by Kalyn Johnson

 

Since everyone from fashionistas to recessionistas are feeling the pinch this Fall, below are a few tips to help make this season's trends a part of your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Before you hit the stores (online or actual retail shops) remember to shop in your closet - you may rediscover some true gems.

• Make an edgy statement by incorporating studs - on your shoes, studded leather bracelets, earrings, anything with a little metal pyramid on it is definitely in. A little bit of a good thing can go a long way. Chanel your inner rocker.
• Carol Channing said "I dont mean rhinestones" in her homage to diamonds, but rhinestones are the hottest thing since sliced bread this season.
• Big clunky rhinestones, the bigger the better, in all shapes sizes and colors to wear with everything from your LBD to your favorite cashmere cardigan. Nothing like adding a little sparkle around the neck to illuminate and give you an instant glow!
• Neon is back. Incorporate it in small doses. A clutch bag, for example, is a great way to fashionable without being trendy.
• If you've got a few camel pieces in your wardrobe along with a few pieces of gray, start wearing them together. Camel + Gray is THE color combination of Fall 2009.
• Focus on luxurious fabrics - brocade, velvet and fur (faux or real, whatever comports with your politics).
• Be demure and sexy all at once in lady like suits and twinsets la The First Lady.
• Viva la sequin! Embellishments done properly are fantastic. Add some color, texture and depth to your daily routine with sequin enhanced handbags, purses, headbands, bracelets, and cuffs.
• Red, red, red, red. Need I say more? It's the color of the moment. Add a splash of color with a fab pair of red heels, a great handbag or a funky belt.

The goal this Fall is to stay hip and relevant by revving up your look with statement pieces that will allow you to re-invent clothes you already own.

For more fabulous information from Kalyn, check out her website: www.kalynjohnson.com and her blog http://kalynjohnson.wordpress.com.