Throw Caution To The Wind When You Style Your 6 Essential Fall Pieces

By Brian Maynor

 

For years the rules of fashion were dictated to us, but now we are seeing an end to that system of edicts and mandates.

Thanks to social media, fast fashion and the internet, the world of fashion is in a state of flux and the old rules no longer seem to apply.

Last week I talked about the six pieces everyone could wear this fall regardless of your style preference or budget.  Today let’s look at a few ways to style them that break all of the rules you may still be clinging on to:

1.    A new season means a new wardrobe.  This was the impetus for last week’s article where I pointed out that six pieces are really all you need to add for a perfectly usable and stylish fall wardrobe.  Plus look at our weather patterns.  It’s November and 85 degrees.  While you may not want to repeat your summer looks, with a few pieces like I mentioned last week you can tweak them to create new fall looks with little effort.

2.    Fall means drab.  Let’s face it, earth tones may be warm and comforting, but they can also be a bit blah.  Just because it’s fall does not mean you have to pack away your prints.  Whether you like floral prints or geographic ones, feel free to continue wearing them all season.  Nothing balances a grounded earth tone more than a punch of color.

3.    Layering is simply adding one more layer.  Technically this may be accurate, but it doesn’t really grasp the whole concept.  Layering is about adding multiple layers to your look giving you texture and versatility to adapt to changing environments.  The key to successfully combining multiple layers is to think of each piece as part of a puzzle.  Not only is the sum better than the parts, all of the pieces have to fit and work together.  Fabric, structure and weight are the three main elements you want to work with as you build your outfit.  Start with the lightest weight and bulk up as you layer, and keep the structure fitted to maintain a sense of shape.  Also vary the proportions of each layer to keep things interesting.

4.    Wearing white is perfectly all right.  Most people have accepted this fact, but for those in doubt trust me, you won’t be shunned.  Yes your tan may fade, and your head-to toe White Party look may be a bit much, but white pants, shirts and even shoes are perfectly acceptable fall and winter pieces.  Plus it’s a nice counterpoint to all of the dark colors that traditionally dominate this season.

As we start shopping for new outfits it’s easy to fall into ruts and habits of what we should be wearing based on outdated rules or what we normally wear.  This year, take a chance and break one of your own fashion rules.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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