weekend links

Hello friends!

Fall is absolutely, positively the best season of the year. At least when it comes to fashion.

I mean, think about it! All those layers: button-down shirts, sweaters, blazers, scarves, jackets, tights, and boots to choose from. I love it! Our weather here in Madrid is still quite warm, but the nights are cooler, and I’m gradually pulling out my warmer layers to mix them with my summer clothes. I think I’ve told you before that our Portuguese friends recommend that you “dress like an onion” for our weather, meaning wear layers so you can gradually remove the outer layers as the day gets warmer. Those of you in dry climates probably understand.

Anyway, I thought it might be fun to do a series of posts about what inspires me for fashion and clothing, both for what I wear and what I design.

Here’s the first one: I recently made public my personal What to Wear Pinterest board. If I need a little inspiration or motivation for the day I just pull out my iPad, find the board, and scroll until something catches my fancy. I add photos to this board if they remind me of something I already own or give me new ideas how to combine different items in my closet. You might get some ideas from this board as well.

Honestly, so much of my closet is clothing that I’ve had for close to 20 years. S and I were talking about it the other day and she told me I need new clothes if mine are so old, but I strongly disagree! My clothing are like old friends to me, and they’re classic enough pieces that they don’t go out of style. I just find new ways to wear them, adding or subtracting a piece now and then.

So here are a few photos from my board that are inspiring me right now. Maybe you’ll find something to inspire you as well? Or maybe you’ll be inspired to make your own board if you haven’t already.

Pinterest Picks

As a former Ralph Lauren girl, I love the tailored, preppy look at Celine and Bottega Veneta this season. I’m even embracing that 1970’s vibe at Celine. A little bit, anyway.

I’m also really inspired by neutrals (as you probably already know, with all the black, navy, and gray in my closet), and I just love these creamy neutrals right now. I also love the idea of holding a cardigan closed with a big, fancy, unexpected brooch. (But hold the designer logos–I’ll never embrace that trend.)

Tailored menswear pieces hold a lot of appeal to me, especially when paired with more feminine touches.

Here are a few ways I plan to wear pieces I already own: my black leather skirt and striped navy sweater, first. Or a cashmere crew worn over a longer knit top. I’ll probably pair them with my faux leather leggings.

Shawls and scarves as layers are important since I’m always cold in the winter. (Apparently my heart rate is really low.) I also love button-downs with skinny trousers.

I might also try to take more photos of my outfits since I know some of you like to see what I’m wearing. Where shall I post them: on my personal Instagram, like I’ve done in the past, or on the Liesl + Co. Instagram? I was adding them to stories for a while, but I must admit I rarely look at stories.

Weekend Reading (and Listening)

• Here’s a short and very interesting audio interview with my hero, Li Edelkoort, discussing the state of fashion and where it’s going. (I hope she’s right!)
• How to buy clothes that last.
• A very nice article about Natalie Chanin and the work her company is doing.
• What do you think of Pantone’s spring color forecast? Anything here that you’d like to incorporate into your wardrobe?
• The history of culottes. (I’m still a fan.) And if you’re interested, an audio history of trousers.
• Uniqlo has developed a more sustainable way to produce jeans.
• The Tender Buttons store in New York has closed.
• Bill Cunningham left behind a treasure trove of photos, and I can’t wait to see what will come of it.

OK, come back next week when we will have some new tutorials for you. It will be fun! What are you sewing this weekend? I’m going to cut into some fabric I’ve been saving for a very special project. I can’t wait to show you! It’s going to involve lots of plaid matching, lucky me.