Military, khaki, and the like. Atteeeeeeeention!  Ralph Lauren, Céline, and Chloé are those top designers whose collections are based on this utilitarian style. Look out for military jackets styled with lots ‘o buttons or embellished shoulders. In fact, I just bought myself one super cute navy number with blinged-out shoulders (WITH shoulder pads). I love it and I can’t help but feel as though I’m paying homage to Mr. Michael Jackson when I wear it (So sad L). On a lighter note, expect to see a fare share of khaki dresses- not my fav so hopefully they won’t last beyond this season. Wait I take that back. Ms. Kate Bosworth was sporting a great khaki one-piece with exposed sides in my latest Harper’s Bazaar issue. I admit there are some exceptions. Just be sure not to invest a more traditional version, a.k.a. a short-sleeved, collared, button-up with a sash around the waist.

Denim. We all know the runway has long avoided blue jeans, but this year we’re seeing a new take on baby blues. Look out for vests and denim dresses in a variety of cuts and washes. Sorry Guess, you’re not the only one producing this look anymore. Since we’re talking denim, anyone watch the “potato sack challenge” Project Runway? Yes, yes Ping probably should’ve gotten kicked off that time and although I didn’t like Miss Pamela’s dress (the girl who got kicked off), at least she was on trend! Also, am I the only one who thinks Heidi is extra talkative this season? Put a sock in it Klum, I wanna hear Michael and Nina too!

Sorbet. No not the ice cream, the color! Last year we saw that great electric purple and this year isn’t very far from it. Pinks and purples are on the same side of the color wheel and this year is all about the “harmonious” colors—lavender, fuchsia, and sorbet.  Mary J. Blige knows what’s going on. She wore a fuchsia gown to the Grammy’s this year.  You go girl!

If you’re like me, you go through phases. l tend to devote myself to one kind of accessory at a time (call me the monogamous type). My first obsession was necklaces. I used to hoard all the vintage ones I could find. After that I moved on to belts—anything studded I was all over. Once I broke up with belts, scarves, hats, and headbands followed. My most recent object of lust: bracelets. I mean, I even bought a special display stand to hold them! Now THAT is commitment.

Okay, okay, so what about this season? It’s all about the cocktail ring and jumbo necklace. There is a theme happening here and it’s large and in charge. I was watching The City the other day (episode when Whit shows here sketches to a B.G. buyer) and Miss Buyer was wearing a massive silver-jeweled necklace. Looooove. Miss Nina of Project Runway was also on trend. She paired her super-cute navy number with a giant teal and red stoned necklace (ugh I want that dress by the way). Need I even mention that Miss Zoe always tops her look off with a fist-full of jumbo cocktail rings? These ladies are all experts in the bizz so they know how to best pull off an accessory. Here’s the thing they know and you may not: it’s all about balance. True or false: you can pull off a commanding necklace with a show-stopping shirt. If you said “yes,” pay close attention (the answer is false by the way).

If you have a simple shirt or dress, preferably a solid color, pair it with a statement piece. Where to buy dramatic pieces? I’m partial to Forever21. They have some excellent gems for a very affordable price tag. Upon deciding the perfect accomplice to any look, think necklines. Usually a high neckline is best complimented by a fairly long necklace (one that reaches your chest area). If you’re showing a little more skin, consider a piece that falls on your sternum (that’s the bone in between your collarbone). Just keep in mind that jewelry should work in tandem with your ensemble; they ought not to fight each other. For example, if you have something with a loud print you might want to forego the necklace and stick with a bracelet and/or ring. If you have something with an exposed back, consider pulling a Coco Chanel or Princess Di. Wear your necklace backwards! I love this look and if you’re brave enough to try it out, your fashion forward factor will go up a notch. Don’t be afraid to take risks. The stakes are high, but the payoff is big.

If you were once clueless, consider yourself informed and until next time, have fun playing with your accessories!