PREPARING FOR WINTER

Winter is always an exciting season and this year is no exception. Fabrics, rich in color and texture, allow for easy “mix and match” options with patterns that can be used year-round. Winter also allows for excellent layering opportunities. This year is shaping up to be one of the more particularly interesting ones in recent memory. The colors of this season are mossy greens, teal blues, and deep reds mixed with classic earth tones such as gray, black and brown A highlighted feature for Winter are both Tweeds and Twills. Mixed with the right pieces, like a modern striped shirt or vintage tee, these classics can give you a true edge in style.

Below are six winter fashions you should try to incorporate into your wardrobe.

Cardigan
This is not your grandfather’s cardigan. It’s a different kind of sweater that has a slimmer, more modern cut that you can wear at the office or on a date. It’s thin enough to wear over a dress shirt and underneath a jacket. It can even be worn over your favorite tee with a pair of jeans. It’s one of the most versatile items you can have in your wardrobe. Try one made out of light weight merino wool or cashmere and that has a double zipper so you unzip the bottom when you are sitting. And for an extra kick, try a cardigan with small pockets or some sort of patch on the elbows.

Pinstriped Pants
Pinstripes are one of the most in looks of the season. Perfect for formal or more casual occasions, the detailing on pinstriped pants spices up what otherwise might be an ordinary ensemble. And for a funkier look, try matching them with a fun striped shirt and your argyle sweater. It doesn’t matter what you go with--navy with gray pinstripes, gray with brown pinstripes, or black with any color of pinstripe, they are all good.

Striped Shirts
Every designer and manufacturer has come out with some sort striped shirt or another. It can be worn independently with jeans, with a suit or under a sweater. Remember, fall is about layering and from bold and thick stripes to thin ones; it’s a good look that you will find easy to incorporate into many ensembles.

Blazer/Sports Jacket
A cool blazer is one of this winter’s must-have items, and the styles that are out there really give blazers a life of their own. You can find some with patch pockets and/or elbow patches, others with big lapels and double-sided vents, but they are all a revival of retro looks. And don't forget moleskin and corduroy options which can be a less formal look than tweed.

A stylish tweed jacket is a great way to upgrade your look. Choose a nice wool or wool and cashmere combination, three-button style jacket. Don’t get to wild with color though; go for a neutral color that can easily be worn with jeans, flat-front pants and dressier pants. This is something that can be worn with a dress shirt or a printed tee underneath. It has so much versatility.

Flat-Front Twill Pants
Pick up some twill flat-front pants--they are a great, simple addition which will go with just about everything. And they come in an array of colors and patterns to boot. Go for straight-legged version and whose fabric features a textured look. They are great for a night out with your friends, with anything from a turtleneck to a printed tee, or for a more casual day at the office, with a button-down shirt or a merino wool sweater.

Jeans
The last few years have seen jeans take a stronger role in the American wardrobe. And it seems every few months a new, high end jeans company pops up. I might add some of the prices these jeans are fetching are quite steep; even The Gap has a high end, pricier line. In terms of color, we've seen everything from dark to light washes, but one thing is for certain--the washed-out, worn-in look is here to stay. Since there is so much variety there is no excuse not to pick up a pair that enhances your best features. More importantly, they can be paired with just about anything. Choose well and you just can’t go wrong.