… And we’re off, headed right toward cool weather again as if the summer never existed. Temperatures are dropping, so it’s last call to give that cute two-piece and matching sarong one last spin on the beach. Fortunately, the sun will be around for a little while, so you don’t need to lose the Gucci shades and those designer beach bags just yet.

Fall always brings some of our favorite styles back around – we love skinny boots, knee-length skirts, and long jackets with big Holly Golightly sunglasses. We love big hoop earrings with those fall looks, and we love exploring the million different uses for a funky scarf.

That being said, most fall accessories are like our boyfriend, while fitted jackets are our future husband. There’s just something about a fitted jacket – the way it snugs your curves, the way it keeps you toasty when there’s just a little nip in the air. The right fitted jacket is as beautiful on you as it is functional – and we like our clothes to have a little touch of both beauty and functionality.

White after Labor Day? Happening. This cute Ralph Lauren fitted jacket provides comfy coverage, without making you look too bulky. Layering it over a thin sweater or a low-cut tee creates a modern tough girl look that’s cute, but street. Try it out on the town during a weekend night as the weather cools down.

This boiled pink wool Chanel fitted jacket is nothing short of … wow. There’s something about it that says Central Park, surrounded by autumn leaves. This piece screams beauty, elegance and practicality, and that’s the kind of signature we’ve come to expect from Chanel over and over again.

This down Moncler jacket is multi-functional. You can take it out on the town for that urban feel, or wow fellow skiers on the slopes of Aspen. We love looks that bring a little bit of street with a touch of class, and fitted jackets like this Moncler piece are a good idea for all the cold weather months.

Whether you decide to go with a trench coat over cute boots or a fitted jacket like these, pick a style that accentuates your best assets and go!

Photos: Ralph Lauren – Fernanda Calfat/Getty Images
Bonanza/chanel
Moncler

A quick look through any department store will confirm that leggings are still in style – at least somewhat – for Summer/Fall 2011. We’re glad to see them stick around. A comfortable alternative to hose or tights, leggings add a flattering touch to longer shirts, shorter skirt styles, and just about any other fashion involving bare legs.

Leggings have made their way into the workplace, and are just as useful at happy hour after work. If you’re uncomfortable going hose-less on those important business days, leggings add a sleek dimension to your look. You can also get away with wearing black leggings on just about any occasion – be it work, a night out, or a day lounging around the house.

Leggings added both style and functionality to outfits last year. We were hoping to see them come around this fall in interesting new styles and prints. Fortunately, we’re seeing them function in more of a functional way this season. It looks like leggings are here to stay.

For a more casual look, these Capri leggings from Vera Wang are functional and comfortable. The material and color are easy to maintain – no one wants to get leggings dry cleaned, right? These leggings are great for both casual wear and professional situations. They’re comfortable – they’re Vera Wang – and they’re affordable. You can get these leggings at Kohl’s and similar department stores.

Lace is still here this year. Lace leggings are making a splash among the younger crowd, providing some cover under miniskirts and shorter dresses while adding a sexy touch of class. Simple lace print patterns probably aren’t going anywhere when it comes to leggings – lace is a quick way to add elegance to any look, and can really make a simple pair of leggings accommodate a classier function.

Animal print leggings are happening this year. Wild colors and styles adorn the legs of clubgoers in major cities, accompanying animal print accessories and basic fashions from some of the world’s top designers. Animal prints can take leggings from basic accessory to the centerpiece of your outfit.

If you’re thinking of buying leggings, consider finding a color and style that accentuate your legs. As with leotard or hose, you don’t want to choose a pair of too-small leggings. Find the fit that’s comfortable for your body and won’t stretch too much on your frame.

Photos: Vera Wang, Wet Seal, Ami Clubwear

We heard someone on the subway mention that cargo pants are “outdated” the other day – so it seemed a prudent use of time to get out there and find out what cargo styles are happening this fall. We also took a look at some vintage cargo styles, and we all know vintage never goes out of style.

First up are these cute, stylish Ralph Lauren cargos. Fashionable and affordable, cargo and skinny have made an irresistible combo. You don’t have to pay thousands of dollars for a cargo this cute – you can get this “round the way girl” look at your local Macy’s. Class up your skinny cargos with a big belt, or clunky jewelry like you see in the photo.

Next we went back to vintage, and caught a glimpse of some incredible old school Chanel cargos. Isn’t it amazing how Chanel can turn just about anything into fashion gold – from a tweed skirt to cargo pants? The detail in some of the vintage cargo looks from Chanel is incredible, and it’s definitely worth the money if you are fashion conscious and ready to take your look from street to Chic.

You can find vintage Chanel cargos in a variety of colors and styles for $200+. Steals are out there, so make sure to do your research and consider you’re dealing with older systems of measurement when making a purchase.

Dolce & Gabbana are throwing their best cargos into the ring this year. We found D&G skinny cargos out there, and some animal prints too. Last week we talked about animal prints coming back in dresses this fall, and now we’re seeing them on cargos as well. Pictured above are some super hot, skinny D&G cargos. You can pair these with a hip pair of ankle or mid-thigh boots and turn casual fashion into an amazing night on the town.

Regardless of how you rock your cargos, they’re definitely still in style and as classic as ever – but with a modern, sexy twist that makes investing in a few pairs a must. Choose tops with waist cuts and eye-catching sleeves to accentuate skinny cargos, and catch more than a few looks in the office or out on the town.

Photos courtesy of Ralph Lauren, Obsessed Daily, and Shop Style

As summer fashions begin to transition to fall, we’re seeing flowing transition to fitting. Sleeves are getting longer as the days get shorter. Though we’re showing less skin this fall in general, form-fitting clothing presents a sleek, sophisticated – and sexy – autumn style.

Our striped Stella McCartney wool piece (top left) puts all those rumors about horizontal stripes to bed. We’ll be seeing similar sweater dresses this season. This has been one of the biggest summer dress seasons yet, and we’ll see the must-have summer dress becoming less casual as summer swings into fall.

We will also be seeing more styles like this Rachel Pally caftan dress (pictured center). The flowing look of summer doesn’t stop – instead, we transition into plunging necklines and dramatic hems. This caftan dress would be perfect for a night on the town, or a walk on a beautiful fall day.

We’re also going to see animal prints coming back again this fall. Calvin Klein’s distorted leopard print dress (pictured right) is a classic cut with a hint of the wild. The cinching waist-tie is a completely different look from the flowing caftan, but provides a classic style that can be worn in the office, out on a date, or out and about.

To create your perfect summer look, consider pairing an animal print dress like the Calvin Klein shown above with a classic cardigan (think J. Crew) or knee-high boots. Pally’s caftan can stand on its own, but when accentuated with a beautiful clutch, the look is complete. Consider working Stella McCartney’s creation with leggings or hoop earrings.

Then summer begins to transition into fall, you can bet you’ll be seeing new dress cuts. This year’s collection pairs the sexy of summer with a new, sophisticated, less casual look for the fall. Expect caftans, stripes, wool and cashmere and animal prints throughout collections this fall. Don’t be afraid to pair a bold color with something of a more neutral tone. Take the opportunity this fall to create a unique style that will radiate.

We all know that in order to keep up with new technology, you have to invest. The Amazon kindle, the Apple iPad – we all either want or have one of these devices. But if you are fashion-conscious, you’ll know it’s not always easy to lug one around with you in your pocketbook, and you obviously don’t want to have one out in plain view on the subway.

You may also feel challenged by the availability of cute, reasonably priced iPad and other technological accessories online. You can’t really just walk into Macy’s and buy something nice, and it’s hard to tell if online bags and cases will fit your iPad or other device.

Fortunately, Ebay, Etsy and fashion-conscious sellers are coming to the rescue. You don’t have to look for high fashion retailers to create a cute iPad case for you. Sites like Amazon and Ebay have plenty of options.

MyGift’s Pink Sparse Tranquility case (see above) has a cute, feminine look that you’ll be proud to show off when you’re carrying around your iPad. MyGift also has other exclusive iPad cases you can use with your device.

When you shop for your iPad case with Amazon, you also have the option of  buying additional accessories for your iPad – such as cables, protective screens, and more – at a discounted price.

If you’re looking for something a little higher end, designers like Louis Vuitton and Oscar de la Renta have created high-fashion digital accessories that will satisfy your craving for top notch designs. You can find an iPad case that will fit just about any iPad cover or style, and they usually run from $300-400 a pop. With the versatility, quality materials and fashion statement you’ll make with these cases, they’re a great investment for your business or personal use.

When you’re ready to buy an iPad case, there are a few things to consider – price, style, and security. You want to make sure that your iPad case can accommodate all the crazy places you’re taking your iPad, and that your device will be kept safe if it’s dropped in the case. It’s a good idea to look at the specs on the accessory case’s padding and other features before making an investment, and consider how this stacks up to the way you’re using your iPad.

The right case is out there for you, and you can find a case in the color and style you’re looking for!

The height of summer is upon us, and the figurative runway is stretching from shore to ocean. Every weekend can be your own private Fashion Week if you know how to do bathing suit shopping the right way – and believe it or not, plenty of people haven’t made that effort to hit the beach yet this year.

String bikinis are back, and Burberry makes a killer kini for just about any body style. Burberry tunics are included in the bikini lineup this year to help you make that extra-dramatic entrance on the shoreline. Cool and porous, Burberry tunics are the perfect way to hide your bikini from the world before you’re ready to preview it. Paired with the ultra-sexy low cut Burberry bikini combo, you can get the best of both worlds when you match tunic with bikini.

Victoria’s Secret is also offering quite a selection of bikini styles this year – you can choose from over 300 on their site. From dramatic skirt-style two pieces to push up triangle tops, you can find a bikini selection that fits your body and your style, and that will get you ready for a day on the beach.

In selecting the best swimsuit – particularly if you’re shopping for a bikini – you also have to consider the snug factor. If you also need your bikini to be functional, you might want to consider a Halter as opposed to a Bandeau top if you’ll be swimming or out in the ocean for any length of time. If you’re looking to tan, think about going with a Triangle top or something without straps to get the best sun coverage.

A tunic is also a worthwhile investment, and far more stylish than your ordinary beach towel.  Chanel’s 2011 line offers sleek tunics a la Hugh Hefner’s silk robes, but you can also opt for a less traditional cover-up for the boardwalk or casual beach stroll.  Chanel’s cover-ups are often fashioned out of less traditional material, including BoHo fishnet and sheer cloth in a variety of cuts. You can also accessorize the perfect bikini with Chanel’s selection of high-waisted beach pants and Roman sandals that tie to the knee.

When you’re shopping for the perfect bikini, cut, functionality and accessories are all necessary companions to an exceptional beach experience this summer. Don’t skimp out on the extra s – make your bikini the costar in your beach adventure, and leave the towels at home by bringing along a functional, sexy tunic.

Photos courtesy of Chanel and Burberry

First of all, THANK YOU!

We are almost one year old and have had such a fantastic response from all of our users.  Our community continues to grow and has given us great feedback on how we can improve and adaptive Delusha.

In the past 9 months, one thing has become very clear; you, our users, would like to share your own handcrafted creations with the world.  Yeah, you like our on-line design tool, but you also want the opportunity to sell your own creations (things that you have crafted yourself) via Delusha. We have heard your requests loud and clear.

We have just launched our Beta (testing) site where users can upload and sell their own creations.  We are fully aware that there are other sites that offer this possibility for a variety of different products; however, we are going to be VERY focused and only open up Delusha for fashion related items.

Our users have also made it clear that they would like the process to be very simple, and easy to use.  We have done our best to do so; we look forward to hearing how we can continue improving Delusha.

Jewellery for the Festival Fashionista

It’s the time of year again when we begin thinking about the summer ahead of us. The evenings are getting longer, the weather is heating up nicely and we’re even venturing out in open toe shoes! Hurrah for spring!

One thing a lot of us will be looking forward to in the upcoming months is getting along to some of the great music festivals hosted in summer. The festival season is fast approaching, so there’s no time like the present to start planning those all-important festival outfits. Whether you’re planning on hitting Glastonbury, Sziget or even late summer’s Oktoberfest, you’ll need to pack your outfits with consideration – you’ll be taking the bare minimum after all!

Styles vary at festivals from boho babe to hippie-chick, and prairie girl to rock star. Almost anything goes (except for white trousers or stilettos – you’re just begging for trouble in these!). Some people like to spruce themselves up in waistcoats, vests, open shirts and tiny shorts. Others like the Hunter welly look with a feminine dress. One thing that’s pretty much universal is the draped, eclectic, fun jewellery worn at festivals. It’s often a case of the more the merrier where rings, bracelets and necklaces are concerned!

Swarovski Crystallised is a range of jewellery you would perhaps not expect to see worn at a festival. A dinner party – yes. A muddy field – really? Well, yes . Really. Swarovski Crystallised has a fabulous and affordable range that any fierce festival fashionista would be keen to get their hands on.

The stylish Twisted Glamour bracelets come in a selection of colours that would not coordinate (or purposely clash) with almost any outfit. Stack them up with the amazing range of bracelets created by Israeli designer Hely Rotbard (we here at Delusha have pretty much ALL of her bracelets on our wish list!!) for an individual, personalised edge.

If rings are your thing you won’t be disappointed. Pieces like the Swarovski Gypsy ring will leave you looking like festival royalty. Then there’s Kenneth Jay Lane’s collection for Swarovski – a range of rings in styles such as a snake (there’s even a water snake version!), an alligator, starfish and an octopus, embellished with Swarovski Elements. You may need to have rings on every finger. But that’s what festival fever is all about.

For real music buffs, there’s the designer range created by Gas Bijoux. Not only are his pieces effortlessly hip, they can gain you street-cred too. His guitar shaped Elvis Necklace would look oh-so-cool dangling over a tunic whilst you’re bopping along to the festival music. Heck – hurry up summer, we’re ready and waiting!

Images:  Infinity Bracelet by Hely Designs; Water Snake Ring by Kenneth Jay Lane; Elvis Necklace by Gas Bijoux.

For the past few seasons we’ve seen the trend for bright colour blocking on the catwalks. It’s become a great way of wearing an eye-catching outfit without too much fuss. Clothing can be simple and comfortable, but in bright hues that either co-ordinate, or for those who are braver and consider themselves a bit more ‘fashion forward’, clash.

You don’t have to wear clothes to colour block: you can use accessories. A simple bright pink clutch paired with neon bright green stilettos works the same as pairing a pillar box red skirt with an emerald green blouse. And then there are watches. We’ve seen bright, rubber watches on everyone from Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie to footballer David Beckham, and even the first lady of America, Michelle Obama wears a lavender Toy watch. They’re fun, fashionable AND functional. And if you needed another bonus, they’re very often cheap and an easy, accessible trend that anyone can wear. No matter what dress size you are, how tall you might be, or what skin tone you have, you will look up to date with a funky bright watch on your wrist.

Strap your watch on with a plain outfit to give it the flash factor, or coordinate it with your colour blocked ensemble. The best way to go with this trend is cheap and cheerful: you might live in your watch this year, but next year, who knows what you’ll want on your wrist, so unless you feel that you’ll treasure your Day-Glo orange watch for years to come, keep it cheap.

By keeping it cheap you can also treat yourself to more than one watch – which ties in nicely with another trend we’re seeing this year, multiple watches stacked together. This is a great way of colour blocking, and you’ll never need to ask someone for the time when your mobile battery is dead with multiple time pieces!

Everyone from Adidas to Nixon, Casio to Michael Kors and Toy, G-Shock, Firetrap and Storm has released gorgeous coloured watches. And then there’s the brands such as Breo and Plastichic which have launched several varieties of rubber band watches that are not only cheap and cheerful, but are thin and waterproof allowing you to forget you’re even wearing it. The only difficulty you’ll have is choosing which colour watch to buy out of the myriad available!

Image credits: Michael Kors; Timex; Plastichic Icecube.