Layers are Great!

Fall is in the air, which brings out the sweaters and jackets. This can be a great look for all figure types if you use layers to your advantage.

If you have long, lean legs, you can wear leggings or straight-leg jeans with almost any boot type. Just remember to balance the slender bottom half with a layered longer top half. 

Create a long slender line with one color in different tones. Add color around your face with a scarf and a long cozy sweater.

If you have a few extra pounds around the middle (don't we all?!), remember to keep those first layers smooth and sleek. The sweater may have to come off as the day gets warmer, so I normally wear a large scarf as well. Later in the day, it will be the outer layer I drape across my shoulders when I have to take off the sweater for the afternoon.

Petite Layers

If you are petite (5' 2" and under), a cropped cardigan or jacket and tailored pants will likely work better for you. Wear a smaller silky scarf and carry a more tailored messenger bag. The best jacket or sweater for you will end at your hip bone or just below your natural waist and close in a V shape. Steer clear of double-breasted closures.

An Evening Out

Mickey and I are on our way to an evening fundraiser. My jacket is a very lightweight wrap style with a collar, and I'm wearing a black tank under it. The lined black crêpe skirt is a bit shorter in the front and has a ruffle. The black satin sandals are by Sam & Libby. 

Over the years, I have collected pieces that are appropriate for evening wear. I mix and match them to create looks for the numerous evening events we attend. When I'm shopping, I always look for pieces that will work well with this mix. I can never find anything if I go shopping at the time of the event, so I've learned it's good to be prepared for anything with separates that can be paired together. (Actually, this philosophy extends to my daytime wardrobe as well.) 

I normally wear only one piece of major "bling" for the evening. Here I've added a dinner ring with a big pink stone mounted in antique silver. I always wear earrings because my ears are pierced, but they are very understated diamond wide half hoops. Resist the temptation to wear every shiny thing you own for the evening. That makes you look much older and too cluttered. The tiny evening bag is woven black satin with a simple silver ball closure. Always switch to a small bag for the evening.

Thanks for all your sweet birthday wishes yesterday. I had a wonderful day!