Filed under: Fashion Files, Designers, Trends
Lewellyn -- who has worked in the fashion departments at InStyle, Glamour, and Essence and worked with the likes of Beyoncé, Sarah Jessica Parker, Halle Berry and Janet Jackson -- outlined these classic trends and other budget-friendly shopping suggestions in her book 'Never Pay Retail Again: Shop Smart, Spend Less, and Look Your Best Ever.' Lewellyn says these five items are versatile enough to work with any lifestyle or body type. "No matter if you are a curvy CEO, or slim stay at home mom, these pieces can work in your favor, and save you money."
A drop in temperature is no excuse to wear "schleppy unflattering coats," says Lewellyn. Instead opt for a coat with slimming design details like a belted waist, a hemline that falls just above the knee and a solid color with bold vertical buttons that's flattering on every body type. A slimming coat could be worn over dresses, skirts, pants and jeans. Try this Ted Baker Belted Wrap Coat ($436, asos.com). "The coat is the first thing that everyone sees when you make your grand entrance, so let's make it a truly grand appearance," says Lewellyn.
Take a brief respite from your platform-heeled Louboutins and slip on a chic pair of ballerina flats instead. Your feet will thank you! A jeweled ballet flat or leopard pointed- toe flat are great to wear while running errands around town, Lewellyn says. "Comfort and style have now joined together, and forever united," she adds. These Ballerina Flats from Juicy Couture ($195, neimanmarcus.com) are a great option for those wanting to give their feet a rest from sky-high heels.
Statement jewelry is something that can help you stand out in seconds. "Chunky necklaces, cocktail rings, and oversized cuffs can take your simple jeans and tee shirt look from drab to oh so fab," Lewellyn says. Skip the statement necklace if your top or dress already has a built-in jeweled or embellished neckline. "Trend overkill is exhausting. The statement jewelry should not have to compete with any other jewelry," she says. This Gold Hammered Drop Necklace by Kenneth Jay Lane ($195, charmandchain.com) is sure to liven any outfit.
Sure, a black pencil skirt is a good investment, but why not spice things up with a cranberry red or black rockstar hue? Lewellyn says the defined pencil skirt -- also known as the Rolls Royce of skirts -- should be a head-turner that tucks in your tummy and lifts your tush. This Alfani Cheetah Print Pencil Skirt ($59, macys.com) allows you to wear two hot trends at once: the defined pencil skirt and cheetah prints.
Are you tired of wearing little black dresses to every function? Change things up by donning a little colored dress in jewel tones or red, which happens to be the rage this season. "A single pop color dress is a one-stop shop to looking amazing in literally seconds," Lewellyn says. A jeweled-tone little colored dress like this Aqua Draped Purple Dress ($98, bloomingdales.com) will work well for holiday cocktail parties that are just around the corner.
Want more fashion advice from the stylish Daisy Lewellyn, then be sure to check out her fashion blog.