There's a carpet of dead leaves on the ground and I can’t walk outside without being shoved backwards by the wind; I think it's safe to say that fall has arrived. Aside from the slight issue of having permanently, slightly-too-wind-swept hair, I am ecstatic about finally being able to whip out my fall/winter wardrobe—and yet, for some reason, I seem to be alone in my adoration towards the new season. Last week, I got lunch with a friend whom—much to my horror—showed up in a bright purple, spaghetti-strap sundress. Today, I watched in awe as a throng of shivering girls, clutching their cardigan-shrouded shoulders, walked around campus in their favorite pairs of summer sandals. What will it take for everyone to realize that summer has packed up and moved out? Put away the sundresses, say goodbye to those sandals, and learn to embrace the cold weather! Sweaters aren’t all that bad, you know.
In order to get everyone a little more excited, I’ve decided to put together a list of five essential wardrobe pieces for this fall (and winter, because let’s face it, it’s only a month or two away). Hopefully these pieces will give your wardrobe the added oomph that you need to brave the harsh wind and survive the frostbite. Enjoy!
1. A Military-Inspired Jacket
Military is one of the hottest trends out right now. It may be a little less cute and a little more combat, but it definitely brings a shabby-chic flare to any outfit. If you’re looking for an easy way to bring the military look into your closet, try a jacket. Military-inspired jackets are subtle but effective in finishing off any look so that you’re both trendy and toasty!
2. A Flat Boot
Whether your prefer suede to leather, or over-the-knee to ankle, make sure that you have a flat boot in your closet this season. Flat boots are both stylish and practical, allowing you to make it through even the iciest weather. The military trend has invaded the world of shoes, too, making lace-up boots one of this season’s most coveted items. If lace-up boots are too tough-girl for you, don’t fret, a classic pair of cognac-colored, leather, riding boots will spruce up any outfit.
3. Something (Faux) Fur
Fur is everywhere; from bags, to scarves, to hats, to coats, to vests, to shoes, it’s ubiquitous—and I’m not complaining! It will be both your warmest article of clothing and your most stylish, because vintage-inspired pieces are on the top of this season’s most-wanted list. If you’re a little shy about making this dramatic fashion statement, try incorporating fur into your wardrobe by buying a jacket with a fur-trimmed hood, or gloves with fur detailing. If you can’t get enough of this vintage look, go for a fur coat, it will deliver instant glam to any look. Just a tip for anyone with a tight budget (or any animal lovers): go for faux-fur, it is infinitely less expensive and significantly more humane!
4. A Camel-Colored Coat
Neutral hues are some of this season’s hottest shades. The best part? They go with everything! That’s why a camel-colored coat is a necessity this season; it’s chic, sleek, and classic, allowing you to look put-together even when the cold weather’s getting you down. If you’re liking the minimalist trend, try a studio coat, if you’re more of a prepster, go with a basic trench. You can’t go wrong with camel!
5. Something That Sparkles
Let’s face it: we all need a pick-me-up from time-to-time. Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean that you have to exile anything fun from your wardrobe. In fact, you should always have fun with your wardrobe, and adding sequins or glitter is a perfect way to do that. The rockstar-glam look is very in, and you can achieve it with glitter-covered pumps, an embellished headband, or a sequin mini-dress. It’s important to have fun, but don’t forget to have some restraint—no one wants to look like a walking disco ball!
A: $92, Aryn K. at Piperlime.com
B: $49.50, Old Navy at Oldnavy.com
C: $99.50, Hive and Honey at Piperlime.com
D: $99, Restricted at Piperlime.com
E: $498, Stuart Weitzman at Zappos.com
F: $98, Tinley Road at Piperlime.com
G: $229, Zara at Zara.com
H: $85, BB Dakota at Piperlime.com
I: $325, Milly at Bloomingdales.com
J: $80, SR Squared by Sondra Roberts at Piperlime.com
-Annie Wazer
