BEAUTY & THE BEST

If you're the kind of person who puts quite a bit of effort into planning outfits for upcoming occasions or even just for what you're going to wear to work tomorrow, I'm sure you put just as much, if not more, thought into your makeup and beauty routine. While each person's regimen differs in terms of daily skin care and grooming, there are some classic beauty and hair looks from which designers draw inspiration no matter the season. From Veronica Lake long locks to Nutcracker ballet topknots and Brigitte Bardot boudoir tresses, the below are a sampling of my favorites...

MANE ATTRACTION

And while some of the more extravagant 'dos may precipitate a makeup-overload-don't, the best way to compliment sleek, pulled back pony's and plaits, is with a seductive, sanguine pout. Timeless and chic, and oh-so-appropriate with holiday soirees just around the corner.

POUT PERFECTION

For heavier makeup looks that give an edge of film noir rather than Nightmare Before Christmas, stick with a smoky eye or a plum pout, but not both. 

LA NUIT

For a pared-down, more natural makeup pallette that works for everyday, choose a sheer lipstick or pinky-peach gloss to compliment dewy skin and luscious lashes. Don't forget blush and groomed, yet natural brows.

LES NATURELS

Have I got you covered as far as Fall beauty and style? Trust me that a killer combination of makeup, hair, and clothing takes some planning to fake an "effortlessly chic" look. But if I had to offer a quick, easy, and no-fail ensemble for right now, choose red lips, leather and fur [faux fur= definitely not a faux pas] and you'll be sure to impress no matter what the occasion. Leave it to DVF [below] . . .

*all photos via style.com

"Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick-ass red lipstick."- Gwyneth Paltrow

INSTamuse

When I'm not blogging (guilty!), I'm most often reading my favorite style blogs and flipping through the likes of my favorite fashion magazines for inspiration. Since I don't actually own a professional camera, I record outfit snapshots and other a.musements via my handy little iPhone app, instagram. Here are some recent photos for your viewing pleasure...

Beyond the Basics

The best way to embrace Fall fashion and cooler temps (can you feel it?) is to opt for basic layering pieces, classic wool & cashmere sweaters, a cozy chapeau, and a long wool coat. But to avoid erring on Plain Jane, allow the below photos to do the rambling talking for me.

HATS OFF!

Think you can't pull off one of these stunning wool fedoras? Think again. In fact, buy a few different styles and colors and pop in a feather a la Garance. You know you wore straw fedoras and panamas for a chic beachy look, so why not multi-task by masking a bad hair day, protecting your precious skin from the sun, and keeping your head warm in the upcoming chillier months. Might I add that it could be the most-wanted accessory for Fall?

THE CAMEL COAT

It's no secret that I adore anything camel, beige or neutral, but the mid-length camel coat is hands down a must-have for right now through March (if you live in the Northeast, that is). Super-chic. Enough said.

COLOR ME BASIC BRILLIANT

When it comes to foolproof fashion for Fall, basics are the essentials that anchor a look. By that I mean tailored pants in wide and slim-legs, crewneck sweaters and knits, turtlenecks and blazers. Elevate these classic pieces by choosing pops of brights and neons and don't forget to color-block. 

Of course, we all have a penchant for prints, whether it's plaid or polka dots, tartan or tweed, and the rules are there are no rules. Have fun with graphics in a shirt or skirt, or even slacks. I adore the ubiquitous houndstooth for Fall and Ms. Muse looks stunning in the above Vogue Paris shot. 

"When in doubt, wear red".  Bill Blass