We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but it’s time to face facts—summer is coming to end. Not to fret though, there is a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel and that shining beacon is the glory of fall fashion. Sure we might have to say goodbye to the chic and sexy swimwear we were so excited to break out on the beach, and the hot little skin-showing items that the warm summer months affords us, but fall fashion definitely offers a charm all its own.

Style connoisseurs agree that this coming fall will be all about sophisticated glamour and bold, yet soft silhouettes. Here are some cool, must-have trends that will have you bringing in the autumn months with style.

Velvet

Whitney Port was spotted wearing what will be one of fall’s biggest trends. Velvet Jackets can go perfectly with jeans for a cool and chic casual look, or on a night out on the town.

You can find this celebrity style at a wide variety of clothing stores this fall. One of our favorites is this Velvet Schoolboy Blazer from J.Crew.

Large Satchels

Large satchels are a definite must have this  coming fall. Beyonce exhibits her always fashion forward taste with this large satchel. These roomy bags are stylish yet practical.

This Kabrina Drawstring Leather Satchel from Nordstrom caught our attention.

Oxford Shoes

Nicole Riche sports this comfortable, casual, sleek and stylish oxford style shoe. They prove to be a classic fall style that go perfectly with skinny jeans or a cute skirt over tights.

Steve Madden has huge selection of oxford shoes.

Click the picture to see more.

Lace Tops

Lace tops offer a dreamily beautiful option that fits right in with the feel of autumn. They are elegegant and delicate, yet hip and cool.

Saks Fifth Avenue has this awesome lace top.

The heat is on and New York City ladies are stepping into the sunshine as summer is just around the corner. Before you restock your closet for warmer days, check out these emerging trends!

Blazers with Dresses

If you’re pondering a way to make those strapless floral frocks appropriate for the office, consider pairing a blazer with your outfit and slipping on a pair of heels or chunky espadrilles. The result? Professional with a side of whimsy. If your closet is filled with LBDs, consider a floral blazer for a vibrant touch. We like this heart-printed boyfriend blazer from Topshop.  $110, topshop.com.

Be sure to choose a lightweight fabric for those sweltering summer afternoons, and remember to consider skirt or dress length when piecing your outfit together. Tuxedo blazers should be paired with shorter skirts, and cropped blazers look lovely with pencil skirts. We like this C&C California number, $110, at shopbop.com

Fedoras

Kevin Federline might have given the fedora a bad rep, but we’ve noticed that it gives just about any outfit a fresh, put-together feel. Straw fedoras worn with floral maxi-dresses will create an edgy, bohemian vibe; you can also channel the Olsen twins with skinny jeans and chunky ankle boots. Check out this uber-feminine fedora from Juicy Couture. $58, at Bloomingdales.com.

The next time you go out with the girls for salsa dancing and margaritas, throw on a fedora. A fitted cocktail dress combined with a black fedora (and a feather for the daring!) will help you look sassy and fashionable. Here’s a great option from Village Scandal for $64, thevillagescandal.com

Early this month, Lord & Taylor announced their exclusive partnership with FEED Projects; a charitable company with the mission of creating good products that FEED the world run by Ellen Gustafson and Lauren Bush. I love this mission statement so much, I was already sold on the bags even before I saw them. Then I had the privilege of seeing them in person at their launch event at Lord & Taylor and fell even deeper in love with them.

Before I get into why these bags are so great for the global community, let me talk about their multi-fashion purposes. The tote bag is the perfect size for just about anything you would want to do this Spring/Summer/Fall. Big enough to serve as a beach bag but small enough to use on an everyday basis, the bag comes in several luscious summer colors that anyone would absolutely fall in love with. Also, its the perfect green grocery bag! I know I can’t be the only one who despises carrying those generic paper-thin cloth grocery store bags as I walk to WholeFoods. Think of it, could there be a more perfect bag to show the world just how much of a “green” goddess you are?? I think not.

The FEED Guatemala bags are handmade by Nest, a nonprofit organization that empowers female artists and artisans around the world. The bags come in 2 sizes – FEED 1 Guatemala” zippered pouch and the sturdy and sizable “FEED 3 Guatemala” tote bag (I’m with the tote bags on the right), are created using traditional Guatemalan Ikat fabrics, and come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns.

They are also incredibly affordable. The “FEED 1 Guatemala” pouch costs only $19 and “FEED 3 Guatemala” tote costs $39. Wow!  Both can be purchased at Lord & Taylor stores in the US and online. For more information, visit: www.lordandtaylor.com/feed

Upon attending the Fall Fashion Preview of the Levi’s 2010 collection, I was transported by a “back to the future” sense of nostalgia, where in my younger days, if you weren’t wearing Levi’s, you just weren’t up to par with the “current trends”, perhaps labeled underprivileged, or even” poor”. The new Levi’s line will immediately have you surfing the web, or hopping into any means of transportation, specifically to own some of their most incandescent pieces

I took note of how comfortable the models were while wearing their attire; it was almost as if they were wearing a second skin. The atmosphere had an aura of a very “down to earth” sense. Where you could not help but feel at home, surrounded by beautiful beings and by the legendary name “Levi’s” filling the room with plenty of others who have grown with the label just as I have.

It was not only an honor to have been witness to the evolution of their line thus far, but the displays of the artistry that had pieces of gold and silver intertwined, fit for a King or Queen themselves, but certainly very affordable. Some pieces were rich with modicums of artistry draped in jewels, in combination with the jeans. It was like experiencing a “Gustav Klimt” painting in the flesh. Some of the jeans had a rough and rugged look, but not to be deceived as it was also soft, like your favorite article of clothing you refuse to retire. Welcome to the new era of Levi’s! I gave you the knowledge, now go forth and treat yourself to such fantastic garments.

Last week BBB attended NYC’s Curve Expo at the Jacob Javits Center and I’ve got to say this year the goodies were simply spectacular. With over 250+ brands attending, the Curve Expo is the place to check out the latest global trends in the lingerie, swimwear and men’s underwear collections for the both the big brands and the greenhorn up-n-comers.

Below are my picks for the finest and wackiest lingerie products at the show. Why listen to this gal? Well here’s something you might not know about me, I’m obsessed with lingerie. I own a ton and it ranges from low priced Fredricks, to medium priced Betsey Johnson, to high priced Agent Provocateur ($500 for a kimono?? I shouldn’t…I should…I shouldn’t…I WILL). I’m also a member of the NY Pin-up Club where hot lingerie is the name of the game. If you think my picks are lame? Just tell me, I promise my feelings won’t get hurt.

Amazing Accessories

Celebration Soak Wash: Soak is a Canadian company focused on modern wash care for fine fabrics in several heavenly fragrances (my personal favorite is “Celebration”). This deliciously scented, rinse-free soak is not only great for your undies, its great for your sweaters, sports bras, and swimwear too! I just love multi-purpose products. You can find Soak at luxury lingerie boutiques AND specialty knitting/fabric stores as well. Check their website for a location near you and go get some; I know you’ll love it.

Booty Parlor’s Don’t Stop Massage Oil: Booty Parlors got a ton of fun “gadgets” for the bedroom but this one is my favorite. I’ve used a lot of massage oil in my day (mostly due to 2 bum ankles and a bad right shoulder) and I just fell in love with the scent which is a delightful blend of plums, raspberries, jasmine, sandalwood and cedar. Perfect! Finally, a massage oil that doesn’t either smell like a 12 yr old girl or a 50 yr old man (why is there rarely an in between massage oil world? Why?) Besides the scent, the texture is great too. It’s silky without being greasy and isn’t sticky at all. You can get Booty Parlor products at most high-end lingerie or toy boutiques. Check their website for a location near you.

The Panty Prize

The Montelle Cheeky: Here’s another Canadian import I fell in love with. Montelle Intimates Lace Cheeky boy shorts are just about the most comfortable lacey boy shorts ever.  They’re a nylon-spandex combo that creates a very flattering look on just about any gal and the shorts come in 8 different lady-like colors (from Bridal Rose to Iris Blue). This brand is just starting to take-off in the US so you won’t find them in any department store. Check their website to see where the closest carrying boutique near you might be – I know, I’m going to have to travel to get myself another pair but they’re worth it to this gal.

Whats in a Name?

hotMilk’s She Blushes Nursing Bra: I’m not sure how I want to label this product. I love the concept behind it, I know I’ll be purchasing it when the time comes, but something in the name throws me a curve ball. hotMilk is a company devoted to making pregnancy specific lingerie and I absolutely love it. I think many women get caught up in the whole “gaining weight” thing when they’re preggers and start to forget just how beautiful and sexy they are. I’m glad there’s a company trying to counteract that concept/mentality. Its’ just…the name makes me feel like I’m in a bad Japanese porno. I don’t know, am I alone on this? Regardless of their ‘interesting’ name, I know I’m going to be purchasing these super cute nursing bras when I need them. I don’t think these items are sold in stores yet (if you find them in a store near you, let me know) but you can buy them online at Linda the Bra Lady andMilk Smart Mama.

Oh Wacky Brazil…

Lindelucy Lingerie with GPS: First I want to say, I LOVE some of Lindelucy’s lingerie collections. The use of rhinestones and feathers in the all black “Fashion Club” line is terrific and of course, being based in Brazil, their bikinis are super hot. However, it’s their use of a GPS tracking device in their babydolls and camisoles that kinda throws me for a loop. Maybe it’s because I live in a small apartment, but I don’t see the sexy fun in wearing a tracking device. Plus, the GPS is a little bulky.  It’s not heavy really but its 2 inches long and can easily be seen through the sheer lingerie lining. Am I alone on thinking this is unnecessary? Apparently I am since this is their #1 seller.

via Amber Katz at DailyMakeover.com

The glamour, the flashbulbs, the towering stilettos! We staked out the Tents at Fashion Week Fall 2010 to bring you the top beauty trends of the season. Here are our favorites that emerged again and again backstage:

Celestial Makeup

Lela Rose looked skyward to the moon and the stars for the beauty inspiration of her fall 2010 fashion show. It’s all about the variance of greys and blues reminiscent of starry night.

Read more about this trend.

Red Lips

Each fall, we see no shortage of red lips raging on the runway. But this year’s matte version is best achieved with a healthy does of lip liner filled in to create a bullet-proof pout. Read more about the best red lips for fall 2010.

Read more about this trend.

Funky, Chunky Streaks Haircolor

Thick Crayola-esque streaks in all shades of the rainbow are hot for fall. This rebellious look is all about unleashing your inner wild child. But can this runway look be interpreted in the real world?

Read more about this trend.

Glampire Beauty

Move over vampires, glampires are all the rage for fall 2010. From a deep scarlett lip at George Chakra to the bejeweled blood red lips at Doo.ri, the chicest way to feel alive next fall…. is to channel the undead.

Read more about this trend.

Blunt Bangs

Thick, straight-across fringes are back in a big way. This mod hairstyle is great for straight-haired ladies and is perfect for cooler fall weather. From a rounded ’30s-style to a shiny, brow-grazing version, blunt bangs are it for 2010.

Read more about this trend.

Which trend are you most looking forward to rocking this autumn?

Related Articles:
Fashion Week: Funky, Chunky Haircolor
Vampire Inspired Fashion Week
Fashion Week: The Bold And The Beautiful
The Best Red Lips For Fall 2010
Stellar Beauties Float Down The Runway

Sunday, Valentine’s Day, was the SIMON SPURR Fall 2010 fashion show.  This was Simon’s first runway show after several successful seasons of menswear presentations.  He debuted his new high-end tailored collection SIMON SPURR.

Designer Simon Spurr said of his collection, “I am English and my brand is decidedly American.  I really wanted to establish my British roots and deliver something modern and elegant into American fashion week.”

Models walked on the runway to songs such as:

1) Who Dares Wins – The Streets
2) Impossible – Daniel Merriweather
3) Dream City – Free Energy
4) She Loves Everybody – Chester French
5) You Talk – Babyshambles
6) Nobody Could Change Your Mind – The Generationals

Notable attendees included:  Milo Ventimiglia (NBC’s Heroes), Anna Wintour, Robert Verdi,  and Arden Wohl.

The collection was an eclectic mix of colorful pieces in aubergine, blueberry, and eggplant as well as tailored classic pinstriped suiting.  The fabrics had a lot of pattern, texture, and sheen.  I hope we’ll be seeing a lot more of these trends in menswear this coming Fall!

Victoria Beckham received rave reviews for the gorgeous collection of dresses she showed at New York Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2010, and the makeup was equally praise worthy. Victoria’s vision for the show was minimal makeup with maximum impact. The result: nude lips, silvery eyes and shimmery skin with a play on textures.

Victoria’s Fall 2010 collection is full of gorgeously structured silhouettes with beautiful draping detail and her signature zippers. The color palette–rich emerald, paprika and sapphire hues paired with nudes, metallics and black–added to the collection’s modernity. Make sure to check out the collection on Style.com.

A fun fact?  The private residence where the show took place, on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, was featured in the “Sex and the City” movie. Remember the scene where Big shows Carrie the apartment he has bought her, complete with fashionista (read: MY) dream closet? It was filmed in the room where Victoria did the presentations.

PRODUCTS USED

• Lancôme Color Design Eyeshadow in Optic and Crème Lustré Lancôme
• Lancôme Ombre Magnetique in Silver (NEW for Fall 2010)
• Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Mascara in Excessive Black
• Lancôme Ageless Minérale Perfecting and Setting Mineral Powder in Translucent
• Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer #1
• Lancôme Blush Subtil in Miel Glace
• Lancôme Effacernes Waterproof Concealer (used on the lips)
• Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Lipstick in Rich Cashmere

For the makeup, Francelle did a modern take on 1930’s Hollywood glamour in keeping with Victoria’s “Dick Tracy” inspiration for the clothes.  She paired a metallic eye with a pale, nude lip. First, Francelle swept Color Design Eyeshadow in Optic on the entire lid to the brow bone and added Color Design Eyeshadow in Crème Lustré to the lower lid. Ombre Magnetique in Silver (coming this fall!) was used in the crease for a shiny, metallic finish. The new Hypnôse Drama Mascara coated the top lashes only. The skin was dusted with Ageless Minérale Powder in Translucent for a luminous complexion. Blush Subtil in Miel Glace was applied lightly to the cheekbones for an added touch of color. For the lips, Francelle first dotted them with concealer (a great trick for ensuring you get a super nude pout with staying power) then applied L’Absolu Rouge Lipstick in Rich Cashmere. The nails were short and groomed with just clear nail polish and the hair, by Didier Malige, was pulled back in messy version of a French twist.

Lebanese Couturier Abed Mahfouz to Launch Ready-to-Wear Collection at New York Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall / Winter 2010-2011.  Mahfouz, who presented his couture collections in Paris this past January,  debuted the Ready-to-Wear collection Wednesday, February 17^th at the Altman Building.

Located away from the tents of Bryant Park, the Altman Building is in the heart of the architecturally interesting downtown Chelsea area.  The building itself is a landmark with some retail history – it was originally built in 1896 as the carriage house for the B. Altman’s Department Store.  The elegantly-styled and recently restored Altman Building is a perfect fit for this ready-to-wear collection.

My favorite look is this draped v-neck dress.  It’s so feminine and echoes old-world Hollywood elegance.   It’s so wearable for women with a variety of shapes, the forgiving drape is flattering to curvy shapes and adds curves for ladies who need them.

Inspired by a woman’s femininity, Mahfouz has created a glamorous and modern line for his induction into the prêt-à-porter category; Mahfouz’s designs celebrate the female form, accenting structured silhouettes through draping, highlighting a woman’s elegant shoulders and slim waist.

Mahfouz establishes the mood for fall through his color palette, which varies from black and ruby red, to cobalt blue and grey marine.  Deep, rich jewel tones that are not only undeniably elegant, but also reflective of the season.

Mahfouz has also paired unlikely fabrics, such as wool with silk, to create movement, and incorporating snakeskin jersey, jacquard with embossed circles and 3D-like accessories, to add texture.

The strong shoulder in both this slim jacket and this boat neck gown slim the waist and balance the hips.  I can’t wait to see the Abed Mahfouz  Ready-to-Wear Collection in stores!

If you hadn’t heard of T-Swizzle before a week ago, you certainly know her now—she’s the girl who walked away with four Grammys. The country songstress is known for her Western style, and can carry a look just as well as she carries her tunes. Check out her polished yellow trench. The large chocolate brown buttons add a stylish twist, and the belt keeps the look together. She paired her coat with a luxurious pair of Christian Louboutin knee-highs and sexy v-striped tights. Upon arrival at Sydney Airport in March, Taylor wowed in a girlie embroidered pink dress and her signature cowboy boots. The scarf that she tied to her purse is cute and fresh.

The singer’s curly blonde locks keep her style vibe young, even when she’s dressed in designer duds from head to toe. Although she sings about her affinity for sneakers, the lyric queen doesn’t shy away from pumps. “I am obsessed with high heels,” she told Teen Vogue in March 2009. At the Grammys this year, her periwinkle Kaufman Franco dress got the nod of approval from hard-to-please celebrity stylist Jay Manuel on E! “Fashion Police.” The geometric neckline and shimmery fabric are a perfect look for the 20-year-old superstar. I can’t wait to see how her style will evolve.