Any genuine fashion enthusiast understands that when those F/W collections make their debut in stores, credit cards tend to thin out. The year’s most awaited collections begin to pop up around August/September, and any girl will assert that winter fashion generates more excitement than summer collections, simply for the sheer delight of layering outfits, adding accessories like scarves and gloves, and oh, those cozy autumn/winter jackets and coats. Certainly, we all cherish a floral summer dress, linen shorts, and sunhats; however, the emphasis seems to be more on the season itself rather than on styling.
My journey began at the age of 12, during our family’s annual vacation in Monaco. As July turned to August, my mom took us out for our fall/winter shopping spree, and this particular year felt extra special. I was set to purchase shoes at the adult shoe store, which meant I could possibly get some heels to flaunt before my friends. Did I mention that not all of them had the privilege of wearing heels yet? We headed to the Metropole Shopping Centre, and I went inside… I bought five pairs of boots and shoes, two of which were actual heels. I still vividly recall these khaki-colored, matte leather, distressed army-combat style boots with a thick block heel of about 7cm. I was euphoric… it felt as if I had landed the most incredible deal on Earth and made a trip to the moon and back. Yes, I was truly a fashion lover then. I can’t quite remember the brand of those boots or the other four pairs I acquired; I can only recall that once we returned home, I paired all my boots with the winter clothing we had bought earlier. Wool midi skirts and turtlenecks, jeans with heavy buckles—which are actually making a comeback this year—open-knit sweaters, shearling jackets, and gilets are at least some of the items I recollect. I was so thrilled, envisioning myself in all my perfectly styled looks. Little did I know that it would be another month or two before I could actually wear them. Let me tell you, the anticipation was unbearable, and it still is.
As an adult, not much has changed for me. Perhaps the passage of time has slightly shifted—a month doesn’t feel as lengthy—but living in a place like London, September is quite warm, making it torture to see those new knits or thigh-high boots languishing in the corner, waiting for the weather to catch up, likely to be worn by mid-October at the latest. And once again… little did I realize… speeding ahead a few years. I find myself in Cyprus. A stunning island, no argument there. However, this is where winter fashion goes to die… For someone with my aforementioned history, this was a cruel twist of fate. The summer season here extends all the way to November; I can assure you I had forgotten what the word ‘boots’ even meant at that point. Feeling utterly disheartened and unsure how to adapt to this new reality, I decided it was time to think creatively.
Normally, I found it quite absurd when I spotted a girl strutting around in tall boots during the spring/summer months, but how else can you style F/W collections in 30 degrees Celsius?! Sporting a pair of boots with a t-shirt and shorts can not only satisfy your craving for your newly purchased fall/winter item, but it can also add a certain flair or finishing touch to your outfit. A personal favorite look of mine features a silk summer dress paired with cowboy or biker boots. The look may be considered cliché by some; however, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate fall fashion into warm weather. This approach can also suit a more formal style if tall boots are worn with a sophisticated evening dress.
A crucial tip for maximizing your F/W wardrobe before the sales start is to layer your purchases. Naturally, an essential element of layering is being aware of the fabrics; to wear knitted garments, one must layer them correctly over silk and cotton, which can be perfectly coordinated if the right materials are utilized. For instance, mohair knits should ideally be worn with silk or satin, whether it’s a dress or a top and skirt; unless worn alone, mohair tends to leave fibers on cotton, denim, and practically any other fabric. If paired incorrectly, removing your top layer could result in you being covered in little fibers, due to the nature of this exquisite knitwear. It’s warm yet just breezy enough to justify a stylish cardigan; I wouldn’t suggest otherwise, as a cardigan is open and better suited for October in Cyprus.
Jersey, cashmere, and cotton blends are excellent fabrics to combine.
