Fall’s Fashion Forecast
Written by Katrina Daniel Tuesday, October 05 2010
Snapshot: Arlene Goldstein
Arlene Goldstein has what many of us think of as the dream job; she spends her days immersed in the ever-evolving, fascinating world of fashion. As vice president of trend merchandising and fashion direction for Belk, Inc., she is always looking for the newest fashion trends for Belk stores and then working with teams of designers to adapt those styles so even the most conservative among us can picture ourselves slipping into the clothes worn on the runways in our real lives.
She travels to the world’s fashion capitals to explore emerging trends, looking for what’s hot, what’s new, and how can those looks translate into clothes her customers will snap up.
Here is Arlene Goldstein’s take on fall fashion 2010.
Womenetics: What is the single most important fashion item this fall?
Arlene Goldstein: Boots are – no doubt – this season’s unrivaled headliners, most often in vintage leathers that offer an authentic feel. Also, statement hardware, work-boot inspirations, and heel innovations add to the magic.
Pumps are also back with a vengeance, and they are newest with architectural details, new platforms, unexpected heel interest, and material mixes that are sure to dazzle. Flirty flats feel so right; they create the perfect pairing for longer skirts and slim-leg pants.
You can count on clogs to offer an instant update to any look. Up high or down low, these woods – inspired by the designer runways – are a wonder.
Womenetics: Highlight for us the 2010 fall fashion statements.
Goldstein: Here are the fashion groupings we’re seeing. Real life clothes with a new rusticity are giving fashion an indisputable credibility. Hidden plackets, rolled hems, anything Army-issue from belts and brass buttons to cargo pockets and epaulets. 
Textiles are taking on a weathered feel with blanket inspirations, work-wear classics, winterized cottons, leather, sweater knits, and brushed flannel.
There’s also what we’re calling, “très chic,” and this look offers homage to the timeless French style. This trend can go offbeat or elegant, classic or reverent – you decide. This ladylike message is defined by hourglass silhouettes, shoulder emphasis, Chanel- inspired jackets, sheath styling, peplum effects, ruffles, and ruching.
Tasteful textiles such as leather, lush wools, velvet, lace, silks, and the new knits are the perfectly polished materials that matter most.
Womenetics: We are seeing a lot of structural fashion that is sharp-edged and futuristic. Tell us about that, please.
Goldstein: Shape-inspired silhouettes say it all. Sharp tailoring, gutsy color, and exaggerated proportions focus on serious shoulders, dolman sleeves, A-line, and East/West shapes. Extreme studs, exposed zips, folds and wraps, and uneven hems provide the “WOW!” factor.
Pronounced patterns will also peak your interest. Checkout color blocking, strong graphics, geometrics, animal prints, and hounds tooth. Patterns are often digitized or stylized for dramatic effect. Industrial metals – especially chunky chains and bold cuffs – plus statement belts, novelty hosiery, and striking boots are key.”
Womenetics: Give us the 10 most-wanted items fall looks.
Goldstein: Here goes. You can instantly update yourself with some or all of these:
Bold jewelry. High profile baubles, big rings, stacks of bracelets.
Something lace. Pair it with a denim or pencil skirt, and create instant classic elegance.
Skinny bottoms. Jeggings (Essentially leggings that look like jeans), leggings, slim leg and narrow jeans. This looks fresher than ever. 
Ladylike blouse. Here you look for ruffles, ruching, and dressmaker touches.
New knit dress. Look for fresh shapes and daring details.
Flirty flats. Jewels, bows, interesting buckles.
Decorated top. Take your look from OK to WOW! in seconds.
Creative cardigan. Call it the arty cardi, the newest sweaters. You’ll want to make the cardigan an important part of your signature style.
Boots. At your ankle or over your knee and everywhere in between.
Military Style. Welcome to the fashion front, we call it “soldier sass.” It incorporates camo patterns, Army greens, and uniform details.
Katrina Daniel is an award-winning journalist and broadcast reporter/anchor. She has worked in Miami, Los Angeles, New York, and as a national correspondent for several networks. She commutes between Miami and the Carolinas, writing for magazines and news organizations. She lives with one horse, four dogs, and a cat.
