Fashionista!

Stylin' in the Rain (or Snow...)

By Kelly Krieger

When it rains, it pours, and most people are not prepared for the unexpected. In fact, I find myself always digging for my umbrella, proper footwear and raincoat every time. Rain gear is essential in any wardrobe collection. Rainwear not only protects us from the ugly outdoor elements, but it also protects our clothing, shoes, accessories and, of course, our hair.

Over the past few seasons, rain boots have become a fashion statement. Bright colors, bold patterns and prints have replaced those old galoshes. Chanel, Gucci, Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors and Burberry are among the top designers to cash in on those rainy days.

Who said we can't look fashionable in rain and all-weather gear? There are many hot picks. The following are a few trendy selections I found while browsing the internet: Chooka Printed Rain Boot (designed with an adjustable buckle, removable insole, one-inch rubber heel and upper cotton lining, priced at $59.95 and available at www.nordstroms.com); the very popular Ed Hardy "Raine" Rain Boots (available also at Nordstrom's in an assortment of patterns and impressive colors; prices average around $104.95), Kate Spade "Russel" Rain Boot (priced at $125 and available in white with black design; log on to www.katespade.com for her full collection of footwear and outerwear pieces) and Burberry's Rain Boot (a very fashionable black heel boot, priced at $350 and made in Italy.)

Saks Fifth Avenue (with a store in Southampton) offers an array of chic rain boots and raincoats. On their Web site, you'll find many offerings such as: Aquatalia Marvin K "Wasabi 3" Weatherproof Rain Boots (with an elastic goring upper shaft, breathable lining and padded foot bed, priced at $285 and made in Italy); Kors by Michael Kors Wedge Rain Boots (with a comfortable wedge heel and adjustable buckle, available in black and priced at $120); Marc by Marc Jacobs Multi Heart Rain Boot (with a stacked heel, pull on design, available in a blue/black or pink/black patter and priced at $225); and finally Moncler's Tall Bubble Boot (this all-weather rain boot is available in red, caramel and black, priced at $500 and made in Italy.)

As for the "old" rain/trench coat, there are a plethora of options. Among the standouts: Burberry's Metallic Check Trench coat (fully lined and lightweight, priced at $1,250 and available at many of the high-end department stores or log on to www.burberry.com); Jane Post for Saks (A-line swing slicker, priced at $375); and Patagonia Shadow Trench Coat (priced at $225).

Umbrella anyone? Where is my umbrella? I can't remember how many umbrellas I've bought and lost over the years. Whether you prefer an inexpensive foldable version or top-of-the-line designer piece, you must have at least one dependable umbrella. Check out www.signaturebella.com for a collection of stylish women's umbrellas available in every color of the rainbow or aspinalooflondon.com for the most elegant choices and designs.

Locally, there are so many boutiques and shops that offer quality rainwear in every village or log on to www.danshamptons.com and click on Dan's guide to all of our local businesses for more information.

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