Street Festivals – Fun, Fashion & Function
September 6, 2013
By Brian Maynor
September 6, 2013
Now that September is here the season of street fairs and festivals can begin. They are one of my favorite parts of fall. The crisp mornings and brisk evenings with hot afternoons can make deciding what to wear difficult, but the food, fun and music make them so worth it.
Here are two inspiration outfits that embody a few tips and tricks I’ve picked up over the year when navigating a street fair.
1. Layers. Planning to spend a few hours at any outdoor festival and you will need at least one removable layer. The mornings can be quite cool, but we are still in the South and it is only September, so the days are going to warm up rather quickly and stay pretty hot. Luckily we now have the benefit of cooler evenings so that morning layer will come in handy as your pick up your last memento of the day and head home.
Cardigans are always a great choice and chunky ones add texture and depth to your outfit. Plus it gives your smooth, thin office ones a break. This yellow is a perfect fall color and the weave is open so even though it is a thicker yarn air can still circulate through it.
2. Chinos and Jeans. Two ‘must haves’ for every fall wardrobe. They are interchangeable items that set very different tones for your outfit. These rust-colored chinos pair beautifully with a great t-shirt and denim shirt and show some personality and creativity at the same time.
Light jeans are ideal for casual day events. They keep your outfit grounded when pulling off crossover tops. With a straight-cut or boyfriend jean you also have the option of rolling up the legs over your ankles to add another personal touch and style point.
3. Walking Shoes. Whether you are walking on streets, sidewalks or in parking lots spending hours pounding the pavement, literally, will take its toll on your feet. Make sure you choose a shoe that is broken-in and provides support. Note that neither one of these outfits incorporates a tennis shoe or other fashion sneaker.
Flats are definitely recommended and there come in all kinds of cute, fashionable options. Lace-ups are going to be huge this fall and a great alternative to traditional flats. Since it is still early to break out the boots these give your outfit a touch of fall.
4. Shoulder bags. Walking around all day will be a workout in itself, why add a huge tote or purse to the mix. Opt for a thin cross-body bag. It is large enough to carry the essential items for the day and hold a cardigan or shirt without adding pounds to your shoulders.
Whether the focus is culture, food or music festivals and street fairs are a sure signs of fall family fun. With these outfits and tips you can stay as long as you want and immerse yourself in the festivities.
Click on the images below to find out more about the outfit.
Click on the images below to find out more about the outfit.
I am always curious to hear about your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and help make your work wardrobe pull double duty. Email your questions, quandaries and conundrums 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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