You are being told, at every turn, that the new jeans are so hot right now, you'd be a fool not to try some. While I think sticking to your trusty dark rinse straight legs/boot cuts/trouser jeans is a fabulous way to go, I also don't think it will kill you to try a couple of new styles every so often. Here are my thoughts on going off your own beaten path when it comes to jeans styles:
1. Distressed Denim
This is not new, as anyone who lived through, or has seen pictures of, the 80s can attest.
As a general rule, I do not purchase anything that looks like it has been worn before me/mauled by animals. That said, a small amount of distressing, far, far away from the crotch area, could be a fun way to mix it up once in a while. I'm not talking the I-Just-Got-Attacked-By-Jack-The-Ripper rips, but a little worn in on a couple of spots? Doesn't worry me.
2. The Boyfriend Jean
Also not new, since women everywhere have long known the value of a comfy pair of worn in jeans lifted straight from their boyfriend/husband/gay bf's closet. The fashion industry has merely co-opted this for purposes of telling you what you already know and cashing in on it.
This is a style I have gone back and forth on. On one hand, they are SO DAMN COMFORTABLE. On the other, you run of risk of looking sloppy, over-sized, and masculine yourself. And then there's the little issue of paying money for what you could arguably just steal/borrow.
I succumbed this week and bought a pair of boyfriend jeans that look much more like a relaxed feminine fit that a sloppy masculine one. As always, fit is key. Meaning, if you look odd/huge/dumpy/male, they aren't the right jeans for you. But if they fit slimmer in the waist and legs than this teeny picture above might have you believe, you can throw them on with ballet flats or fun heels, and look pretty cute.
Bottom line: if they don't look like you ACTUALLY took them from your boyfriend, these could work for you.
3. Skinny Jeans
Not only are these not new, they have sneaked their way into the regular jeans rotation. They aren't a fad anymore, they are a true jeans staple. This means two things: 1) if you don't like them, get over it, and 2) there are more styles and cuts out there than ever, so you might want to consider trying them, if you don't already wear them.
I am not going to lie to you, they will be tapered. They will be pretty tight. And they might make you wish for sweatpants at first. But I think there are a lot of people, with many different body types, who look great in these. Even if you aren't model thin, you might at least try on a couple of pairs. You just never know.
4. Bleached
This is such an old fad that keeps coming back so often, I am beyond bored with it. I don't think bleaching does anyone any favors. But if it is your thing, make sure the jeans at fit really well, so the bleaching can't make things TOO hideous.
5. Denim Leggings
These are:
A) not pants, they are leggings, so cover your ass and don't forget to WEAR ACTUAL PANTS; and
B) totally unnecessary.
Let me know if you think I missed one. I am happy to dissect/hate on/gush over it with you.
One of my fab friends just got this Hobo International flap tab wallet. It's only $58 and is not only cute, but extremely useful. She loves it, and I love that it replaces her on-its-last-legs-throw-it-away-already wallet that is now in a better place (read: all handbags go to heaven). 
I am not normally a fan of tiny purses. They typically look totally out of proportion on an adult. 
I want these studded pumps. I love, love, L-O-V-E them. But they are $225. And trendy. And really, really high. 
JUST KIDDING.
Check out Must Have Shoes, which bills itself as "customizable shoe boutique." You can enter a brief description of what you are looking for, and it comes up with a list of shoes for you. You can also narrow the search by size and price. Especially intriguing are the Clubs, or Cliques, you can join for discounts.
This Grand Central clutch is $109.99 and from Mexican designer Ricardo Hinojosa. I love its curved handle and sleek shape.
Over the knee boots are another "must-have" for fall. I have to say, I am not convinced that I cannot live without these. I like the way they look, for the most part- most of the ones I've seen so far are pretty sleek, and basically a taller version of boots I would definitely consider. But I question their practicality- can I really wear these to work? To the mall? To dinner? They seem hard to walk in and hard to wear without looking like a trend slave. 
I just discovered Barratts, home of inexpensive shoes, bags, and other accessories. This purple patent clutch is under $30! Check them out!
For $80, this Pink Studio Lupe Convertable Cross-Body is a steal. It comes in navy, gray, and chocolate brown. The shape is sleek and looks easy to carry on your shoulder, as a cross-body, or in your hand as a satchel. I love the outside pocket and the hardware detail.
Open toed booties are all the rage. Literally. They are everywhere, and are being touted as must-haves for fall and winter. 
It's mid-August, and you know what that means...the kids are back in school. It puts me in the mood for new notebooks and a new school, um, I mean, work, bag. This Melie Bianco School Boy Tote fits the mood perfectly and is only $99. It comes in navy and olive. On the navy one the contrasting trim really stands out. A little preppy, a touch nautical, and very wearable right now. Looks really roomy and easy to carry, and lining is even fun!
The Nordstrom Chain Strap Leather Hobo is $198 and comes in deep teal, black, and camel. I think the camel is the best investment for the season, but the deep teal is appealing and would work for fall and winter, too. Nordstrom bags are made of good quality leather, too. What do ya think?
After the shit I took for the last two handbags of the day, let's see if my adoring fans will like what they see here. It's a dove gray Industry Drawstring Messenger for $159.99. I think it looks sleek and architecturally insteresting. And the leather looks delish.
Speaking of cute red accessories, these heart front heels are some heart-fronted, red sueded, peep toe goodness. Want. And if you need some color in your life this fall, this is a pretty sweet way to bring it.
I know this Ruffle Chiffon Frame Clutch is ridiculously adorable, but I think it falls into the non-nauseating cute category. It is $78 and also comes in black and champange. And just look at the little bow-shaped clasp!
