Embroidered pieces for all...

Does embroidery conjure up the vision of grandma's knick-knacks?  If this is the case then it's time to re-evaluate what it means to appreciate the handiwork of this beautiful artform.  Embroidery was a big trend seen on the recent runways, where gardens and bouquets were hand sewn on to tops, skirts and dresses.  But it wasn't all flora and sunshine.  Some of the pieces used abstract designs for a sexy rock 'n' roll vibe.

In case you're not convinced, see the reasons I fell in love with the embroidery trend, via the runway looks below from both recent spring and fall shows.  And keep your eye out for flowing patterns and flowering petals of thread during your next shopping trip!

Coats to keep the chill at bay...

This season's newest coats are so stylish you may actually pray for the cold to stick around!  Well, that might be exaggerating just a tad, but you get my point!  No longer shapeless, dreary or frumpy, the choices for coats out there are just endless!

Whether you're looking for a long, heavy overcoat for the chilliest of day's, a short jacket or pea-coat, parka, or blanket coat/cape - the styles and choices are endless.  There is something for everyone, something light, middle or heavyweight.

But make sure you wear this fall/winter item well.  I've seen many people wear this in the wrong way, getting all the proportions and textures wrong.  So listen up ladies and take note of the how-to for the winter coat styles of the season...

Car Coat - to keep proportions in check, the hem of this preppy staple should fall between your hip and the middle of the thigh.  Tapered pants pair better than wider ones.



Parka - when the mercury really plunges, serious insulation is a must.  Invest in one with a defined waist or a slim, tailored fit - or risk channeling the marshmallow man!



Military - Unless you're trying to look like a new recruit, nix cargos, pinstripes, and anything else that would make it seem as though your outerwear is part of a uniform.




Blanket coat - It's the clothing equivalent of your favorite cozy throw.  Echo that vibe with solid chunky knits and comfy leather pants, limiting pattern to your overcoat.



Ladylike - include feminine touches in your outfit, such as florals, lace and pleating, combined with refined accessories like sleek leather gloves and a structured purse.



Leather detail - Now's your chance to pull out the brocades and sequins and graphic accessories.  This edgy option is a natural match for any bold style inclinations.

The Long Sleeve is Back!

Good news for those of us of a certain age who prefer to keep our arms covered, the long sleeve is back!  So no need to panic if you have a fancy evening event and don't want to go sleeveless, or freeze in the winter chill!  Incurable romantics will be happy to know that the mood has turned to very moody! Regardless of modern touches like plunging necklines and computer-generated prints, florals and feathers look ultra-feminine on dark, inky dresses with sheer, draped, and cuffed sleeves.

Of course I'm a fan of this look because I prefer something that covers my arms, so this is the perfect way for me to do that and stay on-trend!  I also love the juxtaposition of wearing something that has some daring quality to it like a plunging neckline, but a covered up part too, like the sheer, long sleeve.

This look is also perfect for this time of year when the weather is chilly (so it's great that you have some coverage!), but you have an evening event that you need to look glamorous for (sheer is perfect for this!).

A city girl in search of her Heathcliff may wonder, where's a foggy moor when you need one?

Take a look at how to pull off this look.  I personally love the way Ginnifer Goodwin did this in her Gucci outfit, and also liked Anne Hathaway in Valentino.