Are You Ready For Pre-Fall? – Start Planning Your New Wardrobe Now

By Brian Maynor

 

 

I know it’s only the first of August, but summer is rapidly coming to a close and that means it’s time to starting thinking about changing your wardrobe.

 

Pre-Fall use to be a few items teasing us before the full fall roll out weeks later, but now it has turned into a full-fledged season of its own.  You can check out some of your favorite designer’s shows at www.style.com.

 

With the tax-free weekend here every store will be running sales, which makes it the perfect time to not only stock up on your wardrobe staples and last minute summer purchases, but also snap up some of the early fall offerings.  Here are a few tips that will help you know what to wear now and what you’ll be reaching for later:

 

1.   Summer Sales.  With no new summer merchandise hitting the stores, this weekend will be the last time to pick up those items that need to be replaced or incorporated into your summer wardrobe before they start disappearing.

There’s no guilt in replacing items that you’ve worn out and stocking up on extra ‘go tos’ because you know you’ll wear them, but if you’re thinking about adding something new, remember while you may have to put the sandals and swimsuits away at the end of summer, other pieces make perfect layers later in the year.

2.   Fall Preview.  What started as a teaser for fall is now a complete collection singularly focused on bridging the gap between seasons.  These transitional pieces, however, work perfectly during the entire fall in warmer climates like ours because the fabrics are lighter while the colors and textures are seasonally appropriate.  That seasonal appropriateness is exactly what you will be looking for during September and October we are still having hot days, but you want to wear something fall-ish.

3.   Moderation.  When you hit the stores definitely look around, try things on and take advantage of the savings but add one small step before rushing to the checkout.  Understanding Pre-Fall items are limited in number and availability this one step will help you avoid buyer’s remorse and make sure the pieces will work for you.  Before getting in line pop back into the fitting room and lay everything out for one last review.  Place all of your ‘definite purchases’ in one pile and then start prioritizing everything else.  The key here is to think ahead and picture how many ways you can wear each piece now and during the fall.  This will help you determine if the item is a good investment or a splurge.

 

Just like trying on swimsuits in January, thinking about sweaters and coats in August is hard, but unfortunately that’s how the retail cycle works.  You don’t have to build your entire fall wardrobe now, but it is time to start thinking about it.

 

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.

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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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