The Beauty Mommy Mixer! Easy Fall Fashion Updates

So I am pleased to say that the first ever Beauty Mommy Mixer took place last night, and I think it was a real success! Over 30 chic mommies showed up to eat, drink, and catch up for a good cause, with donations going to the Junior League Community Baby Shower. Since the crowd was filled with friendly, familiar faces, it was all too easy for me to get up on the little stage and talk everyone's ear off about three of my favorite topics: fashion, skincare, and healthy quick cooking. The crowd patiently sat through my novice Powerpoint presentations, and even asked a few questions. My only regret - no pictures. If you were there, and took some, please share! I wish everyone on my list could have made it last night, so for those of you who didn't make it, here's what you missed. First in this series: my presentation on Fall Trends: Easy Updates for Every Budget. I hope you enjoy it!

Trend # 1: Bold Colors

•Color works on everyone and can instantly brighten your complexion and make you look younger and fresher.

•The easiest way to pull this off. Pair a bold sweater or pants with black, white, khaki, or a low-key metallic.

• Don't wear a bold color on the bottom if you want to downplay your legs or hips. : )

•Best Local Source: Talbots and H&M

Bold Picks:

From Top: Ann Taylor Loft "Mod" dress, $79.95, AG Stevie ankle jeans, about $158 at Anthropologie, and Victoria's Secret jersey top, $58

Trend #2: Lace

Best Local Source: Ann Taylor Loft (which features lace in every form, from ballet flats to scarves)

Lace is showing up in unexpected places, like in an overlay on a pencil skirt at Loft and in the hem of a pair of cropped pants at White House

For a subtle take on the trend, try a lace blouse underneath a menswear-inspired suit

From top: Gianni Bini "Lynda" shorts, $78, Gianni Bini "Veruca" dress, $108 (both at Dillard's), Ann Taylor Loft sweater, $59.50

Trend #3: The Leopard Trend

Leopard is easiest to pull off in small doses: a cuff, a belt, a scarf.

If you’re feeling bold, wear a single, striking item in leopard, like a dress, but keep the accessories clean and neutral for balance.

Leopard head-to-toe is not your friend. Unless you’re Catwoman.

Best Local Source: Talbots and White House…

Above: From Top: Talbots Ocelot print cardigan, $67, White House Black Market slingback, $98, and BCBG dress, $648