As weather cools, reds heat up

The fall weather may be cooling down, but fashion is red-hot this year.

From deep scarlet to candy apple, red is on the scene and in every shade under the orangey-pink sun. Red is a universally show-stopping color that takes center stage in an outfit. Keep everything else in your outfit as an understudy — neutral and toned-down — allowing for the red piece to be a focal point.

How to wear it?

Nothing screams confidence louder than a pair of sky-high sexy red heels. Whether you are opting for patent stilettos or high-heeled boots, strut your stuff in this season's “it” color and watch your fashionista friends sizzle with envy.

Look for matte red bags — as opposed to patent — that play down the intensity of the color for a laid-back everyday accessory.

Another glam idea: a red dress. Whether it's a dressy cocktail dress (think sequins!) or a casual daytime dress (plaid!), make it red and make it a statement.

Go for effortless, downtown-chic with a red plaid button-down shirt paired with distressed boyfriend jeans.

—A great alternative to red this season is hot pink. This color seems to be popping up everywhere and flatters many skin tones. Pair a pretty pink with black to make a strong-but-feminine fashion statement. Great in cocktail party dresses or as a pop of color in tights, use this shade of red to brighten up any fall outfit.

SLICK IT ON YOUR LIPS

Are you feeling really daring? Pucker up with red lipstick. Take a tip from French women who have turned red lipstick into an art. By using minimal makeup everywhere else, a red lip exudes femininity and confidence. The key is to find the perfect red for your complexion; pay attention to your skin tone when choosing the right shade so you complement your features, not wash them out. True reds with no hint of orange or pink look best on fair skin, while reds with hints of orange and purple-based reds (like burgundy) look great on medium and dark skin tones.