Fall Essentials That You Can Actually Wear All Week

By Brian Maynor

From ‘The Limited’s Scandal Collection’ to ‘The New Look of Banana Republic’ if your email is like mine it’s being inundated with notices of Fall’s new looks, layers and can’t miss options, but how many of them are practical?

From quilted leather micro-mini skirts and ankle pants and sneakers without socks ads will promote just about anything as universal wear.  While these looks are great for the weekend, could you really wear them to work?  Here are four items you can feel comfortable wearing any day of the week and style very differently so they are appropriate for each:

 

1.   Feely, Oversized Sweater.  Thick textured pieces are huge for fall, especially when it comes to sweaters.  From mohair to nubby and everything in between shake up your typical thin, smooth wool, cotton and cashmere options with something more fun and substantial.

Along with the hand and weight of the sweater, also trending is a more relaxed, roomier cut.  The bulk and shape of these sweaters preclude them from being layered under jackets and blazers, but make them ideal to complete your look as an outerwear piece.

 

2.   Throw-and-Go Dresses.   The ladies can attest that these are always a practical choice, but sometimes limited in selection.  Not this year.  Sweater dresses, sheath dresses with large pockets and A-line fit-and-flare dresses are three of the most popular options available.  Plus with the array of colors, prints and patterns there will be endless variations from which to choose.  Whether you go with grey, bold ‘rave’ prints, color blocked, patterned or printed stores will be crammed full of dresses in all shapes and sizes so you can find the one that’s just right for you.

 

3.   The New 3-Button Blazer.  Rest assured these are not the same long 3-button blazers from the 90s that came all the way down to your thigh.  Talk about throwing off your proportions.  Very few people were tall enough to make that look work.  Luckily the new 3-buttom blazers have a more traditional cut and end just above your hip, the same point as your one and two-button options.

Another great revamp to the new design is the depth of the stance.  In the past the third button was so high it closed just under your collarbone and felt very restrictive.  The new blazers have a range of stances from high to low, which is perfect for those of us who want to elongate our torso and follow this trend.  We don’t have to choose one over the other.

 

4.   Ankle Boots.  Well established as the shoe of the season, boots come in all shapes and sizes, but this year the focus will be on ankle boots or Chelsea boots as they are called for men.  It’s a quick, easy change that really amps up the global style of your outfit.  It doesn’t matter if you choose a block heel or a stiletto these boots are as practical as they are stylish and will edge up your dresses, skirts, pants and suits no matter what day you wear them.

 

Sifting through the barrage of new fashion offerings can be frustrating, especially when everything item is touted as versatile, work appropriate and the only item you need for the perfect wardrobe, but don’t get overwhelmed.  Take a breath and take it slow.  Adding one new outfit at a time is not a bad way to go, especially if you could wear it any day of the week.

 

 

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 from you and what you see in the workplace.  Send your questions, comments and pet peeves 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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