British Tweed Vancouver Style #LFW

These stylish Vancouver ladies know a thing or two about Tweed. The Vancouver Charity Tweed Ride rolls out on September 15th 2013.

Vancouver, B.C. The lovely cycling dames and gents of the Vancouver Tweed Ride know a thing or two about this traditional British country style. While it's London Fashion Week, there are some very fashionable offerings going on across the pond in British Columbia. These members of the Vancouver Tweed Ride show that it's perfectly possible and pleasurable to be active while "dressed up". Their style is impeccable with a nod to tradition. Who knew you could look THIS chic riding a bicycle? They did.

Beige Herringbone Tweed Bicycle Helmet by Lazer

Getting Tweedy
Tweed is a rough, unfinished woolen fabric that resembles cheviot or homespun. I used to spin wool from our Finn Sheep on the estate and softness as well as texture can vary depending on the breed of sheep used. Tweed was popular in Great Britain for outdoor activities such as hunting and horseback riding. Two common forms of Tweed you'll see today are plain or twill weave which can have a check or herringbone design as you can see in my cap below.

Herringbone weave detail is shown in this wool cap. Rain Logic Jacket by ExOfficio

Subdued Tweed
No, this isn't Tweed Gone Wild that had to be arrested! This is a different pattern that comes from twisting different colored woolen yarns to form a heather design that is more subtle. Most Tweed is associated with the Edwardian gentry who wore it in the country for shooting and hunting expeditions. As wool is naturally wicking and water resistant, it's perfect for walking in the elements when an occasional downpour is likely.

 

Example of a subdued Tweed in this Aiden Bucket Hat by Carve Designs. Eyewear by Ray-Ban

Warmth for Fall
Tweed woolens are very warm and getting a hat made of this fabric is both a smart and fashion forward move. The most comfortable caps are those which are fabric lined. Same thing for jackets and skirts. Look for a very fine weave for skirts and pants so as not to add a lot of bulk. The Vancouver ladies in the lead photo and here below have the right idea in these Tweed trousers, (far left) and the very fine wool high waist pencil skirt.

Tweed can be very fashion forward as well as a durable outdoor fabric. PHOTO: Courtesy of the Vancouver Tweed Ride

You Need the Tweed
So this fall, think about accessorizing with a touch of TWEED! It will add texture, interest and warmth to nearly any outfit and the tawny tones are perfect for autumn. Not only that, Tweed and other wool garments are toasty warm. I wear fine Merino wool base layers that are soft next to the skin by Smartwool and Bluey Australia for bicycling, hiking and skiing. Tweed is always on trend, always classic!

Aiden Tweed Cap and Beige Tweed Cycling Helmet c/o Carve Designs and Lazer Helmets respectively.

Resort Fashions-Newport Mansions Style

My tour of the Newport Mansions wouldn't be complete without a stop at the Gift Shop!  PHOTO: The Breakers Driveway Entrance, courtesy of The Preservation Society of Newport County

Newport, RI: I had the pleasure of taking an August tour of New England which included visiting Mystic Connecticut, Nantucket Island, Cape Cod and Newport County Rhode Island.  If you've never gone, this is a great time of year to make the trip. One of the most lovely area attractions however are the Newport Mansions. I took a sumptuous tour of The Breakers (shown in the collage above) and walked though those beautiful "cottage" gates that lead to the front entrance.  There is a LOT to see so be sure to wear comfortable (but fashionable shoes)!

Cloche Hat in Camel and Peach Taupe Scarf  via NewportStyle.net.  ExOfficio FlyQ Trench in Cigar and The Field Outfitting Women's Croc Leather Clutch.

After doing quite a few of these fabulous excursions, there are some travel tips I've learned along the way. The first is to be organized to get through the airport and make your connection with ease.  Wear the right coat and shoes and you can rule (and tour) the world!

ExOfficio's FlyQ  Trench Coat

Trench shown here in Cigar has multiple organized zippered inner pouches for everything from your passport to your iPhone. Lined open slash pockets in the front keep hands warm and toasty and if you hit some rainy weather, you'll be ready for that too. ExOfficio is known the world over for their well thought out travel-wear.

Horny Toad's WalkOn Shorts

Peeking out from under my trench, these are walking shorts in an organic cotton blend with just a touch of spandex. The look SO classic. Dress them up, dress them down. They are perfect for traveling or as the name implies, walking!

Dansko Franka Antique Full Grain Clogs in Brandy

New for fall 2013, the Franka is from their Havana Collection. Completely on trend with lovely strap details, buckle, brad embellishments and a super comfortable foot bed, these are touring super-stars.  

NEW for fall 2013! Franka in Full Grain Leather by Dansko.

   

Gift Shop Finds at the Newport Mansions

Taking a guided tour of the Vanderbilt's summer cottage in Rhode Island was such a treat. So much history and art.  I love both!  One thing you must do upon completing your tour of The Breakers is stop in at the Gift Shop in the lower level of the mansion. Two beautiful classic finds you can order online for fall right now are:

Yes, I love to shop!

Cloche Hat in Camel

So elegant, this very warm Women's Camel Buckle Cloche is made of 100% wool felt. Has a self fabric belt and an elegant gold buckle detail. As a added bonus, wool is naturally wicking and water-repellent so if you get cause in a bit of rain or snow, you're covered.

Peach Taupe Scarf

You can definitely dress like one of the Vanderbilt ladies in this deliciously peachy scarf. Made with the softest silk, this lightweight scarf is accented with a beautiful paisley pattern and lovely fringe adds the finishing touch to any outfit!

   

Resort Fashions with the timeless elegance of the Newport Mansions

The Field Outfitting of Dutchess County, New York

This is a new company but they definitely "get it" when it comes to easy-chic travel style. They offer goods and clothing for the most discriminating traveler and their fall 2013 line under "Ladies First" is definitely worth a look. One item from Field Outfitting has become my favorite for obvious reasons. It's gorgeous and practical!

The Field Outfitting Women's Croc Leather Clutch Wallet 

This does double duty actually. It is a large Women's embossed croc leather Clutch Wallet. Fully appointed leather interior has more than enough room for cash, credit cards, passport and more. Carry it alone for when you don't want to bring a large handbag. Has a sturdy zip closure and leather tassle. Reptile leather is so hot this season. This is a beautiful example of how fashion meets function.

 

PHOTO: The Breakers Entrance, driveway courtesy of The Preservation Society of Newport County

Clothing and accessories c/o Newport Style.net, ExOfficio, Dansko Shoes, Horny Toad and The Field Outfitting