Remember that “so fresh and so clean” feeling when you were a kid, getting brand new clothes every year around this time before heading back to school? I still remember that mid-‘80s summer when I got my first parachute pants (16 zippers!) and matching black members only jacket. We may not be as Michael Jackson “bad” these days, but it’s still a blast getting new threads as the seasons change. Here are a few of our family’s 2015 Fall Fashion favorites:
Rover Pant from TOAD & CO
MEN’S DRESSY CASUAL
In the last year I’ve gone from never having attended a conference to being a featured speaker at six of them. so I’m always looking for relaxed professional clothes that travel well. The Rover Pant from TOAD & CO (toadandCo.com) offers a perfect balance between comfort and decorum. They feel just as cozy as your favorite cotton khakis, but the lightweight chinos’ densely woven polyester makes them durable quick-drying and wrinkle-free.
Esquire Shirt & Tie Collection from MENS WEARHOUSE
I often pair those with a stylish lime green dress shirt and complementary tie from the Esquire Shirt & Tie Collection (MensWearhouse.com). With its slim fit, spread collar and wrinkle-free cotton fabric, it’s worry-free elegance at an affordable price.
Pale Sky Ace Shirt from IBEX
MEN’S SPORTY CASUAL
When I’m not at a conference, my general fashion sense falls somewhere between rugged outdoorsman and sporty urbanite. The Pale Sky Ace Shirt from IBEX (shop.Ibex.com) is perfect for Atlanta’s early autumn warmth, with natural, sustainable 18.5 micron new Zealand merino wool that makes it one of the most comfortable shirts I’ve ever owned.
Men’s Explorer ECO Woven Short Sleeve Shirt from BERGHAUS
I’m also a big fan of the new ECO Woven Collection from BERGHAUS (usa.berghaus. com), which blends button-down style with western influences and anti-microbial material for odor protection. The line is dyed with the company’s eco-friendly Colourkind system, which uses 89% less water and 60% less Co2 than traditional manufacturing techniques.
Wrap Skirt from DSENYO
WOMEN’S SKIRTS & DRESSES
DSENYO (dsenyo.com) is another great clothing company with a sustainable, ethical philosophy. Their intensely colorful Women’s Wrap Skirts are fashioned from fabulous traditional African prints by the Vipambi Woman’s Group in Malawi, a fair trade artisan Group. Made from 100% pre-washed cotton and falling just above the knee, these fun, flirty skirts are perfect for pairing with boots and leggings.
Button Front Sweater Dress from VENUS.COM
My lady’s favorite new clothing line this year is VENUS (Venus. com), which is basically a more affordable version of Victoria secret’s sexy-but-sweet style. Their Button Front Sweater dress fits her like a glove and is perfect for fall, with a cowl neck, curve-hugging cut, ribbed trim and button accents.
Sleeve Detail Tunic Sweater from VENUS.COM
WOMEN’S JACKETS & SWEATERS
Coincidentally, the Sleeve Detail Tunic from VENUS is her new favorite sweater: available in brown or light grey, it’s lightly form-fitting and has twisted sleeve detailing to make it breezy but comfortable in early autumn’s heat.
Swept Away Jacket from TOAD & CO
My daughter prefers a more outdoorsy style that emphasizes function over femininity. She digs the Swept Away Jacket from TOAD & CO, which uses a linenorganic cotton blend and safari-influenced style to create a comfy jacket perfect for chilly nights. Its internal waist drawcord helps accentuate shape, while abundant pockets mean you can leave your purse at home.
Campbell Creek Jacket from SMARTWOOL
For colder nights in late October and November, the Campbell Creek Jacket from SMARTWOOL (smartwool.com) is even warmer, with a herringbone fabric and sharp lines that flatter the form. the adjustable cuffs and collar are great for keep wind and inclement weather at bay.
Barbary Casual Boots from CHACOS
SHOES & ACCESSORIES
My daughter’s Barbary Casual Boots from CHACOS (Chacos.com) may be the only pair of women’s shoes I’ve ever envied. Their brown, eggplant and harvest gold colors are perfect for autumn; their wool and fleece lining makes them warm and cozy; and the variegated wool and waterproof leather upper makes them look like they should be on feet by a fire in some woodsy cabin in the north GA mountains…
Ophira Necklace & Bracelet Collection from ISABELLE GRACE JEWELRY
The new Ophira Necklace & Bracelet Collection from ISABELLE GRACE JEWELRY (IsabelleGraceJewelry.com) adds a simple but refined splash of casual elegance to any outfit. The multi-strand silk cords are available in five different colors– green and purple are our faves– with gold-plated beads bringing a tasteful bit of bling…
Balinese Necklace from WORLD VISION
WORLD VISION (WorldVision.org) is best known as a humanitarian aid organization, but they also offer unique gifts from a round the world whose purchase els fund their projects. Their beautiful balinese multi-strand necklace is hand-made by a mother in bali, with thousands of beads in subtle shades of blue, green and gold. It’s a great gift that gives back!
