Fashion Blog

Yes, I know it is still August, but come on, let’s stick a toe (literally) into fall fashion.

When items appearing in both the high and low(er) versions catch my eye, I know it’s going to be a trend. Of course there are tons of trends coming on for fall, but I wanted to get you all in early on this one: rain boots. No, not the little red ones you splashed through puddles with as a five-year-old (although puddle splashing is still allowed), no these are the Hunter version.

Founded in Scotland by American Henry Norris, this company has been supplying traditional British style Wellington boots to the public, not to mention the English Royal family, since 1856. This year, you can also find Hunter Wellies at J. Crew in not only the more traditional shades of black, navy and classic green, but in a shiny peony pink shade as well. Priced a reasonable $115.00 and mixed with Crew’s favorite cords, layered T’s and a trench, they will be a great purchase for the upcoming fall weather.

If you want to go high end, you may now pre-order the croc print version Hunter has made for Jimmy Choo from Saks. This version is priced at a more investment-level $395, but as a classic look paired with your skinny jean and a cashmere sweater, you are ready to go for years to come.

Or maybe branch out? Have you seen that now iconic pic of Kate Moss pairing her muddy Wellies with short shorts (or is it a mini) at the Glastonbury music festival? Better yet, do that even more English eccentric thing and pair your Wellie boots with an evening gown. Here in sunny California, this will be one way for us to cope with that El Nino winter they say were going to have.

I myself am going looking for some puddles this year. Hey, it’s free.

Photo info: boots from www.jcrew.com and www.saks.com. 

To keep in the spirit of last week’s international travel fashion inspiration (thank you for existing, Oktoberfest!) why not take a look at some other European styles? While the vintage shopping elite may be able to date a vintage dress to it’s exactly year and make, why not test out their discerning eye on some geography as well?

Okay, I’m going easy on you. Tartan Fashion Show? Scotland anyone? Here are some fun, sophisticated ways to wear a difficult fabric and not feel like you’re going to get it all stuck up in yo’ bagpipes:

                                                                      D&G Plaid Stretch Wool Dress

It may be a little bit Christmas-y, and made in Italy (How unauthentic!) but surprisingly, a lot of the best tartan dresses I found online were sold out! This is a popular trend, my friends. Get on it!

With the cold weather starting to work it’s way on to the weather channel, it’s time to consider what type of message you want to send with your winter coat. Why not try some fun pattern that works well with jeans or dressed up, like this?

                                                             Semantiks Square Plaid Jacket: $158

And don’t forget the rainboots, which will look great paired with some black tights and an oversized sweater:

                                                      Sperry Top-Sider Pelican Tall Rain Boot: $59.95

To top it off, let’s compare: Which country has a head covering more indicative of their cultural heritage?

1. Oktoberfest enlarged elf hat from last week, complete with beer n’ bratwurst?

2. Or, Scottish tammy, strip of plastic orange hair included?

Image Source: BBC.co.uk

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more plaid rain boots.
                                        Shop for more plaid jackets.

There’s nothing like falling asleep to the rumbling of a storm…but waking up to one, (especially when you’ve been too caught up in planning a job interview/career switch-a-roo/shopping spree/wedding to check the weather channel) is a nightmare. While I might not be able to give sound advice on the superstitions of white gowns and drenched boutonnieres, I will tell you one thing: plodding around in sweatpants and Grannie’s gardening clogs is not the answer. If you can’t change the weather, change what you wear!

Obviously, waterproof is key. For when first-impressions and poise really matter, wear your finest and cover up with some heavy duty protection, like the LL Bean H20FF DX Trench Coat:

Don’t forget to pair it with a pair of heavy duty, up to the knee rain boots and a large umbrella—you can always switch to the heels when you get on location, without soaking your dainty pumps in the muck and soiling your stockings before you get there.

Have something to look forward to. Rainy days, unbelievably, always seem to get people all depressed, and moody…why? Maybe if we all had a little fashion item that was only appropriate for unfair-weather conditions (for me, it’s totally my pair of polkadot wellies)….

…getting out the door wouldn’t be such a drag. This one of a kind, kick-ass Bloomingdale’s raincoat will never feel like you’re wearing a trash bag. The tailored fit with slightly ballooned skirt and high neck are chic, and keep you dry too!

Last but not least…An umbrella that is large enough to fit you and at least three shopping bags (or a friend, you pick) and will not break under heavy wind pressure is a MUST, repeat, MUST. While I’m usually in favor of function over form for this particular item, I was drawn to this fascinating piece of ingenuity, the Southern Plus Pink Ribbon umbrella. When the umbrella starts to get wet, the iconic pink ribbon appears on one of the panels!

What a way to stand out, and stand up for a great cause at the same time!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more women’s trench coats.
                                        Shop for more women’s rain boots.