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This winter introduces a few new and exciting styles as well as a few golden oldies back into the wardrobe. Most of the styles and colours are flattering to each skin tone and suit most body shapes.
Herewith a brief summary of the most prominent trends:

Fifties something:
The cleavage makes a comeback with figure-hugging hour glass silhouettes, below the knee pencil skirts and mid-calf full dresses or skirts. Draping or gathering over the bust area always make a small bust  appear fuller, a tip that comes in handy with the emphasis that this trend places on the cleavage area. Be carful of the mid-calf length though – not always so flattering seeing that mid calf is the widest part of the leg from the knee to the ankle and might cause legs to appear less slim and shapely.

New Hugh:
This trend is easy to follow. Simply choose a fashion colour that suits your skin tone perfectly and put an outfit together that includes all the different shades of that specific colour – from top to toe! Even your make-up shades should match. If for example purple is your colour, try mixing the  shades of lavender, indigo,  lilac, violet, purple, gooseberry, all different hughes of purple.

Fur Real Faux Fur:
Faux Fur is at the top of the trend list, whether you opt for a full length faux fur coat or just trimmings on your boots or a fur gilet, bring this trend in neutral shades or animal prints into your wardrobe this winter.

Stand Your Man:
Menswear inspired suiting and outerwear are key looks as well as the smartest way of carrying forward the minimalist look that was also a trend during summer.
Narrow, ankle length pants and jackets with minimalist detail are key items. A polo neck top worn under a boyfriend (or boxy standard length) jacket, coupled with a panel ponti pant is a good example of how to put this trend together.

At Long Last:
Gone are the mini lengths and very high heels of summer. This season long, ankle length skirts, dresses and coats are key items to add to your wardrobe. Court shoes with kitty heels, worn with a long maxi skirt, is a fresh alternative to wearing boots.

Gold and Camel:
These colours form the basis of winter wardrobes this year. If you find camel too draining on your skin tone, always pair with a brighter colour such as a red or orange blouse, scarf or accessory to lift your skin tone. Gold is a versatile basic colour and suits deep and rich skin tones best – warm colour against a warm skin tone. Go for gold in a beautiful lame cocktail dress or glamorous raw silk trench jacket!

That’s a Wrap!
The wrapping or layering trend is still huge this season. This look seems complicated at times, but can be achieved in four easy steps.
1.    Start with a short or long sleeve t-shirt, polo neck or camisole as a base garment
2.    Choose a  long sleeve shirt  or blouse that is only buttoned up halfway over the base garment

3.    A  cardigan or jacket is then  draped openly over  the shirt / blouse so that both the blouse and base garment (the different layers) is still visible.
4.    Tie the cardigan or jacket half closed with a thin belt (another major trend!), sculpting a beautiful defined waste and pulling the outfit together.
The layered look works great with bottoms such as skinny jeans or leggings, worn with knee high boots or peep toe ankle boots.

There you go! There is definitely a style or two to fall in love with this autumn. Remember,  always wear your best colours and styles to suit your body shape, never mind how fashionable a “wrong” style becomes. If it is not flattering, it is not for you!

For more tips on Fashion Trends, Colour Analysis, Style,  and Wardrobe Planning, contact
Chata Romano Ambassador & Image Consultant, Willene Swart.

Cell 082 451 1959, or email willene@inspiringwomen.co.za
Visit www.chataromano.com for info on all products and services