What is it about the cool weather that makes everyone run for animal prints and lace? There are leopard pants and sweaters, lace skirts and dresses, and sometimes they are even mixed together! However, these trends seem to have cooled slightly since last fall, probably just in time for you to have finally acclimated to them. But don't worry--you can still embrace the trends without turning your cool weather wardrobe into a collection of leopard and lace statement pieces. Use these tips to make practical choices that will keep you looking stylish:

1. Accessories add a big statement for a low price. Look for an animal print skinny belt or a scarf with lace detailing. These can be mixed with classic pieces for a seasonal update or mixed with flashy costume jewelry to create a trendy night-out look. 

2. The pieces don't have to be entirely lace or leopard. If you head to the mall, chances are you will be able to find t-shirts with lace detailing on the shoulders or a lace yoke. The formality of the lace is tempered by the casual fabric and style of the tee which makes it a more wearable item. 

3. A leopard print sweater is surprisingly versatile because it can be worn with a skirt and heels for work as well as with jeans and boots for the weekend. Look for one in a limited color palette so that it can be office appropriate. I am partial to a white and black snow leopard print.

4. Lace dresses are always popular, but a lace pencil skirt is often underrated. They can be dressed up with a silk blouse or dressed down with a striped tee. If you only want one lace piece in your wardrobe, this one will give you more bang for your buck.

How do you incorporate lace and animal prints into your fall wardrobe? Share your favorite pieces & outfits in the comments!

It's time for another date with Genevieve Antoine Dariaux! This is part of a weekly series where I review the fashion advice from her book, A Guide To Elegance. Previous posts can be found here and for the complete description of this series, check out the intro post here. Today we will be discussing budget. 

The best way to create a stylish wardrobe on a budget is with patience. It takes time to find pieces that you need and also like at prices that won't break the bank. Madame Dariaux outlines the basics one needs for each season and suggests using accessories to add new life to old pieces. Her shopping list is not practical for most people reading this blog (how many of us would actually wear a light wool suit on a regular basis in the summertime?), but the principle is sound. If you are looking for what pieces you should invest in, check out my post about how 10 basic pieces in your wardrobe can create 26 outfits. 

A budget conscious wardrobe doesn't mean that you should only buy inexpensive pieces. A bargain is determined both by price and by usage. Classic styles that fit well are going to cost more, but they will also last many seasons and are a good foundation to build off of. To look seasonal or trendy, you will only need to add a few inexpensive items into the mix.

Dariaux, Genevieve Antoine. A Guide to Elegance. New York: William Morrow, 2003. Print.