ASK THE EXPERTS :: Trends

Sarah C, StyleIT

On what's hot....right now!

We caught up with Sarah, editor of StyleIT, to get the low down on all the "IT" looks. 

As always, black.  Those who make statements like "brown is the new black" are attempting to call something that realistically won't happen.  The designers can show a lot of colors on their runways, but it's up to us as to how we want to wear it.  Black is here, and it's very visible.  A lot of accent colors are popping up right now with black, such as white and red. 

What styles are hot?

What has been incredibly evident, aside from the skinny jean and boot trend, is a lot of tops and dresses with distinctive shapes.  The basics aren't so basic anymore—they have a bubble or a trapeze, or some interesting, distinctive characteristic, and I really like that.

Some are saying the skinny jean is out.  I think if the skinny jean flatters your shape, that you should continue wearing it.  Stick to what is flattering more than what is "in". 

What can you not live without?

 Leopard pumps and flat boots.

Who is the best dressed celebrity on the red carpet?  (You can name a few if you want)

Picking celebrities is always tricky, because you never really know if they create and control their image, or if they pay someone $6,000 a day to do it for them.
Male: Patrick Dempsey, Leonardo DiCaprio
Female: Tinsley Mortimer, Sarah Jessica Parker, Ivanka Trump, Drew Barrymore, Daphne Guiness

Off the redcarpet?
Male: David Beckham
Female: Hilary Duff, Gwen Stefani, Kylie Minogue, Rachel Bilson

What is your definition of style?
My definition of style is someone who has the strength to go to their own closet, pick out something effortlessly and it be fantastic and on point.  Some people have mass amounts of natural style, and the rest need a little guidance.  Brilliant style can come from anywhere.

 Who is your style icon?
There isn't one person who I continuously admire their look.  I think Hilary Duff always looks adorable.  I admire Dita von Teese for having a defined look, and taking chances.  Kristin Davis still has a bit of Charlotte from SATC in her, because we're still seeing that chic, pulled together look.  I think every woman years to look that classy and effortless.

If money was not an issue, what item do you dream about?
Leopard YSL Muse bag.  The more I saw the Muse at Fashion Week, the more I lusted after the leopard bag.  Leopard is one of those trends that will always be here, but its strength comes in waves. 

If you could have anyone's closet, whose would it be?
Sarah Jessica Parker's, without a doubt.  She makes smart fashion choices and doesn't follow the latest trends.  She wears the big labels but she also contributes to the small design houses as well.  She walks the fine line between polished and a bit funky.  Perfect.

Who is your favorite designer?  

My favorite designer has always been Yves Saint Laurent.  The man was a genius.  Karl Lagerfeld is a genius in today's market, with Chanel, Fendi and Lagerfeld Gallery, the man is really dictating what we wear at a designer level.  During Fashion Week, the Sass & Bide show always stuns me. 
 
What are the must-have items for the season?  
Boots, boots, boots.  Fall is all about the statement boots.  To update your wardrobe, I'd really key in on buying items that fit and that compliment yourself rather than current trends.  Due to the society we live in, with all the different ways for us to access fashion information, it's really important to create your own sense of style.  Great fitting jeans, a chic coat or three (I love coats!) and boots who say who you are, whether they be flat, gladiator or wedge.

Is there any trends that we should watch out for?
Mixing brown and black.  It creates an effortless chic look that a lot of celebrities and fashionistas are doing.  A great pair of brown boots with a black top, or a black handbag with a brown top—I think it's a bit easier to do with brown accessories.  Don't be afraid to step out of the comfort zone.  Brown and black are no long taboo.

Also, white is making a big push for winter.  I wasn't initially a bit fan of this trend, however, it can look great, especially for men.  The Satorialist had a great shot of a guy in white loafers.  For women, it can be a bit more difficult—the white boots can look too costume.   A white bag might work better.

Are there any trends that you wish would dissappear?
Pets as accessories.  Pets are animals, and they have feelings.  Don't parade them around like the latest cause, and please don't dress them up worse than you'd dress yourself.  And honestly, we know that Uggs are over, and they've been over.  Seeing celebrities (ala Jessica Simpson) still wearing them, especially in 70 degree weather, makes me ill. 

What is the must-have accessory right now?
Everyone seems to be searching for the perfect swallow necklace, similar to one seen on Jessica Simpson.  I watch and add to Style Hive every day, and simple chain necklaces with bold, statement charms are something to definitely watch.  I'm totally in love with this jewelry label called Alex and Chloe.  They make the perfect examples of the statement charm with a simple chain—dark silhouettes of models, antlers, Kate Moss, double c's with skull and crossbones, and swords.  One of these necklaces would be a great update.

Perfect Outfit for day:

All it takes for this fall season is a good pair of statement boots, and confidence to be yourself.  Gladiator with lots of buttons, or wedge, it's definitely all about the boots.

Perfect Outfit for night:

For night, I'd love to see more women stepping out in a great dress.  It's one easy piece, and you can change it from season to season with different accessories.  

Perfect Outfit for a date:

On a date, it's great to have this 'effortless chic' look, like Rachel Bilson and Mischa Barton.  Great pair of jeans, I'd choose flats (but depending on your height and his height, you could go for a wedge) and a looser top belted.  A medium size belt is best, not too skinny and not too wide (we don't want to scare the poor guy, now do we?).  Natural makeup and glossy lips.