After 7 months of social distancing, tie-dyed sweats, and baking banana bread, we are beyond ready to embrace all the crisp goodness that autumn has to offer.
With cooler temps and changing leaves, comes the much-anticipated transition to fall fashion. Think plush coats, chunky knits, leather boots, and edgy accessories – all the wardrobe staples that define the season. Bonus: oversized sweaters are the perfect solution to the ‘quarantine 15’ (if you know what we’re talking about, you are not alone)
Let’s kick off the almost-end to a surreal year (to say the least) with an all-inclusive guide to navigating New York City in the fall. From fashion picks, to dining, to weekend getaways & activities, Botkier’s Little Black Book covers everything you need to have fun, feel good, and survive the rest of 2020 in style.
1. Check Out Fall’s Epic Foliage
Central Park is beautiful year-round, but the fall foliage simply can’t be beat. Take in the colorful scenery from a variety of Insta-worthy spots around the park. A few highlights: strolling through The Mall, checking out Bow Bridge, and walking the Reservoir.
Wear This:
Whether you’re wandering or working out, keep it casual in comfy basics – fitted joggers, sneakers, and an oversized hoodie – complete with the Valentina convertible backpack for a perfectly-sized, handsfree option to carry through the park.
2. Explore An Outdoor Museum
Take a day trip to Storm King Art Center, where you’ll find large-scale sculptures and outdoor exhibitions on acres of foliage-filled land that provides a picturesque backdrop and plenty of photo ops.
Wear This:
Pair a lightweight knit under a plaid overshirt (or shacket) for a layered style that works with the in-between temps and perfectly worn denim. Top off your look with the lightweight Warren crossbody and leather Chelsea boots – stylish and all-day wearable with a lug sole for trekking from one exhibit to the next.
3. Go Wine Tasting
Head to the North Fork of Long Island for a day of sipping and socializing with friends at one of the many wineries the area has to offer. Test one or take a tour to switch up the scenery. A couple of standouts: Macari Vineyards & Lenz Winery.
Wear This:
A mid-length jersey dress is a great (and yes, comfortable) daytime option that can be dressed up or down. Elevate the look with suede Sasha booties and a wide brimmed hat or try leather sneakers for a more laid-back vibe. Whichever direction you decide, throw on a leather jacket & Cobble Hill crossbody for a completed fall look.
4. Shop local vintage
Browse a selection of high-quality antiques and unique vintage finds at the new-and-improved Chelsea Flea. The market is open Saturday’s & Sunday’s from 8 am – 5 pm, and feature food & drink picks by Brooklyn’s Smorgasburg to keep you energized while you’re bargain hunting.
Wear This:
Throw on an oversized sweater with your straight legged denim and chunky Brynn boots for a casual day of strolling through Chelsea. Complete your look with the mid-sized Greenpoint satchel for a minimal yet chic style.
5. Plan A Date Night
Double up on date night with dinner & a movie downtown at Citizens of Soho. The chic Aussie café has started screening movies on Tuesday and Thursday nights as part of their sunset movie club – the ideal pairing for apps & a glass of wine.
Wear This:
Tuck a flowy blouse into a pair of high waisted black denim. Throw on a sleek coat, Crosby bucket bag, and Felicia booties for added warmth and an all-around chic fall look.
6. Get Out Of Town
International travel might still be on hold, but weekend escapes are a must to regain mental clarity.
If you’re looking to keep it (somewhat) local, head to Hudson, New York – the cute little city is just a couple hours from Manhattan and offers up major fall vibes. The main street is lined with charming antique & clothing shops, while the local restaurant scene is farm-to-table friendly.
Stay Here:
The Maker Hotel: This micro-hotel is somewhat new to the scene, but already causing a stir with its stunning décor and chic café. Bottom line, we’d be happy to shack up here for a long weekend.
Rivertown Lodge: The Rivertown Lodge is a Hudson staple for a reason. The motel-turned-hotel is quaint, cozy, and fit for a quiet weekend of de-stressing.
Eat Here:
Tavern Restaurant: The revamped Tavern is located in the Rivertown lodge and has a killer brunch & dinner. Double perks if you’re already staying at the hotel!
CREDITS:
Sweatshirt: WSLY Bandier, curated by Sincerely Jules
Jeans: & Other Stories
Shacket: Isabel Marant
Knit Midi Dress: Topshop
Hat: Janessa Leone
Black Jeans: Frame
Coat: Sandro