Style Admirer - Purple Craze

Purple Craze

Purple has always been my favorite color, so I was particularly excited when Pantone named “Purple Heart” a color trend for fall. I seem to make lots of purple-y purchases—from my iPhone case to my throw pillows to my cardigan—and this season’s color report gives me more spending ammo. To feed my craving of all things plum, lavender, grape, and every shade in between, I went hunting for some great purple pieces for fall.

If you’re a fashionista living in Chicago, a stylish winter coat is as essential as what’s under it. Esprit’s wool coat ($180; esprit.com) in “Passion Shade” has classic lines and interesting details that make it stand-out outerwear—plus, you won’t fret about how your black coat doesn’t match your brown boots.

Tights are an effortless way to jazz up any dress, skirt, shorts, and even a cropped pant. These “Twilight” opaque tights by Hue ($12.50; Bloomingdale’s) will be an unexpected accent to a LBD or a fashion-forward statement when paired with wool shorts and booties.

I know, I know. Skirts are often left hung in our closets as we get further into winter, but purple skirts are such a fantastic combo of sophistication and whimsy. KYUMI’s silk skirt ($165; revolveclothing.com) is one such example that’s also a transitional piece for spring and summer.

Sparkles are meant to draw the eye, and when those sparkles are a gorgeous shade like this Coach sequin bag in “Amethyst” ($198; Coach), it’s sure to grab lots of attention. Along with its shimmer, this bag’s silver chain strap makes it the quintessential party bag.

Minimalist and futuristic designs are making it big this season, and, based on what we saw on the spring runways, that won’t change next season either. Elizabeth and James’ “Masquerade” silk sheath dress ($345; Bloomingdale’s) has both trends covered. Its two-toned, graphic bodice and tulip skirt creates a flattering figure all around.

I immediately fell in love with Velvet Angels’ “Rue B Peep Toe Pumps” ($206.50; shopbop.com). The platform gives it a sexy shape for night, while its peep-toe and tassel detail make it totally work-appropriate as well.

Chicago’s own Foxglove Accessories uses old stamps to create unique jewelry that not only makes an interesting accessory but also a great conversation piece. This ring ($35; etsy.com) is made with sterling silver, resin and a purple 1920s Danish stamp. I doubt you own anything like it!

For an everyday bag to work for me, it must hold ballet flats, files, a notepad, a wallet, a compact, a slew of lipsticks, and much more. That’s not an easy feat, but I think this Kate Spade purple croc satchel ($347; Kate Spade; 56 E Oak Street) can handle the load. It has a polished, sensible look that’s completely professional but not too serious.

When a color trend happens to be your favorite color, a girl can easily get carried away. As I work on controlling my purple craze this season, I can’t help but enjoy this trend while it lasts.

By Meghan Turner

Images courtesy of Esprit, Bloomingdale’s, revolveclothing.com, Coach, shopbop.com, Foxglove Accessories, and Kate Spade

Tags: Bloomingdales, Chicago Shopping, Coach, Elizabeth and James, Esprit, Foxglove Accessories, Hue, Kate Spade, KYUMI, Pantone, Purple, revolveclothing.com, shopbop.com, Trends, Velvet Angels