Start With Color to Create Your Autumn Wardrobe

The start of a new fashion season is the signal to re-create one's look, and color is the starting point to restyling that image.

This season there's plenty of black (eternally chic), necessary neutrals (as seen in natural foliage and flowers, stones and the earth itself) and every possible gradation of gray, the season's easy glue that holds color combinations together.

But the berry palette and rich jewel tones are at fashion's forefront. Every shade of purple reigns supreme. Not your color choice? Then try bright, warm, glowing colors such as oranges, tans and browns. And blue notes are favorite hues this season, from midnight to powder to shocking shades.

Fabrics and Furs in a Material World
The season's shift toward dressed-up luxury means fabrics and furs are key considerations.

The cut and detail of an outfit is just as important as that outfit's finish and feel. The texture of a fabric, whether it is bold or has a three-dimensional surface, shares the season's spotlight with delicate floral lace and tweeds that are rustic yet country-style chic.

Opposite finishes attract attention; for example, sophisticated shine (sleek and smooth) vs. lush, plush (velvety soft) textiles. Many materials are expressions of ultimate luxury and are extravagantly decorated. Others are fabulously feathered.

And, of course, the ultimate in luxury is fur. PeekabooPop quiz: Which color pantyhose should you wear with a below-the-knee black dress and a pair of black peep-toe pumps? The point of peep-toe pumps is to give a glimpse of the toes through the peephole. For that reason, many women skip the hose when wearing the pumps. However, if you prefer to wear hose (which does give a more-polished look to an outfit), then choose a super-sheer style the same shade as your legs -- and toes. And make sure you select a sandal-foot style. You don't want unsightly seams or reinforcing peeping through the toes of your pumps. For an added touch of glamour, paint your toenails a deep, dramatic shade of red. - From wire reports (c) 2008 Virginian - Pilot. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All rights Reserved.
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