Stacy London Lets Chicagoans In On the Do and Don’ts of This Fall’s Fashion
By Danielle Vega

TLC’s Stacy London of “What Not to Wear” hosted a fashion show inside the legendary Marshall Field’s State Street store to share her secrets on the do’s and don’ts of this fall’s fashion using the newest designs by Calvin Klein.

Before models even began to walk the stage, London told the audience how important it was to “make your own style” simply by understanding what works for you and looks great on your body type.

This fall there are fortunately many diverse styles and colors that will look great on most everyone as long as they are worn properly, meaning not over or under done. For starters, select soft neutrals with just one accent piece. Wine or burgundy is the best, seeing as it looks great on practically every skin tone from pale to dark. Also remember that everyone needs at least one sparkling item, but don’t forget that embellishments shouldn’t be worn from head to toe.

Key items for fall include tweed pants, full skirts and the coveted velvet jacket. These pieces create sophisticated looking outfits as long as you follow a few of London’s guidelines. When purchasing a pair of tweed pants for fall remember that the larger your waistline, the fuller the cut should be and cuffs are a definite no no if you are less than 5’4. To create a slimmer/taller look with this season’s key items try wearing a short velvet jacket with a long full skirt. A full skirt that is pleated looks great on most women.

“Buy what you can afford, but buy the best that you can afford,” said London. “You want things that are versatile. Don’t buy anything if it doesn’t match at least two things in you closet.”

After the fashion show guests browsed the Calvin Klein racks while Marshall Field’s personal shoppers and Stacy London herself assisted them in finding what fall styles worked well for them. Those who purchased $100 or more of Calvin Klein merchandise were able to receive a signed copy of Stacy London’s book Dress Your Best.

London wasn’t the only style expert available that night, designer Julie Chaiken was in her department to meet her Chicago fans and assist with selections. Chaiken’s latest collection was also seen at the 8pm fashion show, which featured 10 of the hottest contemporary collections from designers Rebecca Taylor, Nanette Lepore, Catherine Malandrino and more.

Guests at the Marshall Field’s Fashionista Shopping Party also got the opportunity to receive advice from Marshall Field’s Beauty Trend Expert Fatima Olive and meet jewelry designers Alyse Ziede, Sophia Forero, JKAT, and Sherzada.