J.Crew Holiday Event Today

Courtesy of J. Crew

We know it’s only November. We know you haven’t even started to contemplate your holiday shopping. So why not let a professional fashion designer do it for you? In celebration of the holiday collection, J.Crew at Copley Place will hold a cocktail and shopping event with the company’s new vice president of women’s design, Tom Mora. Mora will meet with shoppers and offer style advice — not to mention that all merchandise will be 15 percent off. After all, it’s the early bird that always gets the worm. Or in this case, the perfect pair of glitzy ballet flats.

And in case you miss out on Mora’s advice first-hand, we spoke with the J.Crew fashion maverick about how he got started with J.Crew, his favorite trends for the holidays, and the best way to stay warm and chic this winter.

How did you get started in the fashion design industry?
I studied fashion at Parsons School of Design and landed my first job out of school at Ralph Lauren. I have been at J.Crew for over 10 years. When I started at J.Crew, the company was going through a bit of an odd time, but lucky for us, Mickey [Drexler, CEO of J.Crew group] came on board and reminded us how important the name J.Crew was as a brand. We were told to make the most beautiful products, in the best fabrics and yarns.

How would you describe J.Crew’s overall aesthetic and how does it fit in with Boston’s fashion sense?
Timeless, effortless, and quality which is always in style. It’s a great fit. Boston women are smart, sophisticated, and classic.

What trends should we be excited to see from J.Crew for the holiday season?
The classics that feel right for the holidays: a schoolboy blazer, the Minnie pant, and the ballet flat, all in amazing colors and patterns.

What’s your favorite accessory from the holiday collection?
The red Edie purse.

It snowed here in October! How should Bostonistas stay warm and stylish this season?
Cashmere and the shearling-lined MacAlister boots.

What advice do you have for women who want to spice up their wardrobe on a budget?
If you can, buy a great coat or sweater in a beautiful, fun color, a great scarf, or even a bright lipstick.

Wednesday, November 16, 6 to 8 p.m., J.Crew, Copley Place, 100 Huntington Ave., Boston, RSVP at 617-236-5950. —Ashley Wood