Oct 11
20
Update Your Fall Wardrobe with Great Jewelry
Dear Gila Leah,
This awful economy is draining all the joy out of my fall shopping! How can I update my wardrobe, stay in my budget and still have fun doing it?
Sincerely,
Girl (I just wanna have fun!)
Dear Girl,
Fall has definitely arrived. The weather is cooler, and sweaters and boots are making an appearance. Have you looked in your closet this season for what to wear? Who do you know that hasn’t tried on every item of clothing from last year and found either: that some things don’t fit anymore, some clothes have magically appearing stains, and some are obviously past their fashion expiration date? Do you have the urge to do what you may have done in the not so distant rosy economic past: do some glorious, feel-good, “I have a new look I’m beautiful,” shopping? I know I do! But hold off on that urge and take a few deep breaths.
Yes, things have changed. And yes, I’m here to tell you that you can still have fun, look glam (but not too glam, of course, as ostentation is quite the faux pax these days). And yes, you can even stay within your budget.
You don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe. In today’s economy, the best way is to update your existing wardrobe. Do this by adding a couple of neutral-colored (black, ivory, or camel) separates. For instance, adding an A-line skirt with a nice swing to it, a pair of
wide-legged slacks, and a blazer-style jacket or sweater will give you this season’s silhouette, yet still allow you to mix in the pieces you already have. The next step is to maximize your updated look with jewelry. Jewelry will personalize your look as well as carry you through different occasions with the same clothing outfit.
Your new, nearly monochromatic outfit (black, camel or navy), will be very versatile. Add your selection of jewelry to make your outfit dressy, work appropriate or casual. An adjustable necklace like the artisan glass, crystal and sterling silver 23″ long lariat (to the right) can be worn with most necklines and colors for a really great, finished look.
A totally different look – that will add color and soft texture – is this mulberry bark paper flower chain
necklace on a copper chain (to the left), which has lots of added interest, like a jade heart dangle. You will be amazed at how fresh and 
fashionable you look, just by adding jewelry that is uniquely yours!
Don’t forget to buy a pair of neutral flats that will work with your slacks, skirts and jeans and take you everywhere but the opera. A new purse for the season should have color – red is a classic choice.
Now that you have your updated look, created by adding just a few basic separates and accessories; and have personalized it by adding great jewelry, you look and feel ready for Fall! Go in style to lunch with the girls, to work, running errands, to the theater – and know that you’ve got it all going on, Girl!
Gila Leah, Jewelry for the Unique Woman
