Uncategorized
TRUST ME…..YOU’LL LOVE THIS: novelty basics
“Novelty basics” may sound like an oxymoron – but it is a great way to approach updating your “look” for a new season and maximizing your investment.
I love the super practicality of this ponte coat, married with feminine, elegant, unexpected ruffling details. A perfect example of a “novelty basic.”
While I maintain a tightly edited closet, there are four important essentials that I address at the beginning of each season: outerwear (coat/jacket/rainwear depending on the season), handbag, scarf/wrap and sunglasses. These items are usually considered “staples” in one’s repertoire and where the tendency is to play it safe, neutral and on the practical side. But this is where I choose to embrace a trend, make a statement with color, or splurge on something really spectacular since I know it will see a lot of wear.
Think about it. Regardless of what you have on, if you top it with a great coat or jacket accessorized with an interesting handbag, a beautiful scarf and a chic pair of sunglasses, you’ll look glamorous and pulled together without even trying! Fashion should be fun, and where better to find it than in something you reach for every single day?!
OUTERWEAR
This plaid lighter-than-air puffer jacket is a fun nod to two of this season’s biggest trends: plaid and this flattering shade of curry.
I love coats, and am always on the lookout for fabulous outerwear that not only makes a statement, but that suits our climate. Given our fickle weather, I prefer cold weather options that are lighter in weight and that may be layered over a sweater or topped with a gorgeous shawl for added warmth if necessary. We have some knockouts in the shop this season, including several stunning alternatives to “a basic black coat” – any of which would be great with jeans or a cocktail dress and every outing in between. I am also loving our mustard plaid puffer that speaks to color and pattern trends this Fall – such a fun piece! – and it feels amazing on! From cashmere to mohair to velvets to techno, our outerwear options run the gamut with plenty of novelty options.
HANDBAG
Marian Paquette Italian silk velvet bag. Is it obvious that I really love these bags?!
The handbag collection that has wowed me the past two Falls is from Marian Paquette, and this may be my year to splurge; with pattern and clear intense color both trending, her collection is right on the mark. Each couture handbag is made by hand in California from start to finish. Using unique designer fabrics, these bags are constructed with extreme attention to detail – inside and out. Some are one-of-a-kind and made from reclaimed fabrics, often times accessorized with carefully selected rare chains or vintage embellishments sourced from Marian’s travels. This is glamorous functionality as it best!
SCARF/WRAP
Of all the items in my closet, scarves are probably the most loved, most worn and most important accessories in my wardrobe. When I travel, I pack head-to-toe monochromatic ensembles – black and/or white depending on the time of year – and a suitcase full of scarves! I try to add one spectacular scarf to my wardrobe each season – something that speaks to a current trend or color of the moment – or perhaps it just spoke to me! Because of my scarf passion, we always have great scarf options available in the shop every season – in a range of price points. Of particular note this season: Sabina Savage (this season, always and forever! – Sabina’s hand drawn sketches are brought to life in her factory in Como, Italy – eye-catching, exquisite design and workmanship); KAS Cashmere in both weights and sizes – for their exquisite color and wearability; and Nadia Bevegni’s one-of-a-kind handmade silk and felted wool creations that are truly works of art. If you are looking for a special scarf this season, join us for our Sabina Savage Trunk Show on Nov 1-2, and Nadia Bevegni on Nov 8-9!
I live in scarves and usually add one statement scarf to my collection each season. Especially love this gorgeous Pashmina wrap from our friends at Matta- amazing color, perfect weight, and the color is so compatible with the Marian Paquette velvet bag.
SUNGLASSES
I love it when fashion is used as a force for good, and we are thrilled to bring you a chic new eyewear option that is not only super fashionable but has a charitable heart. DIFF eyewear is designed in a studio in Southern California where each pair of frames is hand-cut from a single piece of acetate, making them more comfortable and flexible than lesser quality injection-molded frames. For every pair of glasses sold, DIFF helps provide the gift of sight to someone in need, having donated over 1,000,000 pairs of reading glasses to individuals in need around the world. They have become the choice eyewear for today’s most iconic celebrities and influencers giving way to exciting collaborative designs projects. Cat-eyes to Aviators – instantly update your look!
So step up your staples! Trust me…….add a touch of novelty to your basics and see how fun everyday dressing can be!
