The one simple way to bring fall to your closet no matter the temperature
If we're going to be friends there are a few things you should know about me. I'm not big on rules when it comes to fashion. And I'm a bit of a sartorial schizo. I love Audrey Hepburn (and Katherine, too) every day of the week and twice on Sunday. But, can't get enough of Bridget Bardot's messy hair and eyeliner. I believe dressing well means something different for every person and is possible no matter your age, weight, size or income.
Staying on trend and looking fabulous doesn't cost a boatload of time or money - both of which are in high demand and short supply for most of us (including this new momma). What you'll find here is fresh info on the latest and greatest trends, where to find them and how to wear them. There is no better time than now to get started as we enter what I consider to be the most challenging of times in proper dressing - the sweltering "fall" of south Louisiana.
Each September they arrive - big fat glossy yummy thick national fashion magazines - full of fur vests and tall boots and leather jackets. In Lafayette, our hearts may be ready for the changing of seasons, but the truth is that as we head to football games on the weekend and work each day temperatures remain unforgiving for fall fashion. I've found one of the easiest ways to begin the transition is to keep a neutral palette and change shoes. (Just FYI, with all the bright colors popular again this fall you can still rock your vibrant pieces without looking summery.)
I never have been a fan of flats, but the new ones are too good to resist and easily take otherwise warm weather pieces into fall. Keep your flowy maxis and short floral prints in rotation with a pair of rugged boots like those pictured from Shoe La La. The oxford is one of the biggest new shapes for women (along with the loafer and slipper) that may be intimidating. They work great with a preppy look. The cobalt sole on those pictured would be perfect with a pair of menswear ankle pants and a simple button down (if you're a hat wearing gal a fedora would be perfection).
Gold loafer/slippers from Vanessa V. work with casual dresses, rolled up boyfriend jeans and, of course, some menswear slacks. Vanessa V. also has a pair of mustard loafers with a tassel as well as a leopard print that would both work great with bold solid colors.
And then there is the darling of the flat shoe world - the ballet flat. These simple black ones by Sam Edelman from Hemline take every summer outfit you were wearing with flat sandals into fall including shorts, skirts and most definitely skinny jeans.