Must-Have Fall Prints: Plaid

Plaid Pencil Skirt by theclosetbychristie featuring mustard yellow tops

One of the biggest prints for this Fall 2013 season is plaid. This print is the epitome of sophistication! It's a classic pattern that keeps making its way back into your closet year after year. It's the academic-inspired print and the darker hues that give this style a true Autumn vibe. With it continuing to come to the forefront, plaid has become a timeless staple in your Fall wardrobe. Whether it be a plaid coat, hat, skirt, or even a turtleneck- this is a must-have look to embrace!

In the above set, I featured a burgundy Clements Ribeiro plaid pencil skirt. I love this skirt because of the feminine silhouette and classic print. It's so versatile and can be paired with many different color palettes. I really like it with the mustard, tan, and brown palette that I incorporated in my look above. I paired the skirt with a mustard Paul Smith cashmere rolled-neck sweater and tan J.Crew classic-cut wool blazer. I accessorized with tan Rag & Bone suede ankle boots and Givenchy paisley print and leather handbag. These items and the color palette all contribute to giving this look an equestrian style. For jewelry, I chose a Marni crystal and stone flower necklace and Marni stone drop earrings.

Do you love plaid? How would you style it?

Must-Have Fall Prints

Must-Have Fall Prints by theclosetbychristie on polyvore.com

Here's an exclusive sneak peek into what we're featuring this week on The Closet by Christie! Feeling a little behind on what's 'in' for this Fall/Winter season? Not to worry! We've got you covered on all of the trends! This Fall it's all about beautiful, detailed prints. A few of my favorites are plaid/tartan, houndstooth, kaleidoscope, and floral.

Check out my carousel of trends above (click the 'right' arrow) to see all of my favorite prints. And don't forget to follow us this week to learn all about what these prints are and how to style them!

Must-Have Coat Trends: Leather-Detail

Leather-Detail Coat by theclosetbychristie featuring a grey knee length skirt

Leather always makes a bold impact! Whether you're looking to add a little edge to your look or want that crisp high-class vibe, leather can go either way. It's all in the way you style it! Leather details were a huge trend for Spring 2013 and really allowed us to 'go there' by mixing styles. Now, as we move into the chilly Fall and Winter seasons, we're incorporating these leather details onto our coats. Leather trim, leather sleeves, leather pockets.. I've seen it all!

In the above set, I featured a black Victoria Beckham leather-trimmed cape coat. The leather detailing on this coat adds a really prim, sophisticated style to it. It also works as a border to emphasize the collar and pocket details. For the look, I featured a cobalt peplum top paired with a grey tweed pencil skirt. I love this look because of the rich colors and texture. I accessorized with black Rachel Zoe suede loafers and a yellow Phillip Lim for Target mini-satchel. The bag adds a bright color pop to our deep, rich color palette. For jewelry, I chose a Vince Camuto geometric bangle and gold Lucky Brand chandelier earrings.

Do you love leather-detailed coats? How would you style it? 

Must-Have Coat Trends: Oversized

Oversized Textured Coats by theclosetbychristie featuring oversized coats

I live in New Jersey, where we experience all four seasons! I really dislike the bitter cold Winters, so I always treat myself by dolling myself up in fun coats, hats, scarves, gloves, and earmuffs. This Fall/Winter season, it's all about oversized, menswear-inspired coats! Oversized coats are wonderful for bundling up and getting cozy. What better way to brace yourself for the cold by wearing a big, warm coat!

In the above set, I featured a burgundy Tory Burch oversized coat. This is the perfect oversized coat because although it has a masculine silhouette, the detailing on it is very feminine. I paired the coat with a grey and burgundy Dolce & Gabbana tartan dress. This is such a chic, feminine work-wear dress. It's fitted, yet flattering, and I love the mid-length sleeves. I accessorized with a black Dolce & Gabbana handbag and grey L.K. Bennett tweed pointed-toe flats. For jewelry, I chose a Matthew Williamson beaded statement necklace and a merlot braided bracelet. I love this overall look because of the color palette and fabrics. It's very Fall/Winter!

Do you love oversized coats? How would you style it?

Must-Have Coat Trends: Capes

Cape Coats by theclosetbychristie featuring capes

Whether you're on your way to save the world or are just a budding fashionista, the cape coat is the up-and-coming outerwear trend for Fall 2013. It's cozy and comfortable with a fabulous silhouette! And it's the perfect coat for season transitions. Wear it over a cable-knit sweater for the breezy Fall season and transition it to Winter by styling it with sophisticated elbow-length gloves and a beret.

In the above set, I featured a black and white Dorothy Perkins tweed cape. This coat is absolutely gorgeous and affordable; can't beat that! The black and white gives it a classic look, while the tweed adds texture. For the look, I featured a yellow knitted TOPSHOP funnel neck sweater paired with a multi-colored Alexander McQueen kaleidoscope beetle print skirt. I love how bright and colorful this look is! I accessorized with a tan Marni leather shoulder bag and tan Tory Burch tortoise shell embellished block-heels. These accessories have such a beautiful, classic design. The neutral colors help tame our color palette to make it work for the Fall season. For jewelry, I chose Dolce & Gabbana chandelier earrings and a brown and rose gold Daniel Wellington watch.

Do you love the cape coat? How would you style it?

Must-Have Coat Trends: Collarless

Collarless Coats by theclosetbychristie featuring an olive green skirt

Looking for an elegant, minimalist-style coat? Try a collarless coat! I'm loving everything about this new outerwear trend! With the minimalist movement taking over the fashion world, simple is the new chic. A collarless coat is exactly that- minimalism at its finest. Who really needs a collar? With so many fabulous scarves in the market, there's really no longer a need for that collar to keep our necks warm from the bitter cold that Winter brings. Pair this coat with a gorgeous infinity scarf or a faux fur removable collar for a new style every time you wear it!

In the above set, I featured a beige Chloe vintage collarless coat. It's hard to believe this coat is vintage with its crisp, modern collarless design. It is both stunning and timeless! For the look, I featured a satin striped Ostwald Helgason high-waisted midi skirt paired with a black peplum top. I absolutely love the skirt because of the color palette. Soft beiges, creams, olive, and black make it the perfect Fall palette. I accessorized with black Kate Spade bow block-heels and a cream Chloe leather handbag. These block-heels are perfect for work-wear because they are both sensible and stylish. For jewelry, I chose a gold collar necklace and black Cache triple stone drop earrings.

Are you loving the collarless coat trend? How would you style it?

Must-Have Coat Trends

Must-Have Coat Trends by theclosetbychristie on polyvore.com

Here's a special glimpse into what we're featuring this week on The Closet by Christie! Today is the first day of Fall and you know what this means... Winter is right around the corner! In fashion, we always have to be a beat ahead of the crowd. We need to snatch up these fabulous trends before our sizes go flying off the shelves! I'm talking about Fall and Winter coats. If you're planning to upgrade your outerwear closet this year, now is the time! There's so many fabulous coat trends this season. My new favorites are collarless coats, capes, oversized coats, and leather-detail coats.

Check out my carousel of trends above (click the 'right' arrow) to see all of my favorite trendy coats. And don't forget to stay tuned this week to see the most important part... how I style them!

You Style! Leather Statement Necklaces

Leather and lace by mommygerloff featuring light brown leather boots

Last week, I shared my LOVE for Italian designer Giulia Boccafogli's fabulous leather statement necklace line (see previous post: Accessorize with Leather Statement Necklaces)! After writing this post, I wanted to see how YOU would style the leather statement necklace. I challenged the super stylish members of my Polyvore group 'What's In Your Closet?' and they stunned me with their amazing, talented styling abilities.

The above set is lovely work of our 1st Place winner, Rebecca! I am completely in love with her work! The color palette and style is perfect for an Autumn day at the office. Congratulate Rebecca by following her Polyvore profile: @mommygerloff. 

How-To Style Guide: Thigh-High Boots For Fall

Thigh-High Boots For Fall by theclosetbychristie featuring thigh-high boots

Boots are a tell-tale sign that Autumn is here! With so many different types of boots, the options are endless. Stay warm and comfortable in a pair of Uggs or style it up with a pair of cut-out ankle booties. The must-have boots for this season are eye-catching thigh-high boots! This is great- but how do we style it? How can we wear this for work without looking too 'sexy'? Here's how! 

In the above set, I featured a pair of oxblood suede Betsey Johnson thigh-high boots. This is the perfect work-wear pair of boots because of the deep color and suede material. If it were a black, patent leather boot it would take on a 'sexy,' costume look. For the look, I paired a nude 3/4 sleeve length Hobbs sweater with a brown-tone Phase Eight tweed jacket and a deep red Chloe A-line wool skirt. I love these boots paired with the skirt because it adds a monochrome style to the bottom portion of our look. I really like that style and I think it helps make it appropriate as work-wear because there's some flow to it. I accessorized with a tan Yves Saint Laurent handbag, a burgundy Lanvin ribbon necklace, and Chan Luu drop earrings.

Do you love thigh-high boots? How would you style it for work?

Fall 2013 Trend: Tartan

Fall 2013 Trend: Tartan by theclosetbychristie featuring tartan ballet flats

Tartan is the big trend for Fall 2013! Ugh, tar-what? If you're not a fashion expert, don't be intimidated by this fashion term because it's nothing more than a fancy word for plaid! The official definition of tartan is "a woolen cloth woven in one of several patterns of plaid" (Google Dictionary). There's nothing like a little tartan to get you ready for the cold weather months!

In the above set, I featured a cropped tartan blazer and Dolce & Gabbana pointed-toe jeweled tartan flats. I really love this print because it reminds me of the Fall and Winter seasons! It has such a warm, rustic look and it adds a nice contrast to the elegant style of a blazer and pointed-toe flats. For the look, I paired a black Dolce & Gabbana sleeveless bow blouse with an emerald pleated skirt. I accessorized with a red Diane von Furstenburg mini leather crossbody bag, a red Hermes bangle, and red Kate Spade square stud earrings.

Do you love tartan for the Fall? How would you style it?

Harvey's Seat Belt Bags

Harvey's Seatbelt Bags by theclosetbychristie featuring a pink shirt

Innovation is what keeps our world moving! Without it, we wouldn't have the many luxuries we rely on today- such as, cell phones, cars, even electricity! My absolute favorite aspect of fashion is just that. I love seeing a completely new take on something or seeing something used for a totally different purpose than before. That's why I love Harvey's seat belt bags! It's super chic, elegant... and completely made of seat belts! Their Treecycle line is eco-friendly and made of recycled materials. I love when designers create something beautiful that serves a greater purpose; don't you?

In the above set, I featured two Harvey's seat belt bags. I chose the indigo Lola satchel and black Zipster Arm Candy clutch because of the gorgeous details. The satchel has amazing rows of ruffles down the sides and front and the clutch has an amazing woven pattern with a zipper-lined rosette on it. It's truly stunning detail that makes these bags unique and special. For the look, I paired a cream Dorothy Perkins contrast top with a grey satin Dior vintage pencil skirt and a navy Apiece Apart oversized coat. I love this look because it's so elegant! And it makes me excited for the Fall season! I accessorized with black Dior patent low-heel pumps. For jewelry, I chose a grey-tone Oasis pearl and ribbon statement necklace and a grey and silver flower cuff bracelet.

Do you love Harvey's seat belt bags? How would you style one?

Trends For Less: Lace Moto Jacket

Trends For Less: Lace Moto Jacket by theclosetbychristie featuring moto jackets

Happy Friday! I hope everyone had a nice work week. Moto jackets are the hot new trend for this season! The classic moto jacket is black leather, fitted, and has an asymmetrical zipper. It's known for being edgy! But this season, we're changing it up by designing it in bold colors and different textiles. 

In the above set, I featured a cream Forever 21 lace moto jacket. This is the perfect way to embrace this trend for work! This jacket has the shape and details of a classic moto jacket, however, it's made of lace instead of leather. The lace brings a softer look to the jacket, making it more appropriate for the office. I paired the jacket with a tan belted blouse and a canary H&M pencil skirt. I really love this because it's such a beautiful, flattering silhouette! I accessorized with cream lace ankle booties and a tan and black Dorothy Perkins color block tote. For jewelry, I chose a BaubleBar bow ring, a Charlotte Russe watch and bracelet set, and gold Fossil circle stud earrings.

Do you love moto jackets? How would you style it?

Lucky Magazine + Movado ESQ ONE NYFW Party

Lucky Magazine + Movado #meetESQONE NYFW Party by theclosetbychristie on polyvore.com

We're in the midst of the ever fabulous NYFW and on Tuesday, I had the absolute pleasure of attending the #meetESQONE NYFW Party hosted by Lucky Magazine and Movado. Every moment of the evening was perfectly curated, from start to finish! And us bloggers got to do what we do best- style! First a selection of the beautifully designed ESQ ONE line of watches, then a stunning (and flawlessly color coordinated) bracelet bar to decorate my arm with!

Now, what are these watches? If you don't already know about Movado, you should! Known for clean, modern designs, Movado has over forty collections to accommodate various styles and price points. Their new line, ESQ ONE, comes in eight bold colors made out of a comfortable silicon material. I chose the fierce, bright fuchsia one!

Be AT the party by scrolling through my photo collection above! If you love it, be sure to share it using the hashtag #meetESQONE. And don't forget to search that special hashtag on Instagram and Twitter to connect with other fabulous fashion bloggers and see their photos from the event!

Accessorize with Leather Statement Necklaces!

Leather Statement Necklace by theclosetbychristie featuring a leather necklace

Leather is everywhere in the fashion world! Leather anything was a big trend for Spring 2013 and we walked you through the do's and don'ts of how to style it elegantly (see previous post: How-To Style Guide: Leather Anything). Here we are at the start of the Fall 2013 season and designers are continuing to take chances with the popular textile by designing it in ways we have never seen before. That's the fun in fashion! I love seeing old trends and everyday textiles evolve in creative, new ways. What we're seeing now is leather accents, particularly leather jewelry. 

In the above set, I featured a Giulia Boccafogli leather statement necklace. I am completely in love with this piece! Leather is often edgy, so I love that she took a hard material and created those soft, feminine ruffles. For the look, I paired a muted rose MuuBaa leather pencil skirt with a black River Island embellished top and a slate Monsoon jacquard blazer. I really love this look because of the detail and color palette. The muted and neutral hues are perfect for the Fall season and there's intricate details at every glance. I accessorized with a red Christian Louboutin messenger bag and black Acne short leather boots.

How would you style a Giulia Boccafogli leather statement necklace? 

Lucky + ESQ Movado NYFW Party

Lucky + ESQ Movado NYFW Party by theclosetbychristie featuring wall art

I'm excited to announce that TONIGHT I'm attending the Lucky Magazine + ESQ Movado NYFW Party! Now, here's the best part... as my loyal reader, you have been granted front row seats to this exclusive event.

For LIVE as-it-happens coverage of my travels and the event:

Instagram

Twitter

Check back here on Thursday for a special post of my #NYFW experience! Stay tuned!

Midi Skirts for Fall

Midi Skirts for Fall by theclosetbychristie featuring midi skirts

Midi skirts were the big trend for Spring 2013! We even walked you through how to style this conservative item for our contemporary culture (see previous post: How-To Style Guide: Midi Skirts). This beautiful A-line silhouette encourages women of all shapes and sizes to embrace their true body. A style that's flattering to all; why not keep it around for Fall 2013, too? I am all for fashion that is both beautiful and made for the real woman! 

In the above set, I featured a sheer cobalt TOPSHOP floral midi skirt. This skirt is the essence of elegance! From the color to the pattern to the length, it is just pure sophistication. You can't go wrong with this! For the look, I paired the skirt with a black Victoria Beckham bow satin blouse and a cobalt River Island scuba tux blazer. I love this entire look because while the color palette is fairly simple, it's such a pretty and feminine look. I accessorized with natural and black Victoria Beckham embossed calfskin handbag and black Alberta Ferretti rhinestone strapped heels. I especially love the ribbon bow ankle straps on the heels. It adds an extra ounce of femininity to the look! For jewelry, I chose a black and gold infinity bracelet and circle drop earrings. 

Do you love midi skirts for Fall? How would you style it?

Follow Me on Instagram!

Follow Me on Instagram by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore

That's right! We're on Instagram now! Follow my real, everyday life as a fashion blogger!

Follow me here--->  The Closet by Christie on Instagram

Pantone Fall 2013: Deep Lichen Green

Pantone Fall 2013: Deep Lichen Green by theclosetbychristie featuring yellow shoes

The color green is reminiscent of nature; grass, trees, leaves. When I see an olive or sage green specifically, it makes me feel relaxed and very zen. The truth is, I'm not alone in this! Green is known to be mentally calming. That's why I'm thrilled to announce the ninth of the ten colors featured on Pantone's Fall 2013 Color Report is... deep lichen green!

In the above set, I featured a look which incorporates deep lichen green. I love this color because it really adds a peaceful, bohemian vibe to the look. For this look, I featured a deep lichen green European Culture top-pleated bow dress paired with a light grey classic blazer. I love this look because of the calming nature-inspired color palette. The muted tones make it lovely for Fall! The color of the dress makes it boho-chic, while the detailing- the pleats and bow- gives it a really feminine look. I accessorized with a light grey Chloe gold-accented crossbody and J.Crew ruffled daisy sandals. Both of these further accentuate the femininity of this look. For jewelry, I chose LC Lauren Conrad flower and pearl cluster earrings and a leather linked bracelet.

Do you love deep lichen green? How would you style it?

Pantone Fall 2013: Vivacious

Pantone Fall 2013: Vivacious by theclosetbychristie featuring a bangle bracelet

The eighth of ten colors featured on Pantone's Fall 2013 Color Report is... vivacious! But that's an adjective, right? Well yes, that's true- the word vivacious is defined as "attractively lively and animated" (Google Dictionary). Sometimes a color becomes more than just a color... it can portray emotion. Vivacious perfectly describes this hue of magenta because it's just that- bright and full of life! Wear this color and tell the world- "I'm feeling cheerful, today!"

In the above set, I featured a look which incorporates the color vivacious. I love this color because although it's bright and fun, it's also so feminine. For the look, I featured a black Victoria Beckham bow blouse paired with a heather grey J.Crew wool pencil skirt and a vivacious classic tailored blazer. I love this look because the neutral color palette gives the color vivacious a chance to take center stage. It adds a real color pop! I accessorized with a vivacious Ralph Lauren handbag and black Christian Louboutin bow flats. I chose Kate Spade jewelry because I consider her style to be the essence of fun- mini-bow stud earrings and idiom bangle.

Do you love vivacious? How would you style it?

Pantone Fall 2013: Samba

Pantone Fall 2013: Samba by theclosetbychristie featuring a leather purse

This week we're continuing to cover colors in honor of Pantone's Fall 2013 Color Report and the quick approaching Fall season. What's your favorite color to wear to give a great first impression? It may be a cobalt blue that compliments your blue eyes or a pretty olive that looks great on your naturally tan skin. My personal favorite is red! In the psychology world, red is known to attract. By wearing red, you can impress that gorgeous guy you've had your eye on or land that perfect job because this color will make you more appealing to the eye. That's why I'm happy to announce the seventh of the ten colors in Pantone's Fall 2013 Color Report is... samba!

In the above set, I featured a look which incorporates the color samba. This color is so beautiful and rich; perfect for the upcoming Fall season. The name of the color reminds me of Latin nightlife and sensual dancing, while the hue itself is reminiscent of the leaves changing for Autumn. For the look, I featured a samba Alexander McQueen structured blazer paired with red floral blouse and a khaki L.K. Bennett pencil skirt. I absolutely love the McQueen structured blazer! The sharp lines and natural shape of the blazer will create the perfect balance for a flattering look. I accessorized with samba Gianvito Rossi suede pointed toe heels and a tan Yves Saint Laurent top handle tote. For jewelry, I chose an Oscar de la Renta multi-stone cuff and floral resin stone earrings.

Do you love samba? How would you style it?

Happy Labor Day!

This goes out to all of my fellow hard-working Americans that contribute to this country both socially and economically! Happy Labor Day, everyone! I hope you're all lounging pool-side and enjoying one last barbecue before we kiss the summer goodbye. Enjoy a day of relaxation and appreciate yourself for all of the work you do! You're making a difference out there!