Monday, September 27, 2010

Taking it outdoors

What do we Southerners do when Fall arrives? We head outside! After enduring the summer heat, the weather is finally cool and comfortable and we are ready to embrace the chill. Whether it’s a football game, an oyster roast or a cocktail party under the stars, we search for occasions to enjoy the cool air and beautiful fall foliage. As such, I’m always on the quest for the perfect jacket. For me, outerwear is like a book cover…just a little preview to what fab outfit lies underneath (or not! Throw on a tank top and jeans…no one will know! That’s the beauty of bold outerwear).



A blazer, a trench, a jacket, a coat...fur, leather, cotton, canvas… The possibilities are endless.

My outerwear advice to you this fall: Seek classic looks and purchase the best you can afford. A consignment shop like Labels is the perfect place to get a designer jacket that will last for years at the fraction of the original price! These wardrobe work horses can be enjoyed year after year. Very true- I love to bring out a classic micro suede trench that my grandmother purchased 40 years ago!

Here’s the lowdown on outerwear that I can’t live without:

Believe in a Blazer- I am always happy to break out my little navy corduroy blazer by Marc Jacobs. Nothing can remake an outfit quite like the power of a blazer. This classic jacket looks great when paired with a sparkly top and fantastic designer jeans. And for a more intellectual look, I like to pair it with a simple skirt and a scarf…I immediately feel like a book worm…to the library I must go!

Quilted Comfort- Nothing – I mean nothing- is better than living in the south in the Fall. It’s not too cold to be outside, regardless of the time of day and we sure do take advantage of it. Whether you’re headed to a football game, an oyster roast, a hike in the mountains or a simple trip to the grocery store, I consider this Ralph Lauren quilted jacket the official chief work-horse of all jackets. Every girl needs one. They are classic, durable and super chic regardless of what ya pair it with.




A Passion for Pattern- Whether you are 22 or 82, a jacket with just the hounds tooth can make the basic black dress go from understated to va va voom! This is not your everyday coat…a statement maker. You can make it versatile by pairing with black skinny pants for a night out or cargo pants for weekend casual. Pair with simple jewelry and a great red clutch to create an outfit with pizzazz for any occasion.



Trust in the Trench- Whether you are headed out to a night at the symphony or throwing on a jacket over your sweats for a quick run to Wal-Greens, the perfect trench like this one Burberry, can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit and can remake your look from head to toe. Dress it up, make it sexy, choose a funky pattern, buy an exquisite brand…this trusted wardrobe staple can change your life (well maybe not your whole life, but at least your wardrobe).



Feelings for Fur- My feelings for fur run deep. I love the fact that we can go for a rustic look and pair a little fur jacket with cowboy boots and a trendy plaid shirt. Or we can invest in a fabulous formal fur coat that can be worn to even the most sophisticated charity ball. Though it never really gets all that cold here, it’s still fun to glam up with a little fur.



Singing in the Rain- Every girl needs a good rain jacket. Actually you need two. First you need a Saturday- fun rain jacket that can be worn with a mini skirt and wellies. Second- It’s imperative to have a nice, classic nylon rain jacket that can be paired with a cocktail dress. Nothing is worse than arriving soggy to a formal affair. I really like this by Dana Buchman with removable fur trim collar.

Mr. LaBelle and I are headed to the mountains this weekend for a little romantic getaway and some serious antique shopping. I have my jackets and coats packed and ready…no matter the weather, regardless of the occasion, I have what I need to make a statement. Who said jackets were just for warmth?

Cheers Fashionistas!

Lulu LaBelle


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