The calendar says October, so it must be time to say goodbye to sandals and sleeveless tops and hello to boots and sweaters. Since it’s been months since we’ve slipped on boots or a coat, it’s understandable that we might be a little out of practice getting into sync with dressing for the cooler weather.
But don’t despair … when it comes to what to wear for fall, there are a lot of options to choose from. While some may already be in your closet, here are some “new for the season” offerings that you may want to be seen wearing out-and-about.
The Coat: Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to Colorado or Vermont or running errands around town, a Woolrich Arctic Parka is sure to keep you warm and toasty. Available in a variety of colors, including a soft dove gray, this parka is equally at home on the slopes as it is on the streets. “Because it’s filled with down, it just envelopes you in warmth,” said Sarah Reinertsen-DiMare, owner of Glow in Shrewsbury. And because the coat is tailored in its silhouette, it fits perfectly to any shape. “No chance that you’ll look like a marshmallow,” Reinertsen-DiMare said. With a removable coyote fur trim collar, the coat can be dressed up or down. Either way, you’ll be looking good – and keeping warm.
The Small Bag: Bigger is not always better … just ask designer Phillip Lim who’s released a smaller version of his beloved Pashli Satchel. The Mini Pashli can be worn across the body, on the shoulders or carried. “It’s a really versatile bag,” said Sarah Reinertsen-DiMare, owner of Glow in Shrewsbury. Not to mention uberstylish with its embellishments of flat nailheads and grommets in bronze and silver. “It’s modern and edgy … a great bag for the holidays and beyond,” Reinertsen-DiMare pointed out.
The Blazer: Slowly but steadily, the overcoat is being phased out for the blazer. And for good reason, said Brian George, owner of Northshore in Sea Bright. “A blazer is just more practical,” said George. It can be dressed up or dressed down, layered and worn with everything from jeans to worsted wool gabardine slacks. “For many guys, they’re going from the house to the car, the car to the office,” George pointed out. “There’s not a lot of exposure, so why choose something bulky like a coat?” Wool sports, like those from Coppley, Hickey Freeman and Crittenden, over stylish solutions for the guy on the go – whether the guy is headed to the office, a night on the town or even a soccer game.
The Little Black Dress: While the Little Black Dress has never gone out of style; it is getting an update – with a capital L. The classic dress popularized by Coco Chanel back in the 1920s is now sporting some great leather detailing, said Kacey Swan, co-owner of By George in Fair Haven. “A girl can never have too many black dresses,” said Swan, referencing the great little number by Rebecca Swan. The dress, which features touches of leather can be paired with boots during the day and given new (night) life after dark with a pair of heels.
The Tote: Lightweight and packable, an Annabel Ingall tote is a perfect companion year-round. Available in a rainbow of bold, bright colors, the tote covers all your bases in one fell swoop: carry all your daily necessities (plus some!) while making a tastefully trendy statement. “The Annabel Ingall bag instantly transforms a pair of jeans or a dress,” said Kacey Swan co-owner of By George in Fair Haven. “It definitely makes a statement, adding a punch of color even on the dreariest of days.”
The Ankle Bootie: Comfortable and wearable with almost everything, there’s a reason why the ankle boot is a perennial must-have. This season, it’s rag & bone’s Kinsey Booties. Crafted in rustic waxed suede, the booties take on a worn, vintage patina over time. Rag & bone, said Sarah Reinertsen-DiMare, owner of Glow in Shrewsbury, is known for infusing classic sensibility with modern details. The result, she said, is a modern boot with a classic sense of style. “This is a bootie that can be worn with a dress or a pair of jeans and look good,” Reinertsen-DiMare said. “The rugged suede is a perfect contrast to any outfit.”
Accessories (women): Put away those delicate chains … chunky jewelry is where it’s at this fall. From multi-braided necklaces to chandelier earrings, these chunky pieces are making a statement. “It really pulls an outfit together,” said Mary Louise van der Wilden, owner of Le Papillon in Rumson. “They can be worn with jeans and a dress, during the day or at night. They really help tell the style story.”
Accessories (men): These days, the well-dressed man doesn’t forget his accessories … be it a scarf, vest or hat. “Accessories really pull an outfit together,” said Brian George, owner of Northshore in Sea Bright.
The Dress Topper: Don’t let the name fool you – this cashmere topper is equally as fashionable when you’re wearing pants. Not only does it keep the chill off your shoulders, it’s an easy way to add color to an outfit. “We carry it in 24 different colors, including autumn tones like crimson and turquoise,” said Mary Louise van der Wilden, owner of Le Papillon in Rumson. “When there’s a chill in the air, but not cold enough for a coat, it’s the perfect solution.”
