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Ask A Minnesota Expert: Preparing For Fall Fashion

The co-founder and CEO of Amalli Talli, a boutique clothing store for tall women and girls, Amy Rosenthal Amy is a University of Texas alum. A former college volleyball player, she worked in collegiate athletics for several years. Then she became national media buyer for an ad agency. Amy and her sister, Allison Black, noticed a fashion void for tall girls and women. In 2014, they opened Amalli Talli in Eden Prairie. This unique boutique provides well fitting and flattering clothes that are in step with current fashion trends. Amalli Talli ships designer clothing to the fashionably tall inside and outside the U.S.

Amy Rosenthal
Amalli Talli
Eden Prairie Center
8251 Flying Cloud Drive, Suite 1220
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
(952) 405-8137
www.amallitalli.com

When we see willowy fashion models walk the runway, it's assumed the tall dominate high fashion. Such is not the case, according to Amy and Allison. So they launched their own unique  boutique for tall girls and women. Amalli Talli keeps pace with the latest fashions and fashion trends. Amy's tips for fall fashion preparation are for us all, including the tall.

Fall Outerwear Pops With Color

"In contrast to the neutral pallets that dominated past fall seasons, outerwear this fall takes on a more cheery tone," says Amy. "More summer colors come into play -- think oranges, pinks and yellows! Another fun fall outerwear trend is graphic furs with windowpane and other geometric designs." Plenty of classic-style outerwear will be in this year. A Minnesota favorite is the toggle coat, with wooden hook and button detail. "Not only is the toggle coat cute," says Amy, "but it flatters all shapes and sizes." The camel-colored leather coat is equally flattering to all silhouettes. "You can easily pick the best fitting coat, since it comes in different sizes," notes Amy.

Variety Puts Spice Into Fun Fall Fashions

When planning a wardrobe for any season, fabric selection and weight should be considered. Minnesota weather can change on a dime. "You'll get more mileage from lighter weight materials and less bulky clothing," says Amy. In any season, cotton is king. Great cotton choices for fall wear are denims, twills, jerseys and flannels. For a fun and edgier look, coordinate leather, velvet and suede with cotton and heavier synthetics. Fall styles will feature earth tones and blues. Fashionistas are also giving the nod to mustard yellow with pink in striped, plaid, animal print, and hounds tooth patterns.

Classy Coordinates Transition The Summer Wardrobe Into Fall

The fall look for working women is chic-casual -- tailored but not too put together, and dressy but not overdone. "A favorite cool weather ensemble is a turtleneck worn with a skirt and tights," says Amy. But warm weather staples can be revamped into cool fall outfits when coordinated with blazers, turtlenecks, cardigans, crew neck pullovers, and jackets. "A turtleneck worn with a jumpsuit or warm weather separates give a fall vibe to the summer look," Amy notes. Wide-legged dress slacks in sleek classic contours are also a workplace favorite. "These slacks flatter all shapes and sizes and go well with heels or boots."

Related: Best Places For Office Wear In Minnesota

Getting Attention Through Fashion Forward Retro Accessories 

Fall fashion accessories will be bold and dramatic -- a big turnaround from the previously demure and understated. "Oversized jewelry pieces are trending," notes Amy. The 90s choker necklace is back. So is the bracelet, thanks to wrist-wearable tech gadgets. Pearl is a popular jewelry choice. "Pearls give a clean and classy look to denims, sweaters, and all dressy and casual wear," says Amy. Her tip for a boldly contrasting look is an upswept hairdo and a pair of shoulder dusting pearl earrings. For carryalls, cross-bodied bags and totes remain a fave. In fur, velvet and metallic textures, carryalls this fall will sport shorter straps.

Tips For Choosing Styles That Are A Perfect Fit

Finally, Amy has tips for making the most of fall fashion, and remaining fashionable all year. "The best thing any woman can do is to understand her body structure." For example, fuller sleeves or blouses in vibrant patterns offset the streamlined silhouette. Strategic layering can enhance a simple outfit that has long lines. Belts are an easy and versatile way to get that totally stylish look. And skinny jeans are always a good option for the petite, medium and tall.

Related: Best Places To Shop For Smart Casual Clothes For Women In The Twin Cities


Linda Cameron has written home design, home improvement and lifestyle articles for The Boston Globe and City Shopper Magazine. She has related interests in the building industry, travel, real estate and financing. She is a contributor to Examiner, House Spot, Techsling and Behance, covering topics on career, people, businesses, education and technology.

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