Falling into fashion

Falling into Fashion

Rich autumnal tones welcome the season

By Allison McCrory / Photos by Kate Treick Photography

***Shopping list***: Embrace autumn in this Kerisma Aja London Sweater in taupe, $96, paired with EsQualo merlot pants, $150. Accessories add a vintage vibe

As October breezes blow in, so does an air of anticipation for a fashion shift to fall looks that promise to be classic, polished and feminine.

“We’re seeing women gravitate toward timeless pieces with beautiful details,” reported Rylee Smith of Monkee’s of Pensacola. “Think tailored blazers, luxe knits, statement outerwear and rich textures. It’s a fun season because getting dressed feels special again.”

Look for wide-leg trousers as well as midi skirts and dresses in saturated jewel tones.

“Chocolate brown is everywhere. Burgundy, olive, deep navy, camel and plum are some of the biggest shades we’re loving. They mix beautifully together and feel classic without being boring,” said Smith.

Other trends to look for are tailored denim, animal print and faux fur.

“We’re also seeing classic plaids, velvet, bouclé and chunky knits that instantly make an outfit feel more elevated,” Smith added.

Mirroring their clothing counterparts, accessories are leaning classic and polished.

“Riding boots, loafers, ballet flats, structured handbags and bold gold jewelry are all trending,” said Smith. “The focus is on versatile pieces you’ll reach for year after year.”

***Shopping list***: A great pair of jeans is the starting point for a plethora of looks. Elevate this denim by Paige, $249, with a soft-as-butter shimmering top by Jade, $130, and statement floral jacket by Tela Mercantile, $300.

***Shopping list***: Caftans like this one in a fierce cheetah print are having a moment. Comfortable and classy, this wearable art by Tela Mercantile, $425, is a one-act wonder

Debbie Dotson

***Shopping list***: Quirky color pairings are on point, so why not team this dress by Jade, $215, with an EsQualo jacket in cacao, $180?

Breast cancer survivor Debbie Dotson has many loves in life, but among her most treasured is the beach.

“I grew up in a small town called Pemberton Borough, New Jersey. My family spent our vacations at the Jersey Shore, just about 45 minutes from our home, and that’s where my love for the beach began,” said the owner of the Gulf Breeze Hotworx. “I’ve always felt happiest near the water. One of the biggest reasons I chose to move to the Gulf Coast was being so close to the beautiful beaches … living just minutes from the beach has truly been a dream come true.”

With an associate’s degree in nursing from Pensacola State College in hand, Dotson worked for years in that field.

“Becoming a nurse gave me a deep appreciation for caring for others and has shaped the way I approach both life and the challenges I’ve faced.”

Three years ago, she took a leap of faith and launched the Gulf Breeze Hotworx.

“Owning the studio has allowed me to combine my passion for helping others with my belief that taking care of our bodies is one of the greatest investments we can make in life. That commitment to health and wellness has become even more meaningful throughout my own breast cancer journey.”

Her journey with breast cancer began in the early 2000s when her daughter, now 28, was only two. After finding a painful lump in her breast, she underwent an ultrasound.

“They saw it and said I was too young for it to be cancer and it was a cyst, probably,” Dotson recounted.

An MRI and a needle biopsy followed, with doctors stating there was no cancer — only cysts. Yet the pain continued. Dotson was reassured that cancer does not hurt, but because of the discomfort, her doctor agreed to remove the mass. Two weeks later, after getting her stitches removed, Dotson heard words that rocked her world.

“After the doctor took my stitches out, he snapped me up and said, ‘Sorry — you have cancer.’”

Thankfully, the disease was in its early stages. Radiation, rounds of medication and, because of a family history, a hysterectomy, a double mastectomy, osteoporosis and a ruptured implant all followed.

Despite years of medical struggle, there have been moments of hope. Like the technician who came in on her day off to scan Dotson, ultimately finding the ruptured implant. And the physician who used Dotson’s own belly tissue to create new breasts, a procedure called a DIEP flap. She feels better having her own tissue rather than an unnatural substance in her body.

The bottom line for Dotson: “Listen to your gut” and be your own advocate.

Besides working and beaching, Dotson fills her days with helping others in need.

“I find the greatest fulfillment in helping others. Whether through my profession, my business or simply lending a hand to someone in need, serving others brings me the most joy.”