The excellent Fall & Winter retail season continues. There is lots of everything, which is just how I like it. The variety means there is something for everyone, a renewed freedom to sport things just as you wish, and even MORE ways to look fab and feel stylish at any age. This week’s selection of top picks is as classic as it is trendy, and a mix close to my heart. I love sporting the trends that tickle my fancy, but have a soft spot for the classics too.
1. Avec Les Filles Outerwear
This brand of outerwear has impressed me for several seasons. The silhouettes are trendy, the fabric is fab, and items are nicely made. They look designer, but cost a fraction of the price. If you need a narrower fit, you’ll find them to run a size large. They often offer XXS and XL, so the size range is quite wide. I scored the long red coat at this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and it’s a dressy beauty that will not date.
2. Rachel Roy Outerwear
Years ago I met and interviewed Rachel Roy, who is also of Dutch descent. What a delightful conversation we had. I enormously respect that she was one of the first designers to offer more affordable collections, and across extended sizes. The coats highlighted here are gorgeous, and very well made (the plaid coats especially). Versatile lengths, and plenty of room in the sleeves.
3. Resin Earrings
If you wear earrings, wear resin earrings! The hoops are extra fun, and come in plenty of colours. They aren’t too heavy, and add a fun dimension to your outfit. Some are large and some are small, and it’s all good. Madewell and Halogen are doing great resin earrings at good prices this season.
4.Classic Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein Dresses
If you need a dressy dress, remember two things:
- How great the Macy’s dress department is, especially when you’re after a bargain.
- How wonderful brands like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein are when it comes to affordable, no-nonsense classic dresses that fit and flatter.
The dresses I’ve highlighted here are winners. Fabulous fits and fabrics, good coverage, and great prices. They took my breath away after seeing far too many almost unwearable and skimpy dresses in stores lately. The fit & flare versions with the belts might look better with a real belt, rather than the self-belt.
5. Banana Republic Metallic Leopard Sweater
This is a comfortable, easy, relaxed and flattering sweater that you can dress up or down with black pants. Nice drape and fabric. No need to tuck either. It’s for Team Subtle because even the emerald is not very bright. An easy holiday outfit option for sure.
6. Boden Mabel and Antonia Sweaters
These are gorgeous pullovers, and quite fluid. The sleeves are voluminous, but not overly so, and not too long if you’re petite. Both styles have worked on a range of body types. The Antonia cuff can be folded over to shorten the length. I have the Antonia in fuchsia and it’s great. I’ve highlighted the dark and dressier colours here, but there are other solids too. The sparkly brown Mabel sweater is a very rare and unique find. Try it if you bat for Team Brown.
