Be a fall fashion force

Your style says so much about how you see yourself and the look you want to showcase to others. We went to three of our city’s passionate purveyors of fashion—Lauren Lein, Mark Roscoe and Tracey Tarantino—for some fabulous fall tips to help you standout as a style star. 

LAUREN LEIN is a 25-year veteran of Chicago’s rich-fashion scene. Her one-of-a-kind designs are worn by our city’s most visible scenesters.

Reimagine yourself. Staying in is out—going out is in. Dressing up—even casual—is an artful, fun experience. Take new risks, add a pop of hot pink in a loafer, a lipstick, an oversized blazer, faux fur, trench or cashmere hoodie.

Tailoring is back. Whether in a four-piece suit (add a fun vest.) or a simple blazer, they will help define your look with ease. Suits? Yes, they lead the pack with either pants or skirts.

The pieces to add are platform shoes, an artfully-fitted blazer coat, a statement-making skirt or dress and huge puffed sleeves on anything. Bows will be strong with ruffles fading off the scene a bit.

MARK ROSCOE is an award-winning designer with 30 years of experience in the fashion industry. He runs the bespoke clothing business, ELI.ROSCOE, with business partner, Eli Soto.

As we move into fall, make an effort to put your best foot forward, especially in the selection of your wardrobe. Be mindful of your wardrobe choices and show that you cared enough to dress for the occasion. Your pre-COVID wardrobe may not fit as it did prior to the pandemic. We are all in the same boat—but we are still floating, even with the extra pounds. Be grateful you survived the pandemic and treat yourself to clothing that fits properly.

Speaking of fit, while losing those few extra pandemic pounds, remember that foundation garments are essential to ensure those draping silk fabrics flow across your body freely and those hugging knits accentuate your curves—not the rolls. 

TRACEY TARANTINO is executive producer and fashion expert of the internationally acclaimed ZZAZZ Productions and produces many of the largest fashion shows and events throughout the Chicagoland area.

Accessory must-have? Go for gold. Large link chains dominate the season, worn at the neck, wrist and waist. Adding this element automatically elevates your wardrobe. Find it in the costume and 14K collections. 

Fabric? Leather. Use it to connect your wardrobe. Wear it as a dress, skirt, pant, blazer or outerwear. These pieces can fold seamlessly into a wardrobe. Wear color in leather for a creative twist on a traditional pant or jacket. 

Footwear. When choosing boots, the chunkier the sole, the better. Chelsea boots, combat boots and second-skin boots are all must-haves for the end of 2022. Not into boots? Try loafers. They add a sprig of academia and splash to any look.