Fall/Winter 2009 Shoes, Jewelry and Accessories: Trends to Wear

---

Seeing the sweaters, cardigans and vests this fall, you've probably realized this is the season for cozy elegance. The trends are soft and warm and accessories are along the same lines. The key is to dress up those knit outfits, so they look more stylish instead of ski-slope ready. This is where the booties, knee high boots, pumps, pearls and bejeweled accessories come in. Check out all the shoe, jewelry and accessory trends for this Fall/Winter 2009.

Fall/Winter 2009 Shoe Trends

Booties

There is something reminiscent of the old era in the ankle booties that are not only stylish but also a very comfortable and versatile shoe trend this fall. Comfort seems to be hip this season, going along with the sweater dress and leggings. Preferable with a heel - from kitten to 6-inch, it's an easy way to dress up your style. Don't be afraid to experiment with colors - a nice pop of color (think magenta) in your booties and bag will make the everyday look more interesting. Another popular bootie trend is peep toe, though I don't see it staying around the country when snow is on the ground. When it's colder, adding fur or switching to a bootie with fur on the top is the way to go. Though wedge and platform booties are around, I think heels will win. As to fabrics, leather is the gold standard but suede will also be big this fall.

Ballet Flats

This little shoe seems as popular today as Uggs had been in their first season. It's the one shoe women will sacrifice their height for. This fall, look for metallic ballet flats (gold, silver) and embellished shoe (beads, bows, studs, etc.).

Knee High Boots

The over-the-knee boot has been popular since the "Pretty Woman" days. Yet, to pull it off, you need the right outfit - think slim jeans or leggings or short skirt. This boot looks better on a taller woman, but with the right heel you can still wear one. If you are athletic, you may want to look for stretch fabric/elastic-style leather around the calves. The trick is to fold these if they are going too high for comfort.

Pumps

You don't have to follow trends to know that pumps make you look more feminine and and dress up any outfit immediately. This season there are two pumps that will put you on the "Most Stylish" list - the peep toe pump with a high heel and little exposure - and the platform pump - height and comfort at its best. What's great about pumps, they are a fashion staple and you can pass them on to your daughter - believe me, pumps will stay in fashion.

Rain Boots

Rain boots for fashion? Believe it! First, see the trend appearing at all the major department stores - from Target to Sears to JCPenney, rain boots are on display on every corner. They come in fun colors and patterns like polka dot and mod stripes. But you can also see $200 rain boots from Armani or $1000 rain boots from D&G. Get a steal at the mall and definitely try these for you and for kids - just think of the fun you'll be having outside when it rains!

Fall/Winter 2009 Jewelry Trends

Pearls

Perhaps to go with the elegance of the newly popular suit and pencil skirts, pearls are a huge jewelry trend this season. Try them short and layered, in every color and extra quantity. Pearl accessories are not reduced to necklaces alone. Pearl bracelets, headband decor, rings and watch bracelets are going to pop up this fall as well.

Short Statement necklace

One stand-out necklace can dress up the entire outfit or change it to a more dramatic look. It looks good both with the crisp white shirt and suit and an evening dress. You can nest a few layers but keep them close to your neck. Every type of necklace will make a statement in this style - beads, diamonds, gold, pearls and plastic.

Boho Cuffs

Cuffs are inspired. There is typically a unique pattern, fabric or application. This fall look for bohemian trends - wavy prints, easygoing spirit and, most importantly, non-traditional patterns. Metal cuffs will still rock any look but prints and beads are what you will be looking for until next Spring.

Chandelier Earrings

Chandeliers have been around a few seasons now and have firmly gained their popularity on the runway and on everyday looks. It's what I call an "instant glamorizer" since these earrings can create instant drama. Consider the hairstyle when you pick a pair, since it's not all about length. Hoops will also remain popular this fall and winter, so earring styles that combine hoops and chandelier are a win win.

Bejeweled Barettes

Barettes are sweet and feminine accessories and what makes them more fashionable this season is adding some pizzazz. You can do it yourself with a plain barrette, some glue and rhinestones or beads (just let it dry for a day before wearing). There are many inexpensive barrettes, like this one from Amazon.com. Jewels are also showing up on headbands, pins, hair ties, clutches and combs.

Fall/Winter 2009 Accessory Trends

Furs and knits

The warm style of sweaters and cardigans goes perfectly with the fur and knitted accessories. Think of fur hats, scarves, accents on gloves and bags. A touch of fur on a headband may also be interesting. Colors are very daring too. This is the season for a raspberry beret and neon gloves.

Big Bag

Lots of space. Check. Drawstring. Check. Casual elegance. Check. The bucket bag makes it easy to be comfortably stylish. You can wear it in traditional colors or go for metallics, particularly bronze will be a hit. On another note, the moto trend in apparel pairs nicely with the moto bag - black leather motorcycle culture inspired.

Animal Print Belts

Wide wildcat belt equals instant wow and is perfect with a white shirt and long skirt and boots. It works in suede and leather, goes thin or chunky depending on your style. Metallic belts are also a big hit but they are already a classic.

Written by Stacy Bell.