It’s time to say goodbye to what many would call the most fashionable season, fall. Winter is just around the corner, and while that does mean more layers, it doesn’t mean we can’t make them look fabulous.
To say the year 2020 has been interesting would be an understatement. The pandemic changed everything for us, including fashion.
To find out what’s trending this year we spoke with two fashionable Northeast Ohio women, Nicole Marcellino and Isabel Pritchett.
If you recognize the name Nicole Marcellino, you may be a big Cleveland Cavaliers fan. Marcellino has been the Cavs in-arena announcer for the past 15 seasons. She’s also the founder and owner of Bleu Chic Boutique in Strongsville.
“Bleu Chic Boutique is a women’s clothing and accessories boutique that carries adorable and affordable clothing for the always-on-the-go woman with a fierce and fabulous sense of style,” Marcellino says.
Sanity is a boutique in Chagrin Falls owned by Isabel Pritchett. “From comfy to cute to classy, we have the favorite go-tos for every closet,” Pritchett says.
Both Marcellino and Pritchett say the biggest trend is now comfort.
Marcellino says women are choosing to invest in pieces that are casual and versatile. Ditch the high heels and grab the sneakers.
“Comfy joggers, a kick-butt pair of faux leather leggings, cozy pullovers and cardigans,” Marcellino says. “These are all items that with the simple swap of a tee for a blouse, jeans for joggers, or high boots for slippers, you can mix and match to get you from carpool to your Zoom meeting to date night.”
Pritchett agrees, saying winter fashion is all about the “comfy cozy.”
“We’re seeing tons of lounge wear in different styles,” she says. “From leopard print to tie dye and beyond, lots of matching sets that you can mix and match with jeans and leggings and basic tops.”
Sanity owner Isabel Pritchett says loungewear is in. She also recommends picking pieces with lots of versatility to add to your closet. (Photos courtesy of Sanity)
Seasonal Prints
While tie dye has been a huge trend for women this year, there are a few other colors and prints to look out for when you’re shopping.
Marcellino says deep magenta is the hot color right now.
“We have seen this pop up in the fall, and this rich color will continue to make its presence throughout the rest of the year,” she says. “Paired with cream and with hints of silver or gold, it will really stand out this holiday season.”
Another popular pattern is buffalo plaid.
“Buffalo plaid has been popular the last few years, and we’ll continue to see a lot of that, especially in the accessories world,” Marcellino says. “Think mittens, beanies, scarves, tops and blankets.”
Speaking of accessories, Pritchett says versatility is key when you accessorize.
“Pick pieces that you can wear several ways and with several different items in your closet,” she says.
For example, a brim hat. “It’s super chic and takes any outfit you’re wearing up a notch,” Pritchett says. “We carry a beautiful hat line, ASN, that was created by two sisters and a brother. These hats are handmade and timeless.”
Marcellino says it’s always a good idea to choose accessories and clothing that you can bring with you year to year. Her examples are high quality denim, an amazing pair of leggings and a great everyday purse or backpack.
“These are a few items that will be slightly higher priced, but when made well and properly taken care of, will last you several years,” Marcellino says. “Be willing to invest in these great pieces, but only if you love them.”
Marcellino also advises women to start their winter shopping by purchasing a few staple pieces, such as a great pair of jeans, leggings, boots and a well-fitted blazer. You’ll feel better about spending the money on these items since they easily transition into the next season.
Bleu Chic Boutique in Strongsville carries the latest in 2020 winter fashion, focusing on transitional pieces to carry you from playtime to a work meeting to a date night, and everywhere in between. Owner Nicole Marcellino models a few of these pieces, like a great blazer. (Photos courtesy of Bleu Chic Boutique)
Invest in Layers
Alright, let’s talk about layers. We do live in Cleveland, where one hour it’s 30 degrees and the next it’s 60 degrees.
“Invest in a great new cardigan or two and something a little more out of the box, like a puffer vest,” Marcellino says. “Then, try pairing with a pocket tee, long sleeve top or graphic tee you already own. It’s a great way to get additional use out of items already in your closet and when paired with something new, brings it back to life.”
Of course we’re not all fashionistas, so that’s why Marcellino and Pritchett say they’re always available to help us.
“Fashion isn’t one size fits all and not every trend is going to work on every person,” Marcellino says. “Find the things you love and make them work for you.”
You can see more of the fashion Marcellino and Pritchett as they both have active social media accounts where they show off the latest styles. Check out their Instagram accounts, @bleuchicboutique and @sanitystyle.
Jessica Dill is an award-winning TV news anchor and reporter turned blogger at jessicalynndill.com. She is taking a quick break from television to be home with her husband, Michael, and their baby, Vivian. She writes about everything, including family, food, travel, fashion, motherhood and, of course, baby Vivian. Jessica grew up on the West Side of Cleveland while her husband grew up on the East Side, so the pair loves to spend time all over Northeast Ohio.