Date:  September 22, 2009  |  

Try something in leather. Everything from military jackets to biker boots are revving up this fall in luxe leather decorated with studs and chains. To soften the look, add a delicate lace blouse, a draped silk skirt or a cozy knit sweater. Sans Souci leather jacket and Amanda Uprichard plaid shirt, both available at PK’s in Conway

Try something in leather. Everything from military jackets to biker boots are revving up this fall in luxe leather decorated with studs and chains. To soften the look, add a delicate lace blouse, a draped silk skirt or a cozy knit sweater. Sans Souci leather jacket and Amanda Uprichard plaid shirt, both available at PK’s in Conway

Pencil it in. The pencil skirt is one classic that is always a good investment. Whether you’re dressing it up with a power jacket by day or dressing it down with a leather motorcycle jacket by night, this hourglass basic is not just for secretaries anymore. Vince gunmetal tank, available at B. Barnett; Teri Jon pencil skirt, available at Feinstein’s; pewter necklace, available at Faux Pas; all in Little Rock

Shop for dramatic outerwear. Now’s the time to wrap up in a fabulous coat that gives you super powers! Look for flowing cloaks or extra-special capes for even more hidden fashion potential— they’re one of the fastest ways to update your whole wardrobe. Kensie red coat, available at Three’s Company in Russellville

Sparkle during the day. Who doesn’t love an excuse to wear some sequins to work every now and then? Add a touch of elegance to tailored, menswear-inspired wardrobe basics with coppery metallic skirts, sequined gunmetal tanks or a slinky gold shift dress. Studded purse, available at Faux Pas in Little Rock; Steven by Steve Madden red studded flats, available at Masons in Fayetteville

More tips:

• Find a strong shoulder to lean on. The broad-shouldered power jackets of the ‘80s are back. Check out one of the longer “boyfriend” jackets or a ‘40s-style version of the peplum jacket. Just remember to keep it narrow on the bottom with slim leggings, trousers and skirts!
• Or you can go for the cold shoulder—in one-shoulder asymmetrical tops and dresses. Watch for the one-sleeve dress to be number one on the party circuit this holiday season. Alexis Carrington would be so proud!
• Stick to the sheath. You may not have Michelle Obama’s toned arms, but you can still pull this classic off with style. Follow the First Lady’s lead and add a cardigan, or better yet one of fall’s new short capelets.
• Brighten up. Add some bright colors to all those gray days. Wear one accessory in a neon color and you’ll transform your fashion mood instantly.
• Make it bold. We’re all watching our wallets these days, so it’s more important than ever to get the most bang for your buck. Concentrate on adding one or two statement pieces—a knock-out peplum jacket to wear with jeans or a colorful faux fur vest. Make shopping (and dressing up) fun again!

Little Rock resident Sharon Mosley is a fashion and lifestyle contributor for Creators Syndicate, which is based in Los Angeles.