Fall Trend: The Sleeveless Coat

FashionLooksNYCSamantha AngeloThe Eye Travels2014Style

Oct 6

Club Monaco Jeweled Blouse, Club Monaco Floral Skirt

During the month of September, Lower Manhattan can only be described as a fall fashion free-for-all; men in black sweatshirts and gold Versace pleaded mini skirts, plaid capri pant suits, tank tops, wool coats, shorts, scarves, boots, Birkenstocks and distressed denim galore. A collage of fall and summer colors washing together onto the streets. It is definitely the most interesting time to be walking around Soho, having no idea what awaits you around each corner. And it seems like anything at all is acceptable, making it the best time to whip out your most creative ensemble (before you have to cover yourself with a three inch thick goose down parka.) As cute as some coats are, let's not kid ourselves, they have one purpose of warmth and survival in this city. The next vest you'll be seeing me in will most likely be electric.

The sleeveless wool coat, also known as a gilet or long vest, has quickly become my go-to garment of the moment. It is the perfect piece during these transitional weeks of New York's impromptu Spring. The sleeveless coat works surprisingly well in a variety of different temperatures, depending on layering. I see it as the garment version of the open toed boot, also a popular choice between seasons.

I'm loving grey and royal blue right now, as I incorporated that palette into a few of the looks below. Also, I included my latest personal style touch based on a recent dream in which I wore my top handle Epi leather with a red strap, and it seemed so perfect in the dream that I made it a reality. Just like that a three year old bag is like brand-new and significantly more versatile, and I love a bright pop of color on the shoulder. Most of all I enjoyed stumping the sales associates at LV, "So, you don't want to match the color of your strap to the color of your handbag?!" Apparently that was a first, which made me want it that much more. I replied with, "Now that seems boring, doesn't it?" You saw it here first!