Wine Anytime

Leather is such a fabulous textile. It’s one of my favorites, and it has been steadily making its presence known for quite a while. Leather can be a bit intimidating, especially in black, so for those of you who didn’t add this textile to your wardrobe for summer, here’s another chance to consider adding it now. While you’re checking out all of the cool fall fashions coming down the runway, make it a point to take a look at everything in wine-colored leather.

This lovely reddish color goes by many names: wine, burgundy, ox-blood, or maroon, but whatever you chose to call it, you will want to add at least one item in this shade to your fall 2012 wardrobe. All is fair in fashion, so this color works for fashionistas of both sexes. Most designers are leaning in the feminine direction this time around. Last year, wine leather fashions were a focus for menswear, and this year it’s our turn. Wine leather has stepped to the front on runways, racks, and magazine pages.

I have always taken a second look at this shade when I see it, but end up passing on it thinking it’s not practical. Still, from the looks of things, that is really not the case. If you’re a little hesitant on giving this color a whirl, simply open a current issue of any magazine for tips from stylists and trendsetting designers. The layouts definitely make it clear wine leather is quite versatile and looks great with most fabrics, textiles, and colors, especially denim blue.

Although wine can be a gorgeous alternative to black and brown leather, you might want to pass on it for old school, traditional business, or formal wear, but if you work in the fashion or other creative industry, you’re home free.

Feel free to wait and add this color later on in the season; you can, but you don’t have to.

Wine leather is right on time; it’s a perfect transitional leather color option for cooler weather wardrobes. An excellent choice would be a skirt, top, or even a pair of leather shorts. One idea when you’re putting together leather on leather outfits is instead of going all black brown or tan, add this pretty color to soften or brighten things up a bit. Same goes for accessories, don’t be afraid to mix things up colors when it comes to choosing your footwear, belts, and handbags.