Outfitted: It’s fall, y’all

I’m not going to lie when it comes to this season, I’m drinking the fall-craze Kool-Aid. Cable-knit sweaters, leaf peeping, chilly campfires, things infused with bourbon — it’s a shift of seasons that arguably rivals no other. Along with that shift comes a shuffle in the gear closet, so below are some items that have come to the forefront of my gear cache during these most glorious weeks of the too-short autumn months:

1. Dovetail Old School Reversible Work Jacket

This jacket from women’s workwear company Dovetail out of the Pacific Northwest stands out for its 2-in-1 design. It’s a classic plaid shirt jacket on one side and a plush, color-blocked Sherpa fleece on the other. It has a slightly oversized fit for layering and comes in two autumn-appropriate plaid colorways. I love its heavy-duty performance for yard work or camping but can be reversed to the navy and white Sherpa side for a more refined look for a jaunt into town for dinner. Dedicated to eco-conscious fabrics, ethical sourcing and manufacturing, and inclusive sizing, the exclusively women-founded company Dovetail is one I can get behind. 

$139, DovetailWorkwear.com

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2. Mystery Ranch Super Market Backpack/Tote

The fall season is one where I’m out and about quite a bit. Whether it’s the Mac & Cheese Fest, a jaunt to Paonia for some fall harvest shopping, or wandering around Carbondale for a First Friday, a hands-free bag is always convenient. I love this one from Mystery Ranch for its simple low profile but ample interior space. It includes a padded laptop sleeve (up to 15″ only,) an interior bottle pocket and two outer zip pockets. The fabric has a soft brushed finish on it that gives it a bit more of a classy feel. I also appreciate the sturdy foam backing to prevent the structure from being slumpy. My only gripe is that the backpack straps don’t stow away, so you can turn it into a true tote bag, but at this price point, I’m not overly disappointed with that. Available in multiple colors. 

$89, MysteryRanch.com

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3. Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Sandal

There isn’t much more of a classic sandal than the Birkenstock Arizona, and you’d be hard pressed not to see them everywhere these days. But just because the temps are getting a little chilly doesn’t mean you can’t still sport them. Birkenstock has a version that is fully lined with genuine shearling right down to the original contoured footbed. Along with that famous Birkenstock custom support, they have the classic suede upper and metal pin buckles. These obviously won’t carry you into winter, but they’re a great shoulder-season option to keep the memory of summer alive. Available women’s and men’s sizes and multiple colors. 

$160, Birkenstock.com

4. Orvis Softshell Pant

This time of year calls for fall campouts, early morning dog walks, and Friday evening football games, but our mountain weather requires a little boost to the wardrobe to keep us warm. I love these softshell pants from Orvis for these occasions. They are water-resistant in case of a scattered shower and the inside has brushed fleece for warmth and softness. A mid-rise mesh-stretch waist makes them comfortable along with what Orvis calls a natural fit —­ not too tight, not too loose. Zippered cuffs allow for an easy fit over hiking boots in the case you want to wear them on a cold hike and two outer zip pockets stash small items. Articulated knees make for increased range of motion. These will transition wonderfully into winter for things like snowshoeing and classic Nordic skiing. 

$139, Orvis.com

5. Ember Travel Mug

I’ve been using the Ember desktop mug in my home office for over a year now and recently decided to try the travel version. Like the home version, this mug not only keeps your coffee hot but allows you to set an exact drinking temperature and keep it there for up to 3 hours. The touch display on the outside allows you to increase or decrease the temperature by degrees at any time. A new feature is that the Ember mug is findable by the Apple Find My network. A first I thought this was silly until I realized how often I misplace or lose my travel mugs. At this salty price, you won’t want to accidentally leave it at your hotel or a gas station. The vessel is hand-wash only, but the lid is dishwasher safe and leak-proof. 

$200, Ember.com

6. Gregory Alpaca Gear Box

Whether I’m putting stuff away until next year or digging stuff out for the winter, this time of year inevitably requires some organizing of the gear closet. I’m in that space several times a week, and it’s currently an organizational nightmare. Last spring, Gregory came out with a new line of gear organizing products and the Gear Box is the second thing in this collection that I’ve tried and highly recommend. Waterproof and dustproof, the beauty of this box is the lid. A transparent polycarbonate material allows a clear view into the contents inside but can handle high impact to keep valuable items protected. The lid is also removable with a combination hinge/latch design that allows it to be opened from either side and has molded channels to drain water off the lid. The molded bottom has side grab handles that are incredibly easy to use, and the box is designed to stack multiple. If I could afford it, I would replace all of my numerous gear bins with these. Currently only available in a 2-pack. 

$120, Gregory.com

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.