Waterproofing

How to stay dry in inclement weather, and look fabulous doing it.

by Heather Dunhill

If the past few weeks are any indication of what’s to come weather-wise, then we have just cause to get a head start on waterproofing our wardrobes–let’s call it a foul-weather gear primer.

My promise to you, even though the retro Mad Men look is in, is that there will be no black, over-the-shoe galoshes cited here. That said, let's get started!

For most, the rain wreaks havoc on a hairdo, so make it easy on yourself and go for a chapeau, like this indigo fedora I spotted at Juno & Jove:

Handmade in NYC: Sportive Classic Fedora by Tracy Watts, $195

Staying at the top of our rain game, the must-have accessory is, of course, the umbrella. You can always keep it simple stylish with the basic black or have a bit of fun--throw in color or patterns. Here’s one I carry:

Sky Umbrella, designed by Tibor Kalman. I found this at the MoMa in NYC. What can I say? It makes me happy in the rain…and while you’re on the MoMa site, check out the mod Prato Umbrella Stand.

CITY SLICKERS

Men’s Burberry raincoat, from the London Collection. This is one of those classic-you’ll-always-have-it investment pieces. The Met, $895.

I really like this raincloak hoodie by Prairie Underground in a go-with-anything silvery gray color. It makes me want to tie a cognac-colored belt on it. Juno & Jove, $245

PUDDLE JUMPING

You can see why T.Georgiano’s owner Tatyana Sharoubim sold out of these--twice. Black patent riding boot by Enigma, $135.

“Great for rainy season and as the weather gets colder. Pair them with your leggings or tights.” --Tatyana Sharoubim

I spied this company online that touts its “weatherproof luxury” called däv.

Expect to see me in a pair of these cute little skimmers on rainy days–and love the price of $29.99.

däv black rain flat with breathable (so important!) foot bed with cushioning.

The Queen of England has never been known for setting fashion trends, but she deserves credit for committing to a lifetime of the classic Hunter wellies. This was even before her daughter-in-law sparked their comeback in the ‘80s.

Here are a few of my favorite Hunter rain boots that have taken leave of the English countryside. Want a pair like Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana? Then go for the hunter green.

Mid-calf Hunter snake embossed rubber rain boots. Saks Fifth Avenue, $205

Hunter Gloss-Finish Original Rain Boots. Saks Fifth Avenue, $125.

Hunter rain boots in hunter green. Zappos.com, $125.

If you prefer to be less serious with your rain gear:

Leopard Rain Boot. Target, $32.99

For the guys:

I think these are very cool for a guy – with the pant leg down they’ll look like a hip tennis shoe. Water too high? Tuck in your pant leg to reveal that you have style. Saks Fifth Avenue, $110.

Men’s Gucci rubber rain boot with their signature red and green trim. Saks Fifth Avenue, $295.

Last but not least, can’t leave the little ones out of this blog – how cute are these?

I love that these are reminiscent of the classic raincoat yellow, but in a wellie. Can’t you just see a kid jumping, with both feet, into puddles with these on? (Yes, I know. If I were a parent I wouldn’t romanticize that image…but, fun nonetheless!) You can find them for $27 at zappos.com.

What are your no-fail accessories for staying dry in inclement weather?

Looking for even more fashion news and notes? Follow Heather on Twitter @heatherDUNHILL.

Posted: 9/2/2011 3:56:30 PM | 3 comments