Fashion in Hong Kong around this time of year is tricky – while the rest of the world marches towards Autumn/Winter, pulling on their knee-high boots and tailored jackets, we’re stuck in style limbo trotting out the same tired summer frocks. It’s going to stay hot until at LEAST after mid-Autumn festival, but you won’t want to wait until then to start updating your wardrobes – we’ve got the top 5 fall trends you can be shopping right now to add a bit of pep to your step!
Jewel Tones
While Autumn/Winter is traditionally an excuse to fall back on trusty old grey and black faves, for the coming season the easiest update is to choose basics in rich jewel tones to mix in with last year’s pieces. From jade green to amethyst, gold and ruby, there’s a shade for everyone. For right now, pick up a chiffon jewel-coloured blouse or cami, and for when the weather cools down, make this your main style statement by investing in a jewel-coloured coat or a fab bag (the PS1 by Proenza Schouler is holding on as the ultimate must-have and is pretty practical for mamas on the go).
Polka Dots
Fun and whimsical (and the name of a super-cool SoHo boutique that will be opening its doors in September!), we’re so happy to see this become a major trend thanks to the inimitable Mr Jacobs. Stick to classic black and white and go big or go home. Bag a polka-dot dress, or experiment with a silk scarf with an otherwise casual outfit to add a certain je ne sais quoi! The one shown above is Stella McCartney, but there will be high street interpretations popping up all over soon.
Glitter
The magpie in me is just nuts about this trend. It’s either shoes or bag ladies, pick your poison. The number one most-coveted item of the season has to be these amazing Miu Miu shoe-booties, but if they’re a little avante-garde for the school run, pop into Steve Madden and get some plain glitter pumps. Or, get the kids going glitter-crazy with this fun DIY idea from local fashion blogger A Pair and a Spare. Love! Now, where are those old Louboutins I’ve been wondering what to do with?
Statement Necklaces
So, two main directions you can go with this look. Are you more glitzy-preppy? Or are you more edgy-rocky? If the former, you’ll die for Lulu Frost (check out her cheaper capsule collection for J. Crew, or Juicy Couture funnily enough). If you’re more of a rock chick mama, Erin Wasson or Pamela Love will be your thing.
Loafers
Forget last year’s mannish brogues. For 2011, loafers are hot hot hot. Choose the sleekest style you can find with minimal embellishments and in a fun colour or leopard print. Pair with 7/8’s length skinny jeans or a cropped trouser (yes, you can still wear your coloured jeans from summer) and be prepared to be super-stylish and comfy at the same time. An absolute winner for us mamas!
Image Credit: Loafers