I’ve always been a lover of well-made clothing. And fashion.

Yes I know the fashion industry gets a lot of heat (mostly well deserved) for their portrayal of women, and often unethical labor practices.
But for me, it’s fashion is about beauty.

I’ve got quite a thing for beauty.
And much of what is created by designers is beautiful art.
The lines, the pattern, the texture, the draping — it’s magical. It’s beautiful. It tells a story. It’s art.
Homogenized art for sure. But it’s still art.

One of the things I love most about fashion is texture.
Is there anything more sumptuous than wrapping a cashmere shawl around your shoulders — the way it cocoons you and feels like a loving hug?
Or the act of pulling on a textured tweed skirt — the way it makes you feel put together and “proper”?
Or the softness of a worn-in leather jacket — one that feels like second skin on your body?

Our sense of touch not only enables us to feel the tactile qualities of fabrics and materials, but it creates an emotional response that is very powerful and very real.
As the seasons begin to change and you’re putting together your Fall wardrobe, try incorporating your sense of touch as you browse the racks. Let your hands guide you. Let your skin take in the sensations of the fabric. It makes shopping a whole new kind of experience!

In celebration of the arrival of Fall, I’ve put together a few of my favorite touchable fashion items for the season. Casual, yet elegant pieces you can enjoy all season long!

No.01 Madewell Tracklist Side-Zip Pullover
No.02 Industry Standard Simone Highrise
No.03 Pamela Love Meridian Blue Lapis Cuff
No.04 J. Crew Refined Silk Cashmere Wrap
No.05 AllSaints Papin Leather Biker Jacket
No.06 Loeffler Randall Franca Cut-Out Bootie

Photo by Lisa Wiseman