FashBlog.com

In today's rapidly changing world of fashion, it's not so easy to keep up with all the new trends coming out in stores and on runways. It's even more difficult to sort the various trends into categories of what works and what doesn't. Although you might see something you like in the stores once in awhile, there are also plenty of "bad trends" to balance it out. Some people get so frustrated by this trend overkill that they avoid shopping altogether.

It would take hours to make an all-inclusive list, but the following are three basic fashion trends that have been around for a long time and are just now returning to the mainstream public eye. If you see these trends in stores (or if you happen to have the required pieces already in your closet), my advice is to use them to their full advantage. These three trends look fresh and up to date this fall, and they have the added advantage of looking good on basically anyone.

1. The denim jacket.
A denim jacket is one of the most important and versatile wardrobe staples you can own. They work great for men and women, and can be dressed up or down as the occasion requires. To get today's modern look with a denim jacket, choose one in a dark uniform color, preferably navy blue- faded, stone washed and black denim jackets are way too 1980s!- and make sure it has a close-fitting slim cut. Pair a denim jacket with skirts and trousers in neutral colors, and add brightly-colored scarves near your face for a clean contemporary look.

There is one major caveat when it comes to wearing the denim jacket. Don't pair it with jeans. Trust me on this. If your jacket and jeans are made of two different colors or washes of denim, you'll look unmatched; on the other hand, if they're made of coordinating material you'll take on the look of Denim Barbie.

2. The jeans and heels combo.
I've heard so many people bemoan this particular trend, and frankly I don't understand why, unless they think it's a comfort thing. Really, wearing the right jeans with a pair of heeled shoes or boots is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your figure. Make sure your jeans are long enough (you may need slightly longer-than-usual jeans if you're wearing very high heels) and choose jeans with a bootcut for the best look. Wear pantyhose with your heels, or go barefoot- make sure you're not wearing white socks!

Jeans and heels will elongate your legs while allowing you to dress up your favorite jeans in an instant and take them from weekend to dinner. Add a structured jacket and a few accessories and you'll have the most up-to-date look imaginable.

3. The blazer.
Not just for the corporate boardroom anymore, blazers and closely-cropped jackets are the ideal pieces for just about everyone. Available in a wide range of cuts and styles to suit various figure types, blazers can create an instant waistline and dress up the most casual of outfits to create a polished look. If you're heavy in the bust, choose a blazer that buttons right beneath your bra to give yourself a pulled-together look. The right blazer will create a curve at the ribs that can give any woman an hourglass figure.

Best of all, blazers are available in so many fabrics and colors that you can use them however you want. A light blazer can be casual with jeans or business-appropriate with a skirt and heels. A dark blazer thrown over a tee shirt has a unique vintage look that works great on weekends. No woman should be without a few classic blazers in her closet!


These are just a few examples of recent trends that really do work. While it's great to dress in style, trying to keep up with every trend that becomes available is not only expensive- it's unrealistic and unflattering for most women. The trick is to pick and choose the trends that work best for you and that have the staying power to last a few years in the public eye. Trends like those listed above are sure to expand your wardrobe possibilities while keeping your look up-to-date and stylish.
-by bjp