Fashion Forum

by Renae Virata

Phoenix is the place to be come winter when temperatures everywhere else in the country dip down into the teens or single digits.  Besides its obvious natural beauty and health-conscious lifestyle, it is fast-growing into one of the best singles markets in the US and maintains a young, up-and-coming vibe across the city.  Both the weather and the youthful outlook play huge roles in what is worn in the Valley of the Sun year-round.Hands down, people describe Phoenix style as casual, modern, and trendy, though generally one or two seasons behind.  One person even described it as “smart,” referring to the use of basics that are jazzed up with choice accessories and jackets or footwear with more of an edge.

“Definitely the weather [is a major influence on what people wear in Phoenix and] the fact that everyone is so laid back,” says Somlynn Rorie, managing editor of phoenixpicks.com and the behind-the-scenes blogger for TheUglyEarring.com.  “Plus, being in close proximity to LA and San Diego, we have a tendency to take style guidance from that scene vs. NYC or San Francisco, which equates to a lot of color, accessories, labels, and the list goes on and on.”

Phoenix image consultant Alison Craig expounds on color choices: “The natural environment plays a role in the colors people choose. There tends to be to three main color groups: the browns that blend in with the mountains and sand; the colorful – fun bright bold colors; and, of course, classic black.”

As such, creative layering is the modus operandi during the fall and winter.  “The natives are thin blooded. When it hits below 72 we seize the opportunity to rock fall/winter fashion,” says Rorie.

“Cute jackets are worn in the morning, taken off in the afternoon, then put back on again for the night out,” explains Nicole Dmitry, a PR account executive with the Phoenix PR boutique firm Knoodle.

“Scottsdale is a well-known destination point and has several fashion shows and upscale boutiques, which has a lot of influence,” notes Dimitri. “The downtown area and the Art District are very creative, diverse, and have a lot of culture. It contributes greatly to the vintage clothing trend, as there are a variety of unique vintage and thrift stores around that location.”

Weather in Phoenix

Highs in the 70s and lows in the 40s are the norm in this desert town during the winter months – and it’s just how the natives like it!  It is also very dry, so make sure you drink plenty of water and moisturize well.  The sun shines often during the winter so definitely bring those sunglasses you’d abandoned since summer.  Precipitation does not start to pick up until March as the warmer weather in surrounding states brings more humidity to the area.

What to Wear in Phoenix

Having some solid basics like layerable short-sleeve and long-sleeve knit tops and tanks, a lightweight cardigan, a fun jacket in a cool color or texture, leggings, jeans, and a simple knit dress is a good place to start.  Scarves, vests, and funky boots complete most outfits and can help you easily transition between cool mornings, warm afternoons, and even cooler nights.  Think brighter colors anchored by neutrals like camel, gray, and black.

Any type of boot will work well as will open-toed heels, boots, or flats.   Even flip-flops are acceptable this time of year, weather permitting.

This is also the place to show off your favorite statement jewelry, so bring a few favorites like a cool cocktail ring, a big pendant necklace, or bold earrings that will go with everything in your suitcase.  No need to pack a separate jewelry case.  PLUS, you will likely find one-of-a-kind pieces at the number of adorable shops sprinkling the main parts of Phoenix and Scottsdale that you’ll need the space.

At night, most people are out and about in jeans, heels, and a head-turning top that is either embellished, is in a luxe material, or is in a fun silhouette like a one-shoulder blouse or a sequined spaghetti-strapped tank.

“There are those who ‘dress’ for dinner, but even at the nice restaurants you’ll find a somewhat casual vibe (dressy sandals, flowing dresses, etc.),” notes marketing specialist and fashion-conscious Phoenix resident Karen Moehr of Moehr and Associates.

Fortunately, the Little Black Dress is a staple in every Phoenician’s closet.  So bring yours in a seasonless wool crepe or cotton sateen and dress it up or down according to the occasion for those just-in-case moments.

“Business is tailored casual,” says former model and second generation Arizonan Carole Bartholomeux.  “Most of the year, businesswomen do not wear hosiery.  However, we love days in the fall when it is cold enough (in the 60’s) to wear boots or tights!”  Do stick to what you know, though, with what you are comfortable with, and for what your particular circumstances are (i.e. most job interviews definitely call for a conservative suit!).

MacAlpines | A cute old time coffee shop and vintage clothing store that has fun, retro finds; 2303 N 7th St;
602.262.5545

Retro Ranch | Another great vintage store; 4303 N 7th Ave; 602.234.0120.

Swank Boutique (Scottsdale) | A hands-down favorite in Phoenix, this “shop for cause” boutique offers fashion forward rock and roll merchandise from fabulous designers & popular lines; 8711 E Pinnacle Peak Rd; 480.473.9996.

My Sister’s Closet | Phoenix leads the country in recycled clothing stores one of their being this vintage store that caters to all sizes and styles.

Electric Couture | This is one of those places you look forward to visiting whenever you’re in town.  Check out their unique finds and splurge on that one item you can’t live without; 2 locations in Scottsdale.

H&M (Scottsdale) | Just opened!  15169 N. Scottsdale Road; 480.607.8374.

Kierland Commons (Scottsdale) | The Phoenix area’s Main Street shopping experience; 15205 N Kierland Blvd.

Fashion Square (Scottsdale) | Arizona’s premier luxury shopping destination; Camelback Rd & Scottsdale Rd.; 480.941.2140.

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