The title of this column is a slang term from the depression era that my grandmother used to say when she really, really liked something. The phrase became popular during that downtrodden era from the lyric of the song composed by Lew Brown and Ray Henderson entitled “Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries.” The song urges the listener to let go of worry and enjoy the small things in life. This pithy saying could also describe the way the fashion world really, really liked the rich fruity tones of berry for fall fashion 2013. One of the best ways to introduce some new life into your look is the strategic use of color.  Clear, bright jewel tones will always make neutrals pop, it’s a fashion fact. They can also be downright spectacular when worn in monochromatic pairings. These lyrics from the song sum it up, “So keep repeating it’s the berries, the strongest oak must fall, the sweet things in life to you were just loaned, so how can you lose what you’ve never owned?”  Let’s see how perhaps Goodwill and a sharp eye for style can let you in on fall fashion’s secret weapon … berry tones! 

Berry tones are basically a marriage of red and purple, and a cousin of pink.  Think rich cherry, raspberry, and pinot noir.

A great place to start would be to find a solid separate like a cardigan sweater, or fitted jacket that could be layered over a number of other pieces in your closet.

Next, look for what I call under pieces, such as skirts, pants and any other bottoms. I call them this because they can be the focal point, but can also adapt well to not only other items, but other colors as well. They form a base for the top pieces you own.

Knit tunics and dresses would be the next place to search for the perfect berry- toned piece to add to your fashion fruit salad! The appeal of a sweater dress is that it can be dressed up or down worn with leggings, tights, jeans and skirts.  You can also layer the aforementioned cardigans and jackets over them. They’re an ideal fall/winter find.

Prints in these rich colors take on a very modern feeling when paired with solids in the same color spectrum like orange, hot pink, and burgundy.

By the same token, shades of the berry variety stand out against turquoise, royal blue, and Kelly green. Dissimilarities of all kinds will always make any outfit look like real fashion. Whether it be that contrast of color, or let’s say a play on texture such as a matte velvet blazer worn with a shiny silk blouse. 

Today it’s all about having some food for fashion thought! FYI, I always make a mental list of items I’d like to find BEFORE I go shopping at Goodwill. It helps me stay focused and not be distracted by ALL the wonderful finds the stores have to offer! Searching out your fabulous berry-fashion find is easy with our stores convenient color groupings and our low prices are the cherry on top!