| Style
Guide
Fall/Winter 2008/2009
Though Fall/Winter 2008/2009 is difficult
to sum up in one sentence, it is accurate to note that the
top styles for Fall 2008 are bold, inspired, and varied,
with toned down colors of summer, muted metallic, and carry-overs
from past seasons. Decadent
layers of necklaces and long pearl ropes capture our interest!

Top runway looks are clearly influenced by
the elegance and decadence of the roaring ‘20s, and
vintage hippie style of the ‘70s. Other prominent
themes include military, gothic, country chic, Boho, and
art deco. How are these over-used styles incorporated into
new looks for Fall/Winter Style 2008? Well, almost anything
goes, as long as it stays within the loose confines of taste
as outlined below, and makes a clearly defined impact; in
other words, choose one theme upon which to build your style.
Colors: Think summer brights
as seen through a dark lens: the bright sunny yellow of
summer days, vibrant orange, aqua, bright pinks, and sapphire
blue hues of summer fun, sun and water lose their bright
jeweled hues. Shorter days and subdued light bring darker
tones for Fall. Yellow squash, pumpkin orange, burgundy,
and deep dark purple shadow the runway, as well as teal,
navy, magenta, and all shades of red. What would our fall/winter
backdrop be without brown and gray? Add perpetually fashionable
classic black, of course, and this season’s fall/winter
color palette is complete.
Fabrics/Cuts/Styles: Some
top looks for Fall/Winter 2008/2009 are as follows: Tops:
White ruffled or daintily pleated silk blouses replace the
standard white shirt. Simple
pearl stud earrings and matching bracelet are classic and
elegant.
Wear a long loose tunic, cinched at the waist and ending
above mid-thigh. Try a belted trench or short tweed micro
jacket. Angular and exaggerated sculptured coats are hot
on the Fall 2008 runway. Fur-lined hoods, scarves, sleeves
or full fur pelts can make a strong statement, though quilted
jackets are alternatively warm and textured. Bottoms: High-waisted
below-the-knee skirts and tweed pants, mismatched suits
and jackets are consistent staples this fall. Regarding
denim, choose flared jeans, skinny tapered jeans, rolled
up or cropped jeans, whatever best flatters your body type.
Dim metallic pants and leggings, or patterned tights can
spice up a skirt and boots. Short dresses remain a classic
for day or night, if paired with the correct footwear. A
classic single strand pearl necklace is classic, or try
a Tahitian pendant for added style.
Accessories: Shoes: Stiletto
heels are back, and look fabulous with dresses. Skirts with
over-the-knee boots pair nicely, as do skinny leg jeans
or leggings with jeweled flats or ankle skimmers. Suede
knee-high boots and gray leather are seen in abundance this
fall. Purses: Leather clutch purses or “baby bags,”
(love the burgundy patent Chanel seen on the Mercedes Benz
Fall/Winter 2008/2009 runway). Coordinate color to match
your outfit. Wear leather courier bags resting at the hip.
Jewelry: Layers of pearls mixed with chain, super-sized
costume jewelry, big link necklaces, art deco pieces, and
cuff bracelets are Fall favorites—anything goes, as
long as it makes an impact.
Pearls: Long
opera length or Sautoir ropes of large white, gray, or black
pearls bring back the decadence and elegance of the roaring
‘20s.
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