stylingstage: Jacket Jive

Fall has arrived and stylish dames are downright giddy. Need a fresh idea for your wardrobe? A great styling tip for any outfit is to simply add a jacket. Consider one of these for kicks:

Tough Tuxedo: Just about the hottest thing right now, every gal should own one. Look for a little sheen or leather on the lapel, with a fitted, cropped style in black. If you’re daring, a color could work, but beware of “ugly groomsman syndrome.” Pair with sleek black pants and a long sequined tank or opt for a brightly colored shift dress and platform pumps.

Bad Boyfriend: Super cool, just like that old beau you had in high school. Look for a longer blazer that hits below your bottom and has slouchy sleeves that roll up. Pair with a beautiful t-shirt or slim, v-neck sweater and distressed skinny jeans and oxford booties. A single pendant is the finishing touch.

Simply Suit: A classic cut that always looks chic. Originally paired with matching trousers, this jacket actually pairs well with everything under the sun. Look for a tailored fit with 2 buttons and a light wool blend. Looks great well with a midi-length dress or slim cargos, a hooded henley, wedge heels and lots of chunky metal bracelets.

Top Topper: Considered a double-duty item, wear this as a light coat or a layering piece to your outfit. This can be dressed-up or casual and always makes a statement. Sleeves are best at ¾ length and a cool print or material makes it that more interesting. Looks best when paired with jeans and shorter dresses with tights.

Luxe Leather: Very hip and tough, look for a slim fit in fine leather. Avoid a lot of detail (zippers/pockets/ruffles) so not to look cheap. Looks cool when juxtaposed with a long, flowy print dress and riding boots or a gorgeous blouse and wide-leg trousers and retro pumps. Black, tan or brown will do. No colors. Ever.

Justly Lovely: The most ladylike of the bunch, look for structure and sophisticated detail. Play Coco Chanel and opt for a short, black and white tweed jacket paired with a pencil skirt or dark slim jeans. Red patent, black patent or leopard ballet flats will give it a beautiful finishing touch.

The jacket is hard to beat. And that’s no jive.

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