Although today’s forecast predicts clear skies and highs in the mid-80’s (thank you, Indian Summer) and my plans include a trip to the beach with my girls, I’ve spent my entire morning thus far STYLE STALKING.  I found some seriously inspiring looks, and I’m starting to create my list of Fall 2011 Trends!  Here gooooessss…
Numero Un: Smooth, classic colorblocking- au naturel style.  Last season’s colorblocking trend provoked severely graphic shapes of bold, electric shades, serving only to chop the body up and confuse the eye (sometimes good, sometimes not).  What I’m liking this year is the understated take on colorblocking using earthy colors and fabrics to bring graphics and classics together in simple, non-dizzying harmony.  Now, isn’t that something to smile about?

Numero Duex:  Vintage hints.  I know, burgundy, navy, cream, and chestnut all seem like no-brainers when it comes to fall fashion, but this outfit has a whoooole ‘nother thing going…The men’s style hat, tiny polkadots, circular cut of the skirt, newsboy flap on the bag and classic clubmaster shades are all nods to another era.  While they may not literally be salvaged from the closet of a 1950’s housewife (or her husband, for that matter) they suggest the subtle coolness of the styles that inspired them.  Paying homage to those trends that came before you…now that’s what proper fashion is all about.

Numero Trois:  A new kind of sex appeal.  One of my personal favorites, this trend involves wearing several über sexy pieces with one very business-oriented outfit staple.  Here, the look is created with a sex kitten bustier top, a non assuming leather skirt cut in the always ladylike pencil shape, and an all-work-no-play blazer.  Crisp.  Sexy.  In control.

Numero Quatre:  Bring summer pieces to the fall-party with DIY embellishments.  This clever outfit  has me pulling out my needle and thread and button collection!  Okay, sorry, that was embarrassing.  Anyway, don’t you just love the casualness of the beading on these short shorts?  And the random placement of that teeny black lingerie-esque bow?  Believe me when I say I will be spending my entire night removing teeny bows from my underwear and sewing them onto sheer sweaters.

Numero Cinq:  It’s bring your flannel to work day!  That’s right, folks.  Flannels are no longer reserved for Sunday nights in front of the TV with a jar of peanut butter or dusting the dining room table.  For the first time ever, they are being dolled up, and boy do they clean up nice!  Update a monochromatic outfit with your favorite cozy flannel, it’s fresh and totally unexpected (and super comfy, too!- just be sure to check for peanut butter stains first).

Numero Six:  The boyish drop-wasit tuxedo dress.  Yes, it’s specific, but I swear it will be EVERYWHERE this season.  Or at least I hope it will, because I’m in love and I needs me one of these dresses!  Also, the CD case-shaped crossbody is having a moment.

That’s the list so far…stay tuned for more updates!  I’m off to get some Vitamin D! Ciao dollies.