Splendid September

September is such a beautiful month here in east Tennessee and our surrounding mountains.

Last evening we celebrated all of the September birthdays in my family by having dinner together at the fabulous Artisanal restaurant in Banner Elk, North Carolina.

The black tank, jacket, and pants are part of Chico's Travelers Collection. I wore suede D'Orsay pumps from Sam Edelman with silver and crystal earrings and bracelets. The small clutch is the same silver-gray as the jeweled button on my velvet trimmed tuxedo jacket.

This is the Knob Creek Brethren Church, the first Brethren church in Tennessee, being established in 1799. It is very close to my home, and I have photographed it on several occasions over the years because it is surrounded by such beautiful trees that are now starting to take on their splendid fall colors.

Wear It Wednesday - Fall!

Since my teenage years, a fall ritual has included buying a stack of fashion magazines when they come out with those giant editions in September.

For several weeks I engross myself in fashion trends for the season. When I get the overall picture in my mind, I will purchase a few key pieces to look more current.

Here's a tour of fall fashion trends I spotted over and over again.

Fringe showed up on vests, sweaters, jackets, belts, shoes, necklaces, earrings, and even handbags.

Long tunics over leggings worn with boots continue to be a favorite look.

Leather adds texture and interest, no matter if it is real or faux.

Animal print is here to stay! I look for black and white for my cool complexion.

Quilted jackets, pants, vests, and coats look great if they don't add too much bulk.

The classic combination of black and red with a touch of animal print still gets my attention.

Faux leather showed up in total pieces or trim on countless jackets, pants, skirts, and dresses.

A scarf not only keeps us warm but can also tie together an outfit and make all the difference when wearing neutral solids.

Pewter or gray was seen more times than ever before. We have to be careful of gray near the face because it can wash us out if we don't color our hair. I look for silver-gray, such as this loose-fitting jacket from Chico's Black Label collection.

Leather pants or coated jeans were a statement piece that showed up in almost every fashion spread this fall.

Leggings and jeggings are still a basic we should always have on hand. Remember to cover your bottom with a long top or jacket.

Subtle patterned jeans and leggings are showing up everywhere!

Animal print short boots can be worn with every style of pants to look very chic. 

Boots with leggings and a tunic or long jacket are always a great look at any age.

Tassels and animal print touches are great to wear with neutral colors.

Interesting cuffs can be worn with turned up sleeves for a more elegant look.

Car Coats are showing up everywhere. This is the one I purchased from Ann Taylor Loft. The length looks fabulous with narrow leg pants and leggings with boots.

I hope you have enjoyed my take on fall fashion for fall 2014 and that it helps you add a few key pieces to your own wardrobe.