Blazers & boho & boots oh my!

By Allison McCrory / Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Shopping list: Faux leather is all rage this season. This wide-leg pant in the trending fabric is by Lysse, $140. Create a stunning, understated look when pairing them with an Agolde thin turtleneck, $152, and a Lysse lady sweater, $178.

It’s the year of the blazer, but not just any blazer — make it oversized or a collarless feminine Chanel style to mirror the runway’s favorite 2024/2025 styles.

In addition to blazers, look for lots of supple corduroy, said Katy Nagel, owner of Gray Boutique on Palafox in downtown Pensacola.

“Baby wale or thick, but very soft and pliable,” she said.

Consider teaming your blazer with runway jeans featuring full legs that sweep the ground.

Faux leather everything and boho blouses are on trend. And modern midi dresses in solids or refined prints continue to be favorites.

Look for standout knits and everyday embellishments as well as maximalist earrings and layered necklaces this winter.

Must-have shoe trends this fall and winter offer something for everyone, said Paula Hayward James, owner of Colette shoes in Gray Boutique.

Tall boots are “leggy essentials” that team well with anything and everything — especially a mini skirt, said James. Look for sumptuous suede boots for a touch of luxury. Smoking loafers, Mary Janes and animal prints are taking footwear by storm, as are cap-toe, two-tone styles.

Just in time for the holidays and beyond, consider some shine.

“Metallics are not just for the holidays anymore. Add that extra ‘wow’ to any outfit with a fabulous heel, loafer or boot,” James added.

Shopping list: Go edgy with this tweed bustier by Karina Grimaldi, $298, teamed with Citizens of Humanity denim gaucho, $298. Top it all off with this delicious Trovata Birds of Paradis faux fur jacket, $332.

Shopping list: Feel pretty in this uber-feminine blue floral Hunter Bell Sabine dress, $450.

Amity Hoch

Amity Hoch’s family celebrates holidays big — and Christmas is the biggest of all.

“They look forward to holidays so much in part because of the creativity and journey of creating a full sensory holiday experience in our own house,” said the Oregon native.

A fully decorated holiday home sets the tone for baking, holiday movies, singing, craft projects and attending Mass, where Houch sings. She hopes to serve meals to those in need alongside her family in the coming years.

While Hoch’s life is full of joy and celebration, that was not always the case.

In her early 20s, while working for Nordstrom, personal trauma kickstarted a downward spiral into addiction.

“I found the program of Alcoholics Anonymous and have been sober for over 15 years, since May 3, 2009,” she said.

After a year healing, working and growing in France, a healthy Hoch returned to the United States, earning a master’s degree and starting a family.

Fast forward to 2020, and Hoch relocated to her new home on Santa Rosa Beach, where her family lives every minute large.

They model together, road trip to national parks with their two Pomeranians, volunteer, play pickleball and create art. Hoch said a newfound passion is coaching her children’s sports teams. Hoch substitute teaches, instructs yoga and works television jobs.

“I am thrilled to be in this magazine and love this area,” she said. “It’s given me so much peace living around here. I’ve met the best people and am surrounded by beauty every day. People are happy here. They are kind and welcoming. They will jump in to help if you need help. They actually care how your day is going. Whether we stay here forever or not, the Gulf Coast will always have my heart.”