Frisky Fall Fashion

Daniel Duffey
Staff Writer

September is a month dreaded by many. Summer is at an end, the weather begins to grow colder, and classes are back in session. As we pack away the butt-cleavage inducing short shorts and Old Navy flip flops of summer, we start to don the pieces that make fall such a fashion-friendly season.

Boots, sweaters, and jackets return to us like old, forgotten friends. There will also be new pieces that we add to our autumn wardrobe to stay on the cutting edge of fashion. The question of what is trendy or chic may elude many of us. Thankfully, there are designers out there to help us along. Several new trends have emerged for the season to choose our ultra-stylish new pieces from. So what exactly are the looks à la modes?

Deep, dark reds dominate the runways. Whether it was in the form of a sweater, jacket, or a pair of shorts, the color had definite presence. Black, always en vogue, was a main staple of the shows as well. The two are definitely going to be the mainstays of this sea¬son, along with colors like mustard, chocolate, viridian, eggplant, and olive. Even tangerine made a few appearances.

The next trend is one that I am a definite fan of: leather. Whether real or faux, the material is the perfect tool to bring an ordinary outfit to the next level. Biker jackets, pants, and skirts found their way to the runways. Be sure to err on the side of caution with this trend, though.

Sophistication is not without place this fall. Many designers make use of gold metallics, sequins, lacy designs, and peplum tops/dresses to add a demure flair to this fall. Black, strappy heels are also popular, particularly with gold embellishments.

Boots tie up the fall look. This season you can really play with any length. Whether knee-high riding, slouchy, motorcycle, or ankle-cut; boots definitely define the season. But the perfect outfit is nothing without the right hair and make up.

I made my way down to The Studio, New York in Babylon village for the latest beauty trends. This salon is home to some of the most talented stylists, colorists, and make up artists that Long Island has to offer. I interviewed three gurus about their favorite fall looks.

More of a magician with make up than an artist, Donna Griffin is the owner of the salon. The most important piece of advice she gives for this season is to pay attention to your skin health. “Flawless skin is always in,” she stresses. She recommends drinking plenty of water, using a good exfoliator, and always using SPF.

As far as products, Donna suggests using a beauty balm, or BB cream as they are commonly known. BB creams are light coverage foundations that contain moisturizers, antioxidants, and sun protection. Garnier and Dr. Jart both produce excellent creams. In addition, Ms. Griffin recommends defined eyeliner, dramatic lashes, and either matte color or nude glossy lips to stay on trend.

According to master stylist Cher Guthenburg, straight and smooth is out. “Big, messy waves are the look,” she said. To get the effect, try using a triple barrel waving iron, some beach spray, and your fingers to tousle it. “Don’t be afraid of looking too wild,” she said with a smile. “That’s what the style is all about.” She mentioned an¬other look for the season is a far-to-the-side part paired with an over the shoulder pony.

Thomas Suhrland is The Studio’s in house color expert. Thomas tells us that the ombré trend, which has been present for the past few seasons, is definitely falling from grace. “The look is more natural,” he says. Balayage, or hand painted highlights, are all the rage. “They produce a similar effect as ombré, but it’s less dramatic.” The technique has a sunkissed result, more broken up than the dark-root to blonde-ends that many girls have been sporting.

This season is all about the feisty, frisky edge that is inside every girl. Your confidence is your sexiest accessory, so experiment the new trends with pride. Maybe try a pair of burgundy pants one day and a faux leather skirt the next. Who knows, you may stumble upon your new favorite outfit in the process.