Rich wardrobe additions make it easy to look instantly updated for fall. A few well-selected pieces can bring to life any lackluster attire, keeping it elegant and modern for only a tiny fraction of an entire new wardrobe’s price. Try these quick and easy embellishments that are inspired by both the runway and the real world, so you can indulge yourself in the season’s latest trends.

1. A Belted Cardigan

A fun and trendy way to layer for fall, an adorable belted cardigan like MICHAEL Michael Kors’ Petite Belted Cotton-Rayon Knit Cardigan keeps things warm while also showing off a sexy cinched waist.















2. A Bib Necklace

A bib necklace is fall’s must-have accessory. Perhaps even the cheapest way to update your look, a bib necklace like Spiegel’s Beaded Necklace is the perfect touch for an added little zing and bling that can make even the most mundane garment look like a million bucks.













3. A Ruffled Leather Jacket

A new spin on an old favorite, the O’Hara Leather Jacket with Ruffles by Kut from the Kloth contains the brilliant concoction of fashionable rebellion and indispensable femininity that keeps you looking cool while staying warm.

What’s a girl to do when it’s too chilly to wear summer dresses but too hot to slip on fall frocks? Don’t give up those charming warm weather ensembles just yet…shift them into transition mode! Though summer is coming close to its conclusion, don’t waste your efforts rearranging your entire closet this instant. With a little creativity, and a little layering, you can still exercise stylish summer pieces by using them to add polish and pizzazz as you gradually gear up for harvest time.

1. A Ruffled Top

Don’t be afraid of ruffles! When worn correctly they can bring any outfit from drab to dashing. Traditionally worn with a skirt for summer picnics, a ruffled top like Farinaz’s crisp white version can easily bring an element of fall-forward elegance when tucked into slacks and peeking out from a blazer.

2. A Jersey Tunic Dress

A jersey tunic dress like MICHAEL by Michael Kors’ Jersey Dress with Beaded Neckline is great to wear alone during summer days. But with a comfy pair of jeggings and boots, it’s more than ready to brave the incoming cold.

3. A Maxi Dress

Transitioning a maxi dress from summer to fall might seem a bit challenging, but with the right print, like that of C.enne.V’s Geometric-Print Jersey Maxi Dress, all it takes is a little layering know-how. Add a fitted cowl-neck sweater, and maybe a waist-hugging belt, and you’ll lend a quick bohemian-chic touch to your fabulous fall style.

4. A Studded Satchel

Summer’s trendy studded satchels can pull together any outfit and turn it into a fun, structured and stylish look no matter what the weather. And with its admirable ability to go from work to play, a perfectly sized satchel like Jessica Simpson’s Karma Stud Satchel will have you equipped for wherever the climate or calendar brings you.

When it comes to missing summer fashion, you won’t have to! With these simple tips, fall’s freezing fury is no match against your innovative wardrobe stretch and style.

As the warm summer breeze turns to a chill, you might be wondering if it’s time to start shopping for an entire new line of fall frocks. But instead of picking pieces that you’ll be storing again in a matter of months, why not select some staples that you’ll be able to utilize year round? Here are five wardrobe classics that will make your transition from season to season effortless and stylish:

1. Dark Denim

Dark denim is always a smart choice since you can wear dark-rinse jeans both at the office and out running errands. Not only do dark jeans make legs look slimmer, but a classic black or very dark blue pair like Kut from the Kloth’s Delight Wash Three-Button Denim Trouser will contribute to a more polished and professional appearance in comparison to trendy faded and distressed styles, which are best reserved for weekends.

2. A Blazer

Blazers are versatile enough to wear during any circumstance, business or not. For a refreshing new take, try Spiegel’s Signature Seasonless Suiting Collection Peplum Jacket with a little black dress or your favorite “jeans and fitted shirt” combination. Blazers will add an instant sophistication to your personal style and safeguard you from upcoming autumn’s chill.

3. Beige Chinos

With a pair of quality chinos, you can add an element of casual chic to even the most basic top. Chinos set the stage for an infinite assortment of fashionable work looks too. Check out MICHAEL Michael Kors’ Gramercy Twill Pant for a flattering cut that’s relaxed but not frumpy.

4. A Pencil Skirt

The pencil skirt is a multipurpose fashion staple that comfortably hugs curves and can be worn in a multitude of ways. Give a classic black version like Eileen Fisher’s Washable Stretch-Crepe Skirt a modern update with tights, a wide belt and a ruffled blouse for a perfect day-to-night outfit.

5. A Little Black Dress

A little black dress is the most versatile of wardrobe pieces. It’s unfussy enough to wear pretty much anywhere but can also be dressed up for numerous special occasions. For fall, pair Tadashi’s contemporary Criss-Cross Stretch-Jersey Dress with a colorful scarf and jacket so you can stay warm and well dressed. Don’t forget the stockings!

For now, leave the wool, which will have you sweating by noon, and just keep in mind these specific, timeless and transitional wardrobe staples that will have you prepared through heat wave or hurricane, all year long.

With season four of Mad Men premiering this Sunday night and a gaggle of sheath dresses, cardigans and pencil skirts arriving on our site for fall, I couldn’t resist assembling these pieces into a few ensembles that pay homage to the hit show. Whether your Mad Men style icon is Joan Holloway or Peggy Olson, I hope you’ll spot a look that inspires you, and that you’ll have as much fun browsing these outfits and getting ideas as I did putting them together!

1. Belle Jolie Focus Group

Studio 1 Belted Sheath with Folded Collar, $78

Press Cotton-Blend Knit Cardigan, $66

Spiegel Woven-Front Tote, $39

2. Apartment Hunting on Park Avenue

Kiyonna Tori Cinch Dress, $98

Spiegel Silk Dupioni Portrait-Collar Jacket, $104

Newport News Patchwork Half-Moon Bag, $34

3. Bay Ridge Commuter

AGB Stretch-Satin Dress with Adjustable Belt, $70

Press Short-Sleeve Cotton-Blend Knit Cardigan, $64

Newport News Ruffled Satchel Bag, $24

4. Coca-Cola Casting Call

Calvin Klein Dresses Stretch-Woven Sheath with Pleated Bodice, $129

Press Cotton-Blend Knit Cardigan, $66

Spiegel Lace Handbag, $59

5. Three-Martini Lunch

Zelda 8-Panel Skirt, $250

Karen Kane Jersey Shell, $40

Press Short-Sleeve Cotton-Blend Knit Cardigan, $64

Spiegel Basketweave Bag, $89

6. Switchboard Gossip

Eileen Fisher Washable Stretch-Crepe Skirt, $158

MICHAEL Michael Kors Ruffled Silk Polka-Dot Blouse, $79

Press Cotton-Blend Knit Cardigan, $66

Newport News Satchel Bag, $24

7. Meet Us at the Pierre

Kiyonna Starlet Plus-Size Cotton Stretch-Twill Pencil Skirt, $68

MICHAEL Michael Kors Plus-Size Ruffled Silk Polka-Dot Blouse, $89

Kiyonna Christy Plus-Size Lightweight Knit Cardigan, $62

Spiegel Chain-Strap Bag, $34

The wedding’s in two weeks, but you haven’t found a suitable mother of the bride dress yet? Well, before you think “Eeek!” check out these beauties we’ve culled from our special occasion collection. Beyond the list below, you’ll also find many more choices in the new “mother of the bride dresses” shopping category that we’ve created on our site.

If you have a Personal Shop to show you which mother of the bride dresses will fit you, even better: just sign in to your account and then go to http://www.myshape.com/selected/styles/shop/special/mother-of-the-bride. The dresses with a handprint symbol next to them are recommended for you.

We hope we can introduce you to a dress you absolutely love. And by the way: congratulations!

1. Tadashi Ruched Stretch-Jersey Dress

The soft blue of this simple, graceful style works for a day or evening wedding and with silver or gold jewelry. With its not-too-deep scoop neckline, three-quarter sleeves and allover ruching, it also flatters every body shape, sleekening curves with ease. Relatively modest but certainly not matronly, it puts a modern spin on typical mother of the bride attire without pushing the envelope of propriety.

2. Donna Morgan Embellished Silk-Shantung Dress

Concerned about coordinating with the bridesmaids? This silver silk-shantung dress lets you bypass all the guesswork since it goes with practically any other color. The combination of the scoop neck and full skirt flatters figures with broader shoulders or fuller busts (Ys and Ps, that is) but also nicely echoes the curves of an S. Don’t want to bare arms? Karen Kane’s Crocheted Cotton Cardigan, August Silk’s Beaded Cotton-Blend Knit Cardigan in “Light Grey” or AVA Knits’ Open-Front Ruffle Sweater would look lovely with this dress while keeping your outfit neutral.

3. Donna Ricco Stretch-Jersey Cowl-Neck Dress

For a wedding that’s a little less formal, this cowl-neck dress uses draping to create an effortless elegance. Mother of the bride dresses no longer have to be beige or pastel, and this sophisticated, saturated plum hue compliments many complexions—without stealing the spotlight. Asymmetrical gathers call attention to the waist, lending curves to a straighter H figure and enhancing those of an M or S. The cowl-neck also softens and brings focus inward from a strong Y shoulder line.

4. Alex Evenings Chiffon and Satin Bejeweled Gown and Jacket

Or perhaps the event you’re attending falls at the other end of the spectrum, and you require a full-length gown. If so, you could try this stunning empire-waist design, complete with a matching bolero jacket. Sans sequins, lamé and any over-the-top occasion-wear clichés, its regal restraint makes it an ideal mother of the bride option. The back pleated chiffon inset flatters an A who carries more of her hip measurement in the rear, and the empire waist works well for an M or H who doesn’t want anything too clingy at the natural waist.

5. Kiyonna Plus Size Boudoir Stretch-Lace Dress

This gorgeous style captures the lace trend without the froufrou factor thanks to an elegant silhouette. The surplice empire bodice, three-quarter sleeves and gently flared skirt flatter balanced M, S and H figures, but this dress is also great for an A as the neckline calls attention to the décolletage and sleeve length draws focus up to the inset waistband. Gold accessories, such as an antique pendant necklace, a boxy clutch and strappy heels complete the look—or, in place of the pendant necklace, wouldn’t a strand of chocolate pearls be perfect too?

6. Max & Cleo Beaded Chiffon Dress

Are you a “cool mom”? Then why not wear a glamorous, fashion-forward one-shoulder mother of the bride dress? This chiffon style with stud and gem embellishment has just enough edge to let you express some personality, but the subtle print, knee length and cleavage-covering bodice keep it appropriate. The fluttery skirt balances a Y’s or P’s upper-body proportions, and the way the design highlights the shoulder line and waist lends more curvature to a straighter M or an H figure.

Posted by Heather at MyShape

You’ve been invited to a party. The invite indicates “cocktail attire.” You consider your trusted standby: the little black dress. But it’s summer now. Plus, you’ve worn it about a million times, so your little black dress is looking a little grey. You’ve also heard the party is being held outdoors—on a rooftop or maybe by a beach. And you love the idea of baring lots of leg. So how about a pair of shorts?

Think about it: they show off gorgeous legs and never blow up over your head. No offense to Marilyn Monroe and The Seven Year Itch, but that is the stuff of recurring nightmares. With shorts you can stroll over a subway grate, loll in a beanbag chair and climb out of an Italian sports car without embarrassing your grandmother.

BCBGeneration - Linen Short

Of course, it’s a cocktail party, so I’m talking about something more than cutoffs—these BCBGeneration linen shorts, for instance. They embody the notion of simplicity as the soul of style. The high-rise waist is so flattering and sophisticated, and the slightly flared leg gives you room to stride. It also balances a full bust or broad shoulders. (Ps and Ys, are you listening?) And since they’re made of linen, let me give a shout-out for the serious comfort factor.

MICHAEL Michael Kors - Logo-Ring Georgette Halter Top

Now for a top to go with them. Since you’ll be exhibiting a great deal of leg, this is perhaps an appropriate moment to remind you that one of the tricks to looking sexy rather than slutty is leaving something to the imagination. In other words, don’t flash cleavage when you’re flashing leg. This MICHAEL Michael Kors halter top bares shoulders and back. Subtle but still very sexy. Want to make your legs look longer? Tuck the top in.

Joann Smyth - Gold-Plated Hoop Earrings

I’m not one for cluttering up a sleek look with a lot of jewelry, which is probably why I like Joann Smyth’s charmingly simple gold-plated earrings. They have nice clean lines and echo the top’s gold ring.











Let us now raise a glass to the amazing short. While it may not replace the cocktail dress, it can certainly give it a run for its money.

Yes, strong-shouldered looks have been surging on the runways for a while, but this spring they’ve really begun appearing in stores. Speaking as a confirmed shoulder-pad-phobic (or so I thought), I have to admit that the strong-shouldered silhouette undeniably is flattering if done right, especially for shapes M, S, H and A. And Ys, of course, can get this look gratis just by playing up rather than balancing their natural upper-body assets.

A straight, defined shoulder line makes the waistline appear slimmer, complements full hips and also breaks up less curvy figures, separating the upper and lower body. The key to getting the contemporary strong shoulder right is keeping the rest of the sleeve, as well as the waist of your top, dress or jacket, fitted. The result: a sleek, tailored effect that doesn’t add bulk like the boxy blazers of the 80s that most of us think of when we hear “strong shoulders.”

Not all of this season’s strong-shouldered looks rely on shoulder pads to create volume, either. Feminine ruching or pleats or even insets can create beautiful shoulder definition. Check out the styles below; they’re all fabulous, versatile representations of the trend.

BCBGeneration Defined-Shoulder Rayon-Jersey Tee, $44, Sizes S-L

Shape FX Shape and Control Belted Dress, $59, Sizes 2-18

Igigi In the Navy Plus-Size Stretch-Gabardine Blazer, $132, Sizes 14W-18W

Wear it and toss? Been there, done that. How about six dresses that can commit to weddings, then settle down beautifully to real life?


Nanette Lepore – Honeysuckle Stretch-Cotton Strapless Dress





What the society page reported:

“As the bridesmaids trooped down the aisle, a collective gasp was heard and the beautiful bride was admired for her gutsy thinking.”


What the bridesmaid was thinking:

“Saturday night is our third date.”









Rabbit Rabbit Rabbit Designs – Floral Dress with Beaded Collar





What the society page reported:

“The ceremony took place on a beach, so, naturally, the wedding party was sans shoes….”


What the bridesmaid was thinking:

“Perfect for next Sunday’s brunch. I’ll just wear that cardigan I—ooo-eee…what did I just step on?”








Calvin Klein Dresses – Glen Plaid Dress





What the society page reported:

“The bride, a well-known attorney, cleverly outfitted her bridesmaids….”


What the bridesmaid was thinking:

“Next week’s bar association meeting, dinner with Ted’s par—oh, that is so rude. I can’t believe someone forgot to turn off their cell phone…oops.”









Level 99 – Strapless Denim Dress





What the society page reported:

“…serenaded by distant moos and cowbells, the couple tied the knot on their organic farm….”


What the bridesmaid was thinking:

“This will be sooo cute with my new handbag! And with a shirt underneath I can wear it on casual Fr—ohmigod, did that cow just poo?”








Jessica Howard – Shutter-Pleat Dress





What the society page reported:

“…the bride’s marriage, her third….”


What the bridesmaid was thinking:

“No comment.”










London Times – Floral Sundress with Bustier Bodice

What the society page reported:

“In kitten heels and with sweet nosegays clutched in their white-gloved hands, the bride’s attendants were as charming as the garden that surrounded them….”

What the bridesmaid was thinking:

“With gladiator sandals and my tote…hello, summer in the city.”








Well, brides-to-be, whether you agree or disagree with my choices, I think we can all agree that it would be nice if the wearer could get some mileage out of her dress. Life may be short, but you still have to get dressed every day of it.

Oh, and congratulations.

Sure, we’d all love to have closets filled with beautifully crafted designer clothes made from the finest fabrics. Everyone knows the value of quality—that a well-constructed article of clothing can, even if it seemed pricey to begin with, turn out to be cost-effective by virtue of its versatility and longevity.

In spite of this, choosing the high-end version of a favorite trend isn’t always budget compatible, which is why I’ve tracked down the less expensive versions of a few designer looks on our site. When deciding whether to invest or snag a comparable steal, it helps to be aware of what you’re sacrificing for your savings (or not), so I’ve also included a few details about what you’re paying for when you pick the posher option.

1. Military-Inspired Jacket

Zelda Military Jacket, $440

L.A. Kitty Military Jacket, $38

Zelda is known for gorgeous crepe separates and dresses finished with exquisite detail, and their Bennet Jacket takes the military look to their signature quality level with covered buttons, perfectly placed braid and chiffon ruffle edging, all of which require time and skill to execute. The princess seaming that ensures a better fit sculpts the front and back, and the jacket is lined. L.A. Kitty’s more casual take on the trend in a cotton blend also features thoughtful details: crested buttons, epaulettes, piping and a waist seam that extends to the back. But the trim is vinyl, and though the cut flatters all body shapes, there are no princess seams. Still, the quality for the price is impressive, and if you only want to experiment with the military trend on weekends, the L.A. Kitty jacket may work out better for you.

2. Brocade Dress

Cynthia Steffe Brocade Dress, $345

Mink Pink Brocade Dress, $94

If you’ve been searching for a brocade semi-formal frock, you could buy Cynthia Steffe’s Anne Dress and enjoy a wealth of practical details, from front and back boning and rubberized slip tape that secure the bodice to hidden pockets for lipstick and cash. Pleats in front and back give the skirt structured, well-tailored volume. Mink Pink’s similar Man-Hunt Dress puts an edgier spin on the brocade look with an animal motif and exposed back zipper, but the lustrous texture, sweetheart neckline and full skirt are all alike. For a lower price you don’t get slip tape or bodice boning—just seaming and a shirred back to hold the bodice aloft. One extra cost-saving bonus of the budget version: you can hand wash (rather than dry clean) it.

3. Zipper-Detail Miniskirt

Yoana Baraschi Miniskirt, $198

MICHAEL Michael Kors Miniskirt, $54.90

A utility chic skirt can look luxe in black with gold hardware at lower and higher price points, but Yoana Baraschi’s Tropez Pencil Skirt boasts a banded waist, panels and sturdy cotton-blend fabric that allow it to hug hips without creating bulges. It’s also manufactured in the United States, which typically increases costs but might be important to you. Like the Tropez Skirt, MICHAEL Michael Kors’s Ponte Mini has on-trend exposed zippers (in front only) and a figure-hugging cut; however, it mostly relies on spandex rather than tailoring to achieve a fitted look, so the final effect isn’t as crisp. Two big pluses for the Kors skirt: pockets and jersey lining. And it’s on sale right now.

4. Floral Silk Blouse

Joie Silk Blouse, $228

Great Plains Silk Blouse, $98

Both of these blouses have a handcrafted, vintage feel, and both are 100% silk (minus a little viscose lining at the neck of the Great Plains version). But the Joie blouse required much more extensive sewing to create the numerous pin tucks running down the front and back as well as the ruffles edging the collar and button placket. All the buttons are covered as well. The Great Plains blouse has some pleating and bust darts in front but won’t conform to the body as the Joie will. The sleeves of the Joie also hit a little lower on the arm, with an angled drape that makes them a little more flattering and comfortable to wear.

5. Trouser Jean

CJ by Cookie Johnson Trouser Jean, $185

Kut from the Kloth Trouser Jean, $78

Work in an office where the dress code permits denim and need a great-fitting trouser jean? You could go with the premium pair on the left from CJ by Cookie Johnson. They’re made from Lyocell, a fabric that’s relatively, though not entirely, eco-friendly. Lyocell is wrinkle resistant and durable—crucial in a jean that needs to drape like a pant. As you can tell from the photo, it even takes dye well, so this pair will stay dark and sleek for a long time. A deep hem also adds to the CJ pair’s office-ready polish. (And their waist is satin lined…always a comfy little luxury.) The Kut from the Kloth pair has similar styling, with a dark rinse, front creases and a higher rise, but they have patch pockets rather than tailored faux-welt pockets like the CJ pair and are made of a cotton-spandex blend. The flattering banded waist both holds you in and contributes to their sartorial appeal. As with the two miniskirts above, the CJ jeans are manufactured in the United States, while the Kut from the Kloth are made in Asia.

Posted by Heather at MyShape

Let’s say you love both these Tadashi dresses. Which do you buy? They’re pretty much the same, aren’t they? Before you start fuming and wondering why Tadashi would design twin frocks, take a deep breath and repeat after me: “I’ll use my shape and proportions as a guide.” Because I’m fairly certain one of these beauties will look better on you than the other.

Tadashi One

I’ve drawn a line between the two points where the dress silhouette “peaks.” The lower “peak” is, in fact, quite low, and you can see—helped by the two areas of ruche-wrap detail—how this visually extends the torso. Probably something you don’t want if your torso is already long and your legs proportionately short. Also, if you carry hip weight at the side (saddlebags), this dress will exaggerate it, and that, in turn, will exaggerate the distance between the two peaks because the eye will naturally jump between the two points.

If, on the other hand, you’re leggy and short waisted, this look works well because it lengthens your midsection. Also, if you lack waist-curve definition, the placement of the ruche-wrap details and the extension of the shoulder line make the torso look curvier.

Tadashi Two

This dress is virtually the same color as the first and has a very similar silhouette. But the line between the two “peaks” is not only shorter but sits higher up. In this case, a long torso is cinched shorter, making the legs look longer. The ruche-wrap detail is just beneath the natural waist and toward the center of the figure. In other words, the emphasis is on a more streamlined silhouette without in the least diminishing a curvy shape.

There’s probably one you like more than the other, regardless of how much they look alike. But is the one you prefer the one that looks the best on you? Let your body decide. Besides, isn’t it a good thing that not everything will look great on you? In fact, some people theorize that the fewer the choices (within reason), the greater the personal style.

There you are. A style conundrum solved—at least, the long and the short of it.