“Style is about creating possibility. “
-Stacy London
Should we really not wear white after Labor Day?
Not wearing white after Labor Day, especially in the South, seems…well, laborious. While researching this question, I was delighted to learn that Coco Chanel wore white year-round. Let’s join her, with seasonally appropriate boundaries. Roll the cuffs down on your crisp, white button-down oxford shirt, add a v-neck sweater and pair with a tweedy skirt and knee-high boots. White jeans can be part of a modern, monochromatic look when teamed with a cream cozy knit sweater and light-colored suede booties. Winter white is gorgeous in everything from purses to coats. Use common sense and creativity when bringing this special neutral into the cooler months, and enjoy!
Is there a way I can stretch my summer clothes into fall?
Absolutely! Being creative with your seasonal clothes gives oomph to your wardrobe and saves money and space. To pull it off, pay attention to the cut, color and fabric. Is the piece a mid- to sturdy-weight, and could it be considered a year-round color or print? (For instance, avoid a sheer white linen, or a beachy-motif.) Seek out silhouettes that aren’t strappy or have cutouts. Now, pair the pieces with cooler-weather basics. Wear a sleeveless shift dress as a jumper with a slim-fitting turtleneck and opaque tights and boots. Pair a shell top that you normally wear under a suit with a cardigan, infinity scarf, jeans and booties for date night. Layer a button-down oxford shirt over a crew-neck t-shirt, and don’t be afraid to play with colors and patterns. Have fun looking at your “seasonal” pieces with fresh eyes!
If you don’t have a big budget to start a professional wardrobe, where is the best place to shop?
You can easily put together an inexpensive and stylish work wardrobe at an outlet mall. We have our own treasure nearby in the form of Tanger Outlets Sevierville (I promise I’m not getting paid to say that). Outlets have a more relaxed, “destination” feel rather than an “errand on your lunch hour” mentality. Accustomed to assisting vacationing customers, their sales associates are thrilled to help you with a specific need. You can get away with creating an eleven to thirteen-piece color-coordinated capsule wardrobe (including accessories) for under $500. Save even more by visiting the Mall Office first for coupons and membership clubs with a low one-time fee.
Can I wear denim with denim?
The answer is yes, with a little thought and preparation. Cardinal rule: never wear more than two denim pieces at a time. Wear items that are different weights (such as a chambray shirt with heavier jeans) and different shades of blue (a lighter wash piece with indigo). To easily avoid color conflict, mix traditional blue with a different color hue (red, pastel pink, etc.). And don’t forget about white and black denim—the world’s answer to sophisticated casual. I finally introduced a pair each of white and black jeans into my wardrobe this year, and my life changed for the better!
How are you supposed to wear those cute fall/winter peep toe shoes and boots?
Indeed, peep toe shoes and boots are DARLING, but they present a chilly challenge when winter strikes. It’s often best to wear them when transitioning from fall to winter, creating a magical mix of multi-seasonal clothes. If it’s still warm enough for your stems to be bare, make sure you have a great pedicure (or clean, trimmed tootsies). If you wear tights, keep them opaque and aim for a color close to your shoe to stay on the safer side of daring. Ready to make a statement? Try patterned tights or a contrasting neutral color such as plum (think about it: plum goes with everything!). Choose seamless-toed tights, otherwise, work the toe seam to the underside of your foot as you pull them on. And under no circumstances should you wear reinforced toes!s
Do you have questions for Carrie? Email her at
carrie@carriemfashionconsulting.com.