Katherine's Picks: Fall Fashion
Working at a fashion magazine makes the months—and certainly the seasons—zip by. At WhoWhatWear.com, our lead-time is at least a month ahead, but we see (and study) the upcoming season’s collections months before the items hit stores. That kind of pre-planning makes us forget where we are (amidst LA’s sweltering summer) and wish for what’s to come (brisk fall weather). Today I’ll share with you a few items I’ve had on my mind for months now, as well as some recent ones I’ve become obsessed with in the past few weeks.
1. Balmain Fall 2008 Collection
There are a lot of collections that I flipped for last February: I loved the color palettes at Halston and Proenza Schouler, the washed leather at Alexander Wang, all of the boots and bags at Etro, and pretty much everything by Jenni Kayne. Beyond these, there was one collection that truly stood out, my obsession, otherwise known as Balmain. Every punky, sequined little dress made me want to go clubbing (quite a feat if you know my lifestyle) and the high-heeled moccasin booties made me want to cry with tears of joy. Unfortunately, this collection is sparsely available in the US (you can buy some pieces of the clothing on Net-A-Porter and Browns) and the prices are quite high. That said, I've decided to channel the collection in my own way, through vintage pieces mixed with budget basics (for all of you WWW subscribers, expect an "Inspired By: Balmain story" coming soon to your inbox).
2. Alexander Wang Beanie
($175)
Like most young women interested in fashion, I love Alexander Wang. I purchased quite a few fall pieces from his collection, but I think this cashmere beanie is possibly the item I'm most excited about. I'll wear it all winter, and it's one of those key pieces that will be fit to store and bring back out year after year.
3. Felder Felder Studded Belt ($254)
I’d been looking for the perfect black belt for the new season and happily found this one by Felder Felder. It’s so versatile: I can wear it with my low-slung Current/Elliott Boyfriend Jeans or at my natural waist over a t-shirt dress.
4. Dries Van Noten Sandals ($740, available in Barneys stores now)
I love the combo of the black and brown leather of these Dries Van Noten shoes just as much as its colorful cousins. Both please!
5. Fables by Marti Heil Scissorhand Cuff Bracelet ($595)
When this sterling silver cuff came through our office, I knew I had to have one. This piece perfectly represents this season’s silver jewelry trend: it’s simultaneously tough, sleek, and glam rock chic.
6. Elizabeth & James Baroness Jacket ($565, avail October 15) and Bell Skirt ($365, avail in October 15)
Elizabeth and James continues to inspire me. I love this velvet baroness coat. It has a huge embroidered scarab on the back and it’s truly a standout piece! I’m also crazy about the Bell Skirt, which I’ll wear with a little gray sweater and my black lace tights.
7. Etro Purple Leather Fringe Bag ($1880)
As I mentioned, I’ve been flipping out over Etros handbags. I love the fringe and I love that it’s purple—I just can’t help but think of Prince. For availability, try Etro’s website or 212.247.1200 and tell them you’re looking for bag style number: 1A678 2636.
8. Topshop Snake Ring ($18.50)
Topshop is one of my go-to spots for trendy and inexpensive accessories. You can mix this snake ring with a couple of real pieces of jewelry and a nice watch, no one will ever know it was only $18!
9. Joie Dream Some Over the Knee Boots
($475)
Besides my Doc Martens, the other footwear style I’m going to wear this fall is over-the-knee boots. This trend makes such a statement that (off the runway, at least) it’s best to choose a super simple pair like these from Joie.
10. Kova & T Yasi Dress ($495, available September 1st)
I can’t think of a better place for my Oxy Leggings
than underneath this sexy dress by Kova & T. If you haven’t checked out their whole fall collection, you’re missing out!
11. Elle Macpherson Intimates Dentelle Underwire Bra ($60)
Elle Macpherson Intimates makes the most fashionable bras that perfectly peek out from underneath sheer tees and tank tops. This nude French lace bra has gorgeous details and is one of the collection’s loveliest pieces.
1. Balmain Fall 2008 Collection
There are a lot of collections that I flipped for last February: I loved the color palettes at Halston and Proenza Schouler, the washed leather at Alexander Wang, all of the boots and bags at Etro, and pretty much everything by Jenni Kayne. Beyond these, there was one collection that truly stood out, my obsession, otherwise known as Balmain. Every punky, sequined little dress made me want to go clubbing (quite a feat if you know my lifestyle) and the high-heeled moccasin booties made me want to cry with tears of joy. Unfortunately, this collection is sparsely available in the US (you can buy some pieces of the clothing on Net-A-Porter and Browns) and the prices are quite high. That said, I've decided to channel the collection in my own way, through vintage pieces mixed with budget basics (for all of you WWW subscribers, expect an "Inspired By: Balmain story" coming soon to your inbox).
2. Alexander Wang Beanie
Like most young women interested in fashion, I love Alexander Wang. I purchased quite a few fall pieces from his collection, but I think this cashmere beanie is possibly the item I'm most excited about. I'll wear it all winter, and it's one of those key pieces that will be fit to store and bring back out year after year.
3. Felder Felder Studded Belt ($254)
I’d been looking for the perfect black belt for the new season and happily found this one by Felder Felder. It’s so versatile: I can wear it with my low-slung Current/Elliott Boyfriend Jeans or at my natural waist over a t-shirt dress.
4. Dries Van Noten Sandals ($740, available in Barneys stores now)
I love the combo of the black and brown leather of these Dries Van Noten shoes just as much as its colorful cousins. Both please!
5. Fables by Marti Heil Scissorhand Cuff Bracelet ($595)
When this sterling silver cuff came through our office, I knew I had to have one. This piece perfectly represents this season’s silver jewelry trend: it’s simultaneously tough, sleek, and glam rock chic.
6. Elizabeth & James Baroness Jacket ($565, avail October 15) and Bell Skirt ($365, avail in October 15)
Elizabeth and James continues to inspire me. I love this velvet baroness coat. It has a huge embroidered scarab on the back and it’s truly a standout piece! I’m also crazy about the Bell Skirt, which I’ll wear with a little gray sweater and my black lace tights.
7. Etro Purple Leather Fringe Bag ($1880)
As I mentioned, I’ve been flipping out over Etros handbags. I love the fringe and I love that it’s purple—I just can’t help but think of Prince. For availability, try Etro’s website or 212.247.1200 and tell them you’re looking for bag style number: 1A678 2636.
8. Topshop Snake Ring ($18.50)
Topshop is one of my go-to spots for trendy and inexpensive accessories. You can mix this snake ring with a couple of real pieces of jewelry and a nice watch, no one will ever know it was only $18!
9. Joie Dream Some Over the Knee Boots
Besides my Doc Martens, the other footwear style I’m going to wear this fall is over-the-knee boots. This trend makes such a statement that (off the runway, at least) it’s best to choose a super simple pair like these from Joie.
10. Kova & T Yasi Dress ($495, available September 1st)
I can’t think of a better place for my Oxy Leggings
11. Elle Macpherson Intimates Dentelle Underwire Bra ($60)
Elle Macpherson Intimates makes the most fashionable bras that perfectly peek out from underneath sheer tees and tank tops. This nude French lace bra has gorgeous details and is one of the collection’s loveliest pieces.
Fables has lots of really cute things... check it out here: http://www.fablesbymartiheil.com http://www.myspace.com/martiheil Love the horseshoe charm.
Posted by: Betsy | 2008-09-14 21:22:04
The Scissorhands Cuff bracelet is soo cute! Does anyone know where I can find more from that Fables collection? Does she have more cuff designs?
Posted by: Me | 2008-09-09 14:41:09
arghhhh I can't find the elizabeth and james pieces anywhere does anyone know where I can buy them plz
Posted by: Claire | 2008-09-07 20:06:47
i can't wait to see hillarys!
Posted by: lianna | 2008-09-03 22:17:51
I have to say... the Etro bag is freaking sick! Love it!
Posted by: Meihua | 2008-09-03 20:45:55
Adore the Balmain-I purchased the leather leggings and the moccasin boots in Paris at the couture shows. Such amazing pieces
Posted by: Jessica | 2008-09-02 21:41:04
i was just wondering if you guys have announced the winner of the elizabeth and james contest?
Posted by: judithaldana | 2008-09-02 20:19:52
Thank you! The WWWD gods heard my prayers for an Inspired By: Balmain post! I am obsessed with that collection. I rarely end up liking let alone loving every single piece from any collection, but I am drooling over literally everything Balmain for Fall/Winter 08. I always enjoy hearing both yours and Hilary's picks. Great post. I would wear everything you picked other than over the knee boots which due to my height, or lack there of, and abnormally thin legs I will be avoiding like the plague.
Posted by: bella vita | 2008-09-02 16:42:11
Love the post! Esp. the Dries Sandals. As for the Elle MacPherson bra, word to the wise: I'm a big fan of this line but always have to go up a cup size for the bras, so heads up if you order online!
Posted by: Mary | 2008-09-02 15:51:30
I absolutely love the boots! They are perfect for fall to offset short mini dresses. Check out my blog at http://colormenana.blogspot.com and www.myspace.com/colormenana
Posted by: Dylana | 2008-09-02 14:15:26
I love everything. Except the alexander wang hat because it's the type of hat you can get anywhere..it's too simple..
Posted by: lianna | 2008-09-02 13:51:21
love the etro bag and dries van noten sandals. i absolutely adore the elizabeth and james skirt, and as for the bra talk about yummy
Posted by: amnah | 2008-09-02 12:44:39
I love the Elizabeth and James skirt and the Kova and T dress I love everything designed by them.
Posted by: Camilla | 2008-09-02 12:11:26
I'm loving your fall picks, esp those Dries Van Noten sandals. How hot would they look with the rolled-levi trend that is oh so of the moment, or a black body con dress like the ones at American Apperal... Response to the first post by "ar" -- Bloomingdales has a similar gray beanie for $29, so does Urban Outfitters. In regards to the price tag on Wang's hat, he could probably charge $300 and some fiscally fortunate people would still buy it. - Kathleen @ theblackstiletto.com
Posted by: Kathleen | 2008-09-02 11:45:02
what great pieces! but the fact that youre endorsing an incredibly overpriced $175 BEANIE is ridiculous. Wang should know better than to price his hats that high, its just ridiculous. The rest of his clothes are completely worth it, but COME ON, find us a more affordable version!
Posted by: ar | 2008-09-02 11:26:58
Katherine, Regarding the bell skirt that you said you'd wear with gray sweater. I am assuming you would tuck in the sweater, correct? Please advise! Thanks!
Posted by: LadySauce | 2008-09-02 11:11:46
my fashion blog > *.. fashionchalet.blogspot.com ..* < Loving all things Balmain, and those Joie boots. Delectable! <3
Posted by: fashionchalet | 2008-09-02 11:10:09
Love your style, Katherine! The pieces you chose are all amazing! I also really loved Balmain's fall line and am thus very much looking forward to your "Inpired By: Balmain Story"!
Posted by: stephanie | 2008-09-02 08:38:25
Love the Etro bag.
Posted by: Lo | 2008-09-02 06:03:06
That Etro bag is simply delicous.
Posted by: Erock | 2008-09-02 05:54:31
katherine, you have a beautiful style
Posted by: brie | 2008-09-02 02:41:09
love those sandals and the etro bag
Posted by: zoe | 2008-09-02 01:47:41