Fashion lovers, generally speaking, fall into two camps: the trend-driven types, who sum up a season in the context of must-haves — leopard print, clog boots, fur-anything — and the independents, who tend toward “I” statements as an indicator of the personal style they prize.
Closets of the most fashion-forward dressers meld pieces of both. We asked five in Chicago what they covet from the fall/winter designer collections. Here are their picks:
Julie Latsko
Proprietor of the restaurant Table 52 and of Style & Design by Julie Latsko Inc.
One of my all-time favorite designers is Chado Ralph Rucci. I’ve been collecting his designs for more than 10 years. This is a dress that I would love to add to my collection. The timeless lines, beautiful design and the navy fabric would allow it to go day into evening easily — something I look for, especially now, when I don’t have a large wardrobe budget.
Maya Polsky
Owner of Maya Polsky Gallery
My favorite collection for this season this year is probably Tao by Comme des Garcons. On my way from Paris to Chicago, I stumbled upon writers’ notes in Italian Vogue about it, referring to “ultimate nomads” as the metaphor for the fashion that is free, poetic and for all seasons. This look is romantic, feminine, sort of casual and fresh and creative. This designer is a great asset for Comme des Garcons and follows in the tradition of this house.
Carolyn Anderson Rosenberg
Jewelry designer
This look from Sacai includes everything I like. It is knit, which makes it cozy and comfortable. It looks layered, which is how I dress. It is beaded, which makes it possible to dress it up (although for every day, I would throw it on over jeans). And it has a retro vibe, like your great aunt’s beaded sweater that you just happened to throw on. It also has the advantage of being from a smaller line, so you won’t see it everywhere.
Monique Meloche
Owner of Monique Meloche Gallery
I would rock this Burberry Prorsum coat and boots all fall and winter — so fashionable and functional.
Michelle Vondiziano
Textile design manager
This Dries Van Noten ensemble is realistic for me! Love the solid matte blue tunic paired with a scarf — casual and low-key, but slightly geometric and easily sophisticated. Especially love the accent of a bright psychedelic clutch.
