While my personal style posts have been much fewer and farther between (thanks, motherhood and late 30s) this post from a few years back is a look I’d still gladly rock today (though I admit, the heels would probably be traded out for flats). But even years later, I’m loving this look and thinking I need to recreate this fall style when I’m back from Kauai!

As fall officially creeps up on us,  it’s time to break out your favorite cool-weather pieces. But as I sifted through my sea of dark jeans, black coats, and cream sweaters, things were looking a little too…shall I say predictable? Truth is, I’ve been dying to push my boundaries and try the new hot hue in town: oxblood.

Oxblood, maroon, wine, whatever you like to call it, it is technically not a neutral, but I’m here to convince you that it’s an incredibly wearable color that you’re going to want to get your hands on this season. I can attest, you’ll want to wear it with everything.

When looking to make my first wine-colored purchase, I was thrilled when I came across oxblood waxed skinny jeans. Talk about an upgrade from your basic denim. These have just the right amount of sheen and their extra stretch makes sure they hug in all of the right places, making a super chic foundation for a sophisticated fall look.

I liked the idea of pairing the oxblood with another great neutral: navy. The two dark colors together make a killer team. They have a similar depth of tone and a richness that really compliment each other well. There’s no harsh break for the eye, just one smooth color-blocked palette. And you know me, I love a good turtleneck.

And of course, you have to top off the quintessential fall ensemble with a great coat. A classic peacoat shape, lush plaid pat, ern and fabric like tweed or harringbone will bring in texture and add a shot of sophistication to your style. Try the streetstyle du jour – draping it on your shoulders (no longer du jour, but I still do it all the time!) The architectural lines of a draped coat compliment the skinnies and make your stems appear to go on for days.

get the look: oxblood skinny jeans // tweed coat // satchel // pointed toe d’orsay pump // navy turtleneck // sunglasses 

It’s official, oxblood is my new “neutral” this season. It’s totally breaking me out of my comfort zone and dare I say, I really like it! Who knew I would be turning my back on basic black and opting for a little punch of color this fall.

Now the question is, will you?

original photography for apartment 34 by Aubrie Pick