I shared my 10 Fall Essentials, but now realize it was a tad insensitive to dangle gorgeously expensive items at you when the economy is dire. To make up for it, I present the budget shopper's guide to Fall. It has similar items to my original list, only cheaper versions. You'll find nothing over $50. Does that sound good? Let's get the shopping festivities started with a jeweled stunner that adds spunk to any outfit.
We welcomed the new season by creating a list of Fab's 10 Fall Essentials. They're all the pieces we currently need to stay on top of our fashion game. Some may suit you, some may not, but we recommend them all. In case you missed it, here's a recap.
To see the rest, read more
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Like nude, lace has an elderly connotation. Alas, designer Miuccia Prada hated the fabric, so she decided to take on the big challenge of forming her entire Fall collection out of it. Genius. And let me assure you, this isn't your grandma's lace.
A brilliant start is incorporating lace into your wardrobe via legwear, like these Fogal Lace Tights ($47). Imagine what a welcome change they could provide to an entirely black ensemble. But don't stop at tights, embrace lace all over. Tops, dresses, skirts, shoes — the lacier the better!
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One thing you must remember to do this season is to adorn; I'm not suggesting draping yourself in loads of jewels, but make a statement.
This stunning Tom Binns Neon Stone Cuff ($825) is sure to cause a rouse. I love the juxtaposition of the timeless black leaf motif and the modern neon stone. When it's this hot, all you need is one jeweled stunner.
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Thanks to many of the Fall collections, what was once the symbol for grunge is now the sign of aristocracy. That doesn't mean you have to throw out your flannel shirt, but for Fall, invest in some prim and proper plaid. This Banana Republic Silk Tie-Neck Plaid Blouse ($79) is the perfect place to start.
Of course, I wouldn't want you to look too prissy; I recommend pairing your pretty plaid with black stovepipe jeans and funky booties. If you don't want to buy a new piece, try tucking your grungy plaid shirt into a high-waisted pencil skirt. How does that sound?
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We've been counting down our Fall essentials, and at the same time I have decided on my succinct Fall style. You know the one. The one from the Fall collections you can't stop obsessing about. For me, it's Burberry's luxed up grunge girl. For this polished but funky vibe, a sweet beanie is in order. This Simply Vera Vera Wang Bow Skull Hat ($25, originally $35) is sweet as candy, and on sale.
How about investing in one cool bag this season instead of buying three or four mediocre ones? I'm thinking about taking the plunge with this Silver Marni Balloon Bag ($1,960) that Reese has in brown and black. In the words of Rachel Zoe, "I die." I gave this decadent piece a test run in a store and fell in lust. It's ultra-light and sleek. The shape is '20s fabulous and I adore the utilitarian strap. Does it get any better?
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Cardigan obsession right here — especially J. Crew ones. I know what you're thinking: Cardigans are so prim and proper. Au contraire. They are excellent layering tools and there are more ways to cinch one than simply buttoning (try buttoning in the back or doing an old-school tie knot in the front). You don't want to know how many gray cardigans I have — my go-to for travel and lazy Sundays — so I'm thinking I need some punchy colors for the shorter days and colder nights. Call it cardi therapy. This J.Crew Crystal-button colorblock cardigan ($118) outshines the rest. The "silver honey" color is, in fact, punchy and the crystal buttons deliver my daily does of bling. Take note from SJP and pair this with my purple funky booties.
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I've been collecting booties a couple seasons now, so I already have the quintessential black, and I even have the off-kilter gray. Bootie power is still going strong — it's time to mix things up. Many celebrities and fashion folks are looking to rock 'n' roll black leather and gold studs for their tough fix, but I'm digging a little deeper. Glam rock anyone? These Stuart Weitzman Platform Booties ($355) aren't your next door fashionista's bootie. The purple hue is right out of Velvet Goldmine, the brown wooden platform is boogie night ready, and the open toe plays peekaboo.
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To many, the color nude immediately conjures up images of granny underwear. It's time to banish those images and welcome nude with open arms. It's already gearing up to be one of the colors of the season, so start incorporating it into your wardrobe. It should be easy because the color is not limited only to tops. It's current on dresses, skirts, footwear, bags, you name it.
If you're still hesitant, buy a nude item that incorporates black in it, like this Marciano Agathe Tank ($88). For a more casual approach, invest in a few nude tees and tanks like Leighton Meester.
