A FEW FALL MUST-HAVES

Now that Labor Day is behind us, and despite the 90 degree temps, I'm definitely getting in the autumn groove!  A couple of weeks ago, a reader/friend asked me for recommendations on a handful of fall wardrobe essentials, and my mind started racing!  I quickly came up with a good 8 or 10, when I realized that my list seemed very familiar.  Turns out, it was my list...from last year.  I think last year's list is such a good, timeless compilation of cool-weather basics that can easily take you into the cold weather.  But, last year's list consists of 16 items, which is certainly more than "a handful."  Today, I'm making another list. It looks pretty similar, but it's pared down to my top 6 and includes things that are available now in stores.

#6 - Booties

Dune London "Penelope"

Pick a color, any color.  Or a few colors!  I think matching the color of your booties to the color of your legs is a great call.  So, if you're wearing dark wash jeans, a dark brown or black would be good. When I'm bare-legged and wearing booties with a dress, I most often reach for a lighter tan color.  

#5 - Slim-leg Trousers

Vince "Strapping" Stretch Wool Trousers

Not so much "skinny" as they are "tailored," a good pair of slim-leg trousers will serve you well at work and at play.  Depending on the cut, you will probably want to wear them with a heel or wedge -- a pump with a low vamp is best.

#4 - Statement Jewelry

GAIA//Goddess of the Earth Ring by Brittanny Chanel Jewelry

Double Hoop necklace by giantlion

Handmade Tassel Bracelets from Sift With Style

If you wear an eye-catching piece of jewelry, you can keep the rest of your outfit very basic without losing your style.  Check out some handmade jewelry and support small or local businesses!

#3 - Great Jeans

Paige Denim "Transcend-Skyline" Bootcut Jeans

Bootcut?  Sure!  Skinny?  Why not?  Flares?  Give them a shot.  Whatever looks amazing on you is what you should be wearing.  Take an honest and stylish friend with you when you go shopping.  Promise to buy them coffee and/or wine--it'll be a long day!

#2 - Something with Fringe

Rebecca Minkoff "Finn Crossbody"

Ok, I'm throwing in a trend here.  You should definitely find one or two things that make you feel hip and relevant, and I think fringe is an easy way to do it this season.  You can even combine two "must-haves" by buying some fringe jewelry or fringe booties!

Drumroll...

#1 - A GREAT JACKET

Merona Tailored Blazer Gazelle Brown

If you know me, you know I love a good jacket.  It makes jeans and a t-shirt spring to life.  It subdues a super-girly dress.  A jacket can create or define a waist.  It can lengthen or shorten your torso for perfect proportion.  It can hide the coffee stain on your sleeve!  Jackets are magical.  End of story.

What do you think?  Are any of these items on your "fall essentials" list?  What would you add? 

PS - Take a peek at my interview with Maria from Close to Home, a blog with amazing recipes, craft ideas, and travel and entertaining tips.  I answered a similar question, in addition to giving some other style-related advice.

As a personal stylist in Richmond, VA, I strive to make wardrobe choices clear and easy for women who are short on time, overwhelmed by their closets, or transitioning from one period of life to another.  Let's connect!