Fall Preview: Ankle Boots, Sleek Trenches, and Cozy Knits

Labor Day marked the unofficial end of summer, and though we’re sad to see it go, we’re already looking forward to fall. In fact, we’re looking forward to it so much that we’ve rounded up a fashion preview to get you excited for the wardrobe transition that accompanies cooler temperatures and shorter days. Take a look at some of the trends we’re noticing from our favorite brands:

Ankle Boots

Fiera Ankle Booties

The last few years have been all about knee-high boots in riding and western styles, but we’re loving the lower-cut ankle boots that have been making the rounds in fashion blogs. These boots are both cute and versatile — wear them with summer dresses and bare legs now, and slip them over leggings or skinny jeans come fall. Some of our favorite styles are the Fiera double zipper booties by Aldo and the combat-inspired Towner booties by Nine West. We also like the eclectic boot styles Cupcakes and Cashmere blogger Emily Schuman highlighted in this recent post.

Sleek Trenches

ASOS Skater Trench

A classic trench coat is a must-have piece — throw one over any outfit for instant polish. Asos has a great selection of trenches at affordable prices. We like the Asos Classic Trench and Asos Skater Trench, both of which come in camel or black.

Cozy Knits

Knitted Tie Back Cable Top

If you’ve been affected by the recent heat waves in the midwest, cozy knit sweaters are probably not at the top of your “to-buy” list right now. That being said, this Forever 21 Floral Open-Knit Top is a lighter option for early mornings or crisp evenings. For those of you living in cooler regions, we love the adorable detailing on Topshop’s Knitted Tie Back Cable Top.

Which fall trends are you looking forward to wearing the most? Tell us in the comments!

Cheers,
The Shopilly Team

SPRING’S BEST BALLET FLATS

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While polished pumps and strappy stilettos always make us happy, we’re putting some extra spring in our step this season with colorful ballerinas. Designers are kicking up their skimmers in a big way, elevating them in sumptuous dyed leather, fun florals and ornate embellishments. Chic and timeless (not to mention insanely-comfy) for the office or running around on weekends, channel your inner Audrey with our favorite styles of the season (plus, what to pair them with).

BEST FLORAL: J.CREWScreen Shot 2013-02-27 at 10.55.16 PMKick up your heels for J.Crew’s latest collaboration with UK textile company, Liberty of London, whose feminine florals adorn these Cece flats ($198 at J.Crew; enjoy free shipping on all orders with code FREESHIP). Not only are they incredibly cute, they’re made with padding, a rubber sole and a slight interior wedge for extra comfort. Pair them with accessories that pick up a hue in the print, such as this bubble gum pink stunner by Kate Spade New York ($198 at Kate Spade New York; you can also download their latest music playlist).

BEST COLORBLOCK: NINE WEST

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Add a pop of color with Nine West’s Superfly skimmers (on sale for $49 at Nine West; get $20 off!) crafted of fuchsia and tangerine suede. We’ll be wearing ours this spring with jeans and a tee on weekends, and with chartreuse capris (like J.Crew’s, $168 at Net-A-Porter) on days we’re feeling a bit more daring.

BEST ORNATE: OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Screen Shot 2013-02-27 at 11.30.44 PMEven his flats are red-carpet ready! Oscar de la Renta’s Petalina ballerinas ($825 at Bergdorf Goodman; free upgraded shipping with code SHIPBG) are spun of creamy leather and dressed up with dramatic beads and black florets, making them perfect with an LBD (such as this swingy little number by Topshop, $75) for dinner at a fancy restaurant or cocktail party.

BEST RAIN-READY: TORY BURCH

Screen Shot 2013-02-27 at 11.43.23 PM Add a dash of sunshine to spring showers with Tory Burch’s cheerful bow ballets ($125 at Tory Burch; enjoy free shipping) crafted of water-resistant rubber and finished with a feminine bow. They’re a chic alternative to rain boots, and the perfect complement to Missoni’s cute chevron umbrella ($69 at Saks Fifth Avenue; score free shipping with code SFAFEB).

BEST STUDDED: MARC BY MARC JACOBS

Screen Shot 2013-02-27 at 11.54.59 PMMarc by Marc Jacobs kicks spring’s critter trend to the next level with these adorable flats ($248 at Neiman Marcus, free shipping with code FEBSHIP). They’re spun of supple cobalt leather with studs in a playful mouse motif. Paint your pout with Dior’s Favori Red ($32 at Sephora; free shipping over $50) to balance the whimsy.

Dressing for an Office Holiday Party

With Thanksgiving behind us, it’s time to focus on the year-end holiday parties coming this month. Between the family traditions and celebrations with friends, you may hardly have time to get your holiday shopping done. But don’t let that get in the way of your wardrobe selections – especially when it comes to your office holiday party. If you’re having a hard time choosing a festive but appropriate outfit for your that event, take a look at these options, and then kick back with your co-workers and indulge in the holiday spirit!

  1. A nice sweater, fitted pants and pumps make a lovely combination that you can wear straight from the office to the party. I love this sophisticated draped cowl-neck sweater by Banana Republic in festive red. Pair it with bootcut pants like the Gretchen Black Bootcut Pant or, for a dressier feel, a high waist skirt like the Midi Knit Skirt (both bottoms by Bebe). Finish the outfit off with Nine West’s Caress pumps, available in safe solid colors or in gold glitter if you’re so inclined, and you’re instantly party-ready. By the way, Nine West is offering 30% off your entire purchase until 11:59 pm EST tonight, so hop to it!
  2. If your first priority is to stay warm, followed closely by appearing stylish, you can kill two birds with one stone by choosing a sweater dress. J. Crew’s Tee Dress is Italian cashmere, so you’ll stay cozy all night long. Another good option is French Connection’s wool-blend Milla Milano Dress. Pair either dress with tights and boots to shield your legs from the cold as well. The Martta Boot by Coach is a beautiful riding boot for those who prefer flat footwear; if you want a few extra inches, the Tres Chic Boot by Kenneth Cole is now 50% off.
  3. A dressier venue gives you the perfect excuse to invest in a new dress, and Express has a good selection of holiday dresses that won’t break the bank. This Long Sleeve Sequin Embellished Dress is great for anyone who gets cold easily, while the Ponte Knit Sheath Dress is flattering and does double duty as a must-have basic piece for any wardrobe. Some more formal options include this show-stealing Draped Long Silk Dress by Mango, or the intricately detailed Caridad Ruffled Dress from Anthropologie.

Fellows, if you’re feeling a little left out, sit tight – we’ll have office holiday party dressing tips for you next week!

Photo credits: bananarepublic.gap.com, bebe.com, usa.frenchconnection.com, kennethcole.com, express.com, shop.mango.com