I was delighted when Nordstrom asked me to put together a series of Fall outfits using items from their Anniversary Sale – after all this is my favourite sale of the year. So I’m kicking off the series with an outfit formula that incorporates some of my own sale purchases. Later this week, you’ll see a few of my clients rock Fall outfit formulas their way. 

The unstructured trend is as big as the structured trend, which feels fashionably liberating don’t you think? I love tailored items but loosey-goosey looks are just as close to my heart because voluminous silhouettes scream playful fun. So it makes sense that the outfit combinations that I fancy most at the moment are the ones that pair structure with flowing volume. The effect feels MODERN. I like to call these types of outfits “Semi-Structured”.

You’ll need a structured pair of trousers with tapered or straight leg hems. A slight bootcut will also work. Nothing too  tight or flared. Add a voluminous top, like a big tee, soft boxy blouse, a high-low knitted top or pullover. The tapered trousers provide the structure for the unstructured top, creating a comfortable match made in heaven.

Only Mine’s Zip Back Wool & Cashmere Sweater (1) is my first high-low hemmed top and I’m smitten. It’s that dropped shoulder seam with a narrow sleeve that sealed the deal because I find it more flattering than a dolman sleeve. The back zipper, rich purple hue and non-itchy wool were further great selling points. The high-low hemline is a vitally important structure building tool because it exposes the structured trousers. Cover them up and the outfit is less polished and chic. The same can be achieved with straight hemmed voluminous tops by semi-tucking the fronts. 

Theory’s Yanette Copnehagen Pants (2) are structured and a tighter fit on the model then they are on me. That’s because I like a looser trouser fit, and longer hems that create a slouch in the leg line.  Although I personally prefer full length tapered trousers that scrunch at the hem, this is not a prerequisite for the look. By all means keep the silhouette more streamlined and shorter like in the photo. 

Leave the ensemble just like that, or add a scarf, necklace or other jewelry for more interest. I’ve added the grey Halogen Fitzgerald Challis Scarf (3) because I like purple matched with green. Add footwear like pumps, shooties, loafers, peep-toes or booties. I’ve chosen Sam Edelman’s Petty Python Bootie (4) because it bookends the colour of my blonde hair, adds outfit texture, and is my favourite heel height. I’m going to be wearing these little booties with an assortment of trouser and jeans styles this season.

As with all the formulas, I sow the seed of an idea. The next step is to substitute the items that are more to your taste. Perhaps you’ll wear patterned trousers with a semi-tucked boxy silk blouse. Or straight leg cigarette trousers with a high-low t-shirt. Or peep-toe booties and a bib necklace.

The semi–structured trouser look could work in an office environment when the items are fairly dressy, and on days when a structured jacket is not required. Or you could wear the look when you’ve had your fill of jeans, which is where I’ve been heading for a while.

First, there were my top picks for outerwear and jackets. Second, my top picks for tops and bottoms. My third and final top picks post is about footwear and handbags. All footwear options are comfortable because they would not make this list if they were otherwise. 

Footwear

• Pedro Garcia ‘Charlie’ Peep Toe Bootie: If you can manage the heel height, it’s a very on trend look for early Fall. 
• Sam Edelman ‘Petty’ Bootie: SO comfortable and ideal for those who like to wear very low heels. 
• Sam Edelman ‘Petty’ Bootie Python: I bought these and could not be more smitten with them. The perfect blonde bookending bootie and heel height. They are also available in animal print. Warning: They look long on your feet. 
• Blondo ‘Vergara’ Boot: This is a copy of last year’s Aquatalia boot at half the price. 100% puddle proof. Extremely comfortable and streamlined, and fits all calf widths – from narrow to wide because of the stretchy fabric. 
• Stuart Weitzman Gatherup Boot: Another nod to the space age trend. Very comfy and different. 
• VC Signature Warren Boot: Gorgeous diagonal side zipper. A refreshing refined look amidst the countless rugged Frye-type-boots. I almost bought these.  
• Donald J Pliner Danee Boot: In oxblood, one of the best boots on sale. Very comfortable and the length can be adjusted. 
• Paul Green Naomi Boot: Gorgeous leather and ankle strap styling. 
• Børn Treddy Boot: A rugged boot that slims at the ankle. A rare find. 
• Steven by Steve Madden Fairlow Bootie: A solid no-nonsense bootie with a fun buckle. Not as soft as I would have liked, but I do have fussy feet. 
• Cole Haan Jodhpur Boot: Get these in oxblood. Fab on tall gals with long gams. 
• Aquatalia by Marvin K Royal Weatherproof Bootie: A versatile dressy bootie and 100% puddle proof. Great narrow ankle. 
• Aquatalia by Marvin K Royal Weatherproof Bootie: This one’s in suede and even softer. I vote deep red or grey. 
• Anyi Lu Melanie’ Bootie: The best warm weather bootie ever. I so wanted these too.
• Attilio Giusti Leombruni Bit Ballet Flat: Very pretty, classic and beautifully made. 
• Naya Teak Oxford: Like slippers with fun laces
• Stuart Weitzman Adaptable Flat: I have these from last year in tan and black,  and they are my favourite ballet flats of all time. 
• Joan & David Gardner Pump: So ladylike and retro! Read the rave reviews. 
• Cole Haan Air Monica Wedge: A Chanel-esque pump with all the comfort. 
• Josef Seibel Caspian Sneaker: Try these if Converse sneakers are not your thing. 

Handbags

• Elliott Lucca Cordoba Flap Front Shoulder Bag: A versatile snake skin bag in warm tones. 
• Steve Madden Excursion Satchel: Love the texture and the gold rivets. 
• Vintage Reign Marky Hobo: An interesting casual bag with a bit of structure. 
• Pour la Victoire Prado Medium Tote: Modern! Also available in other colours. It’s a large bag, but quite lightweight. 

That’s it from me and my top picks, but our coverage is only beginning. Over the next few days I will be posting outfit and ensemble posts based on some of the items in these lists. So stay tuned!

Finally, do share your purchases. We’d love to know more about your NAS experience.

My top picks for outerwear and jackets just went out, and it’s onto separates for round two. I’ve seen these items on my clients all week and can vouch for their fit, styling, colour, fabrication and workmanship. Do not worry if your size is out of stock. Items often come back into stock throughout the next fortnight as people return merchandise both online and in stores.

IMPORTANT: Make sure you check whether these items are also available in petites and plus sizes because quite a few of them go across the size spectrum.

Tops

• Vince Striped Boatneck Top: Size down for a less oversized look, or wear it true to size. I adore that dropped shoulder seam. Both colours are divine. 
• Only Mine Boxy Cashmere Sweater: If loosey-goosey cozy comfort is your thing, try this pullover. 
• Classiques Entier Nouveau Print Jersey Top: Gorgeous over a skirt or under a blazer. Graphic and fitted fabness. 
• Sandra Ingrish Roll Sleeve Denim Shirt: Nicely shaped and distressed. 
• Vince Camuto Contrast Trim Houndstooth Blouse: I bought this item because I can’t resist an oversized geometric pattern on a roomy blouse. 
• Hinge Foil Coated Sweater: A nod to the space age trend. It’s quite shiny and SO FUN. A perfect way to add casual shine to your wardrobe. 
• Vince Zip Front Silk Top: Elegant, oversized and modern. That zipper detail rocks. 
• Bellatrix Sheer V-Neck Blouse: Pretty and good on a full bust and strong shoulder line. 
• Bellatrix Sheer V-Neck Blouse: I liked this pattern even more. 
• Trina Turk ‘Rai’ Print Silk Blouse: A sublimely happy and bright blouse with a ’40s fit that looks so “now”. 
• Halogen Tipped Sweater Blazer: An easy and comfy pairing with a pencil skirt or dressy trousers for the office. 
• Trouvé Argyle Tunic Sweater: Feels like pajamas! Very grungy and adorable on a super casual day, 
• Halogen Leather Front Peplum Top: An on-trend peplum that looks great on its own or layered over a shirt or blouse. 
• Only Mine Zip Back Wool & Cashmere Sweater: I bought this in purple because it’s the silhouette of the season. Love the high-low hemline and fun back zipper detail. 
• Vince Camuto Banded V-Neck Top: Sleek, fitted and also a super layering piece. 
• L’AGENCE Star Print Shirt: Stars are the new polka dots and this blouse is slouchy and chic.
• Nic + Zoe Fall Foliage Cardigan: The front tailoring detail is unique. It’s not just that same old cardigan shape.
• Classiques Entier Panthere Cardigan: A different style of cardigan that looks great over a pencil skirt or trousers. 
• Diane von Furstenberg Bairly Louche Blouse: Bohemian pretty. Size up. 
• Foxcroft Dot Fitted Shirt: A simple classic that can be worn in many ways. 
• Foxcroft Roll Sleeve Tencel Shirt: Amazing fabric and fit! It’s like liquid denim. It floats away from the body in just the right way. IMPORTANT: The sleeves do not need to be rolled, nor do you need to hike them up showing the underside of the fabric. Size down.
• Valette Refined Wool Crewneck Sweater: I bought this in three colours because I crave very crisp, non-itchy, dressy, well made knitwear in fun brights. I love the back button detailing and the high neckline. Great worn on their own, or with a scarf, or as a layering piece. 

Skirts

• Classiques Entier Sunmosa Mixed Media Skirt: Fab vertical detailing and length. To my eye, even better than a full leather skirt. Different! 
• Halogen Pleat Front Check Skirt: Petite gals, try this one with a tucked in form fitting top and boots. Bring back a bit of the ’90s magic.
• Rachel Roy Crepe Combo Print Skirt: STUNNING. That inset panel is striking and slimming. 
• Sejour Mini Pleat Skirt: I loved this romantic and flirty style. 

Pants

• Halogen Taylor Curvy Fit Two Tone Pants: For the price, the fit and fabric of these darlings cannot be beat. 
• Halogen Quinn Plaid Straight Leg Pants: And the same goes for these although the fits were slightly different. 
• Wit & Wisdom Dot Print Denim Leggings: These also came in blue, but I vote burgundy because that’s the colour of the season. Size down. 
• Classiques Entier Jesi Trousers: I bought these because they are lined, warm, and swish in a non-fussy way when you stride. I am NOT a wide leg trouser gal but these changed my mind. 
• KUT from the Kloth Diana Skinny Jeans: Good grey colour and flattering fit. 
• Jag Jeans Malia Slim Leg Jeans: Extremely comfortable. Size down at least one size. 
• Lafayette 148 New York Irving Stretch Wool Pants: Streamlined and roomy all at once. 
• Theory Yanette Copenhagen Pants: I bought these and I can’t be more pleased with them. Modern! Size up because Theory runs small.
• Lafayette 148 New York Stretch Wool Pants: STUNNING wide leg trousers. Fluid and luxurious. Looks like they have almost run out of stock online, but stores should have an assortment of colours. 
• Paige ‘Hidden Hills’ Straight Leg Jeans (Fiji): If you’re still after premium denim straight leg jeans, these could fit the bill. 

Feel free to share your sale favourites and top picks in the comments section as this list is by no means exhaustive. Next up, my top picks list for footwear and accessories. 

After an exhausting, but extremely fun week of sale preselections with clients, here is the first of three posts sharing my top picks list for this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Three things stood out for me this year. 

1. Nordstrom’s in-house brands were tops, and often outshone designer merchandise. 
2. Generally the photos online did not do the merchandise justice. 
3. There was lots of glorious colour. 

I’ve see these items on my clients and can vouch for their fit, styling, colour, fabrication and workmanship. Do not worry if your size is out of stock. Items often come back into stock during the next fortnight as people return merchandise both online and in stores.

IMPORTANT: Make sure you check whether these items are also available in petites and plus sizes in their respective departments because quite a few of them go across the size spectrum.

Outerwear

• Kenneth Cole New York Notch Collar Bouclé Coat: When will we see a coat in this colour and length again? Not soon! Runs a little snug on the arms so you might need to size up. Dramatic.
• Mackage Knit & Leather Trim Coat: A casual, yet very chic and interesting topper that’s lightweight and warm. 
• Betsey Johnson Animal Print Capelet: Arty fun all the way. Size down. 
• Michael Kors Belted Trench with Detachable Liner: Perfectly tailored with removable inner and hood. 
• DKNY Double Breasted Coat: The colour alone will launch you into orbit. Great strong shoulder line and fab textured fabric. 
• Elie Tahari Alice A-Line Jacket: So retro and different. The collar also functions as a hood. 
• Bernardo Packable Iridescent Down Walker: Great fit and colours. 
• Calvin Klein High Double Breasted Textured Peacoat: A Kate Spade lookalike. It’s so beautiful in the bright green I can’t stand it. I found the fabric a little scratchy, but no one else did so there you go.
• Zella Z Quilt Moto Jacket: It’s sports gear, ladies. And very unexpectedly I’m recommending it as fab casual wear because it’s pretty cool. 
• Kristen Blake Brocade Double Breasted Coat: A nod to the Baroque trend. Gorgeous jacquard fabrication. 
• Via Spiga Knit Collar Wool Blend Coat: A comfortable knitted number for the earthy ladies who do not want to wear animal print. 
• Miss Sixty Asymmetrical Soft Shell Jacket: A chic way to take a walk in the park or run errands in town. Love the gold hardware. 

Leather Jackets

• Bernardo Topstitch Leather Jacket: A lovely fit with fun, casual top stitch detailing. 
• Cole Haan Notch Collar Leather Jacket: If you’re after a tailored, classic and simple leather jacket — try this style. It will stand the test of time. My client Karen bought it in black. 
• Elie Tahari Tilly Leather Jacket: Gorgeously streamlined and crisp in both colours. Love the suede trim. 
• Buffalo by David Bitton Distressed Leather Jacket: A great rugged and casual look. 
• Marc New York Belted Leather Jacket: Try this jacket if olive is your colour. A super tailored fit and quite unique with the tie belt. 
• Laundry by Shelli Segal Asymmetrical Zip Colorblock Leather Jacket: So modern! But best on long waisted or tall gals. 
• Halogen Seamed Leather Jacket: I had mixed reviews with this jacket because the leather is not super soft. That said, it’s a fab fit on a full busted, curvy gal. 
• Veda Max Leather Jacket: Quite the show stopping silhouette. It looks equally good worn open and closed. 

Blazers and Jackets

• Zanella Shana Jacket: This item is so beautifully made and tailored, I almost cried when my client tried it on. It has incredible back and front panel detailing that does not come through in the photo. Stunning fabric.  
• Classiques Entier Pietra Leather Trim Jacket: A beautiful lightweight blazer with back and front leather and zipper trim that you can’t see on the photo. 
• Elie Tahari Exclusive for Nordstrom ‘Gabbie’ Jacket: Stunningly streamlined and tailored.  Excellent on petites with sleeve length alteration. Stretchy and very comfortable. 
• Vince Camuto One Button Blazer: Clean, crisp, classic, simple and happy. 
• Elie Tahari Exclusive for Nordstrom Patricia Blazer: Another fabulous streamlined blazer with lots of stretch for added comfort. 
• Amber Sun Double Breasted Jacket: Retro, and fab over a pencil skirt. 
• Classiques Entier Aster Weave Jacket: Chic with lots of waist definition. Loving all these one buttoned blazers. 
• Mcginn Asymmetrical Metallic Tweed Jacket: If you love this jacket, try it on. It’s a HUGE statement and has a lot of detailing. Surprisingly, two of my petite clients with long arms rocked this item – and my first thought was that the style would completely overwhelm them. That’s why you have to try things on! Their strong shoulder lines helped carry off the silhouette. 

Feel free to share your sale favourites and top picks in the comments section as this list is by no means exhaustive. Next up, my top picks list for tops and bottoms.