Paisley, Please!

Sure everyone is Falling for florals, but paisley is having a moment, too. Maybe it’s because I’m a child of the 60s, but paisley is one of my favorite patterns. Especially in autumnal tones like the brown, rust and teal of this dress from the Olivia Palermo Collection for Banana Republic. If ever there was a style icon to emulate, Olivia is it! No matter your age!! And if you agree, run, don’t walk to the BR website and check out this must-have, sure-to-sell-out capsule collection!!! And how about these velvet mules? I’m totally crushing on them.

I do have a confession to make. Sometimes I test drive an outfit, before I post it. If I wear it into the city for work (or country for play) and get compliments from friends and strangers, I know I have a winner. And this paisley dress was off the charts. I am not afraid to admit I LOVE it. It’s flowy and fun but also sophisticated. The blouson top, elastic waist and high/low cut is super flattering (and super comfortable!), and as you can see, moves with you…and the wind. (We did have a few “Marilyn” moments while shooting.) As much as I love these whimsical crushed velvet mules, I think this dress will also look amazing with brown suede OTK boots and a cozy cardigan once the temps drop another 10 degrees or so.

What this paisley dress reminded me of, as well, was just how easy it is to put yourself together and head out to conquer your day.  No wondering about what top goes with what pant or skirt or jacket. The right dress makes it all all right, at least on the fashion front. And the right dress goes from day to night…just like that.

I know there are a lot of messages going on here — paisley, velvet, and more. But that’s a big fashion message this fall. And come Spring 2018. More is, well, more. More patterns, more color, more fun! With that in mind, accessories were my every day collection of multiple rings, vintage Rolex (Xmas present from 25 years ago!), a gorgeous turquoise and silver bracelet I bought on a memorable “girls trip” to Santorini and my vintage Gucci bag, updated with Stickers for Grown-ups. And, oh, while location scouting we found this amazing street art just blocks from our apartment! Can you say fashion kismet?

Do you have a favorite Fall dress? I’d love for you to share your pick!

Dress: Olivia Palermo x Banana Republic (40% off sitewide right now!), but also like this (over leather pants!) and this

Shoes: (Steve Madden, bought this summer and sold out) but love these (can you say Gucci!) and these

Bag: (vintage Gucci) but fun versions here (if money is no object!) and here (adorbs!)

Photos by Chris & MP Allegaert

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