Betwixt and Between

Designers have endowed sweaters with beguiling qualities this year.  By accentuating stretchy wool blends with imaginative details, sweaters are transformed into becoming silhouettes to enchant your admirers.  Sophisticated cardigans resemble tailored coats; sweater dresses double as chic tunics; funnel neck pullovers—woven in downy soft cashmere—feel luxurious and très nonchalant.  While unexpected combinations like delicate lace and rib-knit wool make fashion interesting, you make it bewitching. 

 

Scalloped eyelash lace delicately encircles the cropped hem of this slouchy-turtleneck sweater rib knit from cozy virgin wool. Red Valentino.

Common Ground

From Long Island to Long Beach, Ralph Lauren’s influence is evident in classic separates inspired by America’s adventurous spirit.  With an abiding respect for the rugged landscapes and rich heritage, Ralph Lauren draws on the abundance of optimism to design clothes for active lifestyles.  Equestrian garb is reinterpreted into sporty tops suitable for every day.  Traditional work shirts are retrofitted with slimmer proportions to complement a tweed blazer, and luxurious cable-knit sweaters exude down-to-earth charm in any setting.  As the quintessential American designer, Ralph Lauren dares you to be bold and explore the possibilities with passion and style.

A Fair-Isle design with Southwest flavor details the yoke of a wool-blend crewneck sweater that's a delight to wear on chilly days.

Game-Changing Jackets and Free Agent Fleece

Before you become attached to your fleece jacket, consider the consequences of wading deeper into the athleisure mainstream.  Although a fleece jacket is warm and comfortable, it’s ubiquitous.  A fleece doesn’t ask much from you, only that it be surrounded by team players like running shoes and sweatpants.  Before you know it, a fleece jacket is calling the shots on your style.  It’s not too late to gain the competitive advantage with a stylish alternative like a “high pile” fleece bomber or a hooded blazer.

Wrap yourself in plush warmth with this high-pile fleece jacket that's minimally detailed and made from recycled fibers. Frame.

crème de la crème

crème de la crème 

DESIGNER FASHION

Fall 2021

 

Front-facing snap cuffs put a playful twist on this classic peaked-lapel blazer cut from supple calfsking leather in a longer-than-usual silhouette. Front snap closure. Peaked lapels. Snap cuffs. Chest welt pockets. Alexander Wang.

Most Likely To Succeed

Button-up shirts and chinos were destined to be together.  With an affinity for pure cotton and sensible design, they forged a platonic relationship that has flourished through thick and thin and fleeting trends.  Ultra-soft twill has a hint of stretch to add everyday comfort to cropped chinos, and a shorter length and slim fit enhances a plaid shirt.  Re-discover how classic shirts and chinos have earned “most likely to succeed” status in closets everywhere. 

Featuring

Frank & Eileen, Nili Lotan, Anine Bing

 

This laid-back boyfriend shirt with a high/low hem is cut from incredibly soft and lightweight Italian woven cotton that feels comfortable all year-round. Frank & Eileen.

The Overachievers

Dressy overcoats aren’t ordinary outerwear.  Rather than bundle you up like a bulky blanket or a down comforter, these coats are tailored to make an outstanding first impression.  Wrap coats from Vince and Maje have a polished simplicity that complements day and evening ensembles.  And the reversible sage green coat from Alice + Olivia is sure to brighten an overcast day.

 

This cashmere-kissed wool coat is done in a pair of complementary colors and a reversible design, so each color gets to play a featured or a supporting role. Style Name: Alice + Olivia Tomiko Reversible Wool Blend Wrap Coat.

Esprit de Club Monaco

The splendid Fall weather has a way of shifting your outdoorsy spirit into overdrive.  Cool, clear mornings inspire trailblazing hikes and arduous bike rides.  You’re no longer content to be cooped up in an air-conditioned house, and you’re eager for a new challenge, maybe play a team sport.  Join the champions at Club Monaco where versatility is the name of the game.  Membership is open to all and tryouts aren't required, just a devotion to stylish basics and esprit de corps.

Modern sophistication defines this woolly mini updated with a defining belt and front patch pockets. Style Name: Club Monaco Belted Pocket Minidress.

Clarity of Purpose

After a year of re-evaluating everything from your exercise routine to work attire, you probably gained an unexpected clarity of purpose.  Introspection has lead to a sharper focus on what you value most.  Priorities have shifted, and new goals are purposeful and shaped by a desire for fulfillment.

Asymmetric accordion pleating creates flowy movement on a bias-cut crepe de Chine slipdress made more flattering with bust darts. Style Name: Monse Pleated Asymmetric Slipdress.

Oh-So-Magnifico

Missoni’s signature zigzag pattern flows through dresses like an electric current that makes them sizzle with excitement.  The distinctive weave of Missoni knitwear has a sumptuous texture that flatters your curves with a slim, slinky fit.  The fabulous heliotrope miniskirt—with oversized zigs and zags—is certain to spark a frenzy wherever it goes.  And the classic triangle bikini—a geometric marvel—is oh-so-magnifico when paired with the breezy Cover-Up Dress.

This cropped sweater knit from a silky-soft blend of cashmere and wool yarns offers up a cozily luxe interpretation of Missoni's signature space-dye patterning. Style Name: Missoni Quarter Zip Cashmere & Wool Sweater.

Your Other Mother

Your other mother doesn’t care if you make your bed every morning or throw your clothes on the floor.  She doesn’t care if you sit up straight or put your elbows on the table while you eat.  And she couldn’t care less if you eat a chocolate donut for breakfast and wear jeans and sneakers to a job interview.  Your other mother is a non-conformist who rebels against pretense and lies.  She’s witty and spontaneous and ignores the social media hoopla because she's not a follower.

 

In your new favorite jeans, a flared silhouette pairs with a high waist and provides a legs-for-days look, while a raw hem adds a hint of edge. Style Name: Mother The Weekend High Waist Fray Hem Flare Jeans (Tongue & Chic).

Chrysalis

As you slowly emerge from your pandemic chrysalis, you have a rare opportunity to spread your wings and discover new heights.  From this vantage point, it’s easy to see what’s important, the experiences you value most.  Fly above the headwinds where lofty ideas form like buoyant cumulus clouds.  While optimism is high, make meaningful changes that reflect your new outlook on life and style.  Begin by thinking of your closet as a studio—a creative place to mix colors and textures—rather than a cubicle for work clothes.

Luscious silk elevates this prairie-inspired dress, designed with a high/low hemline and a mix of charming patterns. Style Name: Veronica Beard Lumi Mix Print Silk Dress.

Intrinsèque

When you live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, style is an avocation.  It’s a talent that’s developed from living in a vibrant city with prominent architecture and splendid gardens.  As you walk through Paris, it’s exciting to see how fashion is used as a medium to engage with the city.  Unexpected combinations and contrasting elements are put together like a street mural that’s imaginative and relevant to city life. 

A ribbed knit accentuates the sleek fit of this zippy little sweater knit with sleeves that end just past the elbow. Style Name: Maje Moseta Half Zip Ribbed Sweater.

Grace Under Pressure

Fashion has the power to influence negotiations.  It remains soft when the hard bargaining begins and cool when tempers flare.  Fashion expresses strong emotions through bold colors and clever nuance with delicate accents.  Whether you’re negotiating real estate terms or terms of endearment, count on Rebecca Taylor to be your ally.  The highly regarded label has an understated authority that helps you maintain grace under pressure.

Sprigged with a flowery field and set with a godet-pleated skirt, this cotton-and-silk tank dress is further perfected with a pair of highly favored pockets.

Zimmermann: Australia’s Most Fashionable Envoy

Optimism is second nature to Aussies.  It influences everything from design to diplomacy.  When Aussies greet the world, goodwill unfolds like a road map to peace.  Australian style has an optimistic vibe that shows an appreciation for the magnificent coastline and temperate climate.  Oceanic colors and native floral prints are characteristic of the innovative attitude that’s prevalent among Sydney designers who are on a mission to show how trendsetting fashion can also be sustainable.

Contrast embroidery highlights the frilly ruffles on this pretty pintuck-pleated blouse crafted in a diaphanous ramie weave with billowy blouson sleeves. Style Name: Zimmermann Aliane Puff Sleeve Scalloped Blouse.

A Sense of Direction

There are times when destination and destiny challenge your sense of direction simultaneously.  Consequential decisions like moving to a new house, or relocating to a distant town will impact your life in more ways than you know.  So, enjoy the easy decisions, like choosing a new designer to update your wardrobe for the big change.  Since 1971, Reiss has charted a path through the world of cosmopolitan style with “directional design.”

Contemporary elegance overflows from this shoulder-flaunting halter top that's cool enough for daytime and polished enough for all your evening plans. Style Name: Reiss Brianna Stripe Halter Top.