6 Essential Casual Pieces You Need This Fall

By Brian Maynor

 

 

As we move deeper into fall, the cooler mornings and evenings are hopefully going to extend longer into the days so it’s time to start pulling together your layers.

Every year there are several lists talking about the ‘must have’ items and they tend to be trendy and very style specific.  This year however, I was able to find a list that everyone can benefit from reading.

Check out these universally wearable and fashionable items that you need this fall and may already have in your closet:

1.    A statement coat.  Whether you choose a blazer or not, having a go-to signature piece that speaks volumes and elevates an otherwise boring outfit is always a good idea.  You can make a statement with the fabric, color, pattern or details, and remember small elements can speak just as loudly as large ones.

2.    A slim-fit bomber jacket.  We rarely need heavy coats here in the South, but a medium to lightweight jacket can be very handy.  Especially when you need to adjust your layers several times a day.  Another great quality of this jacket is that it works in a range of settings.  Wool, leather, suede and silk all bring a different vibe to your outfit, but instead of feeling the pressure to purchase them all take a moment to see which one works best for your style and invest a little more in just one.  You may be surprised how often you wear it, so quality is important to provide durability.

3.    A printed shirt.  This item has been popular for a few seasons, so you may need to refresh the one you have, or try a new print.  While you may know which shirt styles work best for you, it’s important to make sure the print works for you too.  Small, repetitive prints create the illusion of space, effectively making you look bigger, while larger prints can overpower you unless you have the size to match.  If you’re in doubt or not crazy about either option, you can play it safe and still pull off this look with pin dots or muted checks.

4.    A crew neck sweater.   These are perfect for those casual events where a jacket would be too formal, or just want to shake things up.  When you’re looking for the right one focus on the material and the fit.  Merino wool; cashmere and cashmere-blend are great fabrics that are lightweight and smart enough to stand alone.  The fit should be slim to keep you from looking boxy, but not so tight you have trouble wearing a shirt under it.  If you are trying to play up your shoulders, pick sweaters that have attached sleeves, where is if you want to downplay your shoulders look for sweaters with no shoulder seams.

5.    Dark washed denim.  Always a smart casual go-to, if you live in them like I do, now is the time to pick up a new pair.  Even the darkest wash starts to show signs of wear and fading over time and those ruin the look these jeans are trying to make.

6.    Leather accessories.  Whether it’s a leather bag, leather gloves or leather shoes this earthy fabric will both polish your look and keep it perfectly casual.  Simple leather sneakers work just as well with wool trousers as they do jeans, as do boots, and a sleek leather bag and gloves can transform the most basic of outfits.

Fall is my favorite time of year, and the perfect excuse to go shopping for new clothes.  The key to sticking to your budget and feeling great about your purchases is to have a game plan and know what you will actually wear.  These pieces are great for anyone who is unsure of what to get or looking to try something different.

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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