ICU Readers

ICU Eyewear recently sent me some great readers to try.

I like the lightweight frames and the larger lenses very much. They also come with a protective cover so that they don't get scratches while not in use.

Both styles are modern and comfortable to wear with a 1.25 strength.

Fabrizio Gianni Pants

It was time for a night at the symphony, which means Mr. Mickey and I had an elegant dinner at Gourmet and Company before attending the performance.

This evening I wore a really fabulous pair of pants from Fabrizio Gianni. I was unaware of this company until they offered to send me a few pieces to try. When I opened the box, I was immediately very impressed with the quality of both the fabric and the superior design details. Their items are made in the USA and created for women who value quality and fit above trendy.

These top-stitched legging pants have a wide waistband and are made with comfortable stretch fabric with spandex so that they hug you close without appearing too tight.

I will be wearing these pants often during the holiday season since they look great with either my favorite short boots or the black pumps I enjoy wearing so often.

It is freezing for East Tennessee at this time of year, so I am wearing several thin layers. I know from experience the concert hall is normally a bit cool and the long walk to the parking area at the end of the performance can be bone-chilling. 

I wore layers, including a long sleeve black tee over a thin black tank top, a cobalt blue boiled wool jacket, and finally a faux leather-trimmed ruana as a topper. The bottom half of me also remained snug and warm in these knit legging pants. The quality of the fabric makes a huge difference!

The shop windows are already dressed in Christmas decorations!

My favorite long over lean look worked well for me again. I received many compliments and remained warm even on the long brisk walk to the car at the end of another perfect evening with Mr. Mickey.

You will see more items from Fabrizio Gianni on this blog. I am now a big fan of their quality and timeless style that will last through years of wear.

Santa Fundraiser

You may remember that Mr. Mickey has played Santa to a group of children who might not otherwise have much of a Christmas in years past.

A dear friend started the tradition of hosting a Christmas pizza party for some local needy children and their parents or guardians. Each child receives a coat, school clothes, a pair of shoes, and a toy.

Over the years, other friends have joined in to help fund the project. Last evening all those friends gathered to enjoy a wine and cheese fundraiser for next year's project, including an evening with "Santa."

Since I am Santa's date for the evening, I always wear something red. This year I wore a vintage red St. John Knit jacket, which was a gift from my dear friend Mitzi. I paired it with faux leather ponte jean leggings. The BCBGeneration zipper shoes from Dillard's were a big hit!

When I wear a piece that makes a bold statement, such as the jacket with the trademark St. John gold buttons and the zipper shoes, I let those items take the limelight. Adding a necklace or bold earrings would have been too much clutter.

The season of excess is upon us. In addition to numerous all you can eat buffet dinners, I will be avoiding glitzy sweaters, bright red lipstick, too much blush, and big sparkly matching earrings and necklaces.

Cali and York Animal Print Bag

Animal print continues to be extremely popular for all seasons but especially in fall.

This animal print Blingiton Bag is from Cali and York.

My love of animal print is no secret. However, I limit myself to one piece per outfit. I also wear it with solid neutral basics most of the time.

Animal prints with many golds in them are not good with my cool complexion, but I do love a belt, shoes, or bag as interesting additions are worn away from my face.

I am wearing it here with black jeans, a gray long sleeve tee, and a white trench coat for a late day lunch with Mr. Mickey.

Be sure to check out all three Wear It Wednesday posts for today!

Saturday Afternoon Casual

I'm on a long cardigan kick this week.

I found this gray lightweight cardigan with a fringe edge at Saks OFF 5th last week. It is from their own Saks Blue Label. I wore it on Saturday afternoon with animal print flocked jeans and a white tank from Chico's. The boots are by Nine West, also from Saks OFF 5th.

Mr. Mickey and I had a light lunch of spinach dip with pita bread and a glass of wine at Label, a new restaurant in Johnson City.

We are planning to go back for dinner later. They are getting rave reviews from everyone we have talked to, and this dip was delicious.

The decor is rich with reclaimed wood and a very high ceiling.

This beautiful lady is Arianna. I asked to take her picture as she was walking by because I admire her awesome casual look.

A green space park is beside the building. It is at 112 Tipton Street. The upper level has loft living spaces.