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Photographs by Suzy Gorman
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I was honored to be a part of the Neiman Marcus Fashion’s Night Out event last Friday, September 10. The Plaza Frontenac anchor store generously gave me free reign to select six looks for a runway presentation. Hundreds of style-minded revelers gathered to nosh, drink, and hear the latest news in fashion—all while watching a stunning runway show. Here are my notes from the evening, accompanied by photos of the lovely models in the looks of the season.
1950s WITH A TWIST
This look is curve-hugging and really shows the feminine shape. Many of us can’t miss an episode of Mad Men. We’re definitely checking out those girls in the office—they are wearing body-conscious silhouettes and looking elegant and sexy. This is a throwback to a time when a lady dressed like a lady. Ali is wearing an Elie Tahari camel coat—camel is huge this year. If you’re going to buy something in this shade, I recommend a coat because it is a trend that also happens to be an investment. A camel coat is not going out of style, and you will wear it forever. The Kay Unger dress shows off an hourglass shape in a great tweed fabric. Curves are back, so it is cinched at the waist with a Prada belt. That amazing 20-karat gold necklace is by Coomi. It’s from the Serenity collection created with rose cut and brilliant diamonds; Neiman Marcus is the only store to carry this line in St. Louis. The model has a gorgeous copper-colored structured bag from Nancy Gonzalez. If you’re going to buy a bag, make sure it is structured—again a great investment for your closet. We’ve seen it for a few seasons, and it is still around— leopard print is big again and Ali is wearing a pair of Stuart Weitzman leopard platform slingbacks, such a great way to add a dash of animal print to your look.
MILITARY INSPIRED
I love this military-inspired look for knockin’ around town. It’s casual, with an edge. Layers are also a big trend this season: Think cozy, and don’t be afraid to mix up colors.
Becca is wearing a Seven army green coat has that great utilitarian look. She has a brown and green wrap by Splendid and Vince black cashmere top, along with Vince leggings—another multi-purpose trend. You can wear them with jackets, dresses, or oversized sweaters, and be comfy and chic. Becca’s wearing a Gucci scarf, Burberry hat, and Seven boots—those lugged soles are going to be everywhere this season. It’s a perfect way to finish off this military look.
COOL & CASUAL
Jade shows you can be polished and comfortable at the same time. She’s wearing an Elizabeth & James blazer and blouse with layers of pearl and ribbon necklaces. These are so easy to throw on, and it really dresses up an outfit. Jade is also wearing a Brera watch—my favorite line of watches, which Neiman Marcus sells exclusively here in St. Louis. Her Seven boyfriend jeans are cuffed to show off those fabulous booties. And here’s the thing: Don’t be afraid to mix patterns; she’s wearing stripes, animal print, and different fabrics, and she still looks pulled together.
THE MODERN MALE
And we can’t forget the stylish men. Matt is showing a few trends of the season.
The biker jacket was everywhere on fall runways, and this one from Diesel adds toughness to any wardrobe. Plaid—whether it’s a small detail in a tie or a bold shirt like this one from Arnold Zimbuy—is where it’s at. An accessory trend for men this fall is a black watch—no bling, just discreet and chic. This is a great example from Brera. Just like the ladies, men will be wearing lace-up boots through the winter; these, from Gucci, are very rugged and rock n’ roll at the same time.
If there’s one style rule to remember it’s this: There are no rules. Fashion is fun, and there are so many trends out there that you just need to make sure they work for you and your lifestyle.
Thanks to the models: Ali, Jade, Gabby, Matt (Talent Plus), Becca, and Madeline (West Model Management).
