The fall fashion runways featured a vigorous resurgence of bold colors, faux fur, tuxes and tartan. The quandary is how to take all of these trends and translate them into a work wardrobe that can easily translate to evening wear for women on the go. With a few key fashion pieces, it’s easier than one might assume to seamlessly go from the conference room to a round of cocktails.
Bold Colors
Bold red and orange hues ruled runways at Gucci, Burberry Prorsum, Proenza Schouler, Lanvin and Diane Von Furstenberg. Even Kate Winslet in Elie Saab and Sophia Vergara in Vera Wang rocked the power of red at this year’s Emmys. An affordable option that is both daring and office-friendly is a sleeveless dress by Mango. The draped detailing and patent black belt are dressy but subtle enough to blend in at the office when paired with ballet flats and a fitted suit jacket. Ditch the jacket and add strappy heels for an instant evening look.
Menswear Inspired
Menswear inspired women’s fashion was all the rage at Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana and Givenchy. The tuxedo alternative to wearing a gown was introduced by Yves St. Laurent in 1966 with their “Le Smoking.” This fall, suits and tuxes remain a sexy and comfortable way to typify strength and glamour. A functional and affordable office option is Talbots’ wool boyfriend jacket and matching black trousers. A button down shirt and pumps are safe for the office. Depending on how daring you want to be for evening, you can wear the jacket without a top or with a low-cut lace camisole and a long beaded necklace or ornate lapel broach. A flashier top, like Tabots’ feather tank with sparkles, would circumvent the need for a necklace.
Faux Fur
A multitude of colorful furs were presented at Celine, Diane Von Furstenberg, Gucci and Emanuel Ungaro. Although one wouldn’t want to emulate Cookie Monster, an understated faux fur accessory or jacket in a neutral color adds luxury to any look. Rachel Zoe’s faux fox fur jacket comes in silver and red fox and can be paired with slacks, jeans or a little black dress. If a fur jacket seems excessive, then a faux mink neck warmer by Michael Kors is versatile enough to dress up most of your outerwear without the commitment of a permanent fur fixture.
Perfectly Plaid
Tartan was taken from Scottish kilts and Catholic schoolgirl uniforms and transposed to fall designs for Betsey Johnson, Angela Marani and Burberry Prorsum. Rachel Zoe’s single breasted plaid suit and tie-neck blouse homage to the 1970s is a timeless, fresh and accessible version of this trend. For evening, remove the jacket and add a bronze metallic clutch and chandelier earrings in a matching shade. Bright red lips would also complement an evening upgrade.
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