When the air begins to smell of fallen leaves and the sunset creeps ever earlier, I know I’ve got about three weeks—a month tops—before I no longer want to venture outdoors. But the curtains of fall bequeath us a new stage of opportunity and, more importantly, a new style of dress. Somehow, an on-theme, temperature-appropriate ensemble reduces the harrowing nature of the season.
Picture this: it’s an overcast Sunday in the city. You’ve had a lazy morning but are finally ready to venture out for a cup of coffee and a romantic stroll in the park. The cold breeze and somber sky are less than enticing, but your closet provides the perfect armor. After careful determination, you decide on a fair isle knit—it’s fall, after all. Your favorite cherry red anorak provides both a pop of color and the necessary protection against the weather. Waterproof Chelsea boots on your feet, and, suddenly, you can't wait to go outside.
Classic Fall essentials are ripe for interpretation. Most stereotypically fall garments are actually quite simple, even utilitarian in nature. Classic shirting, everyday trousers, and puffer coats have a place in nearly every wardrobe. That’s where the magic comes in. Layer a wear-everywhere cardigan over a flannel button-down and dark-wash jeans and you're set for whatever the day may have in store—a dinner out east, a weekend at the lake, or anything in between.
When it comes to selecting pieces for a seasonal wardrobe, one must not forgo practicality—the temperature is notably dropping rapidly. As we temper that wish with a desire for simple layering styles, we’re turning to Lands' End to kindle our inspiration for unique ensembles for every seasonal occasion and destination. Read on to discover how we interpreted Lands' End's fall/winter collection into four distinct looks that each exude a unique sense of style—and prove the seasonal validity of every piece.
Mixing Shades of White
The combination of white and off-white is one of our favorite color pairings of the moment. Ivory denim with stark white cotton looks timeless in any season. In order to sit for hours upon a park bench (coffee in hand, of course), add an olive green overcoat and a brown belt (the latter won’t keep you warm so much as it will break up the simplicity of the look).
Subverting Uniform Staples
The key to prolonged outdoor adventures anywhere near the winter months? Layers. We’re thinking t-shirt beneath button down beneath cable knit sweater beneath jacket—these pieces are stylistically stronger together than they are apart. To finish off the look, add dark denim and weather proof boots to avoid city slush.
A New Take on Masculine Tropes
As you’re walking (read: sprinting) out the door for a cappuccino before your morning meeting, we suggest you go oversized in your ensemble—it provides a modern touch to functional staples and, most importantly, it’s comfortable. Shirt cuffs then hang loose beneath twice-rolled sleeves of striped sweater, adding a youthful effect. Wide-leg jeans are, of course, the only adequate pairing for this look.
Layering Seasonal Hues
When you’re out and about, there’s something about brown seasonal staples. Sumptuous corduroys. Tactile knits. When the leaves appear as if they’re rusting, it’s nice to dress in a similar hue to the autumn foliage. Layer in an off-white and a pop of red among the range of neutral hues to keep things interesting (and to mimic the colors of the fruit you’re grabbing). Then, add a navy parka for the extra chilly day.
