Belted Looks for Fall

As previously discussed, the statement necklace was definitely the most ubiquitous trend of fall fashion week spanning one end of the designer spectrum to the other. Another trend that was nearly as pervasive was the belted ensemble. Personally, I love this look in all its incarnations. There are the obvious benefits (finally, a waist!), but it can also add a touch of elegance or a touch of edge, depending on your mood, to any old outfit.

For example, Diane von Furstenberg (above photo) used her belts to accentuate her ultra-girly looks and feminine frocks. While, Brian Reyes (below photos) stuck to his uptown-luxe roots and pulled off a preppier look.

And, my favorite by far, was at BCBG Max Azria (below photos) - every look that came down the runway was cinched with a rugged brown leather belt which added a bit of an edge to a his super-toned down palette.

This look isn't hard to pull off - just take any old stand-by, cinch it with a belt and create a new look for fall. Lots of mid-level retailers have zeroed in on this trend, as well, so expect to find any variety that suits you out there.

Banana Republic Leather Clasp Belt $59

I couldn't resist all the great belts from Urban Outfitters! Shown here: Labyrinth Leather Belt ($48), Croco Waist Belt ($28), Skinny Studded Belt ($24).

Of course, a couple of cute ones from Target: Yellow Skinny Patent Belt ($9.99), Silver 3-Stone Belt Buckle ($12.99).

A few more for good measure, from Spiegel: Leather Belt ($19.99), Versatile Patent Belt ($49), Stretch Croco Belt ($19.99).

Richard Chai for Target - Now in Stores!

Just visited my local Target to check out the new Richard Chai for Target collection, which is in stores (and supposedly online as well, but I'm not seeing it yet) today. Unfortunately, the Target I visited didn't have all the pieces in the collection, but what they did have was only so-so.

I had really high hopes for the above color-block front tie dress and my Target only had 1 of the purple left and tons of the royal blue version, which isn't nearly as cute. I did however get the long cardigan shown above in blue...that was the only color left by the time I got there at 4pm! It's hard to tell in the picture but there is some ruching detail at the front which adds a little interest. The fabric is the perfect weight, fine gauge and super soft (95% cotton and 5% cashmere) so I know I'll get some use out of it this Fall.

I also got this ruffle front shirt shown under the black cardigan above. It's pretty cute, but not sure if it's really me yet and because it's so distinct-looking I'm sure it will soon be the shirt you seen everyone wearing and will never want to wear again.

The geometric print tank pictured under the vest above was sort of cute, but I just couldn't really see me wearing it ever so I passed. Had no use for the leather vests like this one either, but I'm sure some people will.

This is a good example of a piece I wanted to see that wasn't even in the store. Looks pretty cute, but I'll have to keep looking. There was also plenty of the corduroy Bermuda shorts but I didn't have any interest there. The graffiti printed cotton sundress didn't really appeal either. To sum it up: I guess I was sort of expecting things that represented Chai's minimalist reputation, but that's not really what I saw. It seemed very "young" to me; nothing I could use for work and play really.

What's all the fuss about? Richard Chai is a relatively new designer having just launched his own line back in 2004, but he's already an industry favorite. Most recently, his Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear Collection scored rave review from Style.com/Vogue. His designs are frequently described as “modern” and “minimalist” and feature old-world detailing such as hand stitching, bias tapes and French seams. But the ladies really love Richard for his leg-elongating pants, fine-gauge knits and streamlined looks.