What Season Are You?
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| Paris, May 2012 |
I’m not talking about Seasonal Color Analysis, which is supposed to help us determine which colors will be most flattering, but about our seasonal wardrobes. I think we each have a particular style season we gravitate to, whether due to taste or climate where we live or overall mood of the collections.
In the past, “pre-fall” has been the clothing season that most often rings my chimes, and where I’ve spent the lion’s share of my clothing dollars. The colors offered (usually a bit more subdued than Spring and Summer brights) appeal to me and the weight of fabrics tends to work well almost year round here in Southern California. There’s a bit more “back to business” seriousness about the styles that works for the office. And there’s the lingering emotional tie to that time of year, when the a new school year meant new clothing and a fresh start.
Up until recently, I’ve generally tended to tune out of fashion for Spring and Summer. Brighter colors, skimpier styles, and designs that felt more appropriate for beach than boardroom tend to dominate the racks, and leave those of us who need warm weather working wardrobes grubbing around the edges for crumbs. So it’s been no surprise that I always feel as though my summer work wardrobe is a bit lacking in substance.
But things might be changing. This year I’ve been noticing more offerings in the way of lighter weight and knit jackets, neutral separates, and easy-fitting but somewhat structured pieces in some retailers “pre-spring/resort” collections. And sleeves. Yes, even in the summer I want 3/4 sleeves (or the ability to roll up a full sleeve).
I find that lightweight jackets are indispensable for the office in warmer months. Throw on a jacket over a tee and simple pair of cotton pants and you’re meeting-ready. Office air conditioner on overdrive? A cotton or silk knit jacket is just enough to balance outdoor and indoor temperatures. But those lightweight knit jackets have been elusive creatures in past seasons, especially in colors other than black, so I’ve been thrilled to see more offerings with this year’s Resort and Spring collections.
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| Eileen Fisher |
It was the frayed edges on this one that first caught my eye, sort of an edgy Chanel vibe. But then I saw that it was Cotton! Knit! and knew I’d have to track it down. Will report back once I have my mitts on one.
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| Theory |
This cotton/polyester jacket from Theory is lined, so may be too warm for the height of summer but the slightly angled stripes are fun and a nice change from a solid blazer. It looks to be a bit shaped as well, more flattering for many of us than very boxy styles.
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| Nic & Zoe |
Looks like a jacket, feels like a sweater. The “tipped” look with the contrast piping seems to be very on-trend right now. Not my thing, but I really appreciate the longer length of this “swacket”, and that it’s available in multiple color combos.
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| Eileen Fisher |
This unstructured linen jacket is a bit more casual, but the graphite color is a nice alternative to black and for those whose workplace allows some creative latitude, might be a good summer option.
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| Classiques Entier |
If the winter doldrums have you craving a bit of color for spring, this jacket might scratch that itch nicely. Classiques Entier is one of the Nordstrom in-house brands, and in my past experience the quality and fit were quite good. Unfortunately they seem to have all but eliminated the Petite line.
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| Ann Taylor |
If your taste runs toward the more traditional, this tweed jacket with subtle gold threads is a nice option. Love the bracelet sleeves!
What season usually grabs your attention (and wallet)? Do you find some seasons difficult to dress for?
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I also loved that frayed EF knit jacket. I just looked again and it has metallic in it! If obvious, that would be the deal breaker. Love the fraying, however.
I feel like you’ve read my mind re: spring/summer collections, Une Femme. And that’s the weather we have about nine months a year here! So many pieces look too insubstantial/flirty for my style. But these jackets are terrific, they’ll make the perfect “third piece” for an office look.
I live in New England (8 degrees F this AM) and am plus size. I tend to buy my suiting from the pre fall and winter lines of Talbots, Tahari Woman, Lafayette 148 and Lauren. Nordstrom also discontinued the Classiques line for plus sizes. Most of my tops are spring purchases. I guess that makes sense, because I am a “spring” in the seasonal color analysis world, so I can find flattering colors for near my face when the brighter spring and summer collections are out. On the other hand, neutral suiting is easier to find in the fall and winter. I will be interested to see a review of that Eileen Fisher jacket. It seems to be available from Neiman Marcus in plus sizes. In years past, I have been able to find more casual and brightly colored summer weight jackets in the “Live a Little” line at Nordstrom. They are trendier, so only good for a few seasons before looking dated, but a relatively inexpensive purchase for that third piece in the summer.
Even though the spring and summer seasonal weather covers most of our year in Texas, I love winter clothing. It seems so much more substantial and usually holds up better and lasts for more years. It has been so warm during winter for the last winters, that I find myself gravitating toward short sleeved sweaters. Short sleeved sweaters are not that easy to find, but I will be looking.
I also find myself wearing Eileen Fisher knit dresses which work for me year round.
Good question! In terms of hats, I usually enjoy the fall/winter renditions, with felt and interesting fabrics. I have more hats in this category, so that might mean they’re my favorites. But not so fast. It just might mean that I need to pay more attention to spring/summer, with it’s straw and lighter fabrics. Something to think about as the seasons change.
I’m usually drawn to fall and spring clothing. Transitional (multi season) clothing is more useful in northern CA. I’m not a traditional style dresser, more classic with a twist of dramtic/ creative so the Eileen Fisher with fringe appeals to me big time!! I’m going to scramble to get hold of one.
The Theory shape is great, but the polyester would be a deal breaker for menopausal me. What a shame because the drape of it is great!! Nic and Zoe is a one season wear for me because of quality and the piping looks ghastly on me…too sporty. Great finds! As always, thanks for doing the legwork for me!!
Just as an aside..I did color analysis on clients for years and its a powerful tool if you get it right, which encompasses your personality, not just your inherent coloring. That’s why so many of us can wear black when “they” say we shouldn’t.
Jennifer
For years when I went to night school, my summer wardrobe was the largest part of the closet. I simply didn’t have time to shop during the school season. I’m not much impressed with the quality or the cost of clothes here in Britain, where fall / winter clothes get the most use, but over the years I have needed to pull together more warm clothes. Sadly, we tend to travel in the spring/summer to find some reliable warmth somewhere. Often this takes us to the States where my British pounds buy a lot more, but I’ve found that I have succumbed to buying clothes I really can’t wear here in Britain, for example summer sandals. Style wise, I love tall boots and long skirts, so I guess autumn is still my favourite season.
I like that ragged edged EF too.
It would be a very versatile piece.
Hm I’d have to really think about your question, I am not sure!
I love wearing cuddly cashmere sweaters yet a summer linen dress is a favourite of mine.
Perhaps I am a gal for all seasons.
Spring here is so short that it’s unwise to spend much on strictly that season. However after 5 months of winter I can’t help but get my head turned, especially by a charming spring dress in silk or fine cotton. Did you notice that none of the models’ pieces seem to fit well? Or is it me?
I think I would also be pre-fall. I do not live in a winter climate, but I prefer fall and winter clothing with saturated colors and heavy neutrals. I have never been a fan of pastels. I do wear them occasionally, but even in “sun city” I really prefer living on the cusp!
Regardless of season, I tend to layer lightweight jackets. (I just layer more of them when it’s cold.)
I do love the change of seasons though – the variation that allows – pulling out the tights and boots for example, the more textured and heavier fabrics. The gloves!
I love it all!
(And chaussures for all seasons, of course.)
I find I never have winter clothes. Even though I live in New England I must hate winter! I like the spring when I can get rid of the socks and tights, but it’s still cool enough to top a flowing skirt with a v neck sweater with rolled up sleeves, or straight jeans with long top and flats with no socks. It’s just a look I gravitate to.
Oooh, I like that EF jacket, and the frayed one too. As for the season, it almost always seems warm here in Northern CA, even though I would much rather dress for back East Fall weather. It seems I can’t have the season I want, so I make do.
Oddly enough, I’m a designated Fall but have also always gravitated to fall colors…mossy greens, apricots, ivories versus whites, grays rather than blacks, etc. And the colors I live with reflect those preferences.
Light weight jackets are a wardrobe necessity in Atlanta, Georgia where temperatures tend to vary frequently. I even carry a spare in my car, just in case. Eileen Fisher is one of my favorite designers with year-round tops that are chic yet practical. I have several of her pieces in that nice graphite gray.
The Ann Taylor suit is beautiful. A classic!
April
I find it much easier and more fun to dress myself for winter than for the hot summer. I love outerwear, coats, boots, etc. Timely post as I’ve been thinking about how to sort of “up” my summer look. I don’t work in an office so have no real need for summer working clothes. I’m still sort of mulling it all over and trying to figure out a summer uniform.
Wanted to add that a few years ago, I bought two summer blazers, navy linen and a natural linen – too warm to wear during the day, although of course they’d be great in an office with A/C.
That’s an interesting question you posed. I think I prefer spring – not too hot, not too cold. You start getting the lightness of summer fabrics, but can still wear tights, coats, layered tops. I like fall for the same reason. I guess I’m like Goldilocks!
Love those EF jackets, especially the one with the frayed edges. And cotton – my favorite!
I love fall and winter clothing, and as far as color, FALL! I’m in love with jackets too because my shoulders are so narrow. Jackets are really flattering on everyone really. I recently discovered knit jackets which are cozy like cardigans but have more structure. Thanks for visiting my blog today!
I’ve seen that frayed EF jacket several places. I hadn’t realized it was a knit. Normally she’s off the top of my budget, but it’s attractive and probably worth a try on. Budgets can be juggled.
I’ve had mixed sucess with Nic and Zoe. Their things are often dyed and cut to match other items in their collection. I’ve found them hard to mix/match with what I already own.
I like jackets and cardigans for summer, but spring and autumn are my favourite seasons. Although you can’t beat “no nylons” season when it’s warm!
I’m a spring and fall fashion sort of person. I love light-weight jackets and sweaters. Not a fan of super hot or super cold weather.
Lovely selections. I tend to go for shorter structured jackets and longer flowing cardigans. You are 100% correct about vicious air conditioning.
Love all the EF stuff and AT. I am definitely an Autumm gal! Although I live in Miami, I am hapiest in Winter here. as I was happiest in Fall/Winter in NY..
I love Summer cotton jackets and white slacks… and sandals as well as my Nantucket basket in the Spring… but, again, I do well wearing scarves… 🙂
Cécile
I’m doing my best to get out of the black trouser mindset, but it’s hard here in the winter in Chicago. One must be able to wear long-johns 🙂 and boots on the hard-core cold days, and a black trouser always works for every occasion. I’m thinking about a Chanel-style jacket for my spring splurge…
Just read The Style Crone’s comment on hats! I am right there with you! I love Fall/Winter hats!! In Miami, if you wear a Winter hat, they look at you like you are from a diferent Universe.. But,I just love them. I have all kinds of hats… I own several Kaminsky straw hats which I love. Some are more battered than others, except for my Church hat…
🙂
Cécile
Autumn. I don’t even have to think about it. My boots come out to play, so do my cardigans and jumpers. The transition into winter and spring just involves a bit of extra layering. 🙂
I HATE summer – it gets stinking hot here in Australia, and it’s really hard finding work appropriate clothing (even for the one day a week I’m actually in the office as opposed to logging in remotely) that also copes with the lousy airconditioning (more often broken than not).
I have always preferred fall clothing. After 34 years in Oklahoma City (AKA surface of the sun) I still had no nice summer clothes. I finally gave up and moved to Cape Cod.
I am definitely fall and spring.No summer for me, at least no Andalusian summers, arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
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Late summer, early fall, bien sur! And it happens to be “my” season in color as well. You have a great selection of jackets for warmer months here. I love the EIleen Fisher (don’t I always?) graphite linen one. But I don’t need it for work wear anymore, so I probably wouldn’t wear it much. I gravitate to sweaters for my present life.
I’m a spring and summer girl, mainly because I can only get away with tights for so long. I’d love a cardi/jacket, but I don’t think I need anything to buy for a while. Thrifting has filled my closet with plenty of cute, light jackets. My goal is to wear more of what I own.
Summer for me. It is such a short season here and an excuse for me to wear brighter colors and bolder jewelry. I can’t wait to be able to wear my coral ankle pants, my yellow anorak and my orange loafers (not together, of course.) For so many months of the year, we are bundled in dark coats, dark pants, sturdy boots, etc. that no one usually knows what we have on under the outer layers. In late spring and summer, I burst out in color and revel in the season.
This is a difficult one. Definitely not winter, spring is so short. Perhaps late summer and fall wear empties my pockets.
I am definitely a summer girl! Living in Florida, I can’t be anything else…
Anne Touraine (Playing with Scarves)
I love summer here in British Columbia – long tanks, crop pants, flat strappy sandals, gauzy flowing scarves … a friends refers to it as the art teacher look. I have been ahuge fan of EF for several years. I think her stuff definitely looks best on the slim figure especially when you get into layering. Sorry to see the reduction in quality of EF. Hope this improves as it’s a disappointment even for that woman of class and means when the quality isn’t there