How do I explain the fact that I'm willing to try fall's hot new over-the-knee boots while passing on fingerless gloves?
Trends are tricky for us grown-ups. At one end of the spectrum are fashion trends that are totally aimed at youngsters; at the other end are high-end styles that come down the runway. And neither may work for real women.
While I'm happy to try something new (like the over-the-knee boots), I never want to look like I'm trying too hard (like I think I will in fingerless gloves.)
Knowing how to dress my age is more an art, than a science. So, keeping that in mind, here are some trends I think I'll skip this season:
- Long, full skirts. This fall, '50s-style skirts are back, some of them skimming midcalf. While they looked fresh and modern on the runway, there's a part of me that knows that I'm just not going to look as cute as a teenage model in the same look. While I do like full skirts that hit at or right below the knee (Michelle Obama carries these off beautifully) I think mid-calf territory is tricky ground for mature women because it has such a matronly rap. I've even seen some stores carry the dreaded dirndl skirt again – with pleats and side pockets, no less. Egads.
- Slouchy knit hats. I saw a picture of Sarah Jessica Parker wearing this hat, and had to think You're kidding, right? If there was ever a trend meant solely for the youngsters, it would have to be the slouchy knit cap. The fedora, on the other hand, is ageless and chic.
- Clashing prints. Plaids with florals? Head-to-toe patchwork? No thanks. While some print mixing can be insanely sophisticated, it's not easy to pull off, so I think I'll skip this all together.
- Clog-inspired shoes. I'm all for a chunky heel, but the new clog-bottom shoes are a little too clunky for my tastes. I can get the same weighty heel effect with either a wedge (which is so much easier to walk in) or a substantial heel.
- Wide-leg pants. Palazzo pants – those super wide, breezy pants – are probably one of the most elegant pieces. In theory. In real life, they look hopelessly billowy on all but the most stick-thin figures (and those need to be at least 6 feet tall to carry off the volume.) What does work are pants that hang in a straight line from the hip; this silhouette is perennially flattering for all figures.
- Fanny packs (utility bags). Yes, Donna Karan was wearing one, but that doesn't make fanny packs OK. Not only are they the tourist-wear stuff of bad fashion, they are just plain hard to carry off at this age since they add volume at the belly where most of us don't want the spotlight. Bucket bags, however, are a great practical bag that are trendy (again) and will carry all my stuff with ease.
- Leg warmers. It's almost a shame I won't consider this trend, because it's so practical (and since it's not considered socially acceptable to wear my Snuggie in public.) But leg warmers are definitely a kid's look. What I will wear are leggings in solid colors (no prints) and plenty of tights to stay warm.
- Cargo pants. I had to think really hard about this, but I think I'm going to let the whole cargo thing pass me buy. For starters, the idea of extra pockets at the thigh or chest just isn't my idea of flattering fashion. But I will cash in on the military craze by wearing olive green, which I love as a neutral (and very "in" this fall.)
- Camo. Anytime you see military pieces raise their head, camouflage prints are bound to be close by. But camo in the grown-up years is just impossible to carry off in fashion. More subtle military motifs that work for all ages are details like epaulets on shirts or brass buttons on coats.
- Anything ripped. From ripped-up leggings to holey jeans, I won't be dipping into the torn trend. What I do think is nice are slightly distressed (to look vintage) leather jackets, bags and boots.
