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It's Fall; Run For Coverups

Tribune photo by JAY NOLAN

You don't have to spend a lot of money on a coverup. Be patient and wait for sweaters and jackets to go on sale.

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By CLOE CABRERA | The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 10, 2008

There's (finally) a little chill in the air.

Which means it's time to start thinking about the perfect fall coverup - a new jacket, wrap or coat that will keep the cold away while you stay looking hot.

But c'mon, it is still Florida, a place that stays warm well into October - and sometimes November - so you'll want to find something that isn't too stifling or voluminous.

"When it comes to adding warmth, stick to pieces that allow you to adapt to changing temperatures," says Audrey Slater, fashion director of Redbook magazine. "Just stay away from bulk; you don't need bulk."

On the must-have list for coverups: ponchos and wraps.

Versatile and easy to wear, these flattering coverups are found in virtually every style and color, from casual, colorful weekend-ready knits to more sophisticated versions in cashmere. They're an easy alternative to a fall jacket or lightweight coat, and they give the illusion of a broader shoulder.

TIP: Ponchos are great at camouflaging midsection figure flaws. And one size fits mostly all.

Scarves are a must for warding off the chill and transitioning into colder seasons; they're also an excellent throw-on when it's not quite cold yet. And they come in every shape, size and texture.

"You want to use it to add oomph to an outfit and keep you warm without being too heavy," Slater says. "The best way to do that is to have a wardrobe of them."

TIP: Find different weights as the season progresses.

Sweaters are great when temperatures are fluctuating (like they do here). And longer cardigans, such as the boyfriend style, are cuddle-provoking, fun and fresh. You can dress them up - with black slacks and a belt - or down - with jeans and boots.

TIP: Since the cardigan has an oversized shape, wear it with something slim fitting on the bottom, such as a pair of skinny jeans or trousers.

Topping Slater's list of toppers this season is the motorcycle jacket. It isn't just for wannabe tough guys and biker babes anymore.

"This is definitely the coolest layering piece out there right now," Slater says. "You can get it in leather or pleather, and it works."

A motorcycle jacket is a no-brainer with jeans, but you're just as likely to see one this season layered over a ruffled blouse, tank top, floral dress or pencil skirt.

"It's enough of a jacket to give you some warmth, but you're not going to be sweltering in it," Slater says.

TIP: Look for a jacket with lots of zippers and hardware in black or brown.

The classic fitted suit jacket also is going to work.

The tailored jacket makes a big return for fall, says David Hacker, vice president of Trend and Color for Kohl's.

A great tailored jacket - fitted to show off feminine curves - pairs well with everything from slacks to jeans or dresses. Look for fall fabrics such as tweed, brocade, menswear plaids, even leather.

TIP: If you're tall, a jacket with a longer line works well. If you're short, look for cropped styles.

There's nothing like a trench coat to make a fall fashion statement.

A weatherproof trench works whether there's a slight chill in the air or a heavy-duty cold front on the way. Trenches come in different finishes and work with your casual pieces as well as your evening looks.

"It's been here forever because it works," Slater says. "And it works on everyone."

TIP: Make sure your trench isn't boxy. And look for one that is just below the knee.

Another favorite for fall is the anorak, a sort of nonathletic take on the windbreaker. Updated in fabrics such as satin and chiffon, this season's anoraks come in brilliant hues such as purple and orange.

"It's really functional, lightweight and flexible, and it looks great with jeans, trousers or a slim skirt," Slater says. "The new ones have a shiny metallic finish and really make an outfit pop with a sleek modern look."

TIP: Work the chic urban look with big chunky jewelry and lots of bangles.

Slater says you don't have to spend a lot of money on a coverup. Be patient and wait for jackets and sweaters to go on sale.

"In terms of affordability, a lot of department stores have their own brand of these, and it's usually less expensive, and they are just as good and work just as well as any other brand."

You can read more of Slater's fall fashion tips in the October issue of Redbook on newsstands now.

Photos courtesy of Kohl's, Stein Mart and Redbook

Reporter Cloe Cabrera can be reached at (813) 259-7656 or ccabrera@tampatrib.com.

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