Mature Fashion: F/W 2016 Look # 4 Animal Prints

Animal prints are still going strong for F/W 2016.  To the far left is the royal blue at home ensemble I wore quite a bit in FW 2015.  This was one of my favorite outfits and  I will continue to wear it well into FW 2016.   I will change the hat to the Black reversible leopard shown below and exchange the moto boots for the black Munro ankle boots I invested in FW 2014. (They look somewhat brown in this picture but they are really black). 

This is a good example of a simple change in accessories freshening a look.  It is also a prime example of why I keep a rather large selection of accessories. 

The cap is totally reversible and can be all black or all leopard should I choose to wear it that way.  I do have leopard boots also, and as you can see, a leopard handbag.  My personal styling preferences would prevent me from wearing any more than two items in my ensemble with this print, but I might opt to wear the leopard vest and boots and a solid black handbag and cap.  I also have leopard bracelets and earrings, all tucked away for the appropriate ensemble.

I swear by Munro shoes;  they are the most comfortable footwear. They are the absolute perfect heel; high enough to add sophistication and length  to my somewhat short legs, and low enough to wear all day.  I have several pair of Munro shoes, and I love them all.

I mentioned earlier that animal prints are continuing the trend through out the fall and winter. I have also seen a few looks in Resort wear 2017.

I do not have much in the way of colored animal prints (1 pair of red snakeskin narrow legged pants) but I do have a lot of the neutrals.  I do enjoy the animal prints and treat them as a classic; they always return to style, and most of my animal prints are conservatively cut. (I do expect the rage to die down within a season or two and lay dormant until the rage again re-appears).

As you can see, I keep a few accessories in animal prints.  In addition to the pictured items, I also have the brown leopard in a silk fabric.  I also have the black and white tiger print in silk.

Of course, I have to have a leopard handbag.  It has paid for itself many times over the years.  I will probably always love it as a statement look with all black pieces; the same is true of the Kors grey snake skin handbag.  I always love it with my grey capsule pieces

My personal "looks" were inspired by the
F/W 2016 runway shows viewed on Vogue.com.:; Veronique, #27 and #28, Topshop #2, Bottega Veneta #4, Dries Van Nolen #1, #9, Emanuel Ungaro #9 and #10, Givency #3, and REbecca Minkoff #8

Once again, thank you, Vogue

Mature Fashion : F/W 2016: Look #3 Funtime Fur

 Before anyone starts in about animal furs, I want t to let you know right up front that all the fur you see to you left is artificial fur!  The manufacturing process today is so good that most of the "fur" is so luxurious it feels as good as the real thing, and actually wears a whole lot better, and does not have the care or the expense ( I remember when women had to pay a refrigeration service to keep the furs cool in summer).

Notice that I have three different fluffy fur collars; one in black, one in greyish-white,  and one in a lovely cocoa brown.  I plan of wearing them with sweaters and blazers this fall.

To the left I found a golden beige that I spiked with black, crimson, and a royal blue (doesn't show up too well in the picture),   Of special note are the colorful furs of fall dyed in wild colors that present a whimsical carnival atmosphere.

 To your left you see the reproduction white fur clutch shown on the runway this spring. I was able to create my own version for far less money .  The purse I got on sale at DSW. Including the cost of the fabric dye, I spent less than $20.00 for my own take on this fall/winter fashion.  I plan on wearing it with my white quilted parka...of course, I have not tried on these ensembles yet, but that is my plan (It is too darned hot to try these outfits on now, and you know I am behind on my styling....but, at least I can show you what I have in mind...) 

You will also see two of the combinations I wore this last winter,  They transition beautifully into 2016 fashion.  I will "tweak" the looks by exchanging the turban for a Basque army beret (larger then the French classic) and the Greek sailor cap for the classic beret.  I will also exchange the moto boots for ankle boots but the rest of the outfits will remain the same. Both these looks will continue to get a lot of wear this fall; my favorite kind of outfit; comfortable, flattering, can be worn almost anywhere (and are), practical, and economical...what more can I ask?

Mature Fashion: Look #2; Noveau Neckwear

Accessories trends for the fall seasons emphasize
many funtime neckware accessories, especially when worn with layered collars. Anything with a tassel is very trendy.  Turtlenecks are still going strong for fall as well as heavily embellished pointed or "Peter Pan" collar shapes.  One difference in the embellished collars is that they are frequently not attached to a blouse but are worn over a complimentary neckline shape and tied at the throat. 

In this picture, I am wearing two crocheted collars, one on top of the other, both layered over a crew neck lightweight sweater..

















An embroidered lace bib and drapery tiebacks worn loosely over any collar, and a bowtie attached to a corded necklace are some fun new accessories I added to my closet for FW 2016.

The unisex men's look is still going strong for F/W 2016. A selection of fun ties will be worn with the classic collared shirt.  You may recognize the green tie from my Lagerfield Lady "goth" Look #1; obviously inspired by Karl Lagerfield's embellished ties-the epitome of his elegance, and downright fun for me!














I decided to be a little crafty with some of my accessories this season.  I purchased a animal print blouse and a black satin blouse at the thrift store (each were priced under $5.00) and cut off the collars.  I purchased a roll of ribbon for the animal print (1.99 on sale), and used some on hand black satin ribbon to make my own un-attached collars.  I also wrapped the metal "slave necklace" in black grossgrain ribbon and pinned on the bow tie.  My total expense was under $15.00 as opposed to some collars I have seen for over $40.00.  I still have to apply the sew-on beads to the black collar. (cost on sale $2.99)  I am thinking about adding some beads to the orange tie, also...just thinkin'..

For inspiration  for my neckline looks, I reviewed  the fall 2016 runway shows on Vogue.com.  I give credit to Dolce & Gabana, looks 25, 56, 71, and 88; Diane Von Furstenberg look 5, Chanel look 56, and Brunello, looks 2, 4, and 7.  Thank you again, Vogue.com for the best seats in the house!!  

Mature Fashion: F/W 2016: Look #1 : Goth a la Granny

Although Spring weather has just turned the corner (well, almost), it is actually time to begin wardrobe strategy for Fall.Winter 2016.  Hopefully, all stylinistas (and fashionistas, too) have cleared the closet of any items that needed to be replaced or which no longer serve her needs, and have organized her closet (s) for the summer.

One way to begin early shopping your closet for  Fall/Winter is to consider Pre-fall ensembles that are light weight  but have elements of the coming fall/winter season incorporated. One example is choosing a color palette that will meld from summer to fall. Cream, camel, and gray are still going strong this fall and winter; so is black and white and dark wash denim.  I am choosing to wear camel with forest green and wine toned purples as well as a lot of winter white. (Here is California it is often very weather well into early November).

Back in February I mentioned the 2016 season had a bit of something for everyone (43 different "trends" identified by the show reviews!!).  Obviously, most of us do not care for all the different fashion trends, etc;  that would be diversifying a bit too much for most of us more mature folk.  For my 2016 Fall/Winter "Closet Collections", I am going to try something a little different.  I will be demonstrating examples of my favorite looks compiled from my closet and refer you to the runway photos that inspired each look.  Each of these photos are courtesy of Vogue.com runway website.  I cannot show the picture (copyright infringement, etc.) itself, but I can tell you where I got it.  These photos are still available as of this date.

One of the strongest trends for the season is the layered influence in neckwear; all types and layers. The thin turtleneck is a "must have" for those who can (or want to) wear them.  They are being worn with a variety of plain and embellished pointed collars and as layers under crewnecks. The trend toward unisex dressing is still going strong.  Biker and construction boots with flat and/or heavy soles and heels is very much in the fashion mainstream, often worn with the dark edgy look of a modern day Goth. 

My first ensemble is inspired by my all time favorite elegant Goth, Karl Lagerfield.  I loved the tie with the lovely embellishments shown in Pre-Fall 2016 Chanel, photo #88; Fall/Winter Chanel, photo #94, and Fall/Winter 2016 Fendi, photo #46.  I fortunately spied the deep green floral decorated silk tie in a thrift shop for $3.00.  I already had the St. Laurent blazer, the green riding pants, and the transparent shirt with the heavily embellished collar in my closet. In fact, I also had the black turtleneck, velvet fur edged hat, gray/green handbag (hardware, dull brass) gray/green ankle boots, and dull gold belt in my closet (I changed out the gold belt for  a Ralph Lauren dark green with gold hardware).  Once again, I styled a great new look right on trend using my existing wardrobe and a $3.00 tie!!

The extremely elegant Mr. Lagerfield always looks superb.  I also used him as inspiration for my Fall/Winter 2015 Goth collection.  I am sure to wear the black ensemble again for the upcoming season just tweaking it a bit to update the look.  I will probably wear the same thin black turtleneck under the red neck scarf; I may also ditch the whimsical gauze peace symbol scarf (but maybe not?) I will substitute the Cossack fur hat for a black fedora hat (or a black beret) and wear the black buckled men's look shoe. (I do like the Dracula look! ) This update will cost me nothing as I still have each garment in my closet-serendipity; new look, no cost!!
I am sure you see the advantages of looking at the shows held during Fashion Week.  You will not see these trends displayed in fashion magazines, etc. for many more weeks (Probably August).  I have already made most of the purchases I want to make, and for a fraction of the cost when these items appear in the boutiques and fashionable department stores. 

Obviously, I cannot show you all examples of each trend, nor am I displaying all the different trends identified for the season.(You can see a list of the major trends on my previous posts Feb 16/2016)) I also have posts on Rockmyages.blogspot.com, if you want more detail on the trends and details of Fall/Winter 2016.

 

Mature Fashion: Spring/Summer add-ons

Greetings to all Stylinistas;

Spring is just around the corner; we have actually had a few days where the temperatures were in the upper 70's for part of the day.  Of course, we still expect more rain and hopefully, spring is only showing its brighter side.  

As you know, I already posted my closet collections for spring/summer 2016 and made a few additional  purchases to add to my wardrobe. etc.  I did this based on the ready-to-wear designer collections displayed at New York Fashion week back in September.I am beginning to wear those items that are 'transition' garments; heavy enough to keep out the flexible weather chill, but light and 'springy' enough to welcome spring.  The outfit to the left does both with the leather pants and heavy polyester top in a cheery black/white design.

I was able to create enough fashion ensembles based on the Spring/Summer runway shows to fill all my needs. However, I always take a peek at the major fashion magazines to check out their emerging spring styling and compare against the outfits I have earmarked for Spring/Summer. Of course, I also found a few looks that inspired me to create more outfits to add to my own projected spring wardrobe.  

In the  picture above is of one of the ensembles in my personal spring/summer collection, I deliberately left both the sleeve length and pant length on the long side.  This season's trend is mostly above the ankle, but this outfit flatters my body type when the length is a bit longer.  It is also "fashion forward" as the trendy lengths are either crop or baggy/sloppy. (the trend is going to continue through pre-fall 2016 and Fall/Winter 2016.  The look suits both my personal aesthetic and body type.

I have also included a picture of five additional articles I am adding to my closet for this season.  I purchased all of them new and at slashed prices during the winter sales.  Knowing ahead of time that these articles would work with the latest trends I was able to enlarge my options for this season.  All but the anchor printed top will also be used in combinations for the fall/winter season. (I don't believe the item will be a keeper for me, and I will only be wearing it a few times).

At present, I am searching out items I can use to create my personal closet collection for fall.  I hope to have the collections completed during the next couple of weeks.  How quickly I can do that will depend upon my return to the role of salesperson at the patio store. 

I would love to see some combinations from your closets..

Happy Styling................Geneva..............Rockmyages@aol.com...........

Mature Fashion: Base Capsule: Gray

Base '3'

Greetings, Stylinistas

I am presenting in this runway one of my own color capsules.

Although this capsule has been years in the making, the elements apply to any person (woman or man of any age) who is just beginning to acquire a wardrobe, changing a core color, or converting from a closet of 'outfits' to a totally cohesive capsule wardrobe. It does not matter if one is just beginning a collection or has been doing so for many years.

A capsule begins with three 'must have' items; a top, a bottom, and a garment that can be used as a jacket.  (if worn in a conservative professional environment, fabric should be in the same shade and material). She must also have a good pair of neutral shoes and handbag and very basic jewelry (a watch, a neck chain, and a pair of small stud earrings will carry the day).  Of course, these accessories should compliment in some way your chosen color. (or cohesive element such as material, etc.)

Actually, if using color as your capsule theme, just these three items worn with any appropriate existing items in your closet can be mixed to create very stylish "outfits".  This is where styling comes into play. Depending upon the occasion and what you already own determines how many garments you will need to add to your capsule.  All you have is tee-shirts, you say? T's can be worn under an  open blouse or a jacket to create many looks with just the addition of simple jewelry , a small scarf, a tie, macrame fringes, etc. How many different combinations can you make with the items you already have?  Granted, they are all centered in the same top and bottoms until you can afford to make your next core purchase. Simple shirts, and the ubiquitous white button down can also be combined for a unique look.  This is the time for the imagination to soar.

Additional garments can be added one by one over time, but each addition must contain some element of the same color and tone.  Each capsule garment should be cut in a timeless and classic design to coordinate with the top and bottom already purchased. These base garments can be enhanced each season with inexpensive trendy garments and accessories.

The concept works best when you choose at least one other capsule color for your wardrobe.  My core capsule colors are gray and navy. You will note many of the garments shown in my grey capsule also blend with navy. Over the years I have also added a basic neutral top and bottom in cream, black, chocolate, camel, plum, hunter green, and red to extend my wardrobe indefinitely.  I also have basic accessories such as shoes and handbag in each of the neutrals.  Future posts will deal with my basic mix and match strategies.

As I mentioned earlier, I have been collecting this capsule for many years.  I actually have more garments that are not shown such as coats, sweaters, more scarves,  etc. that are not shown. Any new piece I purchase, other than a disposable trendy item must coordinate with at least three garments I already have. The bottom picture illustrates five 'trendy' garments that will most likely be replaced at the end of this fashion season with more trendy items.

I love the core capsule concepts; I literally never have to be concerned if I have an appropriate outfit for any occasion; I know I do.  I am always able to keep my wardrobe fresh and within my clothing budget.  I also have fun styling for each upcoming season and anticipate the great looks I can created with new fashion trends.  I hope that you do, too.

...................Geneva...................Rockmyages@aol.com

Mature Fashion: Fall/Winter 2016

Hello Stylinistas;

As you know from past posts, I eagerly await the seasonal Fashion Week runway shows in order to plan my clothing purchases and wardrobe storage updates.  The shows began on February 11th, and I have been copiously taking notes, printing off inspirational pictures, etc. 

Although Fashion Week is not over yet, I am confident in my evaluations of the shows. (Isn't it wonderful that we can sit in front of our computer and have front row seating for every designer who has a collection on the runway?).  This fall/winter season has fashion desirable for absolutely EVERYBODY !  Vogue has catagorized 43 different fashion trends!! (BTW, I recommend any serious stylinista watch at least one or two to give you inspiration on the "look")

I am simply catagorizing my closet collection under the umbrella titled "Decades", and will have updated looks from the 20s,50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 

Almost all of the elements from this fall (2015) are still going strong; leather, suede, animal prints, textured hose, transparency, lace, cut-outs, black and white, fantastic prints, clunky boots, etc, etc, etc.  Colors are bolder than ever, pouring over into fun furs.  Lace up boots, flat and heeled, a return of the Courreges (sp?)  style white boots of my early twenties. Angelina Jolie slits, layers of garments so thick it reminds me of "homeless dressing".  The narrow belts used in past seasons have given way to wide belts and the rows of buttons have bigger buttons this coming fall. Turtle necks are bigger than ever with heavily textured sweaters.  Jewelry items were almost non existent but scarves and embellished pointed collars and dangling ribbon type ties were used by many designers. Oversized clothing and men's look comfortable shoes abound.!...so do over the knee boots and slip dresses that really look like vintage slips!

The large fanciful prints were just plain fun!! Very Alice in Wonderland, or rather Haight Ashbury of my youth.  Many of the small prints heavily used in the collections reminded me of a modern Gunne Sax dress, especially when worn with the updated boots and textured hose. A-line filmy skirts were worn with leather jackets (more moto than the fringed suede of the 70's but there was some of that too) to give an updated vibe to the styling.

The one "must have" garment that simply stands out is the Navy style pea coat or reefer. If you don't have one, I suggest you might want to add it now; it is a classic. 

I am almost finished with the viewing, etc. and am beginning the task  of creating my own closet collections for next fall and planning any purchases I may have to make. I already know I want the white boots!!

Happy styling.......I will be sharing my own fall 2016 closet collections shortly......

                                    Geneva.................Rockmyages@aol.com