Singular Sensations

Five must-have fashion items to make your fall wardrobe look new

Must-have: Cape or poncho. This look from the Yves Saint Laurent fallcollection.
Must-have: Top-handle handbag. This look from Marc Jacobs' Marc by Marccollection.
Must-have: Snakeskin. These boots by Prada.
Must-have: High-heeled loafers, by Pour la Victoire
Must-have: Leather skirt. This look by Elene Cassis.

In this new shopping age, where women are buying singular pieces and not outfits, the most common question asked of me is always the same. Whether on an individual consult or when speaking to a group, everyone wants to know, "What is that special piece/pieces that will make the outfits in our closet have a taste of the new season?"

The following are my individual selections of some of the must have items for fall that will add the touch that you are looking for:

Cape or Poncho

A cape or poncho adds drama and sophistication to any outfit. You can't go wrong with classics in neutrals, a la camel, black or charcoal gray. (I'm crazy for gray this season!)

However, for a burst of color, try a pop of red, green, cobalt blue or mustard. Now that's an entrance maker that can take you from any client meeting, luncheon or a night out on the town. Add some fur, and it's the perfect evening wrap.

Did I mention that this is Houston, the non-coat town, which makes this coat-alternative a great add-on for your dress, suit, pantsuit or if partnered with a great boot, adds some kick to your jeans.

Leather Skirt

Fashion insiders are predicting a great skirt season this fall and the addition of leather as a fabric choice makes it complete. My personal favorite is the longer knee-grazing pencil skirt.

But if over-the-knee and bright colored tights are more your thing, make your style choice a shorter, flirty skirt as a newer way to wear leather that's probably not in your closet. This item that can be worn with a great feminine white shirt/blouse or a light weight knit that makes for great early fall transition wear.

Snake or Python

From the runway to the street, snake or python is the rage this season. Prada started it all with python boots and bags that are works of art. The plus to this trend, other than it goes with everything, is that if you shop smart (and we know you've learned to do that very well), you can find skins at every price point.

Quality adjustment considered, snake skin can be yours from Gucci to Jessica Simpson. Also, don't be afraid to wear some skin beyond accessories...a great snake skirt or jacket with a touch of cashmere makes for a tasty Fall look. Just beware, a little snake/python goes a long way!

Heeled loafers

I guarantee you've had them in the past and given them away long ago but they're back!

Assuming you have plenty of pumps in your closet, this new stacked heel version gives you a touch of classics with a twist and can become the go-to-shoe in your closet that works with just about everything from dresses, skirts, pants or jeans.

Styling tip: Don't just stick to the basics here, step out and make them look newest by choosing color in suede or patent. Or try a fave trend of this season, color-blocking to give your outfit some pop.

Structure, top-handled handbag

Lastly, the slouchy bag has run its course and clutches are still a great look. However the newest bag of the season is the structured, top-handle handbag.

Ladylike dressing calls for lady-like bags. The new boxy shapes in warm, textured, autumn hues are my faves and work for business suitings to casual denim. If color is your thing (a big trend for Fall, BTW, but who needs to tell Houston women about color?!), a pop here can brighten up any neutral outfit or compliment the most colorful of ones.

Happy shopping! I just finished making the rounds for Fashion's Night Out and the stores are loaded with lots of great new looks, just waiting for your first picks of the season.

Read about Roz Pactors's approach to her favorite season from a fashion point-of-view on her blog, TheChicSheet.com

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LAUNDRY LOWDOWN

Houston dermatologist's guide to doing laundry for healthier summer skin

Photo by Averie Woodard

Houston's heat and humidity can increase sweat buildup on clothing, towels, bedding, and accessories. A dermatologist shares how often to wash common summer essentials to help prevent skin irritation, breakouts, and other seasonal skin concerns.

Houstonians are familiar with Texas's unofficial fifth season – sweaty season. Rising temperatures, humidity, sunscreen, and the occasional visit to the pool or the beach create the perfect storm for skin irritation. A few extra loads of laundry might not be anyone's idea of summer fun, but healthier skin could make it worth the effort.

Most people know to toss sweaty workout clothes straight into the laundry hamper, but many everyday items don't get the attention they deserve. According to Dr. Radhika Shah of Westlake Dermatology, skipping laundry day could quickly show up on a person's skin.

"Sweat can mix with bacteria and other debris from the skin when it accumulates on clothing, which can lead to odors, skin irritation, and sometimes, infection," Shah tells CultureMap.

The combination of sweat, heat, and moisture can create an environment where several common skin conditions thrive. Shah says she frequently sees issues including acne, folliculitis, irritant contact dermatitis, and yeast-related rashes such as intertrigo and tinea versicolor.

Not all fabrics handle summer heat equally

"People should look for cotton and linen (natural fabrics) over polyester and nylon (synthetic fabrics), as natural fabrics breathe better and tend to release sweat and odors more easily," Shah says.

Many might think that warm weather causes clothing fibers to trap moisture and bacteria more quickly, but Shah explains that how a fabric reacts is heavily dependent on the fabric itself. That means material can make a noticeable difference during Houston's long stretch of heat and humidity.

Laundry routines are important

Summer laundry habits can affect skin health just as much as skincare products. Shah recommends avoiding heavily fragranced detergents whenever possible and skipping fabric softeners altogether.

"Detergents with fragrance can irritate the skin further, especially in those with sensitive skin or eczema," she says. "In addition, I would try to avoid fabric softeners, which can coat fabrics and trap sweat and other skin debris."

While everyone knows to wash underwear and gym clothes on repeat, Shah says there are two commonly overlooked items that deserve more attention.

"Change your pillowcase and your hat," she says. Her recommendation is to wash pillowcases every two to four days and hats after every three to four wears.

The summer washing guide for healthy skin

Not sure how often to wash your favorite warm-weather essentials? Shah offers these guidelines for summer's hottest months.

Swimwear: After every wear. Chlorine, saltwater, sweat, and sunscreen residue can all linger in fabric and irritate skin.
Workout clothes: After every wear. This is non-negotiable during hot summers.
Bras: Every two to three wears.
Sleepwear: Every two to three wears.
Shorts and pants: Every two to three wears.
Dresses: Every two to three wears.
Jeans: Every three to four wears.
Bath towels: After three to four uses.
Beach towels: After every use.
Sheets: Weekly.
Pillowcases: Every two to four days.

Don't forget your beauty tools

Regular maintenance of beauty tools is also important for healthy skin, especially during the summer when sweat and sunscreen use increase. Makeup brushes, especially those used for foundation, concealer, and cream products, can accumulate oil, bacteria, dead skin cells, and product buildup. Dermatologists recommend washing foundation and concealer brushes weekly, while powder brushes can typically be cleaned every 1 to 2 weeks.

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