What not to wear this fall season

Autumn is once again displaying her brilliant colors this October. Naturally, we seek comfort and warmth as temperatures fall.

If you’re like most people, you cast a critical eye at your wardrobe as the seasons change to find items suited to cooler days and nights.

Think bulky sweaters, plush scarves and soft, heat-retaining fabrics. 

As you reach for those boots and say goodbye to flip flops, let’s take a look at a few fashion choices to avoid this season.

I don’t know about you but anything that resembles sleepwear in public is out.

Par exemple, skip the baggy, plaid, fleece loungewear for that grocery store run. And fluffy slippers just to pop in for milk or bread, a definite no.

Ask yourself, would you feel comfortable running into your boss in your pajamas? Tell your five-year old self, it was okay then, but not now.

If your dress looks like a satin slip that should be worn under a dress instead of as a dress, that’s a hard no. Clothing that exposes your underwear: only if you’re modeling for Victoria’s Secret. Otherwise, reserve intimate apparel for your sweetie.

Hoddies, for the office or errands, a fashion faux pa. And men, I’d say a pulled-up hoodie is a no unless you’re planning a bank heist. Add scrubs and crocs to the not-so-nice list for running around town. If you wore them at work, they aren’t clean enough for public use.

Now for civilized dressing this fall…when the weather changes, and that cold wind starts to blow, turn to fabrics that retain warmth: soft suedes, buttery leathers, lambskin, shearling, wool and cashmere.

Layering is the smartest way to stay warm while still looking good. Cotton or silk first then wool, cashmere or suede on top.

Think accessories to finish a look: the right belt or bag, boots or scarf, can pull almost any outfit together. Play with color as your organizing element. Mix denim with browns: a denim vest, dark brown jeans under a chocolate brown shearling above-the-knee coat and chestnut brown leather belt and gloves.

Or combine textures: an oatmeal-colored open weave cotton sweater under a black suede jacket and black denim midi skirt. Accessorize with dark brown boots and hobo bag.  

Choose fabrics that are soft to the touch and tightly knit. Cashmere is about the warmest fabric around. Some people prefer angora but I find it feels rough to the skin.  

If you’re sensitive to wool, try a soft merino, lamb’s wool or silk and wool combination. I like cashmere for scarves and shawls too: nothing’s warmer. Let’s not forget the soft feel of velvet.

A bulky cotton scarf is a good investment, if you prefer texture. While not quite as warm as wool, adding bulk can compensate for its slightly more porous weave.

If you wear fur, rabbit or fox as a collar or a headband, is pure luxury. Both have stunning natural color variations that only furs can offer. Whatever you’re wearing this season, remember, you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort.

Need styling advice? Email me at info@velvetjournal.com for a one hour complementary styling session.