Growing up in the northeast, I was forced into a lot of collared shirts, khaki pants, cable knit and crewneck sweaters, and no surprise, I rebelled against all of it. I traded in khakis for cutoffs, and collared shirts for camis, but at some point, I think we all return our roots, and that can be a very good thing; especially, if those roots got a major update.
I was fortunate enough to work with the the Navy Knot in Whitefish Bay, WI and it is one of the cutest boutiques I have found. They have some very chic, modern pieces, but they also have a ton of the preppy classics that I never stopped loving (even in cutoffs), but with a completely updated spin. I am sharing two of my favorite looks from the Navy Knot’s fall collection.
Cable Knit & Khakis
While I love khakis, finding a flattering pair can be a challenge. What I love about this look is that you get the classic khaki color, but in a modern suede legging (and p.s., they are washable and fit like a glove). I’ve paired them with a scalloped navy gingham top from Southern Tide, a cute navy blue poncho, and tall boots to finish the look. I added a pair of statement earrings from Julie Vos that have a pearl stud accent (pearls never go out of style), the Valencia Station necklace, doubled, along with two of her incredible bracelets. I chose the link bracelet because of its classic style, and added a second bracelet to create a bolder arm party. This is the perfect look for game-day tailgating, a weekend brunch, shopping in the city, or any outdoor fall festival. It’s classic, but with a modern twist.
I have never worn Southern Tide before, but I am sold. The quality of the gingham shirt is great, and I love that the collar holds its shape, unlike a lot of button downs out there, and the scalloped detail at the bottom adds the perfect feminine touch. I looked at a lot of ponchos, and this particular brand is perfect. The price is very reasonable for the quality of the fabric; it’s merino wool, but feels like cashmere, and its one-size fits all. It’s also heavy enough for fall, but still lightweight enough when the days can be unpredictably warm.
I chose these over-the-knee boots specifically for their height and heel style. I wanted cognac to stand out, but also wanted to make sure they were still day-appropriate. They are the perfect mix of color, style and price.
I’ve linked all the pieces below. And, I have also shown this look with a red vest for wine tasting and apple picking.
Shop the Look
Mini Skirts and Crewnecks
I had a total Ali MacGraw, Love Story, moment in this outfit. She was the epitome of the 1970s cool-girl and she has always had the cutest style. While this skirt is not plaid, it definitely still channels that 70s vibe, and it’s such a fun look.
I’ve paired this adorable Tyler Boe leopard skirt with a crewneck sweater from Sail to Sable. The sweater is a cashmere blend, and it’s super soft and has a great fit. I’ve shown it with the sweater in tomato, but I would wear this skirt with a blue and white striped button down or peplum top, a light blue crewneck or turtleneck for cooler days, or black cashmere sweater.
I paired it with over-the-knee boots to give it a little bit of an edge to finish the look, but this would work well with brown or black tights, booties and a blazer to make to make it work-appropriate. I am wearing a trio of Julie Vos bangles, her Medici Hinge Cuff, and the Valencia Station necklace and the Sienna earrings to finish the look.
