The OTHER Way to Stay Warm this Season…

It’s that time of year again, time for our Pulse style team to bring you the fashions that will be turning the heat up this Fall/Winter season. We’ve got you covered from bottom to top and every inch in between.

Tops & Outerwear
By Emily Kopec

Jumbo-sized, bible-thick issues of Vogue and Elle clogging up the newsstands can only mean one thing ~ It’s fall! So bring on the fall fashion, bitches!

As painful as it was to finally put away our halters and tube tops after this year’s Indian summer (let’s all take a moment and pay our respects … R.I.P., cute skimpy tops, until summer ’08), it’s exciting to transition into a new wardrobe. Coats, sweaters, and layered tops become part of our daily identity, keeping us warm and stylish. Here are the hottest tops and outerwear trends this season:

Menswear Shirts

Always in style, menswear is huge in the sexiest of ways. Tailored, tuxedo blouses in silk & pressed cotton are fresh. Pinstripes really give a blouse that menswear flair. Make sure your top is fitted; you don’t want it to be oversized or you risk looking like a boy who raided his dad’s closet. Keep it streamlined. Also consider a bold houndstooth pattern, another way to rock this look. Layer a houndstooth sweater vest over a crisp white button-up shirt. You can button your shirt up to the collar or leave the top few buttons unfastened depending on whether you feel naughty or nice! Pair it with a pair of broken-in jeans, or – if you’re a high-fashion kinda gal – tuck your menswear blouse into high-waisted trousers. There are so many ways to play with this look, so be creative and mix it up.

Peacoats

This is another timeless piece we’re seeing everywhere this season. The key to nailing the trend is, again, making sure it’s fitted to your body. It should not look boxy in any way. If you’re trying on a peacoat and it’s your correct size yet it’s not cinched in a bit at your waist, put it back on the rack, girlfriend. The peacoat you’re looking for will be designed to contour in around your waist. Those that come with built-in belts tied in front are helpful in achieving this look. As far as the color, you can go beyond basic black, but we’re also seeing a ton of reds and purples (see below about purple!). Peacoats can go anywhere from casual to black-tie, so think about where you’ll be wearing it and how versatile you’ll need it to be when choosing your color. Peacoats typically get a lot of mileage, so black and grey always work well. Houndstooth is a bolder option for you die-hard fashionistas.

Purple Tops

Not since Barney’s heyday has purple been so popular. From eye-makeup to handbags and beyond, purple is on fire. Add at least one purple top to your fall wardrobe for an instant update. Need some ideas? One suggestion is a deep purple blouse with ruffle details; another is a cozy cashmere eggplant sweater. Make sure the shade of purple you choose is flattering to your skin tone (purple can be funny like that); when in doubt, ask a trusted friend.

Swing coats

Fabulous for fall before temperatures dip way low, swing coats are a stylish & easy solution for those chilly mornings. The ones we’re seeing are seriously cropped, have either one or a just a couple oversized buttons, and hang very loosely on bottom. The sleeves ~ often ? length ~ are also very loose and bell out at the ends. They swing, after all! Petite gals, this trend is a must for you because the shape and length of the coat flatters your shorter stature. Another great thing about swing coats? You kind can find them dirt-cheap. Check out Forever 21 for many options. Color-wise, I vote for black, but as Fiona famously said, “Go with yourself.” Speaking of celebs, Sienna Miller has the swing coat thing down to a pat. There are dozens of pics of her out and about rocking a swing coat. So cute.

Mantrend
Big Necklines

Following the slim silhouette set in women’s fashion this season, men’s shirts are fitting a bit on the snug side too. Look for tailored, smart cuts in your favorite fabrics, as well as necklines dipping a little lower. Scoop-necks are wider and v-necks are deeper, so go ahead and show off that sexy collarbone! Now hold up, this trend is not meant to look cheesy ~ when done right, it comes off as a surprisingly clean-cut look, not like you’re a pimp in training. Shy guy? Take a baby step & unbotton the top few buttons of your favorite shirt. There, that was easy. Now try incorporating a new cable-knit sweater or thin pullover into your wardrobe with an updated neckline. Chicks will dig it.

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Fall Pants and Jeans

By Alicia Galanto
High rise, Low rise, dark wash, colors, skinny, flare, boot, wide leg… It’s overwhelming, isn’t it? Don’t fret; this is your think-free guide to getting the best pants.Before I even begin to get in to what’s hot and what’s not for fall, let me quickly go over the rules. First and foremost ~ every shopper needs to know and accept the fact that all trends are not going to look good on all people. With that in mind, pick the trend that best suits your figure and your style and stick to that. Don’t force anything that isn’t working ~ always opt for something that is equally stylish but more flattering to your body type. Most importantly, fight social pressure to wear the things that celebs are wearing. Let’s face it; the average person doesn’t look like them and we can’t pretend we do. Lastly, when shopping for pants, be in the mood for it. Want to shop. Moving forward…Pants can make or break any ensemble. It is important that you use your best judgment when putting together an outfit. Jeans are not just jeans.Flare ~ This term usually refers to the widening of the pant leg as it approaches the ankle, a very popular type of pant and surprisingly flattering on almost every body type. The flare is a spin-off of the bell bottom from many moons ago. It’s best for fuller thighs because it masks the dramatic change in leg size from the waist down. It also works because it can be paired with any footwear: sneakers, stilettos, flip flops, or sandals.

Wide Leg ~ Wide legged pants are going to be huge this fall! Make sure you get at least two pair, preferably one in denim and one in a dress pant material. They are best worn with high heels to keep them from making you look stubby. With heels, your legs are automatically elongated (a girl’s dream) and because of the wide bottoms, the attention is drawn to your upper leg where the pants fit a little tighter; flattering your thighs and butt! Don’t forget, though, be cautious when purchasing. Make sure you try them on and clearly evaluate from all angles (we LOVE three-way mirros!) before sporting them for a night out on the town.Skinny Leg ~ A Hollywood trend that isn’t going anywhere (thank goodness!). Skinnies seem to be worn by a lot of girls that shouldn’t be wearing them. Just because they’re trendy doesn’t mean you should go out and by them. They are best for slender figures (slender is not the same as skinny) and are perfect for dress up and casual; create all different looks with everything from flats to heels to ankle boots or knee-highs….

Lastly, Ripped jeans are fading out (can’t say I’m too upset!) fast so replace them with dark leggings and bold colored tights for the season!

GUYS

Fit is key. Maybe guys don’t know this, but the perfect fit isn’t baggy but also isn’t tight. That means no boxers showing and no frontal action (stop wearing girls’ pants). A little bit of room makes for a great look with any kind of button down or any kind of Tshirt. Also leave about an inch extra at the bottoms of the legs so that dress shoes won’t give you high-waters and sneakers won’t leave them dragging. The best thing about men’s pants is that they can be used very interchangeably. Find the best pair of pants to go from day to night without needing to change anything but your shirt. It makes life much easier.

Skirts and Dresses

By Alicia Galanto

I’m really happy to say that pencil skirts are out and spacious skirts are in. Skirts for fall are not so tight fitting that only models can wear them ~ but they are also not too big and flowy, either. Fitted, waistline-defining skirts are drawing all the attention this season. Not only are they comfortable, but knits and cashmere hug the body in all the right places. Skirt length is crucial ~ knee length or just above it is a good choice for everyday purposes, and an occasional short skirt can work for the club or a sexy date.

Dresses this season are going to be figure flattering because they are designed to accentuate curves! Long sleeves and neckline detail such as collars are really great for fall, as are jackets over dresses. Pocketed dresses really came out over the summer and didn’t catch on as I had hoped, but they are still around and showing up in fall collections too (yes!). A gathered bust is another feature to look for, and dresses with open backs, plaids, and sequins are hot as well.

Look for fabrics that look light weight but are heavily lined so that they are warm but don’t look frumpy. Pops of bold color are essential in a fall wardrobe because the color scheme this season is black, gray, and white. Try a black ensemble with bright pink tights or bright blue leggings. It sounds crazy but looks fabulous with a pair of knee high boots ~ you get the bold color but not so much that it’s overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to mix different shades of gray with black or white with gray or all three. Create your own look by mixing; try not to be matchy, be original!
Bag Borrow or Steal, possibly the greatest invention since the creation of …I don’t know, the WORLD???…has just introduced its vintage line.Bag fiends of the world, UNITE! bagborroworsteal.com
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Dressing it up a bit
By Christine R. Walsh

This year Fall means fashion and fantasy. The season’s clothes are not for the humble, the meek, the mousy. If you were blushing as you read that line, feel free to stay home in your t-shirts, your random rack-grab jeans and sneaks. There’s no room for you in this diva-eat-diva day. Leave your wrinkled garb, your loose, low slung pants behind. Throw those graphic tees of summer out the window in favor for a more posh, refined look, especially during the darker hours. Think taught, think tailored, think twisted traditional.This season women have a chance to head back to those hazy daydreams of childhood when some of us dreamt of becoming the next Princess Bride. Romantic fantasy knows no boundaries. When making the scene, think of ruffled blouses, dark, finely fitting pants and boots that will make any man’s heart stop in his chest. Mood depending, use the black knee high leather boots to seduce, the cute brown ankle boots to flirt shamelessly and the suede flats to let him know “you’re really not that into him.”

If you’re rocking a dress, make the color bold, the pattern strong and hemline short. Think royal purple, cranberry, burnt orange, dark teal. Mix the chocolates with antique whites and pull off the plaids a’plenty. You needn’t worry if you cheated on the low-fat diet of summer. A-lines are cute and can make even the “tommliest” of the Tom Boys more feminine without calling undue attentions to waistlines.The adventure does not stop with the outfit. Accessorize and rock the big, bold colors in jewelry. Keep the earrings strong, but not scary – go for some simple red, brown or gold hoops. But knock the crowd out with rings that scream across crowded rooms. Add a thick bracelet to that dainty wrist and yank on sexy colored leggings that let your calves stun the locals. If it’s chilly, grab one of the many kittenish woolen coats that are in style. They’re gorgeous, girly and guaranteed to keep that fine butt warm.Men, you must rise to the couture occasion and be the Prince Charming of our dreams. For those of you with patience and pension towards design, your lines and your cuts must be perfect. Suits are all the rage this season. Rich gray suit jackets, accented with striking deep blues or rich purples in the ties will have GQ knocking at your door. You don’t have to break the bank when it comes to shoes, but you should give the impression that you did. Go with finely shined leathers with simple lines. And the guys who vomit in their mouths at the thought of “dressing up” can still survive this autumn time with a wardrobe that is casual, but layered. Opt for the long-sleeved shirts beneath the tees and accessorize with a charming boho knit cap and matching scarf. When jeans aren’t allowed at those nighttime hot spots, don’t despair. Grab some trendy cord pants. And if you’ve got a bolder side (or you’ve loosened up with a beer or three) then jump into those argyle pants. Patterned pants will be welcomed with open arms and finish the look with some coolly polished kicks. Enjoy this fashion fantasy freedom while you still can – the days of down-filled coats will be here soon enough. _________________________________________________________

What Lies Beneath…
A Woman’s Guide to Undergarments for Fall
By Nicole Steina

Fall is officially upon us and with the cooler weather comes a change in wardrobe. We put the sundresses and skirts away and bring out the wool sweaters and turtlenecks. But even though the outer layers change, one fact remains constant: the key to an amazing outfit begins with the skivvies, Ladies!
Visible Panty Lines are something we have all been guilty of sporting at some point in our lives ~ and they’re the sure fire way to ruin the look of an amazing outfit in an instant. When wearing a sweater dress or tight fitting pair of leggings, make sure you pair them with a string or thong ~ nobody wants to check out ya booty and see a pair of full coverage granny panties, trust me! Lo- rise jeans and cords are still popular and will be in all the stores and magazines, so go with a low rise panty to avoid the embarrassing peek-a-boo in the rear… Victoria’s Secret carries a full line of No-Show panties ~ all sorts of shapes and styles in a plethora of colors ~ so make sure you purchase the basic colors like black, nude and white, then add the hot colors to round out the collection and make for a more versatile panty collection. Target (aka: Tar Jay) and Walmart also carry cheaper but very similar lines. And if you’re a more modest gal and G-strings aren’t your cup of tea, all these stores also carry bikini and full coverage seamless styles…anything is better than the Granny Panties!!!
Bare legs in the fall are for the most part a fashion no-no ~ Let’s face it, they just looks plain silly when the rest of you is bundled up. I used to be one of those girls who’d rock the open toed shoes until the first snow fell, but many years and a few frost bitten toes later, I learned that it’s okay to put the pedicure away and dress sensibly! If you are wearing a skirt or dress it is so important to pair that outfit with the right hosiery ~ and luckily, there are lots of options out there. Tweed skirts have a huge presence this season and pairing yours with a thick pair of matching tights is a definite thumbs up. When shopping for tights it helps to take a look at your closet beforehand and make a list of the colors you’ll need to go with certain pieces; tweeds are fun because they have several colors in them and you can pair them with different tights and create entirely different looks. Cute corduroy skirts are everywhere this season, so try picking up a few pairs of thick wool socks, knee high length. Abercrombie & Fitch as well as Hollister and Aeropostale will have what you need!


Bras

Where do I begin? Fit and fabric are ultra important when it comes to selecting your foundation garments. There is nothing worse than an ill fitting bra under a tight top. It either says, “I gained a few pounds and refuse to admit it” or “I haven’t had a bra fitting since my mom took me to Sears for my tennis bracelet training bra.” Victoria’s Secret trains all of its employees in bra fitting and measuring ~ and it’s free and it takes literally 2 minutes (and you’re not obligated to buy anything!). Once you have found your “true” size, you’re ready to start picking out some hot styles. Again, I strongly recommend going through your fall wardrobe to see what you need in terms of colors, fabrics, and even “occasions,” if you know what I mean!! That hot pink or leopard bra in the window is cute but will you be able to wear it with anything in your collection? The rule of thumb with bras and panties underneath white or light colors is generally stick with nude. A white bra will show up more than a nude bra and nobody wants to see that ~ so if you have tight- fitting turtlenecks and sweaters make sure the emphasis isn’t on the lines that show through. Big, bulky sweaters give you the freedom to wear just about any bra, so go wild! Silky, lightweight blouses deserve a smooth undergarment so stay away from laces and thick materials that will bunch up and take away from the outfit!

Undergarments set the tone for our whole outfit… so if don’t fit properly or make you feel sexy, your outfit over them will reflect that. So start with sexy, layer on sexy, and you’ll feel and BE sexy!
I asked a few of my friends ~ guys and girls ~ what they think are the sexiest undergarments for the opposite sex. Here’s what they said!

Beth B ~ Underarmour, Tommy Hilfiger, Naked

Lance B ~ Black silk teddy, llack silk matching bra and thong, tight corsets

Joe V ~ I love a nice pair of lace thongs…very sexy.

Jodi B ~ Boxer briefs, there is just something about them…they hug all the right places.

Jeff D ~ Baby dolls, they are so cute!

Megan P ~ boxers, old fashioned boxers…I love the ones with cute pics on them.

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Toe-stopper
The once-over stops at the shoes.
By Sasha Fastovskiy

Nothing screams status as much as the almighty, covetous, silent stare that is the once-over. So much a part of our daily routine, with its the less-than-subtle head turn, the cunning eye flicks, the raised eyebrows, the up-and-down sweeping glare. Judgmental? Of course. Flattering? Absolutely; especially when you’re on the receiving end of The Jealous Once-Over. They’ll start with the hair, scroll down for a quick glance at the face, then indulge in the outfit, drop the eyes to the shoes… “Ooh, those shoes,” they’ll think. Oh yes, the shoes. With autumn and winter creeping up on us, the latest styles in shoes and boots will have them admiring your fancy footwear even as you fabulously flaunt your way out of there. Get ready to lace up, strap in, pull on, wrap, buckle, and click and clack, because their eyes on your heels will be a habit you’ll never want to kick.

While spring and summer were set ablaze with neons, patterns, and asymmetrical cuts, this winter tones down those wild ways but pops in its own crisp, clean lines and rich colors. In fact, the biggest trend this season is borrowed straight from the dudes themselves: menswear inspired patterns, cuts, and designs. With an air of structure, tailoring, and high quality, shoes are stealing the spotlight with patterns like houndstooth and pinstripes and with styles like retro cap-toed pumps and oxfords. 2007/8 ain’t playin’ around with mama’s school shoes though; whether buckled or laced, flat or high-heeled, oxfords on women can retain a prim and proper look but with an extraordinarily vampy feel. Also similar to oxfords is the old-school motivated new-school Mary Jane. Although this style was already big over the summer, the fall/winter MJ collections will be slightly bulkier. Look for contrasting colors, big button closures, obnoxious buckles, and multiple S&M-style straps. To be extra cutting-edge, don some frilly socks with your Mary Janes.

When it to color, there will be a plethora of luxurious warm shades all there for the choosing ~ Purples, teals, fuchsias, burgundies, forest greens, golden yellows, and the most prominent fall color, grey. While less harsh than black, grey is still sleek and tidy, and its various shades can be anything from playful or sensual.

In more casual ladies’ footwear, ballerina flats are still dainty and delicious. The fabrics and designs will take a shuffle in a more elegant direction with ankle-buckles, cloth or satin rouching, and metallic details.

Winter wouldn’t be winter without killer boots. Even if the first snowfall comes in April, there is no other therapy like finding your “solemate” in a pair of boots. All sorts of styles are emerging this year: knit and woven sweater boots, galoshes, great knee-high boots, equestrian boots, moccasins, suede and leathers with fine details, subtle, beautiful pixie and flat boots, and canvas boots with funky patterns. Ankle boots and booties (paired with skinny jeans, tunics, long sweaters, or same-colored tights and a long skirt) are all the toe-tappin’ rage, too ~ cuffed, uncuffed, zippered, and plush. Speaking of cuffed and uncuffed, most boots can go in either direction. Just remember that when you choose cuffed, don’t pair them with jeans or it will create a bulky look. Opt for leggings or tights instead.

Men’s styles this year have not only cleaned up, but they’ve gotten slightly funkier, too. Aside from classic, sophisticated square-toed ankle boots that are a staple in every man’s wardrobe (think Little Black Dress, but for men…and on their feet), men should get into some styles that are slightly more relaxed. While the colors aren’t necessarily as sumptuous as purple or teal, men can sink into ivories, greys, and olives. Dress shoes have more detail; cut-out or eyelet-based designs are prominent. Wing-tips and penny loafers have also gotten makeovers, giving them ‘20s flair with ’07 passion. Men’s casual styles have actually gotten slightly dressier, too. Think lighter soles, soft leather, and brighter, clashier colors.

Finding the perfect shoes for the cold weather is truly all about how they will make you feel, and no one can resist imagining other people’s reactions to (ie their once-overs of) their ankle boots/shooties/Mary Janes/moccasins/oxfords. So, when humdrum ol’ January rolls around and you know you’re making everyone positively green with shoe envy, don’t hesitate to go that extra mile. Never be afraid to go one toe over the line. Go on, let them have the once-over that will send them spinning.

Vocabulary Lesson: Combine boots with shoes for the newest must-have: shooties, ankle-boots with cutouts, often in funky colors and perfect for the fall-to-winter transitions.

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My First Hand Account of NY Fashion Week
By Alicia GalantoApproaching Bryant Park, I could see the bright white tents from a block away. Twice a year Bryant Park is converted in to fashion heaven to hold a group of tents housing the very run ways where the most popular designers of today will be showing their upcoming collections. Celebrities, stylists, buyers, fashion lovers, and fashion hopefuls all show up for the large event. As you face the main entrance to the tents, there are stairs surrounded by spectators hoping to get inside (which is impossible because Fashion Week is invitation only) or at least catch a glimpse of someone famous. Inside the main lobby of the Fashion Week Tents there are small sections where Fashion Week sponsors have set up shop with reps, information, and ~ best of all ~ free goodies! And since Mercedes-Benz is the official sponsor for Fashion Week in New York City, there are some astronomically priced Benzes on display, too.The Tents are overflowing with people and that adds to the excitement and anticipation of seeing models strut their stuff, showing off some of the clothes that will be worn in the months to come. The lobby also provides flat screen TVs with live feed of current shows as well as playbacks of previous shows during downtime in the Tents. Signing in to a show is insanity. It’s a long, chaotic line full of people trying to be the first one into the venue. Luckily, this year Peroni had people walking around giving away free bottles of beer ~ nothing better to sooth the nerves of anxious fashion lovers.
As people find their seats (and I curse those who show up late, holding up the entire production), the lights go out, the runway lights up, the music sounds and the fun begins. Everyone’s head turns to the beginning of the runway as they await the first model to set the tone for the rest of the collection. From the first piece to the last piece, I make a mental note and form a mental opinion about everything I see: “I love those shoes, hate the accessories, want that dress, would never wear those pants…” The final line- up (when all of the models walk down the runway one last time, all together) is like letting out a deep breath. The designer comes out, gives a smile and a wave (unless it’s Betsey Johnson ~ then you get a cartwheel, a baby, and a bow), the lights go on and everyone rushes for the door (unless you’re daring and lucky enough to get backstage ~ which, I am proud to say, I’ve been able to do in the past!). On your way out you hear people making comments about the show, and waiting right outside are television shows/networks, commentators, etc. waiting to find someone worth asking about the show. I’ve seen them catch Rachel Zoe, celebrity stylist, and Robert Verdi, formally of Full Frontal Fashion, many times. Two tired feet, a blister or two, a head ache, a taste of glamour, and a sense of being part of something bigger later, you’ve experienced the glorious whirlwind that is Fashion Week. You’ve seen a celebrity or two, some major attitude, maybe a socialite, a few actors, and some glorious clothes…but most importantly you’ve gotten to experience Fashion Week…and it was amazing. ___________________________________________________________

Big and Bold…Fall Jewelry Styles
By Nicole Steina

Is it fall already? It seems like only yesterday I was rocking the skull and crossbones necklace and matching bracelets…Well, summer is over and so is that trend! Fall is all about Big and Bold when it comes to jewelry and watches. So step away from the initial necklaces and the skull rings and come into the light!

This season we are seeing a lot of long necklaces, chains and pearls. Double and even triple strands are making a huge comeback. Try layering the necklaces, pairing a long chain or pearl necklace with a shorter necklace adorned with a cool gemstone or jewel. Make sure that you take into consideration your height and stature and buy accordingly. A long necklace on a shorter person will only make you appear shorter so pick a length that compliments your petite frame! This look makes a tailored suit with form fitting dress shirt and vest really come together for that ultra feminine (but strong) look. The thrifty way to achieve this look by is hitting places like Target or Claire’s Boutique.

Bangles…the bigger the better! I am a huge fan of the bangle bracelet and own a huge box full of them in every color under the sun. Thick plastic bangles of every color are available just about anywhere but I buy a bulk of mine at Claire’s in the Auburn Mall as well as Wet Seal and Charlotte Russe. To really spice it up, try mixing colors, textures and styles as well as metals, woods and plastics ~ you’ll create a personal, eclectic look that’s sure to enhance any fall outfit.

Take it to the hoop, hoop earrings are a style that constantly evolves. Nelly Furtado made them hot a few years ago and if you have them in your collection dust off the cobwebs cuz they are back in action! I have several pairs of all different sizes and styles. This fall, grab a bunch of different styles and sizes of hoops. Extra large hoops look great with a sweater dress, hair pulled away from the face. The large hoop elongates the face making you appear a little thinner…and who doesn’t want that?!? Thick plastic hoops, metallic hoops and different types of wood are all creating a stir this season.

When talking about jewelry, we can’t forget watches. We are seeing a lot of jewels in the watches this fall season, in the bezel and on the face itself. There is nothing better that a nice small faced watched paired with a nice tailored suit or three quarter length sleeve to really accentuate the wrist.

I’m lucky enough to have been given a Franck Muller watch ~ which runs about $5600.00. But if that is not in your budget, you can find inexpensive designers like as Fossil and Guess at places like Macy’s and Nordstrom ~ and they won’t send you to bankruptcy court.

So to wrap up fall jewelry fashion for the season…it is all about mixing and matching sizes and colors ~ big and bold are better and don’t be afraid to throw two things together that you wouldn’t otherwise try. Be daring and for Pete’s sake, put down the rubber bracelets and the skull ring and remain calm!

Men’s Jewelry…Watch Out!

Men, don’t think I forgot about you! This fall, earth tones are very hot ~ think browns, reds, rusts, and pumpkin shades. When it comes to watches, brown leather bands and big faced watches are all over the runways and magazines. The brown band looks great with an earth toned, sport coat as well as a pair of wide whale chords. A nice brown leather money clip is also a great accessory for the put together man.

Also think titanium and stainless steel, since both are in for watches and other jewelry. Stainless steel watches with big square faces and wide bands compliment any outfit, from business to casual to club. Onyx stones are in, too, and we’re seeing them set in necklaces and rings. Men, just like with the ladies’ fall accessory fashions, it is all about big and chunky, whether in the form of a titanium band for the finger or a large watch for the wrist. Take a risk, you are sure to stand out with any of these hot looks for Fall!

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Hair and Make-up Trends for Fall/Winter 2007
By Linnea Sheldon

For hair and make-up this season it’s all about throw-backs and retro-inspired looks. Mod styles, blunt cuts, and lots of body and texture are the way to go for hairstyles; make-up is all about 60s inspired eyes, lots of lip color, and the shades of autumn.

Christian Rea, a colorist, stylist, and extension specialist at Jeffrey Roberts Salon and Spa in Worcester, has been seeing a few different trends coming off the runways this fall. “As far as hair colors we’re seeing a lot of wood grains and muted ash colors like titanium and silver-browns,” he said.

The cuts are coming from all different eras past. “80s inspired bobs are coming back into style, and precision cutting and angles are popular thanks to celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Katie Holmes,” Rea explained.

As far as make-up, we’re seeing a lot bolder looks. Eyes reminiscent of 60s era glamour-pusses are making a huge comeback. Heavy black eyeliner and bold color, bordered by thicker eyebrows, is the look of the season. “Vintage looks are back, from cat-eyes to bold lip color,” Rea says. “Bold color on the eyes is huge right now.. “Also a lot of browns, as well as bright foliage colors like reds and oranges are popular, and they’re very warm and striking.”

While lipsticks are front and center, don’t put your glosses away yet. “They are a great added feature to give your lipstick a little more depth,” Rea said.

Matt Beaudoin, owner of Elustra Hair Studio in Marlborough, is seeing many of the retro trends as well. “I would definitely say warms tones are the thing this season,” he said. “Copper tones and other leaf-like colors are big. Woman’s cuts are textured, with lots of volume and movement.”

For men’s hairstyles, Mr. Beaudoin said he has been seeing a lot of the same. “The male styles are actually a little longer than usual, with lots of movement and texture,” he explained. “We’re also seeing a lot of the warm tones for fall, lots of autumn colors, they go hand in hand with the woman’s styles.” And although long with lots of movement may be the choice for a lots of people, Beaudoin comments, “Short, cropped styles also seem to be making a comeback for both men and women.”

Bangs will continue to be the accessory of choice for fashionistas throughout the colder months. Consider pairing blunt cut bangs with dark, heavy eyeliner and nude lips. Side swept and bangs are still huge, and with them it’s all about texture, texture, texture. The bangs should swoop across the forehead from a deep side-part, and a quick shot of mud or spray wax should keep them in place and add just the right amount of grunge.

Asymmetrical cuts are getting even more extreme with added texture and length differences, as well as sharp angles and unexpected looks. These looks can be done with all lengths and texture of hair and can be used to highlight your best features.

No matter what style you go with, experiment and make it your own. Products are your best ally in keeping the extreme looks right where you want them to be. Once you’ve decided on the cut and the color, add some make-up in complimentary colors and you’ll be looking fresh, stylish, and sexy in no time.