And just like that, we’ve hit the fall season like a young pup hits a screened-door. Caught off guard and slightly confused. You can deny it all you want, but temperatures are dropping and necklines are rising – it’s almost time to even put your aircon away, gasp. Trust me, I’m just as annoyed as you are. I only got a tan twice this summer: the first was during a 150 mile fundraising bike ride under the blaring sun, who gifted me the most direct and unmistakable farmer’s tan via our team jersey. I then spent the second opportunity trying to erase this from my body (and my memory).

But enough with the drama – truth be told, fall is actually my favorite season. Living in New England, we get access to the some of the best foliage in the world, with flame-colored trees decorating our skylines like confetti. Thanks to the crisp and cool air, we now get to break out our boots and starting experimenting with new layers and textures. WHAT A TIME, to be alive…. To help you get ready, here are your 3 essentials for a smooth transition into the most underrated season.

1. Ankle Boot

It’s a no brainer this is a staple, as we see it turn up year after year, with only slight variations. A transition season like fall can mean dealing with some highly unpredictable weather (Boston – I’m looking at you). Now if you’re armed with a capable leather ankle boot, you can rest easy that you’ll be prepared for whatever the sky throws at you. But wait! The payoff doesn’t stop there. Sticking with an ankle cut like the Chelsea Boot actually allows you to wear the style all.year.round. Winter is obvious, but if you want keep this going into spring and pair with a midi floral skirt, or break it out again next summer and pull on denim booty shorts – guess what, you CAN!

Tip: Extend the life of your boot 10 years by taking it to your nearest cobbler and have them slap on a thin rubber sole. It shouldn’t cost you more than $20 USD, and your future self who is walking across ice-covered sidewalks will give you a fist pump. Repeat process any time you feel the added sole is wearing down.

Selected for you: 

Sam Edelman / most classic – $190
Madewell / best value, on sale – $159
Kendall + Kylie / I know… just click it, they’re gorgeous – $150

2. Statement Coat

While you might think it’s too early to start looking for a heavy coat, this really is the most exciting time to browse the season’s new offerings. Designers tend to drop in store their new outerwear designs early on in their A/W releases, which means give it roughly 2 weeks and similar styles will pop up at your favorite high-street retailers for a more manageable price. Plus, the earlier you pick this baby up, the more usage and utility you’ll get out of the purchase. One must always strive for cost efficiency, no?

Tip: To minimize the risk of out-growing the style, go for a classic design and color. Black, grey, and camel are your friends, as are wool and cotton.

Selected for you: 

Topshop / contemporary boyfriend – $110
Banana Republic / most professional (picked by Olivia Palermo) – $298
Club Monaco / dainty wool, on sale – $199

3.  Grey Crew Sweater

Whether or not you had a Tomboy phase during some part of your life, a crew neck sweater is the ultimate cool-girl uniform. So if you haven’t already, you gotta try it out. The basic round neck immediately adds a relaxed element to your look, and it’s comfy af. The off-duty style is perfect for fall layering and putting together an outfit that doesn’t look put together… The irony in that statement… Not to mention, the ‘Athleisure’ trend is still all the rage (sorry, Anna Wintour).

Tip: If you’d like to make this piece a utility and wear in the office, be sure you find one that is sans-graphics. Then throw it over a fresh button-down + midi pleated skirt and you’ll be ready for your next business meeting.

Selected for you: 

Double Tree Gang / most beloved by fashionistas – $89
Topshop / feminine updates – $74
Champion / iconic and practical, grab a Men’s size S- $40

Feeling like you need a few more options on any of these?  Give me a shout at the email in the About page or comment by clicking on this post!  Do it. I want to hold your hand.

xx,
Rachel