I actually tend to shy away from the in-your-face trends. I like to start with staples instead. A good wardrobe is built on a foundation of flattering silhouettes and quality pieces–a tailored white shirt, thick cable knit sweater, perfect pencil skirt and body hugging jacket are on constant rotation. Find the pieces that look absolutely stunning on you, then incorporate a trend or two. I think neon is going to keep on truckin’ into the fall but in smaller, less in your face ways. I love the idea of neon skinny belts.

I’m also smitten with the return of higher-waisted wide legged denim for fall. There are three  jeans every girl should own: a good dark wash skinny that can be worn with flats or heels, a clean cut trouser jean that skims the ground and something with a strong flare. You can go the bell bottom route if you prefer bohemian, but I like a wide cut that lets off just a hint of 70′s vibe. That’s why I snagged a pair of Madewell’s Wide Legger Jean at our event. They’re practically perfect in every way!

Statement jewelry is also here to stay but I’m into taking a minimalist approach for fall. Pick one head-turning piece. I’m adoring all metal accents right now, like an oversized bronze cuff, a thick chain necklace or killer cocktail ring but then keep the rest simple. This fall, less will be more.

I adore layers. They make any look ten times more interesting. So when warm days start giving way to cooler evenings I pair bits and pieces from summer, like a striped tank, shorts and wedges, with my new fall pieces. I’d take the tank top and belt my chambray shirt and a jewel-toned cotton cardigan over the top. Then I’d trade out my wedge for a high heeled ankle boot.

What Madewell pieces are you currently coveting?
It’s really hard for me to pare down my choices at Madewell because I kinda love the entire store but if I had to be selective I’d take a pair of their suede booties made as part of a design partnership with Sigerson Morrison, the Wayward Denim shirt worn as a jacket and I can’t wait to see their Metallic Cableknit Crewneck sweater in person. It’ll infuse the perfect amount of sheen that will take the preppy staple up a notch.

How do you sparkle?
There are three keys to a good sparkle: self confidence, a positive attitude and the perfect shade of red lipstick!