Fall and Winter merchandise is finally hitting stores in the US with an even larger assortment online. Brick-and-mortar stores continue to struggle, which is awfully sad, but a sign of the times. Fashion chains that filed for bankruptcy earlier this year are showcasing new stock so they’re not closing shop just yet. It’s anyone’s guess how retail will look a year from now.
These items have been winners on a few of my clients and forum members recently. Some of the items earned a place in my wardrobe. Read the reviews to get an alternative opinion to mine, and browse the different size and colour options.
1. ECCO Motion 35 Boots
These boots have a vintage ‘90s appeal with Camper flair. A very comfortable, soft, supportive, and high-quality boot that can be worn with most looks. From leggings to cocktail wear and all that’s in between. The boot comes in two colours, and two heel heights. The platform tempers the height of the heel. Great if you wear a lot of black, or like black shoes.
2. Old Navy Textured V-Neck Sweater Tunic
This sweater is available from XS to 4XL, and comes in seven colours. It ALSO comes in Petite and Tall. It’s made of a natural cotton/rayon/viscose mix that feels lovely against the skin. I would not pop it in the tumble dryer, though. The V-neck looks lower than it is, so don’t let that put you off. It works well on curvy body types, wider hips, does not cling to the midsection, and covers the bottom. Especially flattering on curvy petites in a petite size.
3. Sam Edelman Faux Fur Trim Short Parka
Heavy, warm, a versatile length, and fun in the mustard. It’s a great grab-and-go for Winter, and looks special with the faux fur trim. It’s not shaped at the waist but it has princess seams that add vertical integrity to the silhouette. The style works well for straighter and apple-shaped body types. You might not like the boxy shape if you have a defined waist.
4. Dolce Vita Zonya Sneaker
I have the first pair in the collection, and LOVE them. It was rainy and chilly in Seattle recently and I wore them all week with nude-for-me knee-highs. I wore them with pants, jeans, dresses and skirts. To my eye they look super cute with midi dresses and skirts. They are warm, very comfy, soft, cushioning, and are easy to pull on and off with the zippers. They fit my low-volume feet perfectly without insoles so I don’t think they will work for wider feet unless you size up. They are long so my long toes have room. The fit around narrow ankles is great too. My version has a plush inner, but there are versions without the faux sherpa.
5. Ilse Jacobsen Twist-Front Dresses
These classic dresses are a magical silhouette because they define the body where it’s narrowest without cling, discomfort or fuss. Curvy, apple-shaped, rectangular, or narrow-hipped, this type of front-knot detailing is traditionally flattering, and especially if V-necks are your thing. The versions without the empire cut line are better on a larger bust. It’s a little short, but knee-covering if you’re petite. Very comfortable and easy to launder.
6. Boden Westmoreland Sweater
I bought this darling in turquoise to match my coat and corduroy pants, and it’s awfully pretty. It has a very neat mock turtle neck, and gentle lantern sleeves. The sleeves are three quarter in length, so watch for that if it’s not your thing. I haven’t found them tricky to layer under a topper. The fit is fluid yet structured in all the right places. Does not cling. Click the links to get a better look at the silhouette.
