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Head to the
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The school year is starting and you want to look as sharp as your children. Add flair to your hair with these easy, updated styles so you feel like a modern mom -- not a Stepford wife.

Hit the refresh button

One to two weeks before school starts, visit your hairdresser and get a trim or a new cut altogether. If you color your hair, have your roots done or ask for highlights that blend into your natural color in case you don't have time to get to the salon once school starts. At home, deep condition your hair with a product like Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask . One multitasking tip for time challenged moms is to wash your hair in the sink and then apply deep conditioner and pull into a bun. Then proceed with any chores so you can moisturize your hair while you clean the house!

Pixie cut

If simplicity is your style and you have the cheekbones to pull it off, ask your hairdresser to give you a perfect cropped 'do. Try a style that has slightly longer layers on top, so you can vary your style, from adding texture or slicking it back. For easy styling, keep a pomade on hand such as Got 2b Playful Texturizing Creme Pomade .

Bombshell glam

Voluminous hair makes you feel sexy and smart in the morning. To style this look, start with un-washed hair and part in the middle. Take a 2-inch curling iron and wrap large sections around your head, pinning each up to cool for five minutes. When you are done, take the pins out and flip your head upside down. Finish with hairspray and shine spray, such as TRESemme Smooth No Frizz Shine Spray .

Textured bob

Ask your hairdresser for a layered bob. To style at home, create a center part and spray a texture-enhancer such as Beyond the Zone The Scruncher  throughout hair. Next, blow dry with a vented brush. This style also works with long hair to create a retro glam look.

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Photo credits: FayesVision/WENN.com, B.Dowling/WENN.com, FayesVision/WENN.com

J. Crew has come out with its fall looks, and they never fail to provide work-appropriate styles that bring joy to the world. This Liberty perfect shirt is great in any floral pattern you choose, but my favorite is the navy! I particulary like how they've added the tie tucked into the jeans -- such a chic menswear-inspired look that can help you switch up your day-to-day outfits! Wear it with these bright peach skinny jeans from Forever 21 to create an eye-catching color combo. Slip on these strappy wedges and to-die-for Ray Ban aviators , and you're all set to chase the kids around come recess time!

You've learned all about your kids, so now it's time to see where they come from. This can be a nerve-wracking experience, so set a cheery tone with this City shift dress from Ann Taylor and charm them with these charm earrings from Forever 21 . Show off your personality with these leopard Monsoon heels and don't forget to bring all of your important documents in this chic black shopper basket from Zara .

Teachers and happy hour go together like well, you know. It's always a plus when you can leave a particularly taxing school day and be able to head straight to a restaurant to eat, drink and unwind. I'm obsessed with these black and white Sofie pants from Victoria's Secret . They have such a sexy fit and can be worn in so many different ways! I like them with this budget-friendly Xhilaration blazer and this fun Asos Aztec print belt . Finish off the look with these black banana heel booties and get ready to leave your house and not be back until nightfall!

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Hair to adore

When it comes to looking great, celebrities have it easy. They have a team of makeup artists and hair stylists making sure they always look their best. For the rest of us, it’s not so easy, but luckily those celebrities give us inspiration to give new styles our very best effort. Here are six amazing women who always have rockin’ hair that inspires us.

Mila Kunis

Kunis might not be experimental with her hair, but it always looks healthy and glowing. The stunning brunette always has a gorgeous updo or flowing beach curls that pair well with her striking face. Her hairstyles are the epitome of style and taste without venturing into the realm of tacky.

Olivia Palermo

This stunning socialite is always at the height of fashion, and her hair is surprisingly low key. Shoulder-length, healthy and a gorgeous shade of chestnut brown, Palermo’s locks are molded into fashion-forward updos and chic hairstyles. Her specialty is a low bun hairstyle with wispy strands, but for Palermo, the hair makes the outfit. She always works the style that seems to fit best with what she’s wearing.

Katy Perry

Her style might be a little wacky, but you have to commend Perry for trying out the styles that the rest of us are too wimpy to attempt. Whether it’s her trademark black or a funky shade of blue, pink or purple, the pop songstress knows how to go all-out when it comes to hair. Plus, she manages to keep the texture of her hair healthy and shiny, despite all of the damage that comes its way.

Jennifer Aniston

Many have mocked the superstar for having the same trademark "Rachel" haircut since her Friends days, but the actress has morphed into a hairstyle icon since she chopped her locks up to her shoulders. Her hair is always healthy and glowing, and really -- that’s the foundation of gorgeous hair.

Rihanna

Rihanna has the face that can pull off just about any hairstyle, and she knows it! From the long, curled tresses of her earlier days to the edgy, funky styles she rocks today, Rihanna isn’t afraid to go a little wild. And for that, we respect her.

Kim Kardashian

Hello, bombshell! Kim Kardashian knows how to bring on the sex appeal with her long black hair -- which occasionally turns blonde or red. Her best known style, though, is the envy of women everywhere with its soft, pretty curls and thick lustrous shine.

Discover more hair tips

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Invest in quality hair tools and products

Use hair tools that are designed to give fast, healthy results, and make sure you aren’t spending more time than you need blow drying your mane -- instead, wrap it in a towel for at least five minutes after shampooing to remove excess water, advises Sharp. And remember, all hair is definitely not created equal! "The shampoos on aisle five at the drug store can be very harsh and stripping to hair. Team that with a heavy, petroleum-laden conditioner, and you've got a recipe for disaster,” he warns.

Discover more hair tips

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Skip a day between shampoos

Unless your hair is oily, you can usually wash it every other day, rather than daily. Skipping a day between shampoos can help to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils. Though it might seem "dirty" to you, you'll find your hair looks and feels healthier when you stop washing it every day. If you hair is dry, you should continue to condition it every day in the shower.

Eat right

What you eat can definitely affect the condition of your hair. Be sure to include omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. Omega-3 is needed to maintain a healthy scalp. And when you have a dry scalp, you hair also looks dull and dry. You can get plenty of omega-3 from fatty fish, like salmon, sardines and mackerel, as well as ground flaxseed. Additionally, your body needs vitamins A and C to produce sebum. Sebum is what keeps your hair shiny and nourished. It's an oily substance that is secreted by the hair follicles. Choose green veggies like broccoli, chard and spinach, along with brightly colored fruits that are rich in vitamins A and C and other antioxidants. Protein-rich foods, as well as those that contain biotin, zinc and iron, are also important to keep your hair nourished and healthy.

Find out how to eat your way to better hair, skin and nails >>

Turn off the heat

Nothing zaps the life out of your hair like the heat. Put down your blow dryer, flat iron and other heated styling tools. Allow your hair to dry naturally whenever possible. If you need to blow dry your hair, blot the excessive water out. Then use your dryer on low heat for a very brief time. It's also important to keep your hair and scalp protected from the sun. Wear a hat or scarf if you are going to be outdoors for extended periods of time. Most people wear sunscreen for their skin and sunglasses for their eyes, but forget about their hair.

Read more about how to protect your hair from sun damage >>

Use natural hair color

Chemical dyes and processes can damage your hair. Instead of using chemical hair color, try natural methods instead. Many women find that henna nourishes the hair while giving it a natural, healthy color. A brewed coffee rinse can hide gray hair in brunettes. Honey can add natural highlights to blonde hair and nourish your hair too. If you are buying hair color from a box, look for products that contain natural ingredients.

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Frizzy hair

Your hair looked great when you left the house this morning, but by midday it's all frizzed out. Dryer sheets to the rescue! Yes, those little sheets that reduce static in your clothes and help your sheets stay smelling fresh can also smooth frizzies and flyaways on the go. Tuck a few dryer sheets into your handbag or keep some in your desk at work. Run the sheet over your hair from the roots to the tips. This will calm the frizzies in an instant. Of course, this isn't a long-term solution, but it's a quick fix that will deliver results right away. You can help prevent frizzies in the first place by making sure your hair is hydrated and moisturized. Use conditioner every day -- even on days that you don't wash your hair. Pat and blot your hair dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it vigorously. Rubbing it causes breakage and makes frizzies even worse.

Read more about how to fight frizz >>

Oily hair

The workday is over and you are headed straight from the office to a special date. Unfortunately, your hair looks oily and greasy -- ick! Not a great way to make a first impression. Don't worry -- there's an easy way to fix oily hair on the go: dry shampoo. And you don't need to buy an expensive brand either. One of the best dry shampoos is basic baby powder. Just sprinkle a light dusting of powder on your hair, paying attention to the oily areas near the roots. Comb it through, and then shake out the excess powder. Comb through again until the powder is invisible.

Limp hair

If your hair is limp and flat, pump it up! Go easy on the hair products and always use the proper formulas. Gels and heavy serums will weigh hair down, making it look even flatter. Instead, use a light mousse or texturizing spray... or go product free. You can fake some volume with the help of your curling iron. Hold the barrel of your curling iron perpendicular to the floor and wrap small sections of hair around the iron . Release the hair after 20 to 30 seconds, and then move on to the next section -- this time wrapping the hair in the opposition direction. Repeat all over your head and then run your fingers gently through your hair to get a tousled look with beautiful body.

Dull hair

All the women on commercials have ultra-glossy hair, but sometimes in real life our hair can look dull and listless. You can apply hair serum, but it won't do much to fix the issue. To improve the look and feel of your hair overnight, all you need is vitamin E. Apply vitamin E oil generously to your hair before bed and cover your head with a shower cap. In the morning, shampoo and style your hair as usual. Keep in mind that sometimes dull hair is due to a build-up of hair products. Use a clarifying shampoo a couple times a month to get rid of dulling residue. Consider getting a hair gloss or glaze for a super shiny look. Your hairstylist can apply the product or you can buy it from your drug store or beauty supply store and apply it at home. When washing your hair, always use a cold water rinse to help smooth the cuticle and boost the shine.

Read these tips for healthy, shiny hair >>

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Use a heat protectant spray

Stop damage before it ever starts! If you curl, straighten or dry your hair every day, odds are you’re used to the damage that comes with it. Heat protectant sprays help resist the heat that causes split ends and damage. Simply spray throughout your hair, focusing on the tips that will see the most heat action. Dry your hair and style as usual.

Moisturize with shampoo and conditioner

Using a simple moisturizing shampoo and conditioner in the shower will help strengthen your hair with the essential proteins it needs to prevent damage. Moisturizing shampoos come in varying strengths, but choose the one that’s best for your hair type. When your hair feels extra dry, it might be time to try deep moisturizing. Hair masques can cut back on damage and restore shine that will make those heat-produced curls stand out.

Use the setting that fits

If you have extra fine hair, odds are you don’t need as much heat to create your style. Most curling irons and straighteners come with heat settings. Adjust the heat appropriate to your hair type. Do you have thick, curly hair? The highest setting might be appropriate for you and your flat iron.

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Stop blow drying your hair

Put down the blow dryer and other heated styling tools and allow your hair to air dry whenever possible. If you must use a blow dryer, add a diffuser and use it on a low heat setting. Look for hair products with thermal protectants to help shield your hair from heat damage. It's also very important to be careful when towel drying your hair. Rubbing your hair vigorously with a rough towel can cause breakage, damage and the frizzies. Use a soft towel and blot out the water rather than rubbing.

Prevent sun damage

We all know the serious damage that the sun can cause to our skin, but did you also know that hair can get significantly damaged from the sun as well? Ultraviolet light weakens the hair, resulting in breakage. The best protection is to cover it up with a hat or umbrella. Also look for hair products that contain SPF and avoid staying out in the sunlight for extended periods.

Read more about how to protect your hair from sun damage >>

Combat the chemicals

Chemical dyes and processes can zap the life from your hair. The chemicals strip your hair of its natural moisturizers and can damage the cuticle -- leaving your hair looking dry, dull and often frizzy. When using hair color, select a shade that is only a couple shades away from your natural hue. Also, go dark rather than light. Lightening or bleaching your hair is much more damaging than just going a little darker. Avoid over-processing your hair and always make sure that your hair is well hydrated. If you hair is damaged, condition it every day -- even if you skip a day or two between washes.

Find out how to get the shine back when your hair loses its luster >>

Skip the extreme styles

Pulling your hair into extreme ponytails or tight braids, as well as using heavy hair extensions, can cause damage to your hair and scalp. Traction alopecia is a type of gradual hair loss that is primarily caused by pulling force applied to the hair. Traction alopecia usually occurs at the hairline. If you want to wear braids, hair extensions, ponytails and hair accessories, just make sure that they aren't too tight.

Know your alcohols

You might have heard that you should avoid hair products containing alcohol. That's not entirely correct. While some forms of alcohol can dry and damage your hair, others are actually beneficial. Ethanol, isobutane, isopropyl alcohol and SD alcohol should be avoided whenever possible. However, cetyl, lauryl and stearyl alcohols help your hair's cuticle to lie smooth and flat.

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Zinc

Losing your hair, or concerned that it’s thinning out? Beyond genetics, a mineral deficiency -- especially that of zinc -- may be the cause, says Rania Batayneh, MPH, Nutritionist, America’s Eating Strategist and owner of Essential Nutrition For You. While zinc isn’t highly concentrated in the hair, it does help to maintain a healthy scalp and affects your growth as well.

To get your daily dose of zinc, try snacking on Tribe Hummus. Chickpeas, the hummus's main ingredient, contain zinc, notes Rania. Hummus also provides a great source of protein and fiber, keeping your energy levels up throughout the day.

B vitamins

Hair loss and premature graying are both associated with low levels of B vitamins. To help hair grow long and strong, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in the Department of Dermatology at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City, urges women to take their B-complex vitamins. In particular, he recommends Biotin, which is known to aid in healthy hair growth.

Spinach

As we all know, healthy hair starts at the scalp. And, of course, you can’t have a healthy scalp if you don’t eat the right things. Spinach, like broccoli and Swiss chard, packs numerous vitamins and nutrients that are critical to hair growth. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, which help produce sebum, and also contains the antioxidant Vitamin E, which increases scalp circulation.

For a yummy snack, Rania recommends munching on Veggie Patch Spinach Nuggets. With no artificial flavors or preservatives, these bites are actually good for you, but taste oh-so-delicious! Hey, who knew?

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Buy a shower filter

Water purification/filtration is imperative not only for the water you drink, but also the water you use for baths and showers, points out celebrity hairstylist Keith Campbell. "Using a shower filter will help improve the health and appearance of tresses, while protecting your color and guarding against future damage as well.” Try Jonathan Product’s Beauty Water Shower Purification System . A patented two-stage shower filter system that removes synthetic chemicals and toxic heavy metals from polluted tap water, it’ll leave your hair feeling soft to the touch.

Try a homemade hair mask

For super-soft, shiny and moisturized locks, Jennifer Loprete, master colorist and creative director of Vito Mazza Salon in central New Jersey, recommends trying a homemade hair mask using mayonnaise or olive oil! First, cleanse your hair and apply mayo mid-length to ends. Wrap your hair up in saran wrap to keep the natural warmth contained. "Then, leave in for about thirty minutes. If you feel like you need more moisture, however, rinse out after an hour. These are both great remedies that are simple and effective, yet inexpensive.”

Switch it up

Rather than sticking to one hair care treatment, celebrity stylist Nelson Vercher advises trying three or four different ones and rotating them every week so your hair gets something different from each. "It’s the same concept of changing your workout routine to confuse the muscles,” he says, "but only for your hair instead.”

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We're obsessed!

We have a total hairstyle crush on Lea Michele's chic 'do. Find out why in this week's installment of Celeb Hairstyle of the Week!

Is it just me, or has anyone else noticed that Lea Michele has been positively glowing lately? Maybe it's the fact that her career is hotter than ever. Or maybe it's that hot candy she's got by her side these days -- ahem, Cory Monteith, I'm talking to you! Whatever it is that she's doing, it's working.

This week, Lea wore her tresses in a bombshell curly 'do at the Do Something Awards, and I can't get over how great she looks. I've always been jealous of her fab bangs, and now I'm sort of obsessed with the beautiful highlights in Lea's locks. The look isn't anything new; we've seen it on many a starlet, but it never seems to get old to me. Keep the beauty looks coming, Lea, I'm having a lot of fun following them!

We're loving Lea's cute hairstyle! How about you? Sound off in the comments! And check out other celebrity hairstyles!

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Photo credit: FayesVision/WENN.com

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Can you keep her beauty secrets?

If you're a Pretty Little Liars fan, then you'll definitely recognize Janel Parrish as Mona Vanderwall in the hit ABC Family series. And just like Mona has a keen sense for perfecting her beauty and style on the show, so does Janel herself. Check out her beauty must-haves, just in time for the Pretty Little Liars season 3 finale!

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Photo credit: Jay Valena/WENN.com

We're partnering up with some of the hair industry's top talents to bring you answers to your most pressing hair questions.

Your questions answered!

Up today? Justine Piecuch, a stylist at Boston's renowned Jeffrey Lyle Salon, is telling us the truth about blow drying and dishing on whether or not we can really achieve that blow dried look without all the heat.

Your question

I think I'm over blow drying my hair. How can I get the same look without drying it out?

@AllWomenStalk via Twitter

Let's get through the worst news first: Unless you have super short hair, you can't achieve most styles without some type of work. That being said, though, there are always ways to make your hair look presentable with little time and less heat.

One good trick? Washing your hair at night and adding a soft holding product . Try braiding the hair and letting it set while you sleep. When you wake up, the braid will contain the hair, add some wave and lessen the frizz!

Keep this in mind as well: Over blow drying doesn't usually cause problems unless one of the following pertains to you:

• Using an old blow dryer. This is where all the problems begin. If your blow dryer is two years old or more, it's time for a new one! How can you tell if it's time for a new one for sure? Feel the heat of the dryer against your hand, and if it feels way too hot, then think about what that's doing to your hair!! Look for a good salon brand, read reviews online or simply ask your stylist for a recommendation.
• Using the wrong products. Make sure you're using the right shampoo and conditioner and you're getting enough moisturizer to your strands. Add a conditioning treatment once a week to treat your hair to start repairing it from the over drying.
• Forgetting to use a thermal protectant! This maintains the moisture in the hair and lessens the feeling of over blown and overly dried hair.

Hair can be a very tricky thing, but there's always a fix to every hair problem. The best way to discover it? Asking for advice! Next time your blow dry routine is giving you a hard time, just check with your trusted stylist -- they'll know how to help!

Watch: Hair mask for shiny hair

Today on the Daily Dish, our host Haley Desmet shows you how to make a hair mask for shiny hair.

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Nail designs

If you love the neon trend but don't want to take the risk, Katie Cazorla from TV Guide's Nail Files demonstrated a neon manicure that is much more subtle. It packs a punch without going sour.

A tutorial with Nail Files' Katie Cazorla

Did we mention that Katie serves wine and cocktails with her mani and pedi services at The Painted Nail? So now you know: She knows what's up. Her salon is a favorite to many of Hollywood's female stars and we can't get enough of this adorable manicure. Watch the tutorial to recreate it at home.

"A lot of people want to try neon nails but don't want it to be crazy bright and they are afraid to go bold. Doing a French is a more subtle way to go into the whole neon [nail trend]."

Once you decide to take a chance and give this new neon manicure a try, it's easy to overlook the base coat... especially when you're in a hurry to finish your at-home mani. Katie says not to leave out the basecoat because it helps fill in the bridges and gaps you might not see and prevents the polish color from staining your nails.

After you've chosen your colors, don't worry about painting perfectly. It's better to get the color set, and then go back before the polish dries all the way and shape your paint with a separate brush.

Choose a fast drying top coat for at-home manicures and re-apply a few days in to refresh the paint job and make it look new.

Watch more of Katie's nail tips

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A girl's best friend

The ponytail really is a girl’s best friend. It’s reliable, steadfast and will do what it takes to go with you anywhere. Whether you’re going to the gym, running errands, going on a first date or are famous enough to make an appearance on the red carpet, the ponytail is ready to be by your side, or rather, on your head.

The ultimate power of the ponytail lies in its versatility. Whether you have medium length, wavy hair or long, straight locks, the ponytail can come to your style rescue.

Stylists have fun re-inventing the pony every year to complement the current fashion trends. In 2011, we saw a plethora of textured and messy ponies based at the nape of the neck. But 2012 runways have exposed the high, polished ponies in a variety of charming hues to pay homage to fashion’s recent celebration of color. Here is a sampling of ponies to inspire you the next time you go to pull your hair back.

Classic ponytails

Smooth and polished, pulled straight back and secured in the middle of the back of the head, you can never go wrong with a timeless, classic ponytail.

Low ponytails

Low ponies are seen all over the red carpet and are perfect for formal occasions. As you can see, they work with texture and are set to the side or sleek and down the middle -- even with shorter hair.

High ponytails

High ponytails are all the rage in 2012. Stylists are loving a high, polished pony. Rihanna shows that it can be fun with bangs and curls, whereas Eva loves a slick and sleek high set pony.

Colorful Katy

Olivia goes wild

LC dip dye

When it comes to inspired hair, there is no such thing as a tame ‘tail. LC rocks a pink dipped pony look while Olivia Wilde had some fun with a highly stylized pony. Katy Perry epitomizes rock 'n' roll with her extra high, extra saturated brightly colored pony. Summer is the perfect time to experiment with different types of ponies to keep hair off your face and neck and keep you looking polished, powerful and cool!

Read more from MyBestFriendsHair.com >>

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Photos courtesy of Wenn.com

Brandi's fashion corner

Out-of-town essentials

Whether you’re a jetsetter or a once-a-year traveler, packing a bag with everything you need can be super stressful. But, because I have to travel frequently, I feel like I’ve got a good routine when it comes to the out-of-town essentials. The key to keeping your style fresh on a trip, while not having to bring every piece of luggage you own along, is simple: basics meet statement pieces.

Clothing confidential

Since I like to travel as light as possible, I always try to bring a few basic items that can be combined with “personality pieces.” In my opinion, you only need to bring one pair of jeans , and I love Joe's The Skinny jeans . They can be mixed and matched with multiple tops to create totally different looks . I also always like to bring a simple, form-fitting black cocktail dress. Splendid makes a super comfy -- yet sexy -- one. One night, I can wear just that, and if I’m going out on multiple occasions, I can always pair a loose-fitting top over the dress and voila! You’ve got a skirt/shirt combo.

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Trendspotting

Go from summer to fall with ease

Hello SK Style Watchers! So last week I talked about pre-fall, and this week I want to continue to talk about fall fashion since it’s right around the corner. One of the trickiest things to do with your style is to maneuver the seasons. You don’t want to launch full fall too early, seeming overeager, not to mention hot and sweaty, nor do you want to wait too long and hold on to those sundresses and sandals well past their expiration date. The tips that I want to share with you today are how to transition your style from summer into fall -- fabulously and with ease!

This is the perfect time to begin thinking about summer-to-fall style, so you know it’s got to be my pick as favorite trend of the week.

With all these tips, remember to start small. You’ll add more fall items and less summer as we get further along into the season.

Add layers

You can wear many of your summer items right into fall just by layering in other pieces. For example, take a summer outfit of shorts and a tee shirt: Add tights and a vest with a scarf, perhaps a cardigan, while another great option is a blazer. You want to think about the temperatures where you live because they’ll dictate your outfit. The great thing about layering is that you can peel off some pieces if needed as the temperatures rise during the day.

My pick: Floral Print Short, $38, ASOS

Colors

Haven’t we had some FUN with color this spring/summer? This fall, that fun will continue, but now is the time to start mixing in autumn hues of camel, gray, wine, navy and the deeper, richer jewel tones of fall with your summer palette.

My pick: Maggie London Colorblock Dress, $128, Nordstrom

Textures

Fall always brings us a treasure trove of rich fabrics, and now is the time to bring those back -- in small doses to start. Show your creativity by mixing your summer chiffon with faux fur, crochet with velvet and leather with breezy cotton. This transitional time lets you mix and match a large variety of fabrics, so get in there, have fun, and experiment!

My pick: Velvet Blazer, $178, J. Crew

Thanks for watching, and for SheKnows Style, I’m Jill Laine.

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