Top Trends for Late Summer/Early Fall 2008

As the weather wanes, many of us might be in confusion as to what we should wear. Do you pull out the light knit sweaters and stow the tank tops? Do you tone down the colors of your vibrant summer wardrobe? Do you start wearing closed-toe pumps instead of strappy sandals? Well, this article will answer all of your questions about what to wear at this time of year. I will highlight the top five trends for late summer, early fall 2008. You may be surprised by what you can continue to wear and what you need to put in storage for next year.

Belted Jackets. This staple has been a fashion favorite since "Dynasty", except our version does not have shoulder pads. This hot look is defined by a cinched in silhouette and short sleeved or sleeveless profile. These jackets work well with cropped trousers, a favorite dress, or a fluted skirt. If you want to keep the look clean, wear this belted jacket in colors of white, cream, ecru and khaki.

Bright Colors + Balance. Good news, you can still wear your sunshine yellows and hot pinks, but it is time to balance them out with a bit of neutral. Add a beige, cream, or navy skirt or pant (no black, it's too early in the year for that!) to a vivid top or dress to make your wardrobe a little more appropriate for this time of year. Another option is to wear bright accessories instead of bright articles of clothing; either choice will keep your ensemble fresh. Just remember, you cannot wear bright accessories and bright clothing, you have to pick one or the other or else you will look garish.

Disco Queen. Seventies glam is so hip right now, but be warned the trend differs slightly for day and evening wear. For daytime wear, be bold in statement jewelry worn around the arms, wrists, or neck. For evening wear, relive the languid glamour of Studio 54 in glitterball sequins, gold accents, and slinky jumpsuits. Be bold with this trend and try it all, but just not all at once!

Go Grey. Grey is the new black for this time of year, so wear it from head-to-toe for the most dramatic effect. Vary shades from silver to heather for a very streamlined, earthy, but fashionable effect. Keep this sophisticated with relaxed tailoring in luxurious fabrics such as cashmere and silks. Try this trend in fluted skirts, high-waisted pants, fitted blazers, and fedora hats. Due to the subtly of this trend, it is appropriate to wear day or night.

Bold Prints. Since the weather is still warm, summer dresses in bold prints are the way to go. Keep this trend simple with a sheath dress and wear with chunky accessories for a contemporary look. Feminine florals is contrasted well with a tailored jacket and sophisticated footwear.

So there you have it, these trends are the way to go to stay relevant and fashionable for the late summer, early fall 2008 season. From belted jackets to fabulous prints, you will look great if you try these trends. As with everything, a little practice will make perfect. So feel free to experiment with a couple of trends at once, just don't go overboard. As always, good luck and happy shopping!