FALL FASHION: CASTLES, GLADIATORS AND FLORALS

In case you’re wondering about the house in the background, it’s not mine:) This is actually the Crane Castle in Ipswich, a small town north of Boston with a beautiful beach, quaint places to eat nearby and of course, Crane Castle. I thought I was the only person interested in castles but I posted a pic of this on Instagram and judging by the comments, it seems I’m not alone! Apparently all women love castles. Maybe that princess stuff is just wired into our DNA.

Anyway, I really loved this impromptu castle visit! The estate sits on a mind-blowing 165 acres and is spectacular. There’s a main house (the one you see in the back here), as well as acres of rolling hills that are all part of the front lawn, going down to an enormous pool area. All this, plus a casino. Um, what a shabby life the owners must have led. If you live in the Boston area and haven’t been here, I highly recommend it for a half to full day visit. If you’re up for a good amount of walking around there’s enough to see that it would take you several hours. You could pack a picnic and enjoy it in the many tabled areas, surrounded by ocean or greenery or historic architecture.

We actually stopped here spontaneously and to be honest it was a smidgeon too hot at high noon to be wearing this dress. The good news is that it’s the perfect dress for slightly cooler weather. The lining and long sleeves make it quite warm as a base layer. Add a little leather jacket over this and you’re ready for Fall. With such a pronounced feminine boho style this dress is perfect for pairing with something a little tougher, like a little leather jacket. My favorite jacket score recently is this green Blank NYC draped jacket and when the temps drop a little, this is going to be one of my go-tos for layering over dresses. I got mine in XS and the fit is not too snug but drapes close to the body in a very flattering way. I love it, and judging from the other customer reviews the feeling is unanimous so check it out if you’re looking for a stylish and versatile Fall jacket.

Sizing wise, I’m wearing the Petite XXS which fit perfectly and needed no alterations. If you’re not short like me, the dress also comes in Regular sizing as well as Tall.

My new gladiator wedges are perfect for early Fall and how appropriate for a visit to a Castle, right? Gladiators have been on trend since last year and the trend isn’t showing any signs of cooling off quite yet. I love this taupe pair because they’re so neutral and go well with all of the bright colors and prints that I often wear. It also comes in black. They’re really well made and fit more or less true to size. The price at under $35 is really nice too.

Thanks for stopping in, hope I haven’t triggered your Castle fever, and happy shopping!