Careers in Fashion

Friday, August 27, 2010

A perfect fall

It's a gorgeous sunshiny day, but like many of you, I'm already daydreaming about fall. Naturally, I took to Polyvore to design my dream cool-weather ensembles. Today's set includes the perfect dark floral dress (from Rebecca Taylor, no less), an Anthropologie cardigan (practically a fall staple in its own right), Miu Miu Mary Janes for a hint of Italian chic and, while we're at it, a Valentino bag... because, hey, if you're gonna dream, might as well dream big!
Who's that lady?

Who's that lady? by erincathleen featuring beret hat

I hope this fall's throwback to seventies, ladylike-chic is here to stay. I'm loving the return of some Victorian, romantic favorites, too: lace, ruffles, riding boots and structured handbags. A dark floral-patterned dress could easily go from summer to winter (with the right opaque tights), while a slouchy cardigan in a deep crimson is perfect for the crisp Autumn air. The same cardigan could easily pair with a leopard-print mini to create a fun play on proportion. And for the topper? The season's quintessential add-ons: ruffles and lace. Pair with Miu Miu's prim Oxford-Mary Jane pumps, and the look could go from apple picking to apple martinis in no time flat. An animal print scarf ties in all the colors, and would perk up any neutral ensemble, like a few brightly-colored leaves against a gray sky. This scarf, from Mulberry, is only vaguely leopard; I like the subtlety and warm tones. Layering a lace shrug or adding a cute crocheted cap? Totally cute options. To toughen up the look (but only slightly), swap the sweet pumps for studded or lace-up riding boots. And don't forget your must-have autumnal accessory: a sumptuous tote, in a fall-colored pattern or neutral hue, ideal for the lady who lunches and the one who runs the office.

So, it's still a little early, but... What excites you the most about fall?

9 comments:

Katy Mary said...

I love all of your choices, especially the color palette! I'm excited for boots, chunky sweaters and leather jackets and bags. I cannot wait for fall!

Jaime @ laviejaime said...

I am not 100% ready but getting there lol.

Love your New England blogger idea- let me know what you need from me and when! :)

Happy Friday!!!

Emily, Resplendent Tranquility said...

I hope to see knock-offs of that Valentino bag. Gorgeous!

The throwback to seventies ladylike-chic excites me, too. Remember back in 2001 or 2002 when everything fall was romantic prairie-chic? Gosh, I loved that (still do!), but was too self-conscious to really wear what I wanted. (That's when I got that floral prairie skirt I posted a week or so ago.) I won't let myself be hindered this time around.

That cranberry cardi is lovely. I think I'd like to experiment more with deep shades like that. They're a tad more exciting than my usual browns and greys ;)

Emily, Ruby Slipper Journeys said...

It all looks so luscious. I so wish that buying fall clothes was economically possible for me right now, but since it isn't I'm still trying to ignore the arrival of fall... ; (
Love the colour of the cardigan!

Lexie said...

i love that big bow tote!

mostly i'm just looking forward to scarves! and to wearing the blazer i bought in july, lol!

Alison Kinsey said...

These items are all so pretty! The transition to fall is always a good one, but I despise winter! Again, perfect picks! I like that cardigan a lot :)

Emily said...

Gah, I agree! I'm into ladylike for Fall :) I can't wait for hosiery and boots again. And jackets!

Elaine said...

These are super cute! I love fall...especially because of my birthday in a couple months!!

clothed much, a modest fashion blog

Diary of a Young Designer said...

I think what I'm most looking forward to are those dark reds and floral prints and black lace skirts. =)

xo
Sophie