As promised, this issue is dedicated to answering some reader questions. There were lots of really thoughtful ones, so thank you. Also, thank you to New York Magazine’s Kitty Guo for tapping me in The Strategist this week — she writes a great newsletter called
you should subscribe to.Onto the questions!
One reader who doesn’t want to buy a ton of new things for fall (and feels good about her cadre of staples) asked for some easy, inexpensive styling tricks to breathe new life into familiar old pieces.
The first thing that immediately came to mind was the color red. Tomato Girl Summer, etc etc. There are so many great ways to implement one single punch of the timely color well into the cold: a manicure or lipstick, a ball cap, a phone case, or my favorite, a pair of red socks. Also consider tiny red threaded monograms, red bralettes, a small red bag, or red shoes — especially ballet flats.
In the same (sock) vein, tights are also a great trick — think about the subtle strength of a fishnet peeking out from a pair of jeans or a colored tight with a mini.
I also love the idea of layering bags. Think of a smaller novelty bag for your personal effects and a more utilitarian tote for your laptop, groceries, or whatnot. A great way to get some daytime wear out of something you may have only thought of as an evening bag!
We can’t talk about layering without the ol’ sweater trick, either. There are a zillion ways to throw one over your shoulders. It’s a simple styling bit that makes your look feel finished.
“I have the money to invest in one really good coat this year,” wrote another reader over DM. “But I’m having decision paralysis. I live in New York, so it’s something I’ll wear daily. I want something black or in an easy enough neutral that I don’t have to put mental energy into styling it when I run out. But I also want it to look fashionable. My budget is up to 3k. The same goes for a pair of black boots I can wear in the sleet! Fashionable, but practical. It’s tougher to find than you think! I would prefer a knee-high boot and a heel is a bonus since I’m 5’4”
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