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!

Changing up your style for a new season can often be difficult because it has been almost an entire year since you last had to embrace that season. To help get your creative juices flowing, I have created three style challenges for you to try this week. These fall inspired outfits will help you rediscover your favorite cool weather pieces so you can happily retire your summer wardrobe until next year.

1. Fall weather means long(er) sleeves, but they don't all need to be the same length. Try pairing a long sleeved shirt with a sweater or blazer that only has a three quarter length sleeve. This will give a pop of contrasting color or pattern at the wrist for an interesting visual detail. Feel free to scrunch up the sleeves of the bottom layer if you want a softer edge. 

2. More subdued colors are now on trend, but that doesn't mean that you have to dress in a monotone palette. Try mixing dark neutrals together, like a black sweater under a brown leather jacket or a dark blue silk blouse tucked into a charcoal grey skirt.

3. Long time readers will know that I absolutely love pattern mixing, especially florals and stripes. The cool weather is perfect for throwing on a patterned scarf over a striped tee or sweater. If you are unsure of where to start, pick a color palette and keep both of your patterns within it.

If you create an outfit you love from one of these challenges, please send me a photo! I love to hear from you all!

A floral print cardigan is a great layering piece with a dress for dinners or parties. Since there are fewer choices of dresses with full length sleeves, we often have to choose being warm or being stylish. A cardigan allows you to do both. I however dislike wearing a cardigan that is the same color as my dress because it can be hard to tell where the dress ends and the sweater starts, which often adds visual bulk. A different color or pattern helps to highlight the lines of the pieces and prevent the shape of your body from being obscured.

If floral is not quite your taste, instead try a lace cardigan, ideally one with a contrasting underlay. It will create a similar effect by creating a difference in texture. A lace cardigan is also the perfect top to pair with skirts. Wear it buttoned all the way up for a stylish twist on a long sleeve blouse. 

When you are choosing cardigans for work, remember that they don't have to be boring. Look for interesting details such as contrast trim to keep your ensemble fresh and modern. If you feel more comfortable in a solid colored cardigan at the office, look for one with simple accents such as a grosgrain ribbon placket or interesting buttons.

When dressing down a cardigan for a casual look, you don't always have to rely on bright colors or bold patterns. Instead, try a cable knit. The texture will make it look less streamlined and thus cozier. Longer, boyfriend style cardigans are also better suited for weekends than for work.

Regardless of your style, cardigans are a must-have for your closet. Choose a variety of silhouettes, patterns, and colors to make sure that you have options for all the outfits you wear most. What is your favorite style? Share them in the comments!

I love a great cardigan and despite a closet stacked high with them in all styles, colors and patterns, I am always on the lookout for another great piece to add to my collection. Fall is prime time to wear cardigans because they are a light layering piece that is perfect for cool weather. From a weekend casual look to business chic at the office to a stylish topper over a dress for dinner out.

Fall has finally arrived! Even though this summer was not terribly hot here in Chicago, I am still absolutely thrilled to see the temperatures drop into the 40s and 50s. The air is crisp and you can wear lots of cozy layers. Of course, fall fashion comes in so many variations, so today I am compiling some of the styles I like best. 

Blazers and light jackets rule supreme during fall because their weight often allows them to act as both outerwear pieces and indoor layering pieces. This is especially helpful when you are running errands and are dashing between the cool weather outdoors and the warmer temperatures of the stores. A thin sweater underneath prevents excess bulk as well as chills from sharp gusts of wind.