Fall City Walk Look — City Groove Pant: $59; Yellow Knit Tank: $39; Puffer Jacket: $148; Velvet Floral Clutch: $150; Spartina Hoop Earrings: $24. Photos: Chris Emeott
As the season turns, it’s time for a wardrobe refresh.
Embracing fall colors is part of autumn’s seasonal celebration. While leaf transformations take center stage, wardrobes can also share in the spotlight. Blazers. Jeans. Sweaters. Let’s not forget headwear and scarves—all eager to reclaim closet space.
Near + North in Wayzata offers women’s accessories, clothing, gifts and home goods. Its founder and owner Ann Hudson offers some well-heeled advice for how to make the transformation away from breezy lake wear and toward cozily-culled outfits.
Let’s talk fashion tips for upcoming cabin visits and fall colors road trips.
AH: “When we think about fall, we think sweater weather, right? It’s all about being comfortable, but we want comfort and style, so we definitely recommend a layered look. Start with a camisole, and layer a chunky knit or oversized sweater for your day trip; then ditch the sweater for an elevated evening look. If you’re planning a more active trip, athleisure is the way to go. Pair your favorite leggings with a sweater, and throw on a puffer or vegan leather jacket, so your look is always Insta-ready.”
Blue Athleisure/Cozy Cabin Look — Sherpa Hoodie: $49; Sherpa Pants: $49; DIFF eyewear: $98; Haute Shore Sling: $65; Platform Sneaker: $92; Spartina Hoop Earrings: $38 (comes with a set of two); eNewton Hair Tie Set: $25
What about fall wardrobes for “city” living?
AH: “You’ll want to add some flare—pun intended—to your denim wardrobe this fall or a casual wide leg pant (denim or cargo). We’re already starting to see a lot of cargo, so expect to find these styles in store. Throw on a pair of platform sneakers for a trendy day look, and swap them for ankle boots for a night out.”
Is there a fashion difference between Up North vs. around the Metro?
AH: “It’s all about what you’re doing and how you style our pieces. Up North is a little more playful, a little more relaxed, a lot of graphic tees and sweaters. We pride ourselves in offering a little something for everyone, so most pieces are transitional … Up North is a respite for so many Minnesotans … It’s a place to relax, step out of your 9 to 5 and into something comfortable, and that’s reflected in a lot of the styles we see from cozy monochromatic sets to leggings and chunky knits in the colder months.”
What’s new in fashion?
AH: “The western trend continues to be hot, and blazers are in. You’ll see a lot of looks we styled with shackets last season, being refreshed with blazers in a variety of styles and fabrics. The shacket will still be popular, but we really love the tailored look that the blazer offers. We mentioned this, but a lot of cargo and oversized or wide leg denim. We’re also seeing a lot of tops and dresses that wrap or tie mid-waist.”
Western Twist on Your Up North Look — Plaid Blazer: $58; Western Sleeveless Tee: $39; High Rise Flare Denim: $140; Mala Beads: $29/each; Tan Boot: $108; HAMMIT Waitbelt/Crossbody: $295; Tess + Tricia Necklace: $65
What is carrying over from last year?
AH: “Athleisure [Yes!], but we’re seeing sets styled differently year over year. Vests are still really popular. More relaxed denim like the ‘dad’ jean or wider legged styles.”
What about accessories?
AH: “What we love about accessories is you can really get away with anything. Our dainty necklaces are just as popular as our more intricate, layered pieces. We always have a great selection of the latest trends in jewelry, handbags, hats and more in store—all at affordable or varying price points. We also love to bring in local jewelry designers, so you can almost always find something Minnesota made.”
Casual City Look — Black Shoulder Pad Top: $68; Black Pleated Pant: $78; Spartina Box Tote: $178
What are some of the more popular brands you carry?
AH: “Our Haute Shore and Hammitt handbags are always popular with customers, and our collection of Bogg Bags are one of our most sought-after products. We also carry Zaket & Plover, enewton and Spartina, which our customers love.”
What is the store’s fashion sense?
AH: “We really do have something for everyone. Mothers come in with their teenage or adult daughters, and they are each able to find something they love that fits great. We try to curate a collection of high quality, core closet staples, paired with approachable, trendy pieces; meaning, we offer trendy pieces that complement any body, any age, any style.”
All in the Family
If you’re traveling north to enjoy autumnal changes, Near + North also has additional locations: 25464 Main St., Nisswa; 31002 Government Drive, Pequot Lakes; and 1733 Pine Cone Road S., Sartell.
Sister stores include: Hudson & Company, 25464 Main St., Nisswa, and 11 College Ave. N., St. Joseph; and Pink Paddle, 25470 Main St., Nisswa.
Near + North
726 Lake St. E., Wayzata; 952.475.5484
Facebook: Nearandnorth
Instagram: @nearandnorth
Instagram: @nearandnorth_wayzata
