As the first signs of winter 2009 put a chill in the West Coast air and people begin their preparations for the Holiday season, the classics are back again and all the rage-both on the runways and on the streets. 

Patterns such as Argyle, Burberry plaid and hounds tooth are making a comeback this year, especially on sweaters and outerwear like coats, jackets and scarves.  Updated variations will be seen, such as the use of nontraditional colors and pattern sizes.  Funky and fun, these looks can be worn by almost anyone.  Also, for wool and trench coats, large, decorative buttons and embellishments will be popular, and I have even seen the wool Pea coat crossed with the military jacket quite successfully.  This year’s outerwear rules are that there are almost no rules at all.  Wear what makes you feel gorgeous and keeps you warm at the same time.

Studs are no longer just for the bedroom.  Now every woman can wear them proudly, giving the rest of the world a glimpse of her inner “Rocker chick”.  Think Billy Idol, punk rocker from the eighties as inspiration for this next trend.  Currently, studs and oversized grommets are being sported on black leather handbags, platform heels, knee high boots and leather belts…just to mention a few items.   Pair these up with a leather bomber jacket, and you’re ready to rock the night away.

80s Rocker chicks would have been proud to wear these stillettos with chains!

The Peep-Toe Ankle Bootie is one of the cutest footwear trends that I’ve seen for this year.  Toe cleavage is in, as women show off their flawless French pedicures in vintage style peep toe shoes.  Animal prints on shoes and bags are hotter than ever, and large, bold chunky jewelry is being seen virtually everywhere. Snake print is back and more dangerously sexy than ever.  The latest twist to animal print is yet another reminder of the 80s:  expect to find leopard and zebra prints in bright jewel tones as well as in the traditional neutral shades.   Find it on everything from tights and bags to earrings and scarves. 

Remember Carrie Bradshaw’s Bridal Couture Vogue Shoot scene from the iconic “Sex and the City” movie?  Not only did it make many of us bride wannabe’s drool with desire, but it also satisfied our lust for pearls.  Ropes of pearls….as many as you dare to wear can be a strong, yet feminine statement and can be found at all price points.  H&M carries these fun, faux beads for around $20.00 per strand.  You can wear these pieces with everything from a stunning LBD to tailored office suit, instantly upping your style quotient into maximum overdrive.   

Carrie Bradshaw in the Sex and the City Movie wearing Vivienne Westwood wedding gown, about to marry John J. Preston, a.k.a. Big

Last year I purchased a black satin belted trench coat, and I love it so much, I wear it every chance I get.  A classic trench coat in a three quarter length looks equally smashing over evening wear or blue jeans alike.  And remember that Vancouver is known for its rain, so if you are here during the games, the coat is as practical as it is beautiful.

If you are lucky enough to be tall and lean, you can pull off skinny jeans and crop jacket and if you are an apple shape, baby doll knit dresses with matching hosiery and high heels can show off those sexy legs to their maximum capacity.   By keeping your winter colors monochromatic, you will add inches to your height, and subtract width from your waist.  I personally love combining neutrals and bolds, and the fall/winter season is perfect for that.  For a casual yet pulled-together look, try pairing dark rinse jeans, leather or corduroy jacket in camel and a striking jewel tone top underneath.  A neutral handbag and pointed-toe heels will complete the look and make you feel your best while out on the town.  As for the winter palette, teals, grays and plum wine shades are making a comeback, and can be matched perfectly with basic black and winter white alike. 

Another trend that is becoming quite visible here is akin to the flapper dresses of the 1920s.  I’ve seen fringed dresses, in bold look-at-me colors coming out just in time for Christmas. 

1920’s Style Flapper Cocktail dress I found on the Sears.Ca website 

The overall theme for this fall and winter are vintage looks with updated, fun and exciting variations.  With many of last year’s fashions still relevant, you can easily update your current winter wardrobe by adding some new chunky funky jewelry without breaking the bank.  Fashion can be fun without costing you a mint. Window shopping with a good friend to see what tickles your fancy is a wise idea if you’re not quite sure what suits your body shape and wallet.  Fashion is supposed to be fun, so no matter how you do it, always remember to enjoy yourself!  Happy Shopping, everyone!