This post is brought to you by Nordstrom
Fall is just around the corner, and since I had the fun opportunity to take a shopping trip to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (up to 40% off— I was on Cloud 9!), I made sure to get my fill of next season’s must-have apparel. Dark colored pencil skirts, mod shift dresses, peplum tops, leather jackets, and wool cardigans all caught my eye, but as someone who spends half their weekends walking around windy and hilly San Francisco, my choices leaned more towards practical, everyday wear that’s classic.
I put together a list of my top four Fall 2012 must-haves. This list is definitely for the casual dressers who like to splurge on classic pieces and save on the trendier items. And no worries about the colder Fall weather— I’ve got you covered!
1. A Bold Scarf
In a windy city, there’s nothing more important than adding a scarf around your neck before leaving the house. By having a variety of fun, colorful scarves to choose from, you’ll give yourself the perfect opportunity to add personality to any outfit. I have scarves in a bunch of styles — hot pink, polka dots, skull print, and even in Fifi Lapin print, so this Diane Von Furstenberg New Rochelle scarf with cute pompoms seemed like a perfect addition to my growing scarf collection. It’s playful, and could go really well with an all black or all white outfit. A tip: if you’re going to put on a bold scarf, make sure that you wear it over simpler outfits.
2. The Trench Coat
You know how you always tell yourself, “I should really get a trench coat”? Well you should, and Fall season is the best time to invest in one! Not only are they classic and stay in style for all seasons, but they’re practical and absolutely perfect for San Franciscans fighting against the wind, cold, and rain. Plus, a trench coat that fits your body shape and height can be incredibly flattering. I chose the Michael Kors belted trench coat in truffle color since khaki can sometimes wash out your skin tone. It’s rain proof as it’s water resistant and has a hoodie. The lining is also detachable, which is perfect in the odd chance that it’s actually warm outside!
3. Button-Up Silk/Chiffon Blouse
If you have a tendency to wear jeans and a t-shirt yet you don’t want to look lazy (at least don’t let anyone know that you get ready in less than 15 minutes), you should upgrade your tee for a loose-fitted silk or chiffon button-up blouse. It can change your casual outfit drastically to a more refined look. I picked two blouses that I couldn’t choose between— the Nexx yellow silk blouse and a Halogen chiffon polka dot blouse. Both work great for a day to night outfit.
4. Black Ankle Boots
A life essential: black ankle boots. They’re casual, chic, and can be easily dressed up or down. If you don’t have a crazy commute on the weekdays, go for a height-increasing 2" heel. If you prefer comfort over height, you can get a shorter heel. Nordstrom ran out of the black Sam Edelman Petty Booties in my size (should’ve hit the sale earlier!), but I made sure to order a pair and I can’t wait to receive them! These have a short heel and are made of suede. These boots are made for walkin’.
Nordstrom is having their Anniversary Sale from Friday, July 20 – Wednesday July 26. Be sure to get your Fall wardrobe before the sale ends! Prices will be going up on August 6th.
By Amethyst Wang
Photos by Libby Kusuma
