Hi Belle,

I’ve got a question that may be a bit out of your purview, but I thought I’d try. My boyfriend has dropped some not so subtle hints that he would like a pullover sweater for his birthday. It should be thick, heavy, and stylish – and no zipper or turtleneck. Equal parts fisherman and prep. Any ideas?

– Naomi 

I think LL Bean has the best sweaters this season, for both men and women.  Their sweaters are made with high-quality materials and feel really luxurious.  I just bought myself this fisherman’s tunic sweater and it is everything you could want in a chunky knit.  For your boyfriend, I would look at this

For your boyfriend, I would look at this Irish Heritage Sweater or this Norwegian crewneck.

Dear Abra,

I’m trying to add some cool shoes to my wardrobe, you know something trendy.  The trouble is that I only wear flats.  Can you suggest a few pairs that could dress up my usual jeans and blouse combo?

Love the blog! Kate

There are a few shoe trends that you should look into if you’re hunting for stylish flats.

First, floral brocade/jacquard.  These Sam Edelman Rodney flats are adorable in a floral on muted black pattern.  I also like these Ann Taylor ankle-strap flats in a navy floral print.

Second, velvet shoes are big for fall.  I adore the details on these Boden Federica Flats.  For something under-$40, these embellished Mossimo flats are lovely.  I also like these Old Navy double-strap flats in your choice of three velvety hues.

Lastly, shades of mauve and rose are big this season.  For a spendier flat, I like M.Gemi’s Contornino. On the more affordable side, these $12 flats from Zulily and these shimmering rose gold RAID flats are worth a look.

Hi Abra,

My skin is peeling of thanks to fall’s arrival.  Do you have a body lotion you love?  My Nivea isn’t cutting it.

Thanks, Tara

I love Kiehl’s Creme de Corps for every day.  I buy the enormous bottle and lasts for 9-12 months.

For dry hands, I like O’Keeffe’s Working Hands.  For dry body, I use Kopari Coconut Melt, though I’m certain you could use a filtered coconut oil.  Viva is the best-selling brand on Amazon, and I’m sure it’s the same effect.  I got sucked in to Kopari by a very enthusiastic brand rep, but I’ll be switching when it runs out.

Hey Abra!

I’m really into layering neutrals this season and dreaming (literally) of a cream wrap coat, preferably knee length with a shawl collar. Naturally it doesn’t exist, or if it does it looks like a bathrobe when I try it on. Should I give up and stick with the classic camel already in my closet that is resistant to coffee stains and also doesn’t look like a bathrobe? Should I just wear my bathrobe? This doesn’t need to be an investment piece so I’m hoping to keep it under $250 – is this a lost cause? You always seem to know where to go for specific pieces, any guidance would be great!

Should I give up and stick with the classic camel already in my closet that is resistant to coffee stains and also doesn’t look like a bathrobe? Should I just wear my bathrobe? This doesn’t need to be an investment piece so I’m hoping to keep it under $250 – is this a lost cause? You always seem to know where to go for specific pieces, any guidance would be great!

Thank you! Claire

First, let’s look for a cream coat.  The only thing I found matching this description, in your price range was this BB Dakota coat.  For $360, I found this longer Ralph Lauren coat.

As to your other problem, yes, wrap coats with shawl collars can look like bathrobes.  But there are lots of other styles to consider that are just as chic (and in your price range).

This ASOS oversize coat with bow sleeves is amazing, and on trend.  For the ultimate in modern, sleek chic, this Feraud slimline coat is just to die for.  I also like this wider collar, boucle coat or this gorgeous funnel-neck coat from Zulily.