Today show Re-dress your dress Before you make a mad dash for a frock, stop to consider a temporary transformation. Appliqués are inexpensive, easy to apply, and can reinvent a simple style. In fact, a lot of the ready-to-wear you’ll see this season has a little something extra. Try using tulle or other semisheer fabrics and gather and pleat your way to a whole new look. This demure detail will also help you conceal without conservatively covering. An interesting way to work this overlay is to wrap it around one arm to give the illusion of a one-shoulder dress. Or, if you’re bold and a little creative, you can twist and tuck a tulle strip and baste-stitch it directly onto the dress. You may also be able to layer a lace bodysuit or long-sleeved mesh top. (Remember, the opposite can work too — try removing embellishments to reveal the clean sheath beneath.) Crop a coat Or stop into a local resale store, where you’re bound to find a plentiful supply of pleather, suede and on-trend jackets from decades past. Many of these items will have been discarded due to fit, not function, but a little tailoring can go a long way. For example, consider cropping an oversize long leather coat. This minor alteration will feel fashion forward and offer more versatility. And once the tailor has taken off the bottom portion, don’t just discard the leftover material. Consider using the fabric for an accent pillow, a small clutch or even a miniskirt. Just add accents Fancy-free footwear From work to weekend, playground to PTA parties, a classic riding boot will be your best friend (Nicole riding boot, $99.95, Dsw.com). Modern and versatile, you’ll be able to wear this basic boot with dresses, tunics and leggings, or slim-leg jeans. Trendsetters can also find flat versions of the oh-so-hot in Hollywood over-the-knee trend (Bezzo boots, $100, Aldoshoes.com). And for those petite ladies looking for a little lift, work a wedge to get a grounded boost with effortless appeal (Lela Rose suede wedge, $29.99, Payless.com; Zoey, $59.99, and Jurra, $99, Ninewest.com). Finally, for your most casual soirees, don’t be afraid of an old-school high-top sneaker — think of them as instant ankle warmers. Chuck Taylor All Stars are a classic, while a pair of silver-sequin Jack Purcell low-tops are fun way to add a little flash ($45-$90, Converse.com).Style 911: Update your weary winter wardrobe
Style editor Bobbie Thomas shares four ideas to help with your holiday look
Nov. 20: Want to spruce up a dress or update a jacket at minimal cost? TODAY Style editor Bobbie Thomas answers viewer questions on how to restyle your wardrobe for winter.
Special-occasion dresses are often an investment, and it’s important to get as much use out of them as possible. However, something too trendy can often feel time-stamped, and even a classic style can end up being boring after the first few wears.
Outerwear can be an obstacle come party season — it’s a challenge to keep warm without suffocating your style. After all, when you spend so much time and effort putting together a fabulous outfit, the last thing you want to do is ruin it with a frumpy final layer. Coats can be costly, but chances are you have an old item that will look fresh again with a few adjustments to the fit. Altering the length or changing the silhouette of something already in your closet can truly make all the difference.
I’ve said it time and time again: Work your warm-weather favorites into winter rather than letting them hibernate. Summer skirts and dresses can be the canvas for exciting new accessories. Casual fabrics like cotton instantly go glam with a little sparkle sprinkled on. Consider a sequin scarf, statement necklace, bejeweled bangles or an embellished bag to give your garments some glitz. Or, add texture with soft cardigans and sharp blazers to help shift your look into different directions. And hosiery is a hot trend right now, so take advantage of the instant update by pulling on a pair of patterned stockings or tights. Just be sure to let your extra layers and accents steal the spotlight!
’Tis the time of year to not only celebrate, but also to be comfortable with family and friends. And there is no reason to teeter about on stilts while chasing after children or to be relegated to running shoes. Casual chic is a balancing act, but it is possible.
Faux fur Also, try classic silhouettes from the ’30s and ’40s, like a sophisticated wrap or shrug as opposed to a floor-length vest or long-sleeved jacket. You can pair this with a blouse in satin or silk that fits close to the body and a pencil skirt in a neutral color (black, navy or subtle metallic). Dress it up for evening with jeweled accessories, higher heels and opaque stockings and voila! This look is stylish, contemporary and puts a classic twist on a tricky trend. Black faux fur stole, Ann Taylor, anntaylor.com; $75 Sequin and mesh sleeveless blouse, H&M; $34.95 Knit If you’re taller (5'6" and up), go for a longer silhouette. If you are shorter (5'5" and under), go shorter; mid-thigh is a good length for taller women, whereas if you’re petite, sweaters that hit just above your crotch or top of the hip are most flattering. Find pieces that have texture to the knit, like a cable sweater. This adds detail without the bulk. Lastly, layering a fitted piece underneath, like a long-sleeved cotton T-shirt, helps define body shape. Knitwear can be worn appropriately to the office as well; pair a cardigan with a silk blouse, a wide-leg tweed trouser and a high-heel pump for a more professional ensemble. Dark wash bootcut premium jeans, Not Your Daughters Jeans, Nordstrom; $98 Faux leather Also, when choosing fake leather pieces, remember matte looks more expensive than shiny, and trust me, no one wants to look cheap when attempting this tricky trend in the workplace! Brown faux fur Liz cape, Target-Limited-Edition, Target.com and most Target stores; $49.99 Gray Wool and Viscose Jacket, H&M; $59.95Winter wear: Faux fur, knits and fake leather
TODAY contributor Stacy London on how to wear this season’s tricky trends
You can’t turn a corner this season without seeing an oversized, floor-length, hippie-inspired faux fur vest. Fake fur can quickly look cheap and tacky, but when worn correctly, it’s a great way to freshen up an evening or work outfit. When going for this trend, look for pieces that look and feel real; just because it's fake doesn't mean it should look it!
Silver metallic brocade pencil skirt, LOFT, LOFTonline.com; $89.50
Black satin and feather evening heels, Nina, zappos.com; $99.95
Round pave stud earrings, LOFT, LOFTonline.com; $29.50
Fishnet stocking pearl necklace, Juliet & Company, JulietandCompany.com; $58
Onyx and silver ring, Silent Gypsy, SilentGypsyJewelry.com; $44
Rhinestone Mutiny bracelet, Rosena Sammi, Shoprosenasammi.com; $75
Black leaf embossed faux leather evening clutch, Jessica McClintock, zappos.com; $41
Black herringbone hosiery, H&M; $4.90
Knitwear is all over the place right now. It’s a great way to look stylish and casual, although many chunky knits can look shapeless and add bulk to your body. It is essential when choosing a thicker, looser-shaped knit to pair it with more fitted pieces. Adding a belt is the ideal way to give more structure to an outfit and create a waistline. When choosing a belt, look for one that sits just above or at your natural waistline — it creates a longer leg line and keeps the body looking longer, leaner and taller. For the most part, knits should be proportional to body height and size.
Orange cotton peasant top, Mossimo for Target, Target.com and most Target Stores; $14.99 Gray cable knit sweater, LOFT, LOFTonline.com; $79.50
Gray and white cotton cable knit scarf, H&M; $41.95
Green faux-snakeskin collage Satchel, Carlos Falchi for Target, Target.com and most Target stores; $49.99
Silver and gold chain belt, Spring, Myspringshoes.com; $14.99
Crema Flowerstud Bracelet, Rebecca Minkoff, Scoop; $68
Pine Flowerstud Bracelet, Rebecca Minkoff @ Bloomingdales Direct; $68
Python ring, Allison Daniel, allisondanieldesigns.com; $98
Teardrop gold hoop with crystal inset earrings, SYLAS by Nashelle Jewelry, Sylas.nashelle.com; $85
We used to know it as “pleather,” but now fake leather is looking just as sleek, modern and expensive as the real deal. There are so many styles to this trend, but I love it for an updated work outfit. Look for fake leathers in classic silhouettes and neutral colors that are easy to build from, like a black pencil skirt or cognac tailored blazer that nips in at the waist. Pair it with a woven blouse that has a muted pattern (to add visual interest) or even add a tweed blazer to the pencil skirt for an uber-chic style.
Black faux leather pencil skirt, UNIQLO; $29.50
Charcoal pima jersey long-sleeve shirred-waist shirt, LILLA P @ lillap.com; $74
Gray textured tights, H&M; $4.90
Merona Plaid Satchel, Merona for Target, Target.com and most Target stores; $26.99
Silver Swarovski crystal hoop earrings, Lunessa @ Lunessa.com; $22
Mini stretch pearl bracelet, LOFT, LOFTonline.com; $34.50
Faux fur Also, try classic silhouettes from the ’30s and ’40s, like a sophisticated wrap or shrug as opposed to a floor-length vest or long-sleeved jacket. You can pair this with a blouse in satin or silk that fits close to the body and a pencil skirt in a neutral color (black, navy or subtle metallic). Dress it up for evening with jeweled accessories, higher heels and opaque stockings and voila! This look is stylish, contemporary and puts a classic twist on a tricky trend. Black faux fur stole, Ann Taylor, anntaylor.com; $75 Sequin and mesh sleeveless blouse, H&M; $34.95 Knit If you’re taller (5'6" and up), go for a longer silhouette. If you are shorter (5'5" and under), go shorter; mid-thigh is a good length for taller women, whereas if you’re petite, sweaters that hit just above your crotch or top of the hip are most flattering. Find pieces that have texture to the knit, like a cable sweater. This adds detail without the bulk. Lastly, layering a fitted piece underneath, like a long-sleeved cotton T-shirt, helps define body shape. Knitwear can be worn appropriately to the office as well; pair a cardigan with a silk blouse, a wide-leg tweed trouser and a high-heel pump for a more professional ensemble. Dark wash bootcut premium jeans, Not Your Daughters Jeans, Nordstrom; $98 Faux leather Also, when choosing fake leather pieces, remember matte looks more expensive than shiny, and trust me, no one wants to look cheap when attempting this tricky trend in the workplace! Brown faux fur Liz cape, Target-Limited-Edition, Target.com and most Target stores; $49.99 Gray Wool and Viscose Jacket, H&M; $59.95Winter wear: Faux fur, knits and fake leather
TODAY contributor Stacy London on how to wear this season’s tricky trends
You can’t turn a corner this season without seeing an oversized, floor-length, hippie-inspired faux fur vest. Fake fur can quickly look cheap and tacky, but when worn correctly, it’s a great way to freshen up an evening or work outfit. When going for this trend, look for pieces that look and feel real; just because it's fake doesn't mean it should look it!
Silver metallic brocade pencil skirt, LOFT, LOFTonline.com; $89.50
Black satin and feather evening heels, Nina, zappos.com; $99.95
Round pave stud earrings, LOFT, LOFTonline.com; $29.50
Fishnet stocking pearl necklace, Juliet & Company, JulietandCompany.com; $58
Onyx and silver ring, Silent Gypsy, SilentGypsyJewelry.com; $44
Rhinestone Mutiny bracelet, Rosena Sammi, Shoprosenasammi.com; $75
Black leaf embossed faux leather evening clutch, Jessica McClintock, zappos.com; $41
Black herringbone hosiery, H&M; $4.90
Knitwear is all over the place right now. It’s a great way to look stylish and casual, although many chunky knits can look shapeless and add bulk to your body. It is essential when choosing a thicker, looser-shaped knit to pair it with more fitted pieces. Adding a belt is the ideal way to give more structure to an outfit and create a waistline. When choosing a belt, look for one that sits just above or at your natural waistline — it creates a longer leg line and keeps the body looking longer, leaner and taller. For the most part, knits should be proportional to body height and size.
Orange cotton peasant top, Mossimo for Target, Target.com and most Target Stores; $14.99 Gray cable knit sweater, LOFT, LOFTonline.com; $79.50
Gray and white cotton cable knit scarf, H&M; $41.95
Green faux-snakeskin collage Satchel, Carlos Falchi for Target, Target.com and most Target stores; $49.99
Silver and gold chain belt, Spring, Myspringshoes.com; $14.99
Crema Flowerstud Bracelet, Rebecca Minkoff, Scoop; $68
Pine Flowerstud Bracelet, Rebecca Minkoff @ Bloomingdales Direct; $68
Python ring, Allison Daniel, allisondanieldesigns.com; $98
Teardrop gold hoop with crystal inset earrings, SYLAS by Nashelle Jewelry, Sylas.nashelle.com; $85
We used to know it as “pleather,” but now fake leather is looking just as sleek, modern and expensive as the real deal. There are so many styles to this trend, but I love it for an updated work outfit. Look for fake leathers in classic silhouettes and neutral colors that are easy to build from, like a black pencil skirt or cognac tailored blazer that nips in at the waist. Pair it with a woven blouse that has a muted pattern (to add visual interest) or even add a tweed blazer to the pencil skirt for an uber-chic style.
Black faux leather pencil skirt, UNIQLO; $29.50
Charcoal pima jersey long-sleeve shirred-waist shirt, LILLA P @ lillap.com; $74
Gray textured tights, H&M; $4.90
Merona Plaid Satchel, Merona for Target, Target.com and most Target stores; $26.99
Silver Swarovski crystal hoop earrings, Lunessa @ Lunessa.com; $22
Mini stretch pearl bracelet, LOFT, LOFTonline.com; $34.50
GO backstage at three of London Fashion Week's hottest tickets; Roksanda Ilincic, Christopher Kane and Erdem. Join Ilincic five minutes before the show is about to begin and hear her talk VogueTV through how she took inspiration from outerwear for a collection that takes hard fabrics and uses them as though something softer. Catch up with Kane and his "juvenile delinquent" whose mother works in the Women's Institute. "I can't just do a plain floral dress, it needs to be different," he tells us. Meanwhile, over at Erdem, "it's quite stressful but all good" just before the show - though the designer's a little bit worried about the models being able to navigate the staircase. If you missed any of the London Fashion Week action, relive it all here.
GO backstage at three of London Fashion Week's hottest tickets; Roksanda Ilincic, Christopher Kane and Erdem. Join Ilincic five minutes before the show is about to begin and hear her talk VogueTV through how she took inspiration from outerwear for a collection that takes hard fabrics and uses them as though something softer. Catch up with Kane and his "juvenile delinquent" whose mother works in the Women's Institute. "I can't just do a plain floral dress, it needs to be different," he tells us. Meanwhile, over at Erdem, "it's quite stressful but all good" just before the show - though the designer's a little bit worried about the models being able to navigate the staircase. If you missed any of the London Fashion Week action, relive it all here.
