Fall is officially in the air here in Chicago! I’ll never be ready to say goodbye to a Chicago summer, but I have to admit our falls are pretty amazing. And there’s nothing better than fall fashion.
September is usually gorgeous here (I suppose it’s technically still summer until the 21st - so it makes sense) so I’m starting to think about light layers, shoes that aren’t flip flops, and fall colors and textures.
I’ve put together a mood board of what can be considered 17 wishlist items or 17 tools I plan to use in September. Use them how it suits you best!
ABARN JACKET: I have an old (13 years old) Barbour jacket that doesn’t fit anymore but I love that look. I’m thinking about replacing it…finally. It’s a classic!
The one in the photo is Shaina Mote. This LL Bean one is always good. And Everlane has one that’s currently 20% off.
A JEWEL TONED BUTTON UP: Alex Mill’s Jo Shirt is my favorite button up and I’m really loving it in this deep red shade to freshen up my fall wardrobe. They also have a blue and green that are lovely too.
A REALLY GOOD PAIR OF BOOT CUT JEANS: I feel like I have the wide leg, barrel jeans covered. But what’s missing for me is a bootcut. I’ve tried these on and I know they are really good. Another option for a little less would be these.
FLATS: Notice. I didn’t say loafers even though the ones pictured are technically loafers. These look more like if loafers and slippers had a baby, and I feel like these could be the answer I’ve been looking for. I love them in Oxblood, but Black is a close second.
MIEL: The new ABBY ALLEY Soirée & Mini Soirées in Miel are to die for. They are such a perfect fall tone and work with jeans and a tee or to take to a fall wedding.
V-NECK SWEATER: I love a v-neck sweater to transition to fall with. It shows a little skin, which means it’s not super cold yet, but you still want to be cozy. I have and am loving the one pictured above from Mirth. This one is also really lovely.
A FALL CARRYALL: A great fall bag really puts the cherry on top of your outfit. I’m putting 7 & 9 in the same category here. I don’t think you need both. I have both because I designed them, and you’re welcome to get both, but for the most part they serve the same purpose. Texture, color, functionality. If you need to carry a laptop, get the Tote Bag. There’s a pocket for it. If you like the option to wear it across your body get the Bucket Bag. The strap is adjustable.
SNEAKERS: I don’t know why, but I am really into sneakers right now. Like more than fall boots. I love the ones pictured from Anonymous Copenhagen. Freda Salvador has some cute ones too. You can always get Adidas Sambas, but why not be different?
See 7 :)
OLIVE PANTS: Having some non-denim options in the fall is key for me. I wear dresses a lot over the summer, but not as much in the fall/winter. Although I am very close to pulling the trigger on this dress. But I digress. There are so many good options for olive pants right now. The ones pictured are the Ralph Lauren Ricky Pants that I have and love. Nili Lotan has some good ones, as does Citizens of Humanity, as does Alex Mill. Slightly different styles, shades of green, and prices. Choose your own adventure!
OVERSIZED OUTERWEAR: Holy smokes, when I saw this photo on Dissh’s website, I was stopped. I love it. But I also love this suede one too. And Preservation has some really good vintage options.
A LITTLE SPARKLE: I haven’t been wearing a lot of jewelry lately, but I have been thinking about wearing a couple dainty (fine-ish jewelry) necklaces again. It might be counterintuitive, but I actually love a little sparkle under a button up or peaking out under a sweater. The one pictured is from Dorsey and I think would be great on its own or layered.
TRANSITIONAL TOP: I’m actually wearing this one as I type this. This is sort of along the same lines as #6 in terms of showing a little skin. This is a cotton sweater - so cotton is a little cooler than wool/cashmere and it’s short sleeved. Perfect for those in-between days.
PERFECT WHITE TEE: Time to put away the tank tops and pull out my tee shirts. Well - both of my white tee shirts have stains on them. Time for a refresh. The one pictured is from Ozma and I love the texture, but I can’t go wrong with this one either…I have it in black and it’s great.
FLANNEL: Well, I never thought I’d say this, but I’m kind of here for flannel being back. Jamie Haller has a great option, though it’s pricey. Ralph Lauren, Sezane, and Frank & Eileen all have more affordable options. Take a look at the sizing though - if you want that JH oversized look, you may need to size up.
A SLING BAG: Everyone needs a Sling Bag. It’s that simple. A wardrobe staple for all seasons. And on 9/9 we’re dropping all the amazing fall textures and colors.
AN ALL PURPOSE SWEATER: This La Ligne sweater is one of those sweaters you’ll have for years. The kind you just put on with jeans and just feel great. There are sooo many good colors. The tan, black, and cornflower are calling my name.
After putting this together, I’m pretty pumped about getting dressed this fall!
4 Days in Naples
I thought I’d give paid subscribers a little extra this week and share about a recent trip!
