Transition Pieces

from Area Woman Magazine Aug/Sep '14

by Lake & Home Magazine | Area Woman Magazine

t Making A Difference

Embrace fall fashion with pattern and texture

By Alicia Underlee Nelson

Fall’s warm days and cool nights provide the perfect opportunity to explore pattern and texture. For clarity, focus on one or the other to really let each element shine.

Colorful prints keep the summer spirit alive but wearing a pattern on longer layering pieces like tunics or cardigans ushers the look into fall. Try big, colorful florals, animal prints or a bold graphic print on top and something sleek and neutral on the bottom – think leggings and heels or opaque tights and boots. More advanced color fans can mix prints. As long as you keep the prints in the same color family, the look will still be harmonious.

Texture takes center stage when paired with a mostly neutral palette. Choose your favorite neutral (gray and bone look especially elegant) and cuddle up in soft sweaters or cozy fur. You’ll find both real and impressively luxurious faux fur options on the racks this season. The most interesting textures don’t look too perfect. Instead, they have a handmade, almost bohemian spirit that makes them interesting to look at.

Whether you choose to embrace pattern or texture, statement details like a interesting hem, a cascade of ruffles or unique embroidery will set your look apart and turn a simple layer into a statement piece. [AWM] www. sharehouse .org