Sep 25, 2011

How To Add Edge This Fall

The transition from the lazy days of summer into an overscheduled fall has left me in need of a little extra attitude to put that boost back in my step and that fire in my eyes. As a result, I’ve been a bit preoccupied with figuring out ways to add some edge to my look. Normally, if I were asked to describe my style in three words, those words would be ‘classic,’ ‘pretty,’ and ‘preppy.’

Ann Taylor Fall Collection

But every now and again, even the sweetest of us dressers wants (or needs) to add some attitude to her outfit. After all, you don’t want people to forget that under that sweet exterior is a strong confident woman. (And you especially don’t want to forget that yourself!) But how does one add edge to an outfit while still staying maintaining personal style this fall? I decided to do some investigating.

This fall, leather is everywhere. A leather jacket is a classic staple of any wardrobe, but never fails to pack an edgy punch. The cropped fitted styles that are so in right now look so polished. I absolutely love them. In fact, my first big fall purchase was this leather jacket from Ann Taylor. The motorcycle jacket style quickly gives off a vibe that says ‘I live dangerously’ even when paired with your basic jeans, t-shirt and flats. Of course, there are a ton of different cropped leather jacket styles from a whole variety of brands, but this particular jacket comes with an added bonus: the inside is lined with cheetah print. For an effortlessly cool weekend look, pair with a white shirt and bright scarf. Add a leather jacket and you will instantly feel like a woman in charge no matter what you’re doing.

Steve Madden for Nordstrom

Another great leather trend to try: short lace up boots. Wear them with the laces undone and the tongue pulled out for that undone cool girl look. After all, real attitude doesn’t care what anyone else thinks. Paired with a sweet dress, these boots are just the right amount of tough. Besides, they make a lot of sense as a boot you can comfortably wear out and about while still looking completely stylish. And yes, there is something about their functionality that makes them even edgier. After all, you’re not out for an aimless stroll; you’re on a mission. You don’t have time to worry about the shoes getting you there. (As far as the mission goes, you decide what that is.)

If leather isn’t for you, there are other even simpler options for that added attitude. A wardrobe with a neutral palette may be simple and classic, but does not exactly scream attitude. It can if you bring in some contrast though. Spice it up a little this fall by adding a nice bright pop of color to your outfit. Red is not only the go-to ‘oh so sexy’ color, but it also happens to be ‘oh so right now.’ I think this blouse from Francesca’s Collection is a great piece to wear under a blazer or with just about any of your favorite basics. As far as adding a little bit of attitude to your look, red is what you might call ‘a sure thing.’

Another more unexpected option is mustard yellow. It may be a little outside your comfort zone, but if you can pull off this season’s hottest color, go for it! Right now, I love pairing my clingy mustard yellow top with a pair of herringbone pants and a nude heel. Adding a funky vibe to an otherwise basic outfit is an instant mood boost, so get ready to radiate confidence. The bottom line: pair your classic pieces with a couple of stand out fall fashions and you will have a look that is timeless without being stagnant. -Grace Berchem, Contributing Writer

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