It’s that awkward time of year for your wardrobe again. It can feel like a balmy summer day, then almost like winter hours later once the sun goes down. In fall, transition is key when it comes to dressing, especially for those days when we are on the go from morning to midnight. Like last fall, we once again found ourselves staring blankly in our closets, thinking what did I even wear last season? We sought the advice of Lynn Conway and Sara Puppi, owners of Poor Little Rich Girl in Toronto, our favourite store for everything from killer conversation-evoking cocktail dresses to detailed blazers, fun shoes, denim and accessories. As helpful as always, the Poor Little Rich Girls offered tips on the must-haves this season and on dressing for those awkward weather days.
What are the biggest colour trends this season?
This season, blush is introduced as a fall colour, a departure from its typical spring presence. Blush pairs well with grey or burgundy, another colour we are seeing a lot of this season. Also big this fall is a bold emerald or hunter green. Love it or hate it, mustard has also made a big comeback.
Hottest accessories?
This season provides an opportunity to make a statement with a bit of a gothic feel with grommets, studs, skulls and spikes on shoes, belts, bracelets, cuffs and necklaces. Jewelled collars are also big, either as a part of the shirt or as an accessory on top of an otherwise plain shirt.
What else can we expect to see a lot of this season?
Leather pants are in full force this fall. This year, we are also seeing a Southwestern trend in terms of prints, colours and fringe, and the mini cowboy boot. For footwear, the platform is on its way out and we are seeing a return to the skinnier, pointy toe pump. As always, fur and faux fur are back, providing that sometimes needed added touch. The coloured jean trend from the summer is carried through to fall, with coloured denim in red, mustard and cobalt blue. Also big are grey and black floral or animal print denim. Another trend is peplum, something flattering for many women as it creates shape for those who don’t have any and creates an hourglass feel for top-heavy girls.
Any tips for dressing for warm days and cool nights?
It is officially time to ditch the sandals and open-toed shoes; accept it, the summer is over. For those Indian summer days, it may be too warm to wear knee-high boots. Opt for flats, short booties and a nice heel for the office. Bare legs are fine for the day, but you may want to stash a pair of tights in your bag for when the sun goes down. In general, of course, it is all about strategic layering and the ability to add to or take away from an outfit, depending on the weather. You can’t wear one outfit that will be comfortable on its own from morning to the late night cab ride home. This is where things like scarves, blazers, vests or leather jackets come to play.
If you could only purchase eight items for fall, what would they be?
Dark, Versatile Denim
A crisp, new pair of jeans is a fall must. Although boyfriend jeans and flares have come back in, they are more difficult to wear with appropriate shoes for fall. A practical staple is still a dark skinny that will offer versatility and transition well throughout the day, whether paired with chunky knits, boots, pumps or a detailed blazer.
Great Leather Jacket
As usual, the biggest fall essential is the beloved leather jacket. One of our current favourites is the Line leather moto jacket that can be made into a vest.
Blazer
A well-fitted blazer is a must for those days you want to skip the jacket – just pair it with a scarf. The blazer has recently been taken in a funkier direction, too, offering a more relaxed, weekend look rather than a more business feel.
Bold Blouse
A versatile must-have is an eye-catching silk blouse in a fun, poppy colour to pair with everything from denim to pencil skirts or floral leather leggings.
Leather Leggings
Leather and faux leather leggings offer a more chic and polished alternative to a regular legging; perfect for nights out. They work best with a blouse, fur vest, booties or night heels. Boys, you’re welcome.
Fur Vest
Real or faux, fur adds a warm luxurious touch to a day or night outfit when worn over a leather jacket, sweater or blouse.
Amazing Little Black Dress
Fall means the return to event season and nights out on the town – some with just moments notice. A perfect-fitting LBD is essential, especially with holiday season just around the corner.
Short Booties
A pair of booties are perfect for fall because they transition well from day to evening. One of our new favourite trends is the cap toe on booties.
Some parting advice from the PLRGs is to keep it relatively effortless and don’t try to take too many risks in one shot. Don’t be that girl who wears every trend at the same time; pair classics with trends. Check out Poor Little Rich Girl for first-hand advice from the PLRGs themselves in an experience we can only compare to shopping in your best friend’s closet.