And now, for a perennial fall favorite that always makes us feel warm and fuzzy inside and out: faux fur.  There are few outerwear alternatives that can better fight off cold while oozing plush glamour.  Paired with a simple tee and coated denim (for a wallet-friendly, PETA-approved leather look), this leopard fitted coat will have you feeling like Kate Moss on a chilly day in London. (See below for additional faux fur options.)  Stud-embellished platforms, statement jewelry and a low-key messenger complete the look, while a killer strut and don't-mess-with-me attitude will have people asking, "Who's that girl?"
xoxo

P.S. - Don't forget to enter our JewelMint Giveaway here!

That's right, it's giveaway time again, and this time, we're teaming up with JewelMint to give one lucky winner a piece of their choice from the uber-popular collection! If you've been living in a cave for the past year, (or perhaps you haven't been stalking magazines/blogs/celebrities as frequently as, ahem, some of us), then allow me to introduce you to this genius little jewelry box collaboration by Kate Bosworth (yep, THAT Kate Bosworth) and her much sought-after, highly acclaimed celebrity stylist Cher Coulter.  After signing up (for free) and taking a style assessment (for free), you'll be presented with a monthly selection of jewelry, personalized to your style preferences.  (Above are a few of our favorite antique gold pieces from the current collection.)  Intrigued?  We thought so.  Now, who'd like to receive an item of their choice for free?  Anyone?

So here are the rules:
1. "Like" JewelMint on Facebook here
2. "Like" My Style Diaries on Facebook here
3. "Follow" JewelMint on Twitter here if you have a Twitter handle
4. "Follow" My Style Diaries in Twitter here if you have a Twitter handle
5. Comment on this post (Don't forget to leave your email address)

A winner will be drawn Friday, November 4th.  (Sorry guys, this one can only be shipped to addresses in the United States.)  Best of luck fashionistas!
xoxo

Kate Bosworth and Cher Coulter for JewelMint

For an upcoming date night (or Girls' Night Out), the chilly night air is perfect for bare legs and covered shoulders.  This striped body-conscious tank dress is ruched to hide flaws, and a simple fitted leather jacket is a staple that will last year after year.  Elongate legs with these (to-die-for) sky high wedges, and keep jewelry to a minimum.  Finish the look with a bright crossbody and an even brighter smile because afterall, as Audrey Hepburn famously declared, "happy girls are the prettiest girls."
xoxo

Dear Diary,
A friend of mine is looking for RED skinny jeans or pants. Do you have any suggestions for her?
- Kristie

Dear Kristie,
Your friend seems to be right on point for fall as red denim is one of the season's hottest trends, and with so many styles, shades and price points available, finding the perfect pair can be easier than you think.  She should consider the style of jean that looks best on her body and take into account the shoes (especially heel height) that she most often wears.  A clean classic skinny with a great ankle length (like the JBrand pair above) will have true lasting power and can easily be worn with flats, heels or tucked into boots.  Add an oversized slouchy sweater and muted jewelry for a simple take on the colored denim trend.  If she's feeling adventurous, the season's popular snake-print, coated denim, corduroy or velvet styles are surprisingly easy to work into your wardrobe.  Below is a variety of great pairs to choose from - hope this helps!
xoxo

P.S. - Don't forget to check out today's Inspiration to see how celebrities have been rocking their red denim.

Who says office-friendly pieces have to be stiff and uncomfortable?  With well-made basics in luxe knit fabrics, you can look chic and feel great all day long.  Patent stilettos and brushed silver jewelry add polish, while the structured leopard handbag is a dressed up punch of fun.  To further tailor the look, (while tailoring it to your not-so-fashion-friendly office setting) add a classic waist-cinching belt and black blazer.
xoxo

No-brainer thought for the day: shopping for jeans can be exhausting.  With countless styles and endless brands available, finding the perfect pair can be a lifetime journey.  Although every woman's body is different, a great wide leg style will flatter many different shapes and sizes.  Pair them with a basic tee and comfy wedges to lengthen legs.  Add edgy silver jewelry and an embellished scarf for a chic update on these classic blues.
xoxo

For a fun Girls' Night Out look this Friday night, try a printed crop top and zip-front leather skirt combo.  Want to up the fun factor?  Add these chain-embellished, spot-on leopard heels to the mix.  A bright red chain strap handbag plays well with both prints, while a statement ring and mounds of gold bangles pull the whole look together for an easy, polished effect.  
xoxo

"Sweatpants are a sign of defeat.  You lost control of your life, so you bought some sweatpants." - Karl Lagerfeld

Ahh, one of our favorite parts about fall: comfy, cozy sweater dresses, a chic alternative to sweats.  Add over-the-knee socks and classic flat boots, and we're in heaven.  Smart statement jewelry and an ultra-soft leather satchel dress the look up and make this sweater appropriate for so many occasions.  The best part?  No one has to know that this wardrobe staple is more comfortable than a pair of sweats.  It's the best of both worlds!
xoxo

For a day out shopping with friends, this sheer sweater / denim short / distressed boot combo is spot on, and although most denim shorts transition easily into fall, these patchwork Siwy cutoffs are especially fall friendly.  Add an easy orange handbag, oversized sunglasses and muted gold jewelry for a simple bohemian vibe that is sure to attract a little closet envy from your fellow shoppers.
xoxo

P.S. Check out today's Inspiration - Kate Bosworth! 

For an upcoming concert or just a night out with the girls, bring out your inner rock star with sleek skinnies and tough accessories.  Start with an edgy pair of coated denim for a great leather alternative.  (Bonus: these Bleulab skinnies are 100% REVERSIBLE!  No really, they are.  The ultra dark military green coated side reverses to a basic pair of grey skinny jeans.  Ahh, the magic of double-sided denim and sewn-in pockets.)  Add a basic tank (not shown) and a loose grey top to balance the slim lines of the jeans.  Studded booties, edgy gold jewelry and a bold clutch will up the wow factor and complete the look to help you stand out in any crowd.
xoxo