In fashion, there are often some slow-turning trends that always seem to be in the shadows..for season after season. They don’t emerge quickly, which is why they do not become fads, and slowly our eyes become trained and adjusted to their presence. Slowly but surely, mass consumers will respond.

Rebecca Taylor's faux-fur vest & Chloé's thigh-high suede boots

One such trend is the thigh-high boot. Think Pretty Woman. With shorts and skirts becoming ever more mini, these puppies will certainly be a head-turner. It is in these rare instances that the more coverage, the more scandalous. If you don’t have the legs of a runway supermodel, opt for above-the-knee length boots that will actually have a slimming effect on your thighs!! These super cute suede boots by Chloé are laced up along the back and fastened on the side with a metal buckle.

Another must-have item will be the fur vest. If you have started your fall shopping, than you already know about this trend. And you have most likely already imagined yourself walking down a tree-bordered leafy sidewalk on a crisp, cool day in October in a long-sleeved mini-dress, casually covered by an unassuming, shaggy fur vest (which is actually the centerpiece of your outfit), while touting a leather messenger bag that is effortlessly strapped across your torso. I tried on this faux-fur vest from Rebecca Taylor and nearly had a heart attack thinking of all the possible outfits this beauty could accentuate.

If you are anything like me, you have probably been programmed to shun the concept of shoulder pads. Who wants the broad shoulders of a man? Well guess what - big shoulders are back…and in a big way. As we are stepping back into the 80’s, keep in mind that the louder the jacket, the better.

Alice & Olivia & Top Shop's military jacket offerings

Michael Jackson military-inspired jackets will not only be an important ode to the late King of Pop but they are also tres in-style this season! Fall in line with some extra flair from elaborate embellishments and oversized epaulettes via Alice & Olivia’s shrunken military jacket.

When I walked into Top Shop last month, I spent over an hour trying on and examining every single sequined trophy jacket that they offered. I love the youthful, unpremeditated look of three-quarter sleeved blazers - and ones that are covered in sequins are no exception. These jackets are the perfect accompaniment to a casual t-shirt and ripped jeans look during the day or over a scanty dress in the evening.

Two years ago, you might have thought these pieces only belonged in the world of high-fashion. This season, however, they are a necessary addition to every wardrobe. With a great pair of thigh-high boots, a fur vest, and an embellished jacket - you will be perfectly (and fashionably) covered for the upcoming fall season.

For more of Jean Hsu’s Essential Luxuries, please visit www.jeanjhsu.com

Tags: Chloe, embellished jackets, Fall Fashion, faux-fur, Michael Jackson, military jackets, shoulder pads, thigh-high boots.

Fifi Lapin’s credo is “What should I wear today?”, a common question asked by many, however Fifi is not a girl, but rather an illustrated rabbit who wears designer clothes (Chanel and Luella are favorites) on her namesake blog. Fifi is a shopaholic Miffy, a girl rabbit who can have it all, because with delicate swipes of the artistic hand, she is wearing the latest runway creation with her signature deadpan look, ears alert and feet always slightly pigeon-toed. Creating envy by tailoring the latest looks to her straight and narrow frame, Ms. Lapin dispenses a froth of fashion advice with each new outfit while hopping to the next soiree. One stylish lagomorph indeed.

Fifi Lapin wears Sonia Rykiel, copyright Fifi Lapin 2008

Fifi Lapin wears Chanel, copyright Fifi Lapin 2008

Fifi Lapin wears Chloe, copyright Fifi Lapin 2008

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Tags: blog, Chanel, Chloe, designer clothes, Fifi Lapin, illustration, lagomorph, Luella, Miffy, rabbit, Runway, Sonia Rykiel.