First Look at a Flirty Fall

This Style File post comes with a mental health warning – only proceed past this point if you are prepared to think about long sleeves, tweed and cooler temps.

Yes, ladies, the stores are full of Fall fashions. Sadly, it’s my job to talk about the reality that in a few weeks our flip flop/tank top days will be over. 

The good news is that there are some wonderful wardrobe additions coming our way. Things will definitely get flirty and feminine with a salute to the 40s, 50s and ladylike looks of the 80s, all adapted to the practicalities of today – perfect for us multi-tasking moms.

Jacob and its sister store Jacob Connexion have done a great job capturing this season’s style.  Take a look at how black pants and a white shirt are brought bang up-to-date with the addition of a vest and tie. A salute to Katharine Hepburn. All these pieces would mix equally well with jeans (wide leg please – more below*) or a black or denim skirt. You may already have the basics in your closet – so all you need to do is add an accessory or two and voila!

Here’s a more casual look from Jacob Connexion. Note the layering (especially the little bit of lace on the cami.)  Your existing trench or a knee-length wool coat would work, but if you are in the market for a new item of outerwear, tweed and plaid (as pictured here) are where it’s at.

A key piece this season, especially for those working in corporate environments will be the pencil skirt. Once again, this Jacob image shows the way to wear it with a softer edge – add a cardi over a lacy cami. Cute!

Here are a few more key pieces to keep in mind once you get into Fall shopping mode.

* The Jeans of choice are wide-legged and in my mind, wonderful. Wider legs balance out the body and, are an adaptable item to dress up or down, especially in dark denim. The key is to purchase the leg width suited to your body proportions – tall moms can opt for the widest cuts and flares, while petites should opt for a trimmed down version that provides the same look with less fabric. I’ve selected this version from The Gap as one of the most universally flattering styles.

And, when it comes to perfect pants, these cuffed, wide-legs from Old Navy are tough to beat – note the almost invisible front pockets – so much more flattering than the hip-widening, slanted pockets found on so many styles.

As mentioned, feminine flair is everywhere, and no more so on tops and blouses. Add these to your jeans, pants and slimmed down skirts. Here’s a little white wonder from Suzy Shier…

Blouses with bows at the neck are back, but remind me too much of Margaret Thatcher.  The Gap has created a contemporary version …

When it comes to footwear, the modernized Mary Jane works with the styles mentioned above. Ideally, go for a chunky high-heel, like this version from Payless – flattering with skirts, pants and jeans.

And, here’s more of a chase-the-kids wedge version from The Shoe Company…

The final femine touch and to add a punch of pattern and colour, is a colourful canvas tote. Also, holds a myriad of mom essentiels.

Here’s a butterfly beauty from Old Navy and fancy floral from Payless.

Hope this first look at Fall style will make it less depressing to shed those Summer sandals.  Hey, there’s a ton of great fashion to look forward to!

Katie is host of the urbanmoms.ca Style File. As a public relations professional and a student of style and design, she has helped many retail and fashion clients promote their brands. She is mom to two boys (the best anti-shopping devices on the market) and now indulges her love of fashion by conducting wardrobe consultations, personal shopping expeditions and by participating in media interviews, providing advice on everything from wardrobe must-haves to accessories and footwear. Katie firmly believes that high style does not have come with a high price tag and her shopping philosophy is based on saving both time and money. For more style musings visit Katie at www.realcanadianstyle.blogspot.com