The Wear: From NYFW Chic To Upstate Function

Each september as the fashion set descends on Manhattan for the whirlwind of vogue shows and parties known as New York Fashion Week, I often find myself thinking, “Would any of these clothes make sense outside the city?” Because sure, a sharply tailored suit looks great for lunch at The Grill, but how would it fare at a Hudson Christmas party when someone inevitably lights a bonfire?

The good news: a surprising number of looks translate north of 72nd Street. Take the new(ish) L.L.Bean store in Kingston, for instance. The brand best known for monogrammed totes and rubber Bean Boots also has pieces that make sense for elegant after-hours occasions—I’m thinking fisherman sweaters that look smart with khakis and a penny loafer. 

Then there’s Jamestown Hudson (pictured above), a perfect treasure trove curated by partners James Scully and Tom Mendenhall, the latter moonlights as the newly-appointed CEO of Stella McCartney(!). Think: ASPESI, K-Way, RRL and Penfield, the type of brands that make you look as though you casually inherited your style. Their racks are filled with clothes that catch the firelight just right. It’s where to shop if you’re looking for that “I just came from Fashion Week, but I can also chop firewood” outfit. Personally, I’ve got my eye on a patchwork coat from Monitaly—stylish and different without trying too hard. 

Finally—and stay with me here—there’s Barrington Outfitters in the Berkshires. They’re perhaps best known as the retailer of choice for outdoor furniture, but their clothing and shoe sections shouldn’t be missed. They trade in the sort of pieces you’ll find that every stylish Upstater has: Dansko clogs crafted from sleek leather and comfortable enough to wear all day and durable Blundstones that almost look better with a little mud on the heel. Because no matter how many fashion shows I attend, that’s something I always want my shoes to give.