Busy Bodies -- Graphic Prints

This season's vast array of oversized, colorful, eye-popping designs seem to dare you to try staying gloomy. Fall's sophisticated palette and understated elegance give way to some much needed season-defining extroversion. Audacious patterns abound — from blocky optic abstracts to tribal-inspired designs to classic vintage textiles — all punched up this season with boisterously saturated shades. My favorites are the floral prints. They're the most blatantly beautiful of the bunch and I think the easiest to wear. Choose "blurred" or "watercolor" effects for a subtle yet still perfectly on-trend look. Sport one busy piece at a time and keep the rest of your outfit neutral. A loud blouse over a subdued Capsleeve T paired with quiet khakis or denim capris, will score style points without blinding your audience.

Bright, sun-saturated colors are a staple, but this year's shades look to be some of the liveliest seen since the '80s. Don't let that scare you. Rather than the gaudy neon-brights of that fashion-challenged era, this current color crop is more sophisticated and wearable. Citrus Yellow, apple green, ocean blue, lilac and crimson — these are undeniably dazzling hues but they're also surprisingly flattering. As with this season's big prints, it's best not to drape yourself in blazing color from head to toe. A sweet cropped jacket or cardigan over a bright Essential Cami is fashion-forward fresh. If you like your tints just a tad more subdued, look for pastel shades like blush pink or coral — they look gorgeous under flowy chiffon dresses. Drop a pop of crayon color into your wardrobe with a vibrant purse or shoe. And if the thought of overtly happy hues doesn't cheer you up, keep an eye out for that hot new neutral, silver gray.

A Delicate Matter — Feminine Dressing

This is not the year of the tomboy. True, you've heard talk of a menswear revival but that's merely a blip on fashion's radar compared to all the diaphanous delicacies on offer. The overriding mood this season is beautiful. Those previously mentioned bright colors and big breezy prints fit the spirit as do the long columns of silky fabric that max out your femininity with only minimal skin exposure. Add in the re-discovery of ruched and ruffled detailing, sheer layering and sweetly pleated skirts and you've got the makings for one of the most feminine seasons in memory. Avoid sugar overload by anchoring these airy ensembles with substantial wedge heels, architectural frame handbags and maybe a bold belt (the waist continues to be a key fashion focal point). I usually integrate big trends a little at a time into my wardrobe, so I'm currently eyeing embellished blouses that provide simply a hint of luxe. Ruffled plackets or soft tiers of fabric hit just the right soft spot.

Wearing Black. Experts and friends alike will tell you that wearing black is slimming and flattering – and it’s TRUE! Black is a year round color that is both sophisticated and fun, and does create a thinner overall appearance. If you like a splash of color, layer a colorful Cami underneath and coordinate with the same color of shoes and accessories.

Monochromatic Dressing. Wearing the same color on top and bottom creates length throughout your body. Black is not the only color option for this look either. Chocolate brown, crème or white, and charcoal gray are great alternatives.

Wearing Heels. Whether you are wearing a fun skirt or trouser jeans, heels add height and length to everyone. They create a taller, more feminine you!

The Right Fitting Bottoms. When choosing a flattering pant or capri, your best choice is something that contains stretch. Stretch allows the pant to move with you in comfort and it help to retain its shape. It also helps to avoid unwanted creases or lines.

Wearing Vertical Stripes. What can we say? This really does work! Vertical stripes create the illusion of length and an allover proportioned appearance. A vertical strip skirt or set of long trousers would be just what the Fashion Doctor ordered.

Wearing the Right Size Bra. Did you know that 80% of women in America wear the wrong size bra? Yet this is the foundation of a women’s shaping. Make sure you get fitted the next time you purchase a bra. If you haven’t recently, be sure to get fitted and invest in a bra that will both lift and shape you, and ultimately give you a better figure.

The Right Length in Pants. Wearing pants that are too short can cut off your height and give your legs an unflattering appearance. Make certain the pants you wear, whether jeans or khakis, are plenty long. The will undoubtedly give you more height and a feminine flair.

Wearing the Right Pieces for Your Body Type. Okay ladies, just because your best friend looks fantastic in those name brand jeans doesn’t mean they will be the perfect fit for you. Own your own body type and dress accordingly. Look for pieces that accent your strong points and don’t draw unnecessary attention to your trouble areas.

Accenting Your Look with Jewelry. Jewelry is a great way to show your sense of style. A colorful piece of jewelry can draw the onlooker’s attention away from the spots you would prefer to hide, thus making you appear thinner.