Falling into a new season means it’s time to put away summer shorts and tanks, and unpack those cozy, favorite sweaters and tried-and-true blue jeans. But when cycling into a new season, don’t forget it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh and refine your wardrobe. Styles are seamlessly transitioning from spring to fall, too, so why not curate a wardrobe that goes perfectly with this year's hottest trends? With the help of Debby Walker and Deb Popp from Alley Boutique, and Lori Avallone from Mainstream Boutique, upgrading your wardrobe and getting this year’s hottest pieces is easy.
So what should you be on the look out for this fall and winter? “Lots of nostalgia—things embellished with buttons and embroidery, hearts, fully decked-out pieces. You’re going to see a lot of originality, items that let you have your own personal flair,” says Debby. Think vintage pieces elevated with stylish new twists.
“Mocha Mousse is our color of the year, so you’re going to see tons of warm, earthy mocha colors,” Lori explains. And while all three style mavens agree that this year is all about the chocolates and browns, you can also expect some brilliant bursts of color. “You’re going to see some pops of red and mahogany,” which Deb says will be a perfect punch to your wardrobe amid all the earth tones. Yes, dreamy neutrals are the anchors of most outfits, but consider adding in some cool-girl color to pull everything together.
As for textures—mesh and lace remain the way to go. “These tops are still in, and we’re seeing lots of variations on them now, which add some fun to any outfit,” advises Lori, who has an assortment of options and styles in-store. Another fun texture that adds both warmth and flare? Crochet is definitely in. And we can’t forget animal prints this season! “Everyone needs a cheetah pant in their closet this year,” Lori promises.
So what’s the must-have staple we all absolutely can’t do without in our wardrobe this fall? Don’t sleep on jackets, ladies! “A jacket of any sort can change a whole outfit from day to night,” agree Debby and Deb. Whether it’s a heavy winter coat or a light jacket for the fall, this piece can transform a whole fit. And just because a jacket is functional doesn’t mean it can’t be fashionable, too.
So while you embrace those tried-and-true faves in the back of your closet, don’t forget to spice up your fall and winter fashion with some gorgeous new lewks.
Clothing and accessories provided by Mainstream Boutique (MB) and Alley Boutique (AB), with additional pieces by Dale Robertson Jewelry (DRJ). Featuring models Rahma R. and Courtney L. from Heyman Talent. Beauty by Exquisite Design Salon and Spa, with makeup, hair, and skincare by Jeannie, Isabella, Carrie, and Jurnee. Shot on location at The 1859.
Facebook.com/MainstreamCincinnati
AlleyBoutique.com
DaleRobertsonJewelry.com
Daisies & Denim (also in table of contents)
AB (left): Sadie & Sage embroidered cable-knit daisy sweater, $60 | Sanctuary district column ankle jean in chalk, $99 | Enewton: cross charm necklace, $148; gold hoop earrings, $118; admire gold bracelets, $98; bead bracelet, $95, dignity joy bracelet, $88; dignity gratitude bracelet, $88 | Hammitt VIP Mobile clutch, $275
MB (right): Ruched lined mesh tank top, $52 | Mac and Me long-sleeve denim jacket with wide cuff, $98 | Mac and Me high-rise wide-leg denim with wide cuff, $88 | India agate necklace, $29 | gold beaded earrings, $22
DRJ: Sterling silver aquamarine flower ring with white topaz accents, $270
Porch Perfect
MB (left): Long-sleeve crochet multi-stripe cardigan sweater, $104 | Mac and Me crop flare denim with grinded hem, $88 | V-neck/scoop neck reversible tank in chocolate, $32 | locally made leather earrings from BellaBoo: Peace Signs, $26 | Mac and Me silver paperclip chain, $24
DRJ: Sterling silver 18K twisted cable bangle with hammered gold endcaps, $300; sterling silver citrine and white topaz ring, $120
AB (right): Clara Sun Woo: ultra-soft faux cashmere, draped V-neck ruched sweater, $98; soft rayon knit, loose straight-leg pants with pockets in taupe, $90 | Tat2 Designs: gold Enzo bangle, $228; gold Olena coin necklace, $332 | Matisse fawn suede slip-on, $120
Night Life (also on the cover)
MB (left): Button-front sweater vest, $48 | high-rise ankle flare denim in paprika, $99 | scallop-wrapped hoop earring, $48 | bracelet stack of 5, $8/each
AB (right): Steve Madden bronze snake print mesh skirt with handkerchief hem, $59 | Sanctuary black mesh ruched tee, $59 | Mariana: gem bracelet, $173; gem necklace, $104; dangle earrings, $108 | Matisse fawn suede slip-on, $120 | Hammitt black VIP satchel, $445
On Fire
AB (left): Six/Fifty black knit blazer with stone-washed denim insert, $160 | Karen Kane faux suede pant in latte, $128 | Nikibiki black basic tee, $25 | Spartina: earrings, $30; drop link charm necklace, $78
MB (right): Washed plaid shirt dress, $76 | locally made wood and leather earrings from BellaBoo: Western Drop, $26
DRJ: Sterling silver citrine white topaz pendant necklace, $120
Color Me Fab
AB (left): Pink Pineapple American flag sweater, $140 | Flying Monkey jeans, $70 | French Kande: petit birthstone bracelet, $159; birthstone necklace, $121, birthstone earrings, $154; 5-stone thin ring, $99 | Steve Madden red cowboy boots, $179 | Coco + Carmen red studded crossbody, $42
MB (right): Stripe wide-cuff contrast collar button-down shirt, $59 | V-neck/scoop neck reversible tank in white, $32 | non-skinny skinny denim, $119 | snake post earrings, $54
Cat-tastic Uno
MB: Crewneck long-sleeve color block sweater, $78 | washed leopard print pant, $72 | Mac and Me vintage gold modern hoop earring, $18
AB: Sorel Ona Ave low sneaker in sea salt bleached ceramic, $95
DRJ: Sterling silver citrine white topaz cuff, $249; sterling silver 18K twisted cable with onyx, $300; sterling silver naga bar bracelet with pave black spinel, $360; sterling silver red corundum and white topaz ring, $120
Cat-tastic Dos
AB: Brooklyn Isles: ultra-soft black pull-on pant, $50; mesh texture jacket, $94 | Leo & Ugo cheetah tee, $120 | Hoo Hoops in pink, $34