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Fashion Week is still in progress, and so far, designers ranging from Baby Phat to Chanel have all featured patent leather in their clothing and fine handbags. Soon, this trend will trickle down into mainstream stores such as K-Mart and Target, but I'll teach you how to wear this trend while it's still sizzling hot. Here are some tips and tricks that I follow when incorporating a patent leather piece into my ensemble.

1) Don't wear more than one patent leather item at a time.

I can't stress this point enough; you don't have to be so matchy-matchy to pull off a stunning outfit. If you have a black patent leather Fendi bowler bag, please don't match it with your newly purchased ballet flats of the same material; it looks so tacky. Instead, mix and match materials and textures; a flowy chiffon blouse looks fantastic with wide-leg trouser jeans, a tweed clutch, and maroon patent leather flats.

2) Don't be afraid to wear white.

Self-proclaimed fashion experts across the world have made one rule extremely clear; don't wear white shoes after Labor Day. But, the day of labor is done, and stylish women walk the streets in gorgeous white patent leather knee-high boots, and no one says a word. Designers seem to disagree with these fashionstas, because Prada and Dior are selling out of their white patent leather inventory as fast as you can say "leather". Be warned; Sienna Miller was recently seen in a white patent leather getup involving a beret and boots, and believe me, it wasn't pretty. If you want to combine a white patent leather shoes into your daily ensembles, make sure that they are stylish; there's nothing as cringe-worthy as bad boots. Try patent leather knee-high boots with tucked in skinny jeans, a v-neck white tee, and a scuffed leather bomber in a deep tan for a classy look.

3) Don't limit patent leather to shoes; accessorize!

We're all in a constant search for the perfect accessory, but look no further than patent leather for your material of choice. I did some research online and found some great patent leather pieces at shopbop.com, a Wisconsin-based boutique that is one stop shopping for every fashion maven. I've highlighted a few of my favorite items from the site that are made of patent leather, the trendiest material this season. Maria Bonita Extra, an up-and-coming designer that specializes in apparel and fine accessories, has made a thin patent leather belt in orange and white for the low price of $17.40! In orange, this belt would work over your favorite

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