It’s time for our my monthly Signature Style Series with my pals Sarah and Kim. Let’s talk about Fall Wardrobe Items I am Coveting Now.
The older I get the more I appreciate a wardrobe made up of solid basics with interesting accessories. I find I most often prefer texture over pattern. I love a Statement Jacket or Coat, but I like pairing it with a column of color. I am only 5’4, so that is the only way I can pull off a Statement piece. I need to keep a simple base so that the look doesn’t overwhelm me. I like a pop of color here and there, but a lot of pattern doesn’t really appeal to me personally. I love it on others, I just don’t think I can carry it off.
I am really loving all of the camels I am seeing this year. Camel is great with black, ivory, and denim. It probably is not my best color but I love its versatility.
ARTEMIS SMOKING SHOES
I know I am a bit obsessed, but I wear mine all the time, especially in the fall and winter here. I am coveting a neutral pair that I can wear with jeans, camel etc. This pair is on my list, but I know they are getting a new shipment soon.
BROWN SUEDE BOOTIES
I don’t have a lot of options when it comes to shoes and boots (dreaded bunion). I have had wonderful luck with Gentle Souls. I own the Emma boots and the booties in two colors. I can wear them all day long pain-free. According to the reviews, this boot also works for bunions. They are on my wish list. I like these because they have a very small heel. I probably could not wear these all day long but I think they would be fine for a few hours or an evening out.
CAMEL COAT
I have a couple of (ancient) black coats from J-Crew (love the quality of their coats for the money) that I don’t wear very often because it never got very cold in Monterey County. It gets a little chillier down here so I have a Camel coat on my radar. This one from Annie Bing is the best that I have spotted (at least under $1000K) that is a blend of cashmere and wool (many of the pricier ones have polyester in them). I think this style is timeless and worth the splurge if you are on the hunt for one. FYI TJ Maxx has a good looking all wool& cashmere one at a great price here.
This J Crew boiled wool version might be more suitable for me. I haven’t decided.
BLACK SLING BAG
I do not own a (fanny pack), or do we call them belt bags or slings?. I love the fact that one’s arms can be free. I won’t be wearing mine around my waist. I am coveting something in either black leather or quilted like this MZ Wallace sling. They also have a larger version that would be nice for travel. I will link all at the bottom of the post.
The leather ones that I have my eye on, the Rag and Bone Commuter Lambskin (of course the priciest), the Longchamp LeFoulanne, and the coach outlet for a great price.
WOVEN OR TEXTURAL BROWN SHOULDER OR TOTE BAG
I do not own a dark brown bag. I have several on my radar, but I am looking for something affordable. I like the Dooney Barlow (it is on sale). I am not a big fan of double handles or logos on bags, but these handles can be tucked in. At least the logo is small and I think you can switch sides. Their bags are very well made and well worth the money.
I also love the Dragon Fusion tote. It is less preppy and more casual and textural.
LEOPARD CROSSBODY BAG
I am also on the hunt for a leopard crossbody bag that doesn’t cost a small fortune. I like these Gigi New York options. Both of these bags have “skinny” straps in my opinion. They do have clip-on straps. I would replace with a sturdier wider strap like these that you can find on Etsy. You can also search eBay, Poshmark, and Etsy for some of the older J-Crew versions.
MIDI SWEATER DRESS
I love the sweater dresses I am seeing this season. I think they would be great with boots or booties and a fun jacket. I love these two. The one on the left is from Rag and Bone and the one on the right is from Theory. They are both pricey but H&M has a cute one at a much better price point here. All are linked at the bottom under SHOP THE POST
RIDING BOOTS
Last but certainly not least, I am on the hunt for a riding boot that will accommodate my bunion. As you may recall, most of my boots (we think) ended up at the Goodwill during our previous move. I had a comfortable pair of La Canadienne riding boots that were ancient. The only possibility I have seen so far is the Vince Carly. The footbed looks like it is wider than most and the leather is soft. They do not have a zipper which worries me. What I really need is a wide width, but when one gets a wide width one gets a wide calf which doesn’t work for me. Any suggestions? I am searching eBay for a pair that is already broken in. You might enjoy Pop Sugar’s article on the Best Riding Boots here, or this article on Riding Boots in Who What Wear.
SHOP THE POST
As you can see my list is heavy on accessories. I don’t really need clothes. I always feel like the accessories make the outfit. Thank you for reading about my Fall Wardrobe Items I am Coveting Now. That’s it for my Fall wishlist. I always scour Ebay and Etsy for vintage scarves and accessories. Let’s pop over and visit Kim and Sarah. I know they will have some great ideas. This week will be heavy on fashion. I am going to try and squeeze in my fall home decor tour either Friday or Monday. This is a busy blogging month!
SARAH LONDON STYLE
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA STYLE
Gorgeous camel! OMG – that Dragon Fusion tote, and the leopard crossbodies. Basics and accessories – perfect!
Hi Barb
I am loving that dragon Fusion bag as well. I picked up a leopard crossbody on Ebay!
Cindy! I need nothing and want everything. I knew it was dangerous to open your post. Fall is my favorite season for everything not the least of which is fashion. I think it reminds me of the excitement of back-to-school clothes … never outgrow it. Camel is a classic and I adore it … I remember my first camel coat and the big deal my mom made about it. Paired with black and animal print … sensational. Love all the bags, the boots and sweater dresses. My favorite kind of dress although I’m not sure my mid-section is cooperating anymore. Better lay off the brownies so I can swan around in a sweater dress this fall. If all else fails I’ll leave my camel coat on and no one will be the wiser. As for fanny packs, belt bags, slings … whatever we are calling them. I’m on the fence … but your choices here are pushing me to the yes side. Fall fashion … so good! xo
I am mourning your boot loss. I missed that.
But I feel like I need that sweater dress….I might need a corset too though…
I also love camel – but it doesn’t love me. I think you can get away with it, cause you have those big brown eyes… I do have a beautiful Theory camel cashmere coat with black leather cuffs and collar, that Chip gave me.
I have 4328 coats, and 2694 scarves so I am trying to wear what I have and not buy more. But the closet rack broke, due to the weight. The struggle is real.
I have always done really well with J Crew coats. My favorite is the cocoon coat from them. And when I sold Etcetera, I kept a few beautiful coats from then.
I’m shopping for a replacement pair of black booties. I’ll be checking out some of your recommendations. As always, I love your outfits that you pull together. Thanks for your arduous work where your post details provide us so great and helpful.
Karen B.
A little late but I just sent for Sundance black and natural cardigan in small..hope it fits. Wool with a soft inside. I live in Santa Fe but have never been tempted to buy something like this. Do not want my house of my look to be too much “SF style.”
Yay, I love a fashion-heavy week! I just saw some very reasonably priced, classic camel coats at TJ Maxx. In Southern CA I see no need to buy a pricey coat that will see little use. I’m curious, is a shorter, swing coat still “fashion relevant “? I have a camel one from years ago.
Love your style choices Cindy. . I would wear all of the above! Just swap out the black for another shade of tan! Although you do have me rethinking this 🤔 Just love your style 😍
I’ve been loving my new MZWallace bag while traveling, especially since it weighs almost nothing until you add things to it. There are also some nice features, like an attached/secured inner pouch, which holds my wallet safely. I felt it was a splurge to use just for travel, but I give it a big thumbs up!
Cindy I love this post and so many beautiful pieces. You are amazing at accessories and that is why you are always so well dressed. I could learn from you and have less clothes, more accessories!! The camel coat is gorgeous and probably worth the splurge.. Love Anine Bing. For camel coats, I also love Emerson Fry and own four of their coats. I bought a camel one last year. I try to buy one a year..They are all small batch and made in U.S. too. You might investigate them.. The purse….Love the woven one especially!! And the suede boots are gorgeous…Have you tried Paul Green boots at all? I have a pair and people do love the comfort..Not as pretty as those though. I have to dig out my riding boots. Two years ago I almost gave them away, and last year I wore them so much.. Goes to show, buy good things and hold onto them.. and get cool accessories like you!!
Always fun doing this with you.
xoxo Kim
Oh you must get one of those sweater dresses! I think the light ones would be gorgeous with your hair..Of course you could layer the other a bunch..
Hi Kim
I have featured Emerson Fry coats (I love your leopard one) several times in my outfits of the week, but I personally do not own one. I do always check them out!! I cannot wear Paul Green boots they are too narrow in the toe box for me. I know so many people love them! My riding boots ended up at the Goodwill by accident.
I’m going to Keeneland racetrack this weekend and thought I’m going to peruse Cindy’s blog and get some outfit ideas. Your post is timely! Pulling out my camel jacket and some basic black. I always love your looks and shoe tips are spot on!!
Hi Carol
I am so happy to hear that! Have fun!
Lots of great basics .Can’t go wrong with camel. Love the ANINE BING( not Annie Bling) coat.
Kameels
Hi Kameela
Thank you so much I know it is Annie Bing, but I must have hit the L. Thank you for telling me. Auto correct does not know when we misspell names, unfortunately!
Thanks again, Cindy
No problem Cindy. Auto corect has a mind of its own. Just thought that if someone reading the post started to look for Annie Bling they could be disappointed😀