Fall Fashion Fridays with Melinda Nowers

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For today’s Fall Fashion Friday, we have local stylist and Nashville native Melinda Nowers. Melinda calls Franklin home base and also has a style blog, The Style Express, to help clients and readers work their way through the obstacle course that shopping often is.  Melinda picked three things that women need to have in their closets for fall 2010.  As two items are similar to what the team of Tina + Rebecca chose 2 weeks ago, and all these Fashion Fridays were sent to me on the same day in late July, we can be assured of two things  – you’ll want some fabu boots and a killer leather jacket this season.

Now, let’s hear from Melinda:

Thanks to Style Blueprint for asking me to be a part of this post. I’m so flattered!
The term “must have” used to make me frantic… if I don’t have it, what happens?  Can I afford it? That being said, I do have one “must” because it’s become a classic; the other two pieces are just friendly advice.

If in the past say, 3 to 4 years, you haven’t gotten yourself to a shoe store and bought a pair of boots then you “must”.  Whether they are  heels, flats, dress, platform, or whatever, it is time to buy a pair that best suits your lifestyle.  The one I’ve pictured is a good all around look.  It has a bit of detail with the buckle at the ankle and double stitching, a good toe shape, and medium heel.  If the thicker rubber sole and tread is not be suitable for your work needs or you need a pair that does not add bulk to your ankle, shop around for a look that is sleek and streamlined.  And they do make wide calf boots.  If you are buying your first pair, I would stay with black or brown to start with. These are from Bluefly.com and are by Michael Kors. They are on sale for $255.99  Try Marti and Liz for a great budget pair.

The next item I would suggest is bit of a splurge. Assuming you have basics like a nice white blouse,a go-to great dress (neutral is best), good trousers, etc. covered, my choice would be to look into a leather jacket.  And I would shop around for something with a little umph.   While traditional black leather blazers or button up jackets are great, for a few seasons now, leather jackets have been including some extra hardware or details.  I wouldn’t go to extremes, you want it to have a long style life (note next tip!), but look for maybe zippered pockets, or a stand-up collar, or some nipping in the back at the waist.   Just a little something extra you feel good wearing.  And, if you get it light weight enough, which is fine for Nashville, it can definitely be a multi-season jacket.  The one I’m showing is brown and is from Bluefly.com by Soia & Kyo.  I love the hip length. It is $237.00  And just a note about the boots and jacket – save up if you need to to buy real leather.

My next pick is a look more than an item. This fall I think, thankfully, there will be a return to classic pieces.  While feminine and edgy looks will certainly be around, a fantastic pair of pants, great blouse, and blazer or cardigan will be very modern and stylish.  I think more timeless pieces are what retailers will be showing and maybe not so much the broach plus necklace plus scarf plus belt plus ruffles etc. look.  Not older looks, just more subtle.  I’ve included a simple but ageless outfit that can be tweaked for body type.

For instance, switch out the cropped slender pants for a straight or full cut trouser.  Change the length of the cardigan if you are shorter.  But, keep a heel and the clean lines, just adding your personal touch by playing with colors or adding accessories for individuality.  Appropriate for lunch out or work.  Beautiful.  This outfit is by St. John’s at Saks.  You don’t have to spend a fortune to recreate this look, although, buy quality whenever you can.  It will make a big difference in fit and wear.

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Thanks, Melinda!

Be sure to check out her blog for great information: The Style Express

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