photo: Krysta Jabczenski model: Bradley Rhea
As the cicada’s song fades and jaded Tucsonans begin to detect the briskness of autumn approaching, seemingly alien terms like “layering” and “boots” begin (sometimes prematurely) entering the collective subconscious. But now that the back-to-school sales have dwindled, what exactly is the savviest way to update your closet for the upcoming season?
Lucky for you, the rule this season is that there are no rules. Erase the phrase “faux pas” from your vocabulary and wear black with brown, silver with gold, and floaty feminine florals with rugged boots. Continue rocking that ruffled chiffon sundress you loved all summer, but raise the temperature by adding tights, a thickly knit oversized sweater, studded ankle boots and a chunky men’s belt. Men can go ahead and mix chambray with denim and flannels with loafers.
Chaos reigns and contrast is key! Take the gypsy ragbag extravagance of rich jewel tones, tapestry, patterns, and enough accessories to be the envy of Mr. T, tempered with mostly neutral color schemes, collegiate, military and masculine details.
Bradley Rhea, blogger and part of the buying department at Buffalo Exchange Headquarters in Tucson agrees. “Consider the unusual combination of some top trends: the gruff, tomboy attitude of nineties grunge with the chic, effeminate silhouettes and detailing of the forties. Add a few details from that unwavering military craze and some inspiration from your grandfather’s closet, and you’ll find yourself right on track!”
Buffalo Exchange have established some of their 37 locations in the hippest neighborhoods in the country (the likes of Haight-Ashbury, Wicker Park and Williamsburg), but have called Tucson their headquarters since their humble beginnings in 1974.
