A trend to be on the lookout for is, of all things, argyle. There’s usually a movement toward it when the cooler temperatures start sweeping in, but it’s definitely taken a turn for the fashionable this season. It makes a big comeback every few years, and now is definitely that year.
It’s also a great look for guys, and you’ll find it almost everywhere in the menswear this season (Christmas gift perhaps…?).

There’s a lot of sweaters out there with the “knitted with a pattern of colored diamonds” definition, but the most flattering way to go is to get one with that pattern on the front, and a solid color on the edges and sleeves. Try not to get argyle on the sleeves – it makes it look more librarian-chic than fashionista-chic.
Under the right circumstances, everyone’s a bargain-hunter. And what better circumstances than cute clothes on sale?
Right now, Old Navy’s having some great sales – adorable jeans in several different styles and many different colors, for only $19.00!!! The Sweetheart style features a classic rise with a bit of a flare, while the Dreamer style features a boot cut. And there’s the Diva, which is the essential low-rise.

The Diva jean
This sale won’t last forever, so get in quick before the pickings get slim (-er than these jeans!).
- Margaret Westenhoff
It used to be a serious no-no to wear tights with open-toed shoes; in fact, you weren’t supposed to wear open-toed shoes at all during the winer. But this winter seems to be turning lots of fashion conventions on their heads, and this is no exception.

Hard to go wrong with this!
The new thing is wearing slightly open-toed shoes (not sandals, but thick-strapped heels that will stay on your feet even with the slippery tights) with tights. The tights shouldn’t be nude; wear black, maroon, or even a more daring color like blue or mustard yellow. Pow!
- Margaret Westenhoff
Although it’s a well-known convention to only emphasize one aspect of your face at a time, there is an exception (with a few caveats). Looks this season are all about being bold and beautiful, and a great way to do this is to emphasize two things at once.

Try emphasizing both your lips and your eyes. To keep this from looking over the top, just keep the colors in the same family: a great example is plum colors. With that on your lips and eyes, you’ll look both striking and very up to date.
- Margaret Westenhoff
More is more this season, so don’t be afraid to really go for the gusto with a fun piece like statement jewelry. Big, bold, and expressive is a “do”. Show people who you really are with jewelry that shines and sparkles!

Rocking the statement jewelry.
This is a look that’s best paired with simple, chic clothes that will show off the jewelry to its fullest extent, like on these two celebrities above.
- Margaret Westenhoff
French chic will always be in style. This winter, give a nod to our cousins across the Atlantic by cinching up your waistline with a belted coat, skirt, or trousers.

It’s a versatile look that works with both outerwear like trenchcoats, and staple items like dresses. For definition, use a skinny belt, or grab a broad black belt to look like an instant trend-setter.
- Margaret Westenhoff
Chain bags are back, baby!
Inspired by classics like the Chanel 2.55, chain bags are a definite “do” in purses this winter.
There’s a variety of ways to wear them, but whether you carry them like a clutch, hang them over your shoulder, or drape them across your body, chain bags reek of elegance and class. And it doesn’t have to be a designer brand to give off that same aura! There are plenty of chain bags from places slightly less pricey than Chanel that are sure to be a winner this season.
- Margaret Westenhoff
Today, I’m listing some great places to find those knitted sweaters we were talking about!
1. American Eagle
This winter, American Eagle has a lot of great chilly-weather clothing. One example is this adorable cable knit studded sweater. The two rows of buttons give off almost a military feel (one of the season’s other hot looks). At $69.99 it’s not a steal, but the blended wool will keep you warm (and fashionable!) through those cold winter nights.
2. Gap
There’s a great selection of knitwear new on the racks at Gap right now. This adorable toggle cardigan is only one of many new items that are sure to go quickly. The price tag on this is a relatively hefty $98.99, but if you shop around some you’re sure to find a few good deals, and this is a style that will last past just this season.
3. Abercrombie
Abercrombie is also offering up some portable fuzzy warmth to keep you cozy for the winter. This navy “Natasha” style sweater is only $78, and sure to outlast the elements. It has a relaxed style that reminds one of an old-fashioned robe, but much cuter.
- Margaret Westenhoff
With winter fast approaching, it’s time to turn to one of the staples of the season: knitwear.
It inspires thoughts of grandmas and sequined Christmas sweaters, but knitted clothes can be surprisingly cute. There’s a lot of runway models that have been wearing them in anticipation of the 2008/2009 winter, and been looking fabulous in them!
Like this Rodanthe-inspired sweater from Topshop, knitwear can be not only bearable to the eyes, but really cute! (And at only $65 from Topshop, it’s a steal.)
Most importantly, though, it’s warm – and what could be better than something cute and weather-appropriate?
- Margaret Westenhoff