Tis the season to start preparing for the fall season and elevating your style.

Here’s an outline to help you get started so that your spending stays in check and you get your best fall looks ever.

Let’s start with some prep tips.

1.) Shop the magazine racks for Elle, Vogue, Allure, Glamour and Marie Claire. You’ll also want to browse the department store catalogues that arrive at the house. Tear out pictures of any styles that catch your eye. Also tear out pictures of items you already own or that are similar to ones you own. Take your fashion wish list with you.
Look for these items:
A classic suit
Smaller box handbag and clutch
Tailored pant, pleated skirt and a tailored jacket
(Note the lengths of the hemline as dresses and skirts are longer this season)
A splurge item like a shearling jacket or coat.
This fall’s styles include fuller skirts and longer cardigans.
Look for accessories such as belts that you can add to a suit or wear with a longer length cardigan.
Vary your textures and include cashmere, faux fur and knit dresses
Look for camel shades, buttery shades, burgundy, gray, olive green ( and any army green shades) and of course black.
Inspired 50’s looks
For heel heights look at the kitten heel and flats.

2.)Now is also the time to tackle your closet and assemble any summer pieces that can transition into fall.
Pieces that transition well:
Nude sling back or pump
Denim jacket
Ballet flats
Floral/Bohemian frock (best look knee length or calf length)
Floral blouse
Tunic or shirtdress
Sheath dress
Sleeveless little black dress LBD
Tuxedo or boyfriend jacket
Thin belts
Longer length cardigans
jeans
White shirt

3.) When you completed this task it will be time to hit all the best department stores and high-end boutiques, but don’t take your credit card or checkbook on this outing. This is an inspirational expedition only. Notice how the items are put together, check out the full price and take note of what stores had your favorite pieces. This way, when the sales start you can check online to compare prices. REMEMBER EARLY FALL SALES WILL START SOON!!!!!!

4.) The next step is to pull out your stored last fall’s fashions and weed out the items that need to altered to updated and pieces that just won’t make the cut, and you will save yourself from having a disjointed new fall look. You will by now be prepared and armed with the correct information and inspiration to start assembling your NEW fall looks and you’ll be more creative with this modern approach to styling.

Spending time now to do your research will save you time and money when you are ready to make your purchases and you will feel confident that you are not only getting the best deals but the best styles for you and items that will complete the gaps in your wardrobe.