K A T I E   H O L M E S :
The Girl Next Door
katienholmes.com


Guest Editor: Katie Holmes


WhoWhatWear.com
10/16/11


There's so much to love about Katie Holmes! From her iconic onscreen roles (ranging from Joey Potter on "Dawson's Creek" to Jackie Kennedy in "The Kennedys," plus we personally adored her in Go) to her incredible work with underprivileged youth (she helped found The Dizzy Feet Foundation) to her adorable family, she's quite inspiring, to say the least. Of course, actress, philanthropist, and mother aren't the only hats this superwoman wears! She's also a designer-her line, Holmes & Yang, with stylist Jeanne Yang debuted in 2008-and a serious fashion plate who thrills the world with her red carpet ensembles and off-duty outfits. Since Holmes is such a powerhouse, we thought she'd be the perfect person to take on our October Guest Editor story and were delighted when she agreed to share a few of her favorite things. From the perfect t-shirt to an ultra-chic carrier, Holmes rounded up a fabulous list of fall picks that we hope you enjoy!

The Row Mitchell Top ($290, 310.276.4400) in Black

As a self-proclaimed "jeans and t-shirt girl," we weren't surprised to learn that our Guest Editor is a huge fan of The Row's ultra-soft tees. One of her favorite styles is the lightweight Mitchell Top, a classic crewneck made out of incredibly comfortable jersey. It's the perfect throw-on-and-go piece to have in your wardrobe, making it an investment-worthy, year-round staple indeed! If the price tag seems a little steep, we recommend checking out Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's other venture, StyleMint, and picking up the Prince T ($29.99) pronto, as it has a similar neckline and is a top pick from the October collection!

Alexa Chung for Madewell Hamish Wrap Scarf ($78)

One of the great things about Holmes' off-duty style is her ability to elevate almost any look with the help of of-the-moment accessories, which is why we were thrilled when she picked this scarf from Alexa Chung's second collection for Madewell. Not only will this blanket-size wrap scarf keep you stylishly cozy through the winter months, its dark plaid print is also perfect in keeping with this season's Scottish accents trend.

J. Crew Fisherman Sweater ($98) in Vintage Champagne

It's clear from her next pick-J. Crew's Fisherman Sweater-that Holmes knows that the key to any fall wardrobe is a classic knit sweater. Holmes gives this pullover a thumbs-up for its softness, but we're excited about the fact that it comes in a few lovely colors, including her favorite Vintage Champagne and the richly hued Deep Plum. Holmes can't wait to wear it with a pleated maxi skirt, but we also think it would look smart worn with a pair of casual jeans and loafers for a weekend jaunt.

Sorel Tivoli Plaid Boots ($110) Moccasin/Chili

While you've probably spotted Holmes sporting her favorite Isabel Marant suede boots on a number of occasions this summer, for winter she's got her heart set on a more functional pair: Sorel's Tivoli Plaid Boots. "I hope to be caught in some great snowstorms in these boots," she says. The cute plaid print offers these traditionally rugged boots an of-the-moment look, making them a stylish alternative to puffy snow boots.

Make Up For Ever Aqua Liner ($23) in Diamond Black Purple

While our Guest Editor typically prefers a natural beauty look-and with flawless skin like hers, who wouldn't?-she does consider Make Up For Ever's eyeliners an essential part of her makeup bag, especially the Aqua Liner High Precision Waterproof Eyeliner in Diamond Black Purple. "It brings out the green in your eyes," she says. With a waterproof formula that guarantees intense color and an easy-to-use applicator that allows for a precise line, we recommend picking up one today!

Holmes & Yang Shawl Collar Blazer ($2125, 310.276.4400)

After noticing a lack of simplified dressing options for women, Holmes and celebrity stylist Jeanne Yang set out to create a clothing line filled with easygoing-yet-luxurious basics. They named the label Holmes & Yang and it's been a success since it's 2008 debut! We asked Holmes to pick her favorite piece from the current collection and her answer was instantaneous: the Shawl Collar Blazer. She's partial to its cropped fit, incredibly soft suede fabric, and inherent versatility, all of which are excellent reasons why you should invest in this classic! If you're in the market for a budget-friendly alternative, ASOS' Cropped Blazer with Notch Lapel ($79) is a superb choice that is equally chic!

Velextra B-Cube Tote ($2190) In Ocra

When we asked Holmes about her must-have bag for fall, she was quick to name Valextra's B-Cube Tote-and understandably so! This carryall is ultra-chic, much like Holmes herself, and the sleek, unfussy design is ideal for our woman on the go. And while this bright yellow hue is a spot on choice for fall, the tote comes in additional must-see colors, including Tobacco, Cobalto, Wine, and Vitello/Havana. If you love the look of the bag, but don't want to invest, check out Pour La Victoire's Bordeaux Medium Tote Bag ($295), which is equally sophisticated and has a similar structured, boxy shape, but at a fraction of the cost.

7 For All Mankind Swiss-Dot Straight Jeans ($189)

While Holmes may have a predilection for boyfriend jeans, that's certainly not the only denim style in her daily rotation. She's also crazy about the fit of 7 For All Mankind's Swiss-Dot Straight Jeans, which have become a go-to in her closet, thanks to their slimming silhouette and perfectly worn-in wash.

Yves Saint Laurent Fall 2011, Look 36

In addition to showing appreciation for Isabel Marant's fall collection ("I love the printed corduroy pants and the leather details on the side") Holmes also called out Yves Saint Laurent as one of her favorite runway collections. "I'm a huge fan of Stefano Pilati's beautiful designs," she says. "I loved the F/W 11 collection because you can feel the '60s and '70s when you see it." She was particularly pleased with the long white gown with halter neckline in Look 36, which we have to agree is an amazing choice! - Jessica Baker