By Roxy L. Rowton
At this time of the season, we begin to turn our focus back to the city, back to the office, or back to school. Wherever we’re headed, there are probably mixed attitudes about the end of summer and the return to balancing the everyday routines and busy schedules of family and career. For me, autumn has come to symbolize more of a forward motion, new opportunities, fresh starts and renewed energy than the calendar date celebrated in January. As I glance into the rearview mirror and wave a farewell to summer adventures and amusements, I welcome a new season now only slightly visible on the horizon. The mercury dips and the sunlight diminishes, but my excitement rises about a homecoming — back to school, back to work and back to the city!
Women: Draw inspiration from fashion’s rich new offerings to get dressed this season. Fall back on the season’s dusky, full-bodied hues and rich, lavish textures when making the shift to shorter days and cooler temperatures. Look for pieces that focus attention on colors and fabrics designed to give you versatility from day to evening or work to leisure. Why not mix unexpected combinations? Why not layer the trends and the classics for looks that feel perfect you whether for leisure or work?
Men: Encourage the gentleman in your life to rethink his sartorial uniform and style his suit to fit his individuality, and of course, the company dress code. Why not switch the traditional white shirt for a print or ditch the suit altogether and don a sports coat? Why not dress either up with the smallest of accessories: a pocket square, cuff links or a watch?
Teens: Autumn fashion gives a wink and nod to the all-American collegiate spirit. Keep it simple with a mix of classic essentials and iconic sportswear to reflect your individuality, social and campus interests, and fun on the weekends. Why not weave denim’s functionality and practicality into your back-to-school wardrobe? Mix color combinations, textures and layers. A little mixing-it-up can make a big impression.
Children: It’s a fast-paced world for children, too. Why not dress them in super soft, comfy, and durable clothes that give them the freedom to move, to play, to explore and to learn? And when all the colors go together, they can mix, match and make their look.
A new season awaits . . . Discover the fashion that suits you and your family.
Wardrobe & style consultant, Roxy L. Rowton (rlrowton@everydayrefinement.com), spends much of her workweek in the closet or the fitting room helping women look and feel their very best. She makes it her work to help women with practical, effortless solutions in wardrobe construction and selection. She has two plus decades in the fashion, apparel, and beauty industries, as well as a member of the Association of Image Consultants International. Her wardrobe/style consulting business, Everyday Refinement, is based in Prince William County. Learn more at www.eveydayrefinement.com.
