Top 5 Must-haves Fashion Vault 2012

As temperature drops in the coming months, the fashion trends change just like the colors of the maple trees.  Yet with our economy in recovery, the current economy makes us all think twice about what we should add to our fashion vault for the fall.  So here are a few essentials for the fall that are simple, yet give you a fashionably sophisticated look.

1) Scarf. A simple accessory that can add style to your outfit.  Short or regular length scarves can transform your winter outfit into a classic one.  If you can get your hands on a cashmere scarf, that would be the best, yet companies such as H&M have a thinner scarves made out of wool or cotton that work really well.  Alpaca is a newer fabric made out of a South African camel, which is really soft and high quality.  Patterns such as plaid or stripes are great, just keep the colors neutral and conservative.  

2) Button up cardigan
The single most important must have is the button up cardigan for the fall.  Long have been the days from Heathcliff Huxtable in being something for men who are about to retire.  Gentlemen of today can wear cardigans today with confidence knowing it isn't associated with age.  Under your suit in place of a vest, or on its own during happy hour or an evening social event, the cardigan looks great with a tie, bow tie or no tie and adds style for casual and semi-casual occasions. J.Crew is one of the best places to pick one up at a reasonable price.  This is a piece that you will use throughout the fall and winter season.

3) Pocket Square.  If there is one thing that helps you make an impression is the pocket square or handkerchief.  Just like your tie, it’s color and pattern is an expression of fashion and style for the modern gentleman.  The are fairly inexpensive and can significantly change your look.  For the fall stick to the wool and cotton blends.  They tend to hold their shape better, and are handy when you might actually need one, although you should have one in your pocket for those “oops” occasions.  You would want to go to places such as Nordstrom Rack, Macy’s or even Bloomingdale's for prices as low as $7 each.  

4) Tie Bar.  A classic piece added to your ensemble, the tie bar is perfect for your fashion vault this fall.  The tie bar completes your formal or semi-formal outfit.  It is the perfect accessory that is simple and adds a sophisticated, and fairly inexpensive.   You can wear it with a suit, vest or a cardigan, which makes it a real value for the price.  Stay with a silver one, since it will pair well with everything and is easy to find.  Stick to as little of a pattern as possible if at all, for the tie bar is to help complete the ensemble, not the focal point of it.  Make sure that it doesn't completely cover your tie, but only ½ to ¾ths across, otherwise it will break up the tie’s look.  Kenneth Cole, Ross or Filene's Basement.  They should cost no more than $20-$25 each.  

5) Bow Tie.  Important events in the coming, thanksgiving, holiday and new years parties, attending these events with style and class comes not better than a bow tie.  It is the perfect way to distinguish yourself from others and defines a gentleman.  Stick to simple patterns such as polka dots, stripes and plaid.  Nordstrom Rack is the best for these at the price for less that $25 each.  Penguin is also a great spot to find these at a great price under $25.  Don’t go for the pre-made one’s, get the real one and learn how to tie one.  It will not come out perfect, yet its not supposed to, which makes it that much more appealing.