Apple Picking
Jessica Wagner
Fall Outerwear
One of the things I love about living in the Mid-West is that you get to experience the changing seasons. Would I live someplace that’s a balmy 70 degrees year round? Yes. Yes, I would (this is coming from a true summer girl who is perpetually cold) but then I wouldn’t get to wear some of my absolute favorite wardrobe pieces. Cuddly coats and knit hats.
Chilly weather is peaking its pretty little face here in the morning fog and dew. Last week we were in the low 50s and I had to turn the heat on to keep my fingers functioning. With the sun setting a little earlier every night, evenings and mornings are for cozy sweaters, warm hats, and even knee-high socks, but building a versatile fall wardrobe starts with the most important layer, your outer protective covering.
Layering up with a cute comfy coat is an excellent way to enjoy the fresh air. While leather and denim jackets, vests and ponchos are great options; they aren’t as heavy or weatherproof. A practical jacket for this time of year is going to be a bit more substantial, and offer more protection if you want it to transition through to winter.
When searching for that perfect match make sure to choose something warm, comfortable, soft and stylish. A good fit is everything. You don’t want to feel frumpy. I fell in love with this classic toggle-style coat for it’s preppy plaid trim and cozy hood. It’s warm without being too heavy, looks great with a skirt or jeans and the silhouette is fitted and flattering. Plus I adore the camel color, which is a versatile neutral.
Funny enough, it was actually a really warm evening when we visited MacQueens Apple Orchid Thursday night. Like 80! Ha. If anything it just shows you have to be prepared this time of year for the unpredictable weather. It’s a great reason to keep a few summer dresses on hand. This Madewell rustic red gingham dress is designed to hang like your favorite tee. It even has a little chest pocket and rolled short sleeves. This would be so easy to layer with a grey turtleneck underneath as the cooler months keep approaching.
Besides keeping a few transitional dresses on hand, I’ve been pulling out my softest scarves, lightweight long sleeves and snug boots. Like any true Mid-West girl, I have learned a few tricks to beat the unpredictable weather. We all know layering up, is key to keeping comfortable when the air turns crisp (and then hot!)
Besides a great coat, a snuggly hat is good to keep on hand. I love thick cable knits in black or cream for easy coordinating. Plus, hats are a great way to retain body heat for you freeze babies like me. (It’s science.) Find a cute ribbed one with a little pom on top, or a slouchy beanie goes with everything.
Now grab your coat and hat dah-ling and you are set for an afternoon of perfectly picked apples and pumpkins galore.
Outfit Details:
Dress: Madewell Filmscore Short-Sleeve Gingham Check Hat: Forever 21 Cable Knit Beanie Jacket: Thread & Supply Hooded Toggle Coat Socks: Old, (similar here) Boots: Old Necklace: Stella & Dot On the Mark Bracelet: Arm Candy Watch Michael Kors: Sunglasses: Karen Walker Super Duper Strength Lips: Stila Beso Blanket: Anthropologie