By Natasha Mayinda, Fashion Editor

 

In the coming weeks, leaves will start turning a rustic copper color and the air will have the crisp feeling of autumn. What better way is there to keep us optimistic than planning our fall wardrobe? With the recession still looming for most of us it is more important than ever to know which pieces to keep and what qualifies as strategic purchases. For bigger purchases, try to make sure that they will last several seasons and that they are of good quality. Shopping to experiment with new trends can be relegated to more budget friendly brands. You don’t have to spend a fortune to look rich and have fun with your style.

 

One of the hottest trends of the season is the reinvented ‘80s. Strong shoulders and mini tulle skirts channel the return of Material Girl. On the runaway, the after hours dresses are loaded with sequins and mini dresses. Channel your inner fierceness with Helmut Newton inspired wardrobe. Pair your skin-tight mini dress with thigh high boots, one of the must-have items of the season, and if you are considering investing in a pair, Stella McCartney’s boots are not only fabulous, but they are also animal friendly. For party dresses, Herve Leger is still one the hottest labels and their skin tight dresses are the epitome of rock chic aesthetics. For more affordable dress options, Preen Line and Alexander Wang deliver 1980s cut-out dresses but with a clever, modern twist, a and don’t hesitate to accessorize with a silver knuckle ring to add extra punch.

 

Another prominent trend from the 1980s is the exaggerated shoulder. For those who love to accentuate their shoulders or who are looking to balance their pear shaped bodies, the selections are endless. A Carolina Herrera pleated neck satin blouse is an elegant top that is forgiving and it can be worn for those over the age of thirty-five. For the young and the more fashion forward, Balmain has amazing jackets with pronounced shoulders that will literally rock your fashion universe. More affordable substitutes can be found at Topshop. Wear a jacket to dress up your favorite T-shirt and skinny jeans for a casual night out or you can wear the jacket with your shift dress to the office. Keep your look sleek and maintain a streamlined silhouette during the day, by wearing minimal jewelry, but after sunset, you should pile on the hardware to create a tantalizing impact.

 

For those of us who want to explore our more sensual self, let us indulge ourselves with transparent fabrics that will give us more than just sheer pleasure. Designers such as Alessandro Dell Acqua and John Galliano have designs that ooze sexy sophistication and desses with sheer lace panels from Stella McCartney are an effortless option for your next romantic night out, when paired with over the top heels. Those who love to make a more risky fashion statement should refer to Nina Ricci sheer pants for inspiration, because transparency doesn’t have to be restricted to those areas above the waist. Semi-sheer skirts can be arrestingly cheeky, just remember to wear a slip underneath to avoid any uninvited attention. 

 

Another notable trend seen on various runaways is the lacy bralettes, which are reserved for those who are religious about their yoga. This piece is best reserved for the time when your summer tan is still glowing. If worn with a tailored pantsuit or under sheer sweaters and with confidence, a lacy bralette becomes a statement piece that will inevitably freshen up your wardrobe and fashionista status. The cardinal rule for dressing particularly applies here, “Make sure everything fits to perfection.”

 

Essential for autumn’s chilly nights are the utilitarian outerwear and this season’s offering can feel overwhelming for some and may be overindulging for many. From the sporty leather jacket to cocoon like chunky knits, there is something for every (wallet) size. If you can only invest in one, consider what will best complement your lifestyle. Do you need something more structured for those corporate meetings or a blanket like wrap for easy travelling? The season’s highlights include classic blazers as seen on Prada, wrap coats on Alberta Ferreti, and Giambattista Valli down jacket. Fabulous coats and jackets don’t have to cost you a monthly paycheck. There are dozens of affordable options, such as a Twenty8Twelve Truman military coat and Vince oversized cable jackets that are equally lust-worthy.

 

The credit crunch may not be over, but there is no excuse for not always looking like you are on top of your game. After all, what better way is there to celebrate surviving the worst downturn in the economy in decades, than to blissfully celebrate you?  

 

The Photo to the right features a Natasha Mayinda Design

Fashion Editor Natasha Mayinda is a Fashion Designer and the Creative Director for her own company. She specializes in exquisite cocktail and evening wear. She is a graduate of both the University of British Columbia and the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. She lives on Canada's west coast, in Vancouver, Canada.

 

Click here for printer friendly article