The Comfort Zone

Our temperatures finally dipped enough to wear my all-time favorite look on Friday.

There was a little swagger in my walk all day.

This look fits my personality to my core, but it isn't appropriate for our weather or the event very often here in east Tennessee. When I slip into a faux leather jacket with jeans and boots, I feel like my twenty-year-old self with better judgment.

The jacket is an old favorite from Stein Mart. The double-strand Akola Project necklace is from Monkee's of Johnson City. The gray jeggings are from Chico's. The black cashmere tunic by Vince and the French Connection boots are from Saks Off 5th.

A Regal Cardigan

Lightweight, thin layers can be warm and flattering.

I am always happy to find a new source for stylish elements that add a different silhouette to my wardrobe.

When the Project Manager for the designer, Ronen Chen, contacted me about featuring one of his pieces, I found it difficult to choose. All of his items are so elegant and timeless.

When this cardigan arrived, I knew right away that it was going to be worn many times. The details, the neutral plum color, and the perfect fit make it a great choice for staying warm in style.

When I wear leggings, I always wear a sweater or jacket that falls below my bottom. This Amber Knit Cardigan fits the requirement perfectly.

Bundled Up!

We don't get much snow here in East Tennessee, but we did wake up to a light dusting on Thanksgiving day.

When the cold weather comes, you will find me in lightweight layers, including a hat, a scarf, and an overcoat. Winter and I are not friends.

 

I must tell you about this hat. I was inspired to find my own version after seeing a similar fedora on a high-end shopping site for $195! 

I found this one at T.J.Maxx for $24.99. After removing the colorful ribbon and leather braid that it came with, I added this gray grosgrain ribbon and two gunmetal colored buttons to the back to create the look for less.

Below is a photo of the hat's back showing how I folded the ribbon ends over, glued them down, and then sewed two on small silver-gray buttons.

The over the knee boots are by Vince Camuto via Belk. They are perfect for muscular calves because only the front is leather. The backs are a stretch material that makes them very comfortable to wear.

Tip for putting long boots on over leggings. Put your knee socks on over the pants legs, then pull the boots on.

I found the coat at Ann Taylor Loft earlier this year, but it is now sold out. The scarf is by Vince Camuto via Saks Off 5th.