Choosing A Winter Coat

Do you have a great winter topper? It has been at least twenty years since I purchased a nice full-length winter coat.

Our East Tennessee weather is not often harsh, so I don't need to dress for sub-zero temperatures.

A stroller or some other type of jacket over layers is my usual cold-weather look. While that works most of the time, it can be rather casual.

I have been doing research for a few months to make a wise decision about this purchase.

I didn't want a bulky coat that would visually add pounds to my frame. I looked for a sleek style without a large collar, belt, memorable buttons, or other details that might date it and me. While I love black, I wanted this coat to be another color. Having one that can be dressed up or down and worn with scarves was also a priority. This coat could also be belted if I ever magically acquire a waistline.

The rest of my look includes a black vest and knit turtleneck top by Fabrizio Gianni. The reptile embossed black leggings are labeled "Jack," and I found them in a small boutique on Hilton Head Island last year. The boots are Saks Black Label from Saks Off 5th. The bag is also via Saks Off 5th. The hat and scarf are both old from T.J. Maxx.

I am confident that I can wear this coat for several years, with any type or color of attire, and to any event. It is by Cinzia Rocca via Saks Off 5th.

Wear It Wednesday - Trends

The half-tuck or the messy tuck has been around for years.

By tucking in the front of my shirt, I can show off the belt detail. Tucking in the whole shirt can make you look really thick waisted. Additionally, I have no bottom at all, so that is not something I want to show off.

This is a very soft flowing tie front shirt from Chico's, which means there is already less material in the front, so it looks neater. A shirt that is full length in the front sometimes feels too bulky above the belt, but this one works nicely. The ankle zip jeans are also from Chico's.

Interesting belts are great, but I only wear them low-slung over a long tunic, with a jacket, or with a half tucked shirt because I do not want to draw attention to my thick waistline.

I will not be embracing all the trends (such as wearing high heels with sweat pants), but when a trend comes along that serves me well, I will make it part of my look.

Many of you have asked me what I wear on days off or when Mr. Mickey and I are not attending some function. This is a typical day off look for me.

After I walk three miles in the morning, I come home, eat breakfast, shower and get dressed for the day.

I work mostly from the office in my home, so there are days when I really don't need to go out for anything. I get dressed and put on makeup even when I stay home alone. If I were married and my husband would be home later, you can bet I would be doing this every day. We owe it to ourselves and to the loves of our lives to look pretty every day. 

Looking my best helps me feel more confident and be more productive. You can hear it in my voice if you call me while I am still in my PJs. I cannot fathom being in my pajamas at noon, but I see women going out to get the mail (at the Post Office!) or to pick up the trash bin late in the afternoon, still in their bathrobes.

If you are guilty of wearing those paint-stained old yoga pants around the house all the time because they are so comfortable, throw them away today. Wear a clean pair of jeans and a nice shirt or something else from your closet that you are saving for good. Every day of your life is a good and special day. You are important, and you deserve to look pretty every day. 

With the launch of this post, I will reach one million views on the blog today. I am honored to have been welcomed into your world so many times. I hope that my words and outfit ideas have served as a positive example for you. That is always my goal.