brands to find the perfect fit.

4. They are generally cheaper than a pair of True Religions. Most jeggings I’ve seen run under $100. Rue La La just had James Jeans jeggings for under $70 – a steal!

5. They honestly go with everything. A tank and flats. A hot night-on-the-town top and stilettos. A jacket and boots. The slim style is especially great with boots – no pant overhang. I hate it when that happens.

So, I urge to to test-drive the jeggings style jeans for Fall and see what happens. Be careful you might become addicted like me.

PS: Have you tried jeggings? Would love to hear if you are in love, like, hate…tell me all about it.

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Kitchenware goes couture

Michelle A Heath — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 21:36:41 +0000

Only in Tokyo, could pots, pans, knives and spatulas make it onto the runway. Japan, widely known for it’s fashion eccentricity and trendsetting, is the perfect place to showcase a new fashion trend. Kitchenware. Well, actually, it’s more of a branding and PR stunt than a trend (I hope). The company who produced the kitchenware couture is Fissler, a German cookware manufacturer. They decided to take their stainless steel goodies to their growing market in Asia through a creative kitchenware-inspired runway show. The fashions are not so much “ready to wear” but certainly give new meaning to the phrase “buns of steel.” (Sorry, I couldn’t resist.) I applaud their unique approach to engaging with their market and love the creativity that went into designing each piece. Enjoy!

Fissler Tokyo Fashion Show

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A Spring Rage for the Caged Shoe

Michelle A Heath — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 02:55:29 +0000

“A Rage in the Cage.” Do you remember it? Circa mid 80′s. J. Geils Band of “Freeze Frame” and “Piss on the Wall” fame (my parents’ favorite). Everything in the mid 80′s was ripped, stripped, tattered and torn. Well, it’s happening again, as these things tend to go and it’s all about the “caged shoe” for Spring.

Yves Saint Laurent Cage Ankle Boots $1500

I wish that I could take credit for coining the term but I have a feeling someone at the House of Prada or Chanel beat me to it. So what is it, you might ask? The caged shoe is like a sandal and a shoe bootie combined. They were all over the runway and most have a leather design that looks like, well, a cage. Some more straight lines. Others geometric shapes. Most of what I saw on the runway and in the early Spring previews are stilettos and va va voom! Some teetering at over 5 inches (for those damsels who walk gingerly to their limo or sit at the club but do not stand or walk) and others more runway than run to the mall (see YSL $1500 beauties). As for the rest of us, there’s just about every style, fabric, color and heel height to choose from. I’ve seen everything from a super-slinky gold to a super-hot fuchsia suede by Linea Paolo (which I had to have).

Linea Paolo 'Jacadia' Sandal

You may wonder, what in pete’s name do I wear these caged beauties with? Here are a few wardrobing ideas. First, start with a pair in a more neutral color so you can wear it with more (black, cream, browns, tans). Yes, it’s kind of boring but, let’s face it, they go with everything. The great thing about these shoes is that you can wear them with just about everything – and I don’t say that about everything. Everything. (Sorry, couldn’t resist).

The Stylish Eye caged shoes outfit ideas:

Outfit #1: Fitted dress with a wide belt.

Outfit #2: Pencil skirt, silk blouse, same wide belt.

Outift #3: Straight-leg jeans, same silk blouse or funky tee.

Outfit #4: Skinny jeans, flowy top or funky tee and shoe.

Outfit #5: Shorts (yes, I know but everyone in New York is wearing them out at night), funky tee and shoe.

Nine West Kentaro

The thing I love most about this shoe is that, depending on the color, you can wear them pretty much year round. Yes, I know my darling, we live in the North East along with snow, sleet and rain. The life of a sandal is typically limited to June-August. These are different. Because of the “shoe” form of these lovelies, they can stand up to patterned or opaque tights. Blasphemy you might say. I know. I already told you that I am not a big fan of tights with open-toe shoes but you also know about my obsession for Wolford hosiery, which are in a class all their own. These shoes typically have a zipper or significant buckle which makes the pairing of the tights a much better fit than a simple sandal or peep-toe. I see this style taking you right through Fall, which is why they are an excellent choice.

What’s the rage in your cage? Share your caged shoe ideas. I’m cooking up my Spring must-haves and this one is on the list!

Go forth and be caged.

PS: Since I posted this I came across fellow fashionista, Sabrina, who put together this amazing list of caged and cutout shoes! Enjoy!

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Rue La La features L.A.M.B – ooh la la!

Michelle A Heath — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:46:51 +0000

If you haven’t become a Rue La La addict yet, it’s bound to happen soon. Rue La La is the online shopping site for people who love famous brands, star-style and the magic of discovering a great deal. For those of you who know me, you know that I am the girl that manages to find the $750 bag for $99 at TJ Maxx. (Ah, the perils of my stylish eye.) Rue La La is the ultimate destination because of their fabulous prices, great brands and their ability to get you to act..fast. You see, a “boutique” will open for say 48 hours. The countdown begins. Love that ToyWatch? Better scoop it up or it will be gone in seconds. Want those Prada boots? Fuggedabout it. Gone in minutes.

As if that all isn’t enough, Rue La La gives members a $10 credit for inviting other members to join. Great way to incentivize people to do their marketing. Want to join? Here’s my referral link. Pay it forward, baby.

L.A.M.B. "Zada" Nude & Forrest Leather Sandal

Now, on to the ooh la la. For the next 2 hours, you’ll find one of my favorite fabulous and stylish brand on Rue La La. L.A.M.B. Who can resist the most stylish, Gwen Stefani, and her L.A.M.B line of shoes? These coveted, funky, sexy kicks get better and better each season but typically run over $350 (thus my coveting them). Until noonET today, on Rue La La, they are over 50% off. Yes, my dear fashionista, you can now make Gwen proud by strutting your stuff in your deal of the century.

My only word of caution with Rue La La? Don’t fall prey to “I’ll come back later”. I have done this before and would peruse Rue La La, look around, put a few things in my bag and…come back later only to find out that they were gone. If you love it, buy it. Don’t wait only to miss out on a terrific deal. They have a 30 day return for merchandise credit for pretty much all items. Go get yourself some ooh la la today!

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Jimmy Choo and wristbands too

Michelle A Heath — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 02:16:43 +0000

I have some pretty exciting news for you Jimmy Choo lovers out there who, like me, covet thy stilettos but alas cannot part with $500+ for a pair.

Your day, my fellow fashionista, has come.

H&M just announced that they are launching Jimmy Choo for H&M. Now, that’s hot.

The launch happens on Saturday, November 14, 2009. According to the H&M website, they are expecting a crowd and are providing wrist bands to the first 160 people in line. Wrist bands to buy shoes? I’m sorry, is this 1986 and am I trying to get Bon Jovi tickets at the local music store? Holy, flashback. Okay, back to the shoes.

Here’s the deal. You need to go to this link to see the collection and find out if the pieces you like are available in your area.

Queue record scratching music. After literally clicking on every item and the “collection locator” link, I am disappointed to say that seems Boston is not worthy of Choo’. We are not on the list . Okay, I know we are no NYC or LA but, honestly, how can a company create a launch and get us all excited and then tell us we can’t get the product? The most frustrating part is that you can’t buy anything online at H&M. Maybe this is more a beef with H&M itself than just the Choo situation but how can you sell stuff in this day and age (man, I sound like my mother) and not have the ability for someon to buy it online?

So, if you do live in Cali, NYC or The Windy City, you’re in luck. Here are some of the gorgeous picks, mostly all under $200.

Jimmy Choo for H&M

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The Stylish Eye Fall Fab Five

Michelle A Heath — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 22:58:09 +0000

The biggest question I’ve had over the past few weeks is…”What’s your top-five must-haves for Fall?” I’ve been thinking about it alot and, I’ll tell you that it’s not easy to pick only 5 must-haves for Fall. It’s hard to pick only a handful of things to add to your wardrobe when confronted with the many choices of great Fall trends. But, IMHO, these trends will survive more than one season and will easily mix, match and update your wardrobe in no time. Why 5? It’s easy to remember and nice to your wallet. So, focus on the Fab Five and consider it your personal shopping list. Each picture is a link to the item in case you want to consider adding it to your Fall wardrobe. Here goes…

Robbi & Nikki Bow Shoulder Chiffon Top @ Nordstrom

1. Leopard-print anything. There’s nothing like a little call of the wild to spice up your Fall wardrobe. It’s an interesting trend that keeps coming back every few years. This year I’ve seen boots, pumps, belts, scarves, blouses, sweaters and coats (okay, the coat goes too far). I have a leopard-print J.Crew sweater that I bought about 10 years ago and it has somehow survived the test of time. Look for more “subtle” versions of the big cat, which will likely mix and match easier with the other items in your closet. I love this flouncy beauty – great shoulder detail and goes great with Fall Fab #2 and #4.

2. Ankle boots. I bought several pairs of these last season including an amazing pair of purple leather Faryl Robins, which I have already worn several times this season.

Pour la Victoire grey woven patent 'Elise' ankle booties @ Blue Fly

I am semi-obsessed with ankle booties and believe they will last more than one season. Here’s what’s great about ankle booties…there’s alot of different ways to wear them. You can wear them under a straight leg or bootleg pant or jean, which is a nice alternative to a tall boot against your skin all day or all night. You can wear them with a pair of skinny jeans for a very hip look a la Fall Fab #4. You can pair them with a super-opaque pair of tights and a short skirt. I think these grey patent leathers would look Fab with a red plaid miniskirt or kilt and black tights.

3. Colorful, textured scarves. Scarves were everywhere on the run-way and in the fashion mags. Everything from bright colors to ruffles to lace trim. Scarves are a great fall and winter accessory for a bunch of different reasons. They can take a very simple black blazer or navy pea-coat and add a serious punch of color and interest.

Hollywood Intuition Rouched Scarf in Purple @ Target

Scarves draw the eye up to your oh, so fab face – what’s better than that? They are a great way to update your wardrobe on a shoestring. Target, Kohls and all the discount stores have some great scarves for under $20. I say pick up a few different colors or patterns and see how you can mix and match them with your Fall wardrobe. PS: This Target scarf is UNDER $10. Now that’s a must-have!

4. Skinny jeans. I can’t get enough of these staple jeans. I love the J Brand jeans – they have great stretch and come in a fabulous dark wash and a super dark black wash.

J Brand Jeans 910 Super Skinny Jeans in Ink @ Cusp

They are great when paired with a long or flowy top or a layered cardigan and long tee. Contrary to popular belief, these jeans work on a wide variety of body types. I’ve heard so many women say “I could never pull those off!” Then, they try them on and they look amazing. But, if you don’t feel you can pull off the super-skinny look, try a straight-leg instead of the wider bootleg. It’s a nice change, an update for Fall and looks great with Fall Fab #1 and #2.

5. Long, layered necklaces. Again, another trend I can’t get enough of. I’ve seen lots of mixed metals, which is a fun way to combine gold and silver for a new look.

Aqua Multi Chain with Flower Necklace @ Bloomingdales

It’s a great way to integrate the embellished “rocker-chick” look that is a big trend this Fall and do it in an inexpensive way. A fab, long necklace can transform an outfit from blah to bling and take a tired dress or top and breathe new life into it. The runway is showing everything from pearls (not your grandmother’s pearls, mind you) to flowers, to chains to beads. I love this black and gold 22″ necklace from Aqua. It’s a great combo of feminine flowers and bows with rocker mixed metals…and a steal at $35. I think I might have to get one for myself.

As I think about how to make your Fall wardrobe fabulous, it’s not about buying an entirely new wardrobe – who has the time or money? It’s about picking a few great trends and transforming or rejuvenating your existing wardrobe. Now that’s smart and stylish.

There were so many other items that I could have thrown into the mix but these were my top picks. So, what’s on your Fall Fab list? Would love to hear your style ideas.

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