I think the last days of summer ’16 that lingered through October have finally come to an end. There is a chill in the air and I am looking forward to fall dressing  and  bringing out the sweaters and scarves.

The items guaranteed to update your wardrobe are boots, bags, scarves and jewelry.

BOOTS.  Ankle boots continue from last year and are bigger than ever. There are styles out for every taste and age. There are biker styles and active wear looks with  buckles and ties and wedges and rugged looking soles.There are also beautiful leathers and suede (and faux!) with interesting zipper details and lots of heel heights including block heels and wedges. There is certainly something for everyone in this category. Gaining popularity this season too are high over the knee boots. Very classy on the right legs!!

BAGS. Small bags are making a statement this season. There are mini bucket bags, short strap shoulder bags, and a variety of shapes in crossbody bags. You can find bags now that come with a handle strap and also have a shoulder strap that is either attached to the bag or can be attached. I love to see this option because it gives you more mileage or, as I like to say, the value of the bag increases because the price-per-wear goes down! Of course, I can come up with any excuse to buy another bag. There is also mixed media in bags this season. There are flap bags in prints and there are appliques, floral stamps, and funky over sized hardware.

SCARVES. I love to wear a scarf so it makes me really smile when it is a good scarf season. This add-on can really transform your look and make the most simple sweater take on a new joie de vivre.  This season you will see many ways to wear a scarf.  The scarf becomes a bag accessory. Neckerchief size (22″ square) is best for this. The scarf can be a casual drape. Just drape it around your neck. The best size for this is an oblong. The scarf can be an easy tie. Just tie it once at the neck. The best size for this is a bias cut scarf. The scarf can be a chunky knot. Wrap the scarf around your neck then tie the ends up high for a chunky look. Best size for this is an oblong. The scarf can be worn as a belt. Best size for this is an oblong or  a bias cut. And of course, the scarf can be  bow-tied at the neck for a real french look.

JEWELRY. the biggest statement in jewelry for the season is bold choker necklaces.  I read somewhere that the thought here can be, when it doubt, shout it out! Over sized earrings are front and center too. Another item from an Milan based label, Attico, is an ankle cuff. Currently out are styles in velvet or satin with a buckle or embellishment. This will probably translate into something affordable that we’ll see in the spring.

Don’t forget to add a touch of faux fur somewhere this season. Could be a vest, a collar on a sweater or outerwear, or you might just add a small touch as an accessory dangling on your handbag. And of course, a must have is a fabulous pair of sunglasses.

Wear what you YOU want.  Make it your own and have fun with it!