Blazers, Lady Jackets, Crops and Trenches – The Fall Layer for Every Outfit

As the colder season approaches, transition and update your autumn wardrobe with our favorite trending easy-to-layer lightweight overcoats and jackets for Fall 2023! We’re diving into top layers we’ve seen on the runway and on influencers alike to bring you the ultimate layering edit. Want to skip straight to our must-shop list? Scroll to the bottom of the article.

Prepare your wardrobe for Fall/Winter 23 with the help of Los Angeles Personal Stylist Meg Gallagher! A list of Meg’s wardrobe styling services can be found here.

Layering on the East Coast

Layering looks different on opposite ends of the country! Average temperatures in NYC are already 64°(high)/50°(low) by October, compared to the much warmer 79°(high)/60°(low) average in Los Angeles. To combat cooler temperatures on the East Coast, Pair light to mid-weight coats, oversized blazers and trenches with sweaters and turtlenecks.

Layering on the West Coast

Thin, light layers for cool mornings and evenings out over your tanks, tees and slip dresses are perfect for autumn in Los Angeles! Expect oversized blazers, lightweight trenches, denim jackets and Moto jackets to be popularized this season.

Khaite Leads the Way With Fashion Forward Layering Silhouettes

Khaite’s Fall jacket styling perfectly encapsulates the trends we’re seeing for Fall 2023. Moto jackets, lady jackets, denim, crops and trenches are styled in classic chic neutral colors, opting for embellishments in python print, fringe or rocker-chic silver studs. We’ve picked out our favorites of Khaite’s directional styling images to inspire your wardrobe.

Shop Fall Jackets Here

The post Autumnal Layers, The Fall Layer for Every Outfit this Season appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

It’s that time of the year again, where we all pull out our winter’s coziest coats from storage! If you’ve ever pulled out your coats, only to realize you have no idea how to freshen them up for the new season, look no further! This is your 101 guide on coast to coast essential coats, washing winter coats and how to take care of them.

How do you buy the perfect coat? To build a successful coat wardrobe, you have to start with the why. Why do you need a coat? For that chilled-to-the-bone winter air of NYC? For the mild winter mornings in LA? For business trips across the country? For that special night out so you don’t freeze in your dress? The reality is that you can’t solve every situation with one coat.
If you’re in NYC, chances are you need a coat that can withstand layering. And if you’re in sunny Los Angeles, you’re going to need something notably lighter. Not only is weather a factor, but your needs can change based on the occasion as well!

We’re going to show you a few of our favorite basic coat styles that cover the most common needs from coast to coast, and how to wash winter coats, maintain their quality and keep them clean.

Want travel ready outfits for work, vacation outfits or an update to your winter wardrobe basics? Wardrobe styling services by Meg Gallagher, Personal Stylist Los Angeles can be found here!

The All-Purpose Oversized Wool Coat

A true essential, this oversized wool coat is perfect for a commuter’s NYC layers with it’s wide armholes and chic design. We recommend purchasing this piece in basic colors to extend the wearability. Stick to black, camel, navy, maroon, olive or cream before venturing into check patterns or statement colors.

How to Care For a Wool Jacket

-Use a lint roller to clean a coat after daily wear before hanging the piece in your closet.

-When there’s a spill on your jacket, blot the spot and do not rub it! The idea is to soak up the spill and not spread it further.

-Always hang your coat on a sturdy hanger with ample space to keep the weight of the coat from stretching the shoulder areas. If packed too tightly with other items, your coat could become crumpled.

-Make sure to dry clean winter coat at the end of the season and hang in a garment bag to prevent insects from infesting the wool.

The Belted Trench & Wrap Coat

Best serving the fall and spring climate of San Francisco and New York, these trending coat styles create a flattering shape like no other! We love duster-trench hybrids for Los Angeles that provide all the style without the rainy disposition. The wrap coat is a chic go-to for NYC and LA evenings out, desk-to-dinners, alfresco date nights and any other occasion you need a cozy-yet-elegant top layer. 

How to Care For Waterproof Trench Coats

-Although care for a trench largely depends on what the piece is made out of, most trenches (Unless they are leather) are much more machine-wash friendly than other coat alternatives. Even still, it is best to dry-clean and spot clean when possible. 

-If you need to clean your waterproof jacket as well as reproofing, try this product. 

How to Care for Leather Trench Coats

-Never leave your jacket folded for a long period of time, as this can encourage creases and cracks in the leather. 

-Keep your jacket away from heat sources like sunlight, ironing and steam to avoid the material becoming brittle.

-Keep your jacket DRY! No Rain! If your coat does get wet, leave it out on a hanger to dry.

-Condition your leather to prolong it’s lifespan and prevent cracking.

How to Care for Faux Leather (Vegan Leather, Pleather) Trench Coats

-While there are different forms of faux leather, there are a few general rules of thumb to keep the material from cracking and distorting.
-Avoid machine washing to maintain the integrity of your coat. Mix liquid dish detergent with warm water, and use a soft bristle brush to hand-scrub your garment and then rinse with cold water. Hang garment to dry to avoid distortion of the coat.
-Just need to freshen up your coat without washing it? Freshen between washes by spritzing with The Laundress Delicate Spray – a versatile formula for cleaning your faux leather that has antibacterial properties, which adds scent while removing odor.

The Cozy Puffer Coat

This is a great coat for travel that accounts for rain, snow, and proper coziness. For NYC, invest in a down puffer jacket. For Los Angeles, opt for a lightweight alternative. 

How to Care For a Down Jacket

-Aim to wash this piece 1-2 times a year and spot treat when needed. Excessive washing can cause wear and tear!

-Avoid compressing your jacket by squishing it in a backpack or travel suitcase. If too compressed, give it a low-heat tumble in the dryer and hang it up as soon as possible. 

-Keep this piece from getting soaked, as it takes a LOT of time to dry!

-Feathers sticking out of your jacket? Don’t pull them out – push them back in! See these patching instructions by rei.com.

The Going Out Coat

These are the coats that are fashion forward with the sole purpose of adding a fabulous top layer to your ensemble. Great for events, nights out and statement outfits!

The post How to Clean and Make Your Winter Coats Look Fabulous appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Change up your at-home routine with our favorite feel-good addition to a spring wardrobe: the kimono! In a time where many of us are confined to an indoor wardrobe, this piece can add an element of artistic prowess and sensuality to otherwise simplistic loungewear. Here are three inventive ways to wear kimonos for undemanding flair in your everyday outfits!

Changing Up the Classic Denim + Tee

Wear your kimono casual-style with a simple tee and denim skirt, shorts or jeans! Pair with sneakers, sandals, slides, or comfy mules for Zoom meetings, online dinner parties with friends, or essential errands and for around the house!

Wear it For Date Night

Wear a kimono over a slip dress for an effortless date night indoors or over webcam!

Pair it With PJs

Movie nights and lazy Sundays get their upgrade when you mix PJs with a cozy kimono. We love how this simple addition to your ensemble can change a feeling of idleness to purposeful sophistication!

For more inspiration on how to wear kimonos, check out our Pinterest board!

Women’s kimonos We Love:

The post Why Kimonos Are the Perfect Piece For Your Indoor Wardrobe appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

These women’s antibacterial travel gloves are the new stylish alternative to latex gloves that we’ve been looking for. Have your most functional gloves be turned into your outfit’s best accessory with Randers luxury hand-wear! Classic glove silhouettes are modernized with Micro-Fresh® technology, an antibacterial treatment that is eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and prevents up to 99.99% of pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms. Randers’ gloves are engineered to maintain anti-bacterial properties beyond 50 washes.

Innovative yet true to their roots, Randers holds a 200-year strong reputation as a trusted purveyor of leather goods to royal families. The French Queen Marie Antoinette allegedly requested gloves from Randers for both the distinguished aroma of their products and the way they made her hands feel soft and smooth. Marvel at the timeless designs of these ingenious antibacterial fashion gloves for men and women.

Shop Antibacterial Travel Gloves for Men and Women:

The post These Antibacterial Travel Gloves are the New It-Bag appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

In this challenging and unusual time, many of us finally have a moment to look beyond our daily work and errands to more closely observe the state of our homes. While most of us are stuck inside, this is a unique opportunity to reflect on our living spaces, and specifically learn how to edit our closets, assessing ways to improve it.

In Meg’s process – when it comes to wardrobe reflection – she always starts with a closet edit. In order to make the process feel more achievable, we want to share some of my best tips and tricks on how to go about editing your closet. We believe that a successful closet edit gives not only a feeling of accomplishment but also provides a sense of structure in uncertain times.

How to Organize Your Closet

Want ideas on how to repurpose your pieces? Consider attending a swap meet, resale, or donating your clothes.

*Meg advises that all tailoring should be collected and taken to the tailor all in one go. Go ahead and get it DONE! Unworn clothes are wasted money and wasted space!

Shop products to help with organization & closet edit

The post How To Edit Your Closet In 6 Steps appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

We’re taking to Zoom for conference calls, getting in touch with family, convening for book club, and even hanging out with our friends. It feels great to see others and be seen! However, it’s no secret that without putting in any effort, web cameras are a recipe for unflattery. Indoor lighting and unforgiving camera angles are enough to kill the air of professionalism, as well as amplify shadows. We’re here to guide you on work from home/play from home outfits that will combat the perils of less-than-great lighting and help you express yourself while putting your best foot forward!

Tips and Tricks to Make a Brighter Presence on Any Video Platform:

Better in Bold

Brighten up dark days by wearing patterns, whites, brights, and shine!
Black reads harsh on camera, so try breaking up dark hues with bold statement jewelry.

Waist-Up Mentality

Let sweat pants be your secret weapon with these cozy-chic outfit ideas on dressing for your next virtual meeting.

Upkeep-ing the ‘Do

What goes on up top can make or break your look, too. Can’t get to your hairstylist? Try these easy-care hair tools and products.

Check out our Work From Home Outfit Pinterest board below!

WFH Outfit Ideas:

• 

• 

The post Work-From-Home Outfit Ideas For Your New Remote Lifestyle appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Make your next going-out outfit one for the books with our favorite evening trend: The After Hours Top. Here are a few ways you can wear this piece!

High Waist, Good Taste!

A high-waisted trouser or skirt can add balance to low-coverage crop tops, tube tops or wraps by bringing the attention towards your evening top and away from the lower body.

Pair it with Denim

Achieve a look that says “effortless sultry-casual” by pairing your top with jeans and heels!

Outer Layers

Master the art of day-to-night with an outer layer such as a blazer, leather or peplum jacket.

Chandelier Earrings

Pair your top with some chandelier earrings for additional glam!!! See our post Dripping Crystals for earring inspo.

For more outfit ideas, check out our pinterest board.

Evening Tops:

The post The After Hours Top appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, here are three powerful colors you can wear that exude poise, strength, confidence and fresh sophistication! Perfect for interviews, meetings and everyday workwear.

Check out our pinterest board for color ideas and outfit inspiration!

EMERALD GREEN

COBALT BLUE

VERMILION RED

The post Power Dressing, International Women’s Day appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Taking good care of your wardrobe is now easier than ever before! With new easy-to-use products on the market, even the pieces that take the hardest hit with everyday wear (hello footwear and totes!) have a chance at amazing longevity. Optimize the wear of your shoes and handbags with these tips and tricks for cleaning, restoring and maintaining your collection for long lasting sustainable style!
For those in need of a professional’s touch, we’ll also include our favorite shops right here in Los Angeles that can restore your pieces just like new!

Suede Shoe Care

∙Use a suede protecting spray to help suede repel water and dirt.
∙To remove existing dirt, gently brush it out with a suede brush.
∙Stubborn stain? Buff it out with the rubber side of the brush, or (gently!) use a rubber eraser!
∙Did you accidentally get your shoes wet? Speed up the air dry by putting a cotton bag filled with rice in the shoe. Use essential oils to get rid of smell!

Smooth Leather Care

∙Brush calf leather with a horsehair brush to remove dirt or dust.
∙Apply a thin layer of shoe cream to revitalize/nourish the leather, and rub it in gently with a cloth. (This prevents dryness and cracking.) Allow at least 20 minutes to dry.
∙Apply a wax polish with a cloth and allow to dry for 5 to 10 minutes. Use a fine horsehair brush to polish the shoe by rubbing backwards and forwards.
∙Give leather shoes a rest between wears by resting them on a shoe tree. Constant moisture from nonstop wear can eventually cause leather to rot!

Sneaker Care

∙Trying to restore a white sneaker? Try using toothpaste to clean the souls!
∙Nail polish remover or anything alcohol based (like purell) will eliminate spots on white sneaks.
∙For machine washing, remove the laces & put your shoes in a delicates bag on the delicate setting.
∙For a more gentle approach, try hand washing your shoes in warm water.
∙No matter how you wash your sneakers – ONLY allow them to air dry, to avoid warping.
∙Once your shoe is cleaned, spray it with a protective coat.

Handbag Care

∙Protect your bags before use with a stain and rain guard spray!
∙If your bag ever gets wet, rub off as much of the liquid as possible with a microfiber towel, then let it air dry.
∙We love using HandbagRescue wipes to remove any surface stains.

Shoe and Bag Repair in Los Angeles!

Whether it’s to fix the handles on your bag that’s fraying, re-heel your boots, or add heel grips to a treadless pair of heels… What ever your repair needs may be, there are professionals right here in LA who know how to help! Restore your well-loved pieces to brand-new and better with these highly rated Los Angeles specialists.

Shoe Doctor
https://www.shoedoctorla.com/
Address: 14006 Riverside Dr #51, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
(first floor, next to the Macy’s entrance)

Bedford Luggage & Shoe Repair
Address: 11040 Santa Monica Blvd #100, Los Angeles, CA 90025

Armando Shoe Repair
http://armandosshoerepair.com/
Address: 1457 Westwood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90024

The post Shoe and Handbag Care Tips That Make Life Much Easier appeared first on Madison to Melrose.

Shop Tote Bags

Shop easy to match tote bags large enough to fit all your essentials!

Shop Bag Organization Pouches

Shop pouches that will keep your tote bag stylishly clean and compartmentalized.

Shop Notebooks

Shop notebooks that take notation to a satisfying taste level with customizable monograms, classic leathers and exciting colors!

The post How to Organize Your Bag appeared first on Madison to Melrose.