Written by Carrie Edelstein

No one can argue the hottest accessory for the fall will be a protective mask! But we still get the rest of our bodies to cover in fashion statements. Between the cozy sweaters and vibrant colors coming out from designers, there’s no better way to shop right now than by appointment.

Pia Koster is the St. Louis stylist for Pearl by Lela Rose. After a sneak preview of fall fashions via Zoom a few months ago, she’s now getting ready for the fall trunk show that will take place in her home in a few weeks. Shopping will be by appointment only and precautions will be taken for everyone’s safety- temperature checks, UV light sanitization, availability of hand sanitizer and masks as well as the option of an outdoor dressing room. Virtual try-on appointments will also be available.

Now that you know it’s a safe shopping environment, here’s a little more about the clothes! Koster says, “Lela was inspired for the fall line during quarantine which she spent with her family on their ranch in Texas. The colors come from the wildflowers of Texas - goldenrod, flax, thistle, wine - with a sky blue backdrop (Koster’s personal favorite color) of wide open spaces.”

Koster adds, “Fall is about season-less dressing, emotional pieces, knitwear… lengths range from mini to midi.” Pearl’s fall line will also include oversized knits and knit dressing, with pops of unexpected color.

“Pearl’s fall line is purposed for layering— and not only fall but going from fall to winter to spring. The lines are made to wardrobe and build on previous purchases and that’s one of the reasons that my closet is now stapled with the pieces. These are your go-to, feel good investment pieces at affordable prices. Versatility is key and the line has something for career, special occasion, retired, or stay-at-home moms. It’s really for all different walks of lives and all ages,” says Koster.

When asked what sets Pearl apart from other lines, Koster says, “Lela’s design process and attention to detail. She is rooted in fabrication and her years of experience has her well connected with the same fabric mills that do couture. Lela's fabrics for Pearl are sourced from the same mills as the Lela Rose Collection. Lela and her team design into the fabrics instead of finding fabrics to fit her designs. So she delivers a high quality garment that through this business model becomes an affordable luxury item. It is all made in New York, and they are uniquely positioned to be nimble in the design and production process since it is all, literally, steps away.”