Buy Luxe for Less (And Be Social Too!)

The arrival of the fall fashion season can be daunting - new trends, endless options, figuring out what’s hot (or not).

I think we all need a lot of help. And, in the age of social networking mass-contamination, it was only a matter of time before the shopping niche had its day. So, I was very excited to discover (and join!) StyleFeeder.com. With its Personal Shopper shopping assistant and community of style-allies (and foes), it makes being ahead of the fashion this season every bit easier.

The way StyleFeeder works is by turning to its users - “fashionistas” on the lookout for the best designs and deals on the Web - to see what is really going to pop this fall. Using StyleFeeder’s Personal Shopper, anyone can shop online with friends, create a personalized wishlist of favorite items, get recommendations tailored to their tastes, and ask other StyleFeeders for advice and feedback.

For example, according to the buzz among my new StyleFeeder neighbors:

1. Skinny jeans are not going away anytime soon. StyleFeeders are asking if they can still wear their skinny jeans into the fall, and despite what some fashion magazines might tell you, the answer seems to be a resounding yes. StyleFeeders both lean and curvy are looking forward to wearing their skinny jeans tucked into boots with a great sweater, or with flats and a boxy retro jacket.

2. Volume trends will continue. Summer’s flirty, voluminous tops and dresses will continue well into autumn, as comfy tunics in cozy fabrics like jersey and wool pair well with patterned tights and ankle boots.

3. Grey is the new neutral. Flowy tops in shade of grey pair well with shoes and handbags in this classy, muted shade. Look for accessories with shimmery, metallic undertones in shades of pewter, pink, purple and pearl.

4. Mad for plaid. Tartan is back in! Elevate the pattern by adding unexpected feminine details…like a big bow or French cuffs on a boyfriend shirt. If you’re on the shyer side, stick to plaid accessories, like scarves, headbands and belts. For even more boarding school chic, one StyleFeeder suggests adding a prep-school iron-on badge to a plaid bag.

5. Military-inspired trenches. The “it” coat for fall, try a trench with military-inspired details, like brass buttons or a low-slung belt. Extra points for also incorporating a plaid pattern to tackle two trends with one item.

6. Riding boots. Equestrian-inspired footwear is making a resurgence, as tall boots in rich brown and black leather are being spotted all over.

7. Ballet flats stick around. Ballet flats show no sign of going away…try a slight wedge heel or ankle strap to ensure you still look cutting-edge.

8. Pops of blue and purple. Look for anything royal, lapis, blueberry, or mauve. “I love this upcoming color palette for the fall and winter season! Tons of plums, indigos and charcoals!” says StyleFeeder Carrie Woomer, who also happens to be the Co-Owner of Skorch Magazine, an online fashion magazine for ladies size 12 and up (www.skorchmagazine.com).

9. V-neck sweater vests. This preppy staple looks great on both men and women. They always go great with a plain oxford, but can also work over blouses with tulip or bell sleeves for an ultra-feminine look.

Get ready, and go shopping. And then you’ll have more ammunition in your own social-shopping-networking-mind-meld community!