The start of fall in New York is a blank page, a new entry to a new wardrobe journal. The chill of the northern wind blowing down from the mountains into the city can only mean one thing—time to rearrange the closet. It’s the season to dress up, to add more layers, and to feel cozy.
This fall it’s back to basics. Those shoes and accessories that complement any wardrobe, perhaps those dusted pointy toe pumps in the back of the closet, are perfect for this time of year, begging to be given another chance to roam the streets.
The king of timeless pointy toe pumps, Manolo Blahnik, has the thin stiletto heel in various heights and in a seemingly limitless array of colors and materials such as pony skin. Embellishments fit any occasion. They are an investment piece to include in any wardrobe and a trademark of his craft.
Other stylish options are the Zara mid-heel suede court shoe in vibrant blue ($99.90), or the Charles Jourdan Traci pump ($109.95) in suede with geometric color blocking. They add a bit of dynamic fun to any ensemble.
The bag to accompany this workday look that will easily fit an iPad or laptop, reading materials, as well as an extra pair of shoes is the not-so-humble tote. There are a myriad of styles, shapes, and materials to choose from, but for the less ostentatious, the Town and Field tote leather bag at llbean.com is discrete and easily adaptable to any outfit ($175).
A cool and casual run around shoe on a rainy morning is the ankle length boot. The Acne Pistol boot, at acne.com ($570), has become a staple in the brand’s own core shoe collection. Its short mid-size heel is perfect for kicking it even in cool days, especially if worn with cozy wool socks. The all-terrain bag for this scenario would be the Hayden-Harnett Barnard cross body bag ($598) made of supple leather.
A loafer is another classic. Indoors or out, country or city, it is a shoe that hardly ever goes out of style. A safe bet for this season are neutral fall colors such as cognac or black suede like the Trotters Leana cognac kid loafer ($94.95).
Mix a touch of masculine on the feet with the femininity of carrying a clutch bag that can even be tucked away inside a tote for a quick change of look. Clare Vivier has an array of colors, materials, and price ranges to choose from. The pony skin version is versatile enough.
Classic pieces like these will add a little comfort and fun without breaking the bank—a feel good way to write the first entry into the fall wardrobe journal.
