What's that old saying? "In-between weather, never looked better." OK. Maybe I made that one up. But it might catch on, especially after you follow these simple tips to transition your wardrobe from comfortable fall days to almost-there winter conditions.
"Besides the essentials—tall boots, leggings, a denim jacket and crisp white tops—there are a few items a fashionista may want to consider investing in," said Stephanie Johnson, owner of Urban Exchange, an urban consignment boutique in Grand Rapids.
When you have some of the basic items—the wardrobe workhorses—you can get playful and show your personal style with some show pony pieces.
Consider a patterned scarf as an indispensable piece when transitioning from a tolerable chill to a cool that can't be denied. Easily carried along in a purse or at the ready in the car, an infinity scarf that hugs your neck or trendy blanket scarfs that drape around your entire body can be easily added or taken off at will. Johnson suggests trendy plaids, a buffalo check (my fave), or a striking leopard print.
Booties. Booties. Booties. They are terrific paired with skinny jeans, leggings, a skirt or a dress, Johnson notes. Lace-up, zip-up, pull-up. All of that and then some! Throw in some chunky and comfy socks or fleece-lined leggings for added warmth.
The plaid button-up top is this year's must-have. (Mental note: Doing well, amassing quite the collection). Worn alone with a statement necklace they are a little rustic and tomboy. Feel a chill? Add a cardigan and let your plaid peek out. Still cold? A puffer vest can be thrown over the first two for one more layer of protection.
The last piece Johnson advises is a denim dress, light wash or dark wash. This look can be cute when belted and again, throwing on additional layers (cardigans, sweaters, large scarfs, vintage felt hats, tribal-patterned tights) can mean the difference between well-off or wishing you'd been better prepared.
Find these pieces and more at Urban Exchange at 926 East Fulton Street in Grand Rapids. Find them on Facebook and at www.myurbanexchange.com.
Written by Missy Black, a footwear fanatic, a style child, and a contributing writer for West Michigan Woman.
