Alright, time for some real talk. I’ve been extra, extra mindful about adding new items to my closet this year. I’ve drawn a hard line on what I’ve allowed in – and very few items have made the cut. And I hate to say it, but I’m starting to get bored. If I’m feeling bored, I can only imagine how you guys feel. I’m sure some of it is due to the fact that we are nearing the end of cold weather season, and many of these items have been on rotation for several months.
This week I had two new items arrive in the mail, and thankfully, that broke my spell of boredum. The first, a bag that I’ve been on the hunt for, and the second, a thick sweater I decided I ‘needed’ afterall. I am pretty excited about both, and they definitely helped shake up my winter’s end slump!
MONDAY:
Alpaca Cardigan, Zady (sold out) | Donegal Sweater, Everlane (a few years old, similar option) | Belt, SSENSE | Modern BF Jean in Mid Blue (27) | James Oxford, Nisolo | Petra Backpack, c/o Everlane (currently on sale!) | Half Moon Pendant, c/o Claus
But first, this outfit. It just might be my version of a desperate winter outfit. A cold day called for sweaters x2, and covered ankles. I’ve been keeping an eye out for full-length jeans, which are surprisingly hard to find right now. I am looking forward to the release of Everlane’s straight leg jean next month, which will come in a 28″ inseam, nearly full-length on me. I also saw that Imogene + Willie has a stretch version of the raw denim that I tried and failed at. (I think I bought them too small!) A few months ago I tried the Cousin Fit from Need Supply, and they were almost perfect. The fit was great on my hips but, at the knee, they were definitely looser than I was used to, and a bit on the ‘intentionally ugly’ side. I know there is a big trend of being intentionally ugly, and I secretly admire it, but I’m not sure I am strong enough in my sense of style to pull it off.
Style Notes: I like the look of exposed socks, I’m just not sure that it works here. The saturation of the berry color seems too strong for the jeans. Perhaps this would have worked better with a darker wash. Overall it feels a bit dis-jointed – probably won’t repeat this one.
Style Score: 7
TUESDAY:
Alpaca Cardigan, Zady (sold out) | Striped Top, thrifted (similar) | Pants (6/M), Jesse Kamm | Cons, Thrifted (similar, made in the USA) | Bucket Bag, the Stowe | Bracelets: Initial Cuff, ABLE, Angle Cuff, c/o Moulton | Bucket Bag, the Stowe
New bag day! I’ve had my eye on this structured bucket bag for about a month, and I got extra excited when an online boutique had it marked down quite a bit. Combined with the CAD to USD exchange rate, I got it for nearly half the retail price. The bag is very structured, and sort of reminds me of the popular Mansur Gavriel bucket bag. I prefer this one because I wanted to buy from a smaller company, and I like that there is an actual buckle on the strap, instead of Sam Browne buttons. My bag is the Brady Bucket bag by the Stowe, a Canadian-based designer I heard about from my favorite Canadian-based blogger. Their spring line hasn’t launched online yet, but it’s expected to be listed later this month. I am very drawn to the clean lines of the bag, and the structured leather they use. From what I’ve seen the Stowe share on Instagram, their new additions will be gorgeous.
Style Notes: This is a classic look I’ve worn before, and I love it. Black and navy is one of my favorite combos, and it’s hard to go wrong in an outfit with these pants! They look good every time! Except for maybe under a big winter coat. Then, things get tricky… To stay warm, I threw on my alpaca sweater, which draped nicely with these pants.
Style Score: 10
WEDNESDAY:
Claude Cardigan (S/M), L’envers | Shirt, M, from the men’s section (similar) | Jeans, Rag & Bone, sold out| Boots, Loeffler Randall, no longer available (similar option) | Bucket Bag, the Stowe | Sunglasses, Ray-Ban
This is an old J.Crew shirt my husband was going to get rid of and I snagged it before it hit the Goodwill pile. It’s nice and blousey all over, especially in the sleeves. My favorite part about it is that I don’t have to iron it. My jeans are bordering on jegging territory, and I just don’t know how I feel about that. I’ve been so used to the comfort and structure of thicker denim lately, that these seem to be very exposing. Are you into super stretchy jeans? Or do you prefer structured fabrics?
Style Notes: I love a good black bag because I feel like it grounds my outfits when I start adding shades to my color palette. I love the tan on cognac play here, but if I had added a cognac bag, it would have felt too warm for my taste. Overall I really liked this look, even later when I untied my shirt, and buttoned up my sweater for warmth.
Style Score: 9.5
THURSDAY:
Waffle Knit Sweater (M), Everlane | Jeans, Rag & Bone, sold out | Isa Boot, c/o Nisolo | Bucket Bag, the Stowe
I’m pretty excited about this sweater! It’s the one I held off on buying for months because I thought it was too similar to my T Sweater (which I’m a die-hard fan of). However, I found myself with too many days this winter when I wanted to wear my T Sweater, but I couldn’t because it was too cold. The boatneck would leave my neck chilled and I found it hard to layer under my warmest winter jacket. Since cream tops are a serious part of my uniform, I decided to go for this beefier version of what I already own. The sleeves are more fitted so it works under my coats, and the neckline is more snug to keep me extra warm. I took Bev’s advice and made sure to order it in my true size, and I’m super happy with it!
Style Notes: I would say this is pretty close my ideal winter outfit right here: straight leg jeans, cream top, warm-toned shoes, and a smart black bag. Warm, no-fuss, just the right amount of style. Some days I just don’t want to mess around, do you know what I mean?
Style Score: 9.5
FRIDAY:
Waffle Knit Sweater (M), Everlane | Light Wash Jeans (26), Levi’s 501 CT (similar) | Boots, Loeffler Randall, no longer available (similar option) | Bucket Bag, the Stowe
Day two of my new waffle sweater. I was eager to go for round two, this time paired with some light-wash jeans. Sadly, my jeans have ripped wide open, but I am crossing my fingers that they can be re-inforced. This pair was my first foray back into thick, cotton denim, and I still feel rather attached to them!
Style Notes: This is a lovely reincarnation of Thursday’s outfit with a very similar color palette. I love how it works together, and I can’t wait to try this sweater again with camel shoes or white pants!
Style Score: 10
SATURDAY:
Cardigan (M/L) Cuyana | Tunic (c/o Hackwith Design House) | Jeans, Rag & Bone, sold out | Miriam Mule, c/o ABLE | Bucket Bag, the Stowe | Coin Necklace, Nashelle
Style Notes: This outfit is not working for me. It doesn’t feel like ‘my style’ and I do not love the color palette. I think a swap-out for vintage denim would have been a step in the right direction for this to be more my style. For the color palette to work better, I could have worn black or tan shoes.
Style Score: 6
SUNDAY:
Cardigan (M/L) Cuyana | Shirt, c/o Tradlands (sold out, similar) | Jeans, Vintage Levi’s (501) (very similar) | Chloe Peep Toe Clog (41) in Blush nubuck, Bryr | Bucket Bag, the Stowe
Yay, this was such a happy day! I helped throw a baby shower for a dear friend of mine (hi Rhea!), and I knew I wanted to feel comfortable and confident in my clothes. This was the first time I rocked these high heel clogs all day, and they blew my expectations out of the water. They were so comfortable. The arch support reminded me of my Birkenstocks, as I walked and stood in them for hours. Plus, they are so dang cute. You might remember I reviewed a pair of midheel clogs from Bryr last fall and, I have to say, these are actually more comfortable! I plan on putting together a comprehensive clog guide/review later this spring where I’ll share more of the details and differences between the pairs of clogs I wear.
Style Notes: This is the more ‘me’ version of Saturday’s outfit. These jeans are a touchstone for me, and always help bring me back to my own sense of style, driven (mostly) by my inner compass. Inspired by how Lo wears her button ups blousey, I undid one more button on this top, and sort of tugged it down in the back to create a casual, wide v-neck. It’s a little hard to see the results in this picture, but I’m happy with how it turned out. It’s amazing to me how a subtle shift in styling can make the same item look/feel totally different.
Style Score: 10
In Review:
FAVORITES: Tuesday / Friday / Sunday
KEY LESSONS: I always think I should wear slim/skinny jeans in the winter to combat the bulk and layers, but looking at my favorites from the week, none featured my form-fitting bottoms. It’s time to start trusting my instincts more than trusting what I think I ‘should’ be wearing.
I actually really like Saturday’s outfit! I have a credit to HDH and I was considering this tunic but thought it might be too loose. It looks fairly fitted (as far as tunics go) in this pic but I can’t tell if your cardigan is hiding the tunic’s bagginess. How do you find the fit?
Also loving the creme sweater over light wash denim!
Hi Cassi! I’ll email you a pic of the side view. It’s pretty flowy! It will be great in the summer.
I love Saturday’s outfit, but can tell it’s more my style than yours so Sunday is my favorite “you” look! Those clogs are also adorable! Hope you have a great week!
I love that you still read and comment Rebecca, even though are styles are different! Thanks for your constant encouragement. I hope you are enjoying your new home!
I still find plenty of inspiration even though not everything is my taste. I love that Cuyana cardigan; it has been on my want list for years! Your blog has always been one of my favorites. Things are well with me and we’re getting settled!
Awww, thank you Rebecca! I am glad you guys are getting settled. :) Your place looks beautiful. As for the cardigan, it’s really, really soft, but definitely for temperate weather. If it’s too chilly I have to go for something thicker. I think it will be great in the spring and summer though!
A little while back we discussed how we are similarly shaped and I was going to try the Madewell perfect summer jeans… Well, fate brought me to the Free People store on my birthday and I saw a pair of Levi’s that looked just like something I saw you in, so I tried them – and it was love at first sight! For some reason I didn’t realize I could buy them directly from the Levi’s website, but I clicked on your link and ended up buying two pairs of 501 shorts… Wish me luck & I hope you get credit for that!
PS – have you noticed that even the Levi 501s are somewhat snug in the upper thighs?! One day they will learn to give us more room LOL but for now, they are the best I’ve found! Thanks :) :)
Hi Katherine – yay for finding good Levi’s!! Are they the wedgie fit? Those seem to be popular. Agreed they can be snug at the top.
Though the cotton seems to re-loosen up after each wash, which is helpful!
I have no clue what they are… They say 501 so I’m thinking that’s the name of a fit? Not sure, but I love them and wish every pair in my closet was the same! Good to know about washing… I’ve been nervous about that.
I absolutely love your look from Wednesday!
I know what you mean — I’ve also fallen in love with thicker denim jeans after many years of wearing stretchier denim skinnies. I love the structure of the thicker denim and sincerely thought about getting rid of my stretch jeans at the start of the year. I ultimately decided against it, my personal reasons being: the thinner, stretch denim is easier to tuck into taller boots, are super comfortable and more polished looking on travel and lounge days than yoga pants, they take up way less space in my carry on (I travel a lot), and are cooler to wear to work during the hot Texan summers. But I certainly won’t be adding anymore to my wardrobe unless it’s a replacement.
Oh, those are good reasons!!! I traveled in my jeans in question here, and you’re so right, they were clutch for comfort and ease. I didn’t even think about that. A good thing to keep in mind!
I really loved the “real talk”! I so understand the boredom of that end of winter feeling when you’ve been wearing items that you actually love but then at some point you’re ready for something new, but still it’s not quite spring yet…Anyway, love the newest addition of the sweater, it looks perfect! I was wondering whether I could ask about an item even though it’s not part of this weeks’ outfits: I saw you have the Cardiff jacket made by Only Child, which I was also considering getting in the same fabric. I really love the style, but was just hesitating about sizes. Do you mind me asking what size you have? the OS? I might be one (or two) sizes bigger than you and I was wondering whether to take the OS or OS Tall. I know the website would rather suggest OS, but since I really like the oversized aspect, I was wondering whether you had an idea…would it really be too sloutchy for you for example in your opinion? It’s so difficult to decide! I’m very sorry for this far too long question, but I’m really happy about the idea of investing in some quality pieces, so I’d like to be as sure as possible about my purchase! Thanks so much in case you can answer! I’m kind of new to your blog, but I really love the vibe!
Hi Bettina,
Thanks so much for reading, and for your kind words. Re: the Cardiff, I have the OS Regular. I like the shape it is, it’s oversized, but not overwhelming. It looks like the OS Tall is one inch longer, and two inches wider (measured flat). The fabric is pretty thick and structured, so if it was too wide, it could overwhelm you. Haley (the owner) wears the Cardiff all the time in her stories, you could DM her and ask which size she wears, I think she is typically a size 8. I know how hard these decisions are! At the end of the day, double check the return/exchange policy, to make sure you can swap out if needed. Hope this helps! :)
Hi Andrea,
Thank you so much for your very nice answer, that helps a lot! Indeed, Haley from Only Child also wears the OS Regular I think I’ll go ahead and order that size too, what you said about the fabric made a lot of sense.
Thanks again!
I love seeing new products make their way into your closet and style! I’m also very excited to read your clog review, the fact that the peep toes are more comfortable than the mid heel pair is especially intriguing, as someone who loves arch support in their shoes.
Thank you! And I am excited to share it. I get asked about clogs so frequently, I thought, I might as well compile all my thoughts!
Yes to the in-depth clog review! I’ve been eyeing a pair of Bryr clogs forever but I’m petrified that they’ll be uncomfortable and then I’ll be stuck with an $$$ purchase.
I know the feeling!! If you’re used to the height of heels, than the high heel clog will be no problem for you. It feels so good on! But I definitely walk a little slower, I’m not used to being so tall in them!
Hi! As someone who also agonized over investing in a pair of Bryrs, I’d love to offer you a vote of confidence! I followed them on Instagram for over 2 years before comitting (and messaged Andrea with a fair number of questions, too) and after finally receiving a pair last month, I can’t sing their praises enough. I slip them on and wear them around my room; I wear them when I’m folding laundry; I do a little happy dance in the mirror every time I put them on. I love them so much. The quality is superb, and they are so incredibly comfortable. I have the Chloes, and I was worried that the heel might feel too high, but it’s perfect. Enough to feel elevated but not out of place. Hope that helps!
How I loved reading your comment! so funny, I also just started following Bryr on Instagram and I am already agonizing over a pair! Do you have the high heel ones or the medium ones? I was thinking about the high heels but was wondering whether the height combined with weight (?) might be too much. If Andrea is preparing a recap about clogs that would be perfect!
How kind of you to say! I stalked the hashtags and IG obsessively to try and discern if I was making the right choice. They style I have only comes in the high heel, but it’s incredibly manageable at just over 3 inches (with a one inch platform so it doesn’t feel sky-high). And the shoe itself is super light! It definitely doesn’t feel like a solid block of wood underfoot; they’re delicate in a powerful way.
Thanks so much for your reply, every word of it was so convincing! Glad to know that the clogs are actually super light, I think I’m definitely sold on a pair of high heeled ones.
This is making me laugh because I have been obsessively stalking Bryr on instagram and following along her recent wardrobe challenges. I have a pair of Suzies and a pair of Chloes in my cart right now;) I can definitely only afford one pair but am agonizing over the heel. I’m a mom and definitely feel like my life is more birkenstock than heels these days. I would love a recap from Andrea as well!! Can’t help noticing that she said the high heels may be more comfortable. haha. Clog panic xxxo
I just got the Cousin Fit from Need Supply and love them
They’re at DZ alterations right now getting perfect. I definitely had a chat with the huz – they’re so early 90s, but we decided that if they fit right in the rush, the look feels fresh and looks attractive. I love the feeling of my knees and calves breathing after a decade plus of skinnies. Maybe they will be a mistake in hindsight, but for now super fun!
*tush!
Girl! You’re making me jealous! Please share a picture of them on you when you get them back. What are you having altered? I’ll admit, those jeans felt really good on. I love that you went for them. I just checked back and the darker wash is sold out! The look TOTALLY feels fresh. I returned mine when I thought I was going to go for dark wash Kamms (more on that later this week). So I might have jumped the gun on sending them back. And hallelujah for breathing calves!! Have fun with them! And do send me a pic (so I can be jealous)!!
Your favorites are my favorites!
I debated adding that sweater all winter! Next winter I am definitely going to pull the trigger on that or The cashmere waffle! It’s always cold enough here for it, we are getting our third nor’easter in two weeks!
Also I know what you mean about the jeans but they fit you SO GOOD and I think the ripping out like that shows that you actually wear and keep your clothes, which is a good thing!
Can you DM me the website you bought that bag from, Ive been trying to find a black bucket bag I can afford for over a year now and the price for that would be perfect!
How do you know the Everlane straights will have a longer inseam? I am very happy to hear that! I wish the boyfriend jeans did! I am going to try them in bone when they’re released next month because after 5 years my last pair are done.
Side note about Everlane I’ve been waiting for them to come back out with women’s chambray shirts for years and all mine have worn out so I bought the relaxed fit and square If anyone has questions! They’re both perfect and TTS!
Have a good rest of your week! Xo
Hi Jodie! Just sent you the link, and update the link on the blog too. I know the Everlane straights will have a longer inseam because I emailed my contact at the company and asked. ;) I’m SO TIRED of uber cropped pants. Tall girl probs, right? That new chambray looks so cute! I love that you got it. I bet you’ll wear it with so many things.
Thanks for your feedback on the jeans! I have them in my car now to drop off at my fav alterations place to see if she can reinforce them so they don’t keep ripping. Yay! :)
I hope you have a great week too!
Love that your Levi’s are busted up. That’s when they’re getting REALLY good. Knees are a pretty easy fix and they’ll look really cool, I think. I like a less polished looking pair of jeans with more clean looking sweaters and tops.
As for my jean preference, I land somewhere in the middle. I love (and usually need) stretch, but I can’t stand thin, unsubstantial denim. Drives me nuts!
Yes, that is a good place for denim, the ones I tried from Need Supply were like that. They were nice and thick, but with stretch so they hugged nicely and were comfortable. That’s the grail I think.
I love your styling tips for ripped jeans, contrast is my favorite! Great point. I have them in my car, going to drop them off at DZ when parking isn’t a PITA and get the knees reinforced so they don’t rip any further, yay!
Also not sure if you know about Indigo Proof and her denim repair witchcraft? https://www.indigoproof.com/ Pretty amazing!!! And she’s local (Portland).
Do you love your Jesse Kamm pants?! I am thinking about getting a pair and they look so good on you!!
Yes, I do!! They are pretty much magic pants. I feel good whenever I wear them. There was a certain bit of break in time, they are stiff cotton canvas. They have softened a bit, and feel great now. Frances May carries them, in case you want to do a try on! The Skintone 34 color would be amazing on you!
I think the jeans look hot with the big holes in them!
I feel you on being bored. I’ve hit a rough patch in life and have been absolutely unable to buy ANYTHING because we can’t even afford to buy groceries or pay the rent most of the time. It’s been good for me to shake the habit of shopping as a coping mechanism, but still kind of a bummer as there are a couple items I’d have liked to add this winter. Here’s hoping next winter is a better one!
I have been having the exact same dilemma with my T sweater (probably my favorite item in my entire closet) this winter as it just isn’t warm enough and I don’t always love the way a long sleeve shirt looks under it. Also thought about purchasing the waffle sweater but thought it would be too similar! I’m going to reconsider. I live in Chicago so it would get worn 8 months out of the year…
*warm enough for the coldest days, I should say. It still gets a lot of wear!
Lol – Saturday is my favorite!…for me! ;)
That’s unexpected!
I actually love Monday, Tuesday and Friday. Those Levis are amazing on you and I love a cream top. I also can’t wait for you clog review. I was able to purchase Bryr second hand and they are very comfortable but am also wanting a mid-heel option like your No 6 clogs. Wondering if they slip off or if you have to walk slowly in them :)
Hi Mel, I find the No.6 clogs very, very walkable. They have a narrow fit so they never ever slip off. And I’m a fast walker! ;)
Love the Waffle Sweater on you! For as much as I wear my T Sweater, it’s so nice to have an option that actually fits under *all* my jackets instead of just two.
Also, why has it gotten so hard to find full length jeans? :( It’s like designers forgot winter exists for most of the country. I’m excited to hear what you think of the new Everlane jeans when they come out. I’m hoping they’re a solid staple piece.
No kidding! Every climate is not conducive to bare ankles. If I find a good solution, I’ll certainly share!