Watch It Go!

Watches have never really been a go-to accessory for me. Yet, I received an amazing Coach watch (The Whitney--pictured at left, in case you're curious) as a gift from my husband several years ago, and it was the perfect style for me, functioning more like a bracelet than your standard utilitarian watch. However, utility is all the rage these days! My fashion-savvy sister caught this trend early last year, purchasing a chunky blinged-out version by Michael Kors. Since then, I've become increasingly aware that oversized utility watches are everywhere--and the trend will continue this fall... Watch it go!

For fall, the oversized watch has evolved slightly. Borrowing from the boys' camp, these watches are heavy on hardware (and often just heavy in general!), with large faces and thick straps in a variety of functional materials. While I still adore my Whitney, now I also see the appeal of a utility watch. These menswear inspired time pieces can really make a statement when paired against an otherwise feminine outfit. Below are my personal top three, and as you can see, with an inherently casual aesthetic, each could easily be a go-to accessory for the everyday.

As an added bonus, since function comes with a lower price tag than the glitz glam of luxury, this is good news for fall fashion budgets. Although, diamonds are a girls' best friend, a rubber or canvas watch strap is definitely a friend to her wallet! And not for nothing, but I can't resist adding a little plug for vanity... When you wear an oversized watch, it makes your wrist look itty-bitty--and what right-minded fashionista out there would argue with that? In summary, it's all pros and no cons, so your homework assignment should be an easy one: find your favorite!

Images, in order of appearance: (1) The Whitney Watch by Coach (www.coach.com/); (2) The Scout Leather (for men) in silver $80 by Nixon (http://www.nixonow.com/); (3) Black Stainless Steel Chronograph Watch, 45 mm $250 by Michael Kors, available at Bloomingdales (http://www.bloomingdales.com/); (4) Vintage Field Army Watch (for men) in olive by Timex $150, available from J. Crew (www.jcrew.com).