KATIE KENNEDY

October isn’t even over yet and I’ve already rotated through a good chunk of my jackets, blazers, and coats. The cooler weather is giving me the opportunity to play around with Fall fashion for the first time, but I (not so) secretly have no idea what I’m doing. Sometimes it’s just easiest to throw on a big jacket and hope for the best. I’m learning though and I’ve been on the constant lookout to see what needs to be added to my closet, strictly for warmth’s sake. Since I’ve haven’t done a ’round-up’ in a long while, I’ve tracked all of my favorite must have jackets. How many do you have?

• Rain Jacket: There have been plenty of rainy days the past few weeks and I would have been stuck without a good rain jacket. I’m going totally old school with this jacket from Pendleton. The material is as waterproof as you can get and the bright color will help you stand out on a dreary day.
• Pop of Color: If the world’s brightest yellow isn’t enough for you, how about this gorgeous shade of green? J. Crew and J. Crew Factory bring back their city coat season after season and I just can’t get enough! Each year means a new rainbow of colors for you to fall in love with.
• Barn Jacket: My Barbour jacket has been my go-to jacket on these chilly NYC days. It’s the perfect layering piece, the roomier the better. I’ve had my black quilted jacket for years, but the olive color is perfect for the season, just in case I’m looking for a little change.
• Fleece Vest: I’m sure we’ve all had a fleece vest in our closet at some point, but this pick from J. Crew Factory is the greatest ‘adult’ version. How pretty is this maroon color? With the help from my New Englander husband, I’ve learned how great vests are when layered under a jacket. All of the warmth without the bulk!
• Camel Coat: Everyone needs a camel coat in their closet, plain and simple. To me, it is the epitome of ‘chic’ when it comes to winter wear. I don’t know why, but I just get visions of going out to dinner at an exclusive restaurant and seeing a show afterwards. All perfect for the camel coat!
• Camel Blazer: Another piece I’ve had for years! In Florida, this would honestly be the heaviest jacket I’d have to wear for the season, but in New York, it makes for another great layering piece.
• Trench Coat: When I first came up for my job interviews in NYC, this was the only jacket I brought with me. Even though it’s incredibly lightweight, it still made for the perfect layer on a breezy, Spring day. I bought mine extra roomy so I can layer up with a sweater and vest.
• Parka: This parka jacket, from LL Bean, is my most recent purchase. This bad boy will keep me warm all the way down to -40 degrees, but I pray I never have to test those temps out. The faux fur liner is removable, but I will mostly like keep it on for even extra warmth.
• Navy Blazer: If you don’t have a navy blazer in your repertoire, stop what you’re doing and get one ASAP. I wear mine, from J. Crew, at least 3 times a week! It’s joined me on date night, sporting events, or just running errands. I can’t live without it.
• Tweed Jacket: This jacket is the exact same as my camel pick from J. Crew, but I love being able to add some texture to my outfit! The tweed will keep you extra warm, but will also help you stand out in the crowd. Yes, even with navy!
• Excursion Vest: Remember the fleece vest? This is it’s quilted cousin, but is still a great closet staple and layering piece. I’ve been living in my navy quilted vest that I’ve had for years and have it in black too.
• Navy Peacoat: The perfect nautical outerwear! I have pictures of my grandpa in his military-issue peacoat from his Navy days and love how classic it looks. Not to mention, they are probably some of the warmest jackets around! They have to be to brave the rough seas and keep our sailors warm.
• Sweater Blazer: This sweater blazer from J. Crew is another recent addition. It’s a great layering piece when you’re not quite sure what to wear. It’s warm, cozy, and I’m simply in love! To see how I styled mine, click the link here. This would also be a great opportunity to add some color to your outfit, coming in the prettiest of reds.
• Faux Fur Jacket: Okay, so I don’t actually have this sitting in my closet, but dang do I want one! If you are wanting to feel ultra glam and luxurious, a faux fur jacket is definitely the way to go. These can run you as much as you want them to, but I found this pick from J. Crew and think it’s a good, middle-of-the-road price point. If you buy quality, this jacket can become an heirloom.

I think this is a pretty complete list, but am I missing something? Chances are, I am! This Florida girl may not have been raised in ‘jacket culture,’ but I promise I’m trying to learn!

Love from NYC,
Katie

Shirt || Skirt || Heels || Bag || Earrings

There has been one fashion trend that has constantly been on my radar the past few weeks. I’ve been thinking about it again and again, but only just recently worked up the nerve to take the plunge and give it a try. I’m talking about the statement making black leather skirt! Although this little item has been around for year and years, I’m so excited to finally see it interpreted more into classy and lady-like silhouettes.

My pick is from the LOFT and it is my absolute favorite! The price point is just perfect and I love the faux wrap detail. It’s that modest length, but still shows a touch of skin for a fun spin on the basic pencil skirt.

The possibilities are absolutely endless with the black leather in your wardrobe. The only limitation is your own personal style and comfort zone. I opted for the classic approach with this white silk button down from J. Crew. I will always love the contrast and the crisp, clean lines. I also can’t get enough of my cap-toe heels from Sam Edelman. They have become my go-to this Fall and could not be any comfier.

For just the slightest touch of a statement, I opted for these tortoiseshell accent earrings from Anthropologie and faux-croc satchel bag from ASOS. I cannot get enough of this bag! I’ve only had it for a week, but have already been reaching for it time and time again. I hope I don’t wear it out! At just $40, it looks more like a family heirloom than a bargain and there is an endless amount of room for all of your handbag essentials, and then some!

The beauty of the leather skirt, I’ve found is that they come in all styles, colors, and even prices. Whether real or faux, it’s a great textural update on an already classic piece. Don’t make the mistake I made and wait too long to give this trend a whirl. To make things easier for you, I’ve rounded up my favorite finds. Because I always strive to keep my style classic and modest, I’ve only linked pieces that I think fits that mindset. But, trust me, no matter which skirt you choose, I promise you won’t come across looking like a prude. Which skirt is your favorite and how would you style it?

Love from NYC,
Katie