It’s Pants Weather

I have many friends who really enjoy wearing tights in the winter. I do not. I will do it on occasion, when they outfit and the weather requires it, but when the temperature drops- it’s pants time for me.

To my credit, however, I do my best to keep the pants interesting. I have many of the standard navy and black options, but I try to broaden the typical pant color pallet. I have not one, but three pair of pink pants, all in different shades. It can be tough finding pants that flatter your figure. I’ve been sticking to a slimmer leg lately, but I throw in the occasional trouser when needed. Here are a few that have worked well for me this winter.

JCrew’s Cameron Slim Crop

The inseam is a little short (hence the “crop” label), but these are a good standard pencil pant that come in some cute colors. I have a bright blue (so hot right now), and kind of dark chambray. I waited until they were on sale. I would imagine (or hope) they’ll keep the silhouette and bring in some new colors this spring. Also, they are machine wash!!!

Loft’s Pencil Pant in Marisa Fit

These are one of the shades of pink I have. Muted pink tones are really trendy right now, and The Loft is perfect for trend shopping because I spent less than $50 on them. And once again, machine washable!

JCrew’s Martie Slim Crop

These are a little closer to what I would call a pixie pant than the Cameron above. They have a side zip instead of a fly for a sleeker silhouette. They’re basically a more structured legging that’s not quite as clingy as a true legging. I got them in navy. Also, machine washable (do you see a trend)!

Banana Republic’s Devin Fit Legging

Though these are called a legging, their fabric is a little more work appropriate. The fabric is thicker, and therefor leaves a little more to the imagination than a typical cotton/spandex legging. These are a Friday pant for me. I have them in black and light gray. Machine washable!!!

Ann Taylor’s Double Cloth Devin Fit Ankle Pant

These are slightly less body conscious than the other options even though it’s a similar fit. For whatever reason, I wear these pants when I’m out of ideas and I just need pants and a blouse that I can be comfortable in all day at work. I like that I can tuck a blouse into them or wear a sweater that does tuck in, and both options look good. Ann Taylor is always on sale, so it’s easy to find them at 50% off. I have them in black and olive. Again, no dry cleaning needed.

Did you notice that they’re all machine washable? Most similar styles used to be dry clean only at these retailers. I think retailers took a hint that people are tired of paying to dry clean every last thing. I’m happy they caught on, and I hope that all of these hold up in the wash!

Fall Trends: You Need Some Velvet

Velvet is so hot right now. I think it’s a winter dress up staple, but this year it’s in every store with clothes and accessories for every occasion. Here are some of my favorites.

Dresses

I loooooove this dress by Leith. It’s the right color, the right cut, and it’s $75. It’s perfect for dress up events this fall and winter. This would be good for all those holiday parties in December!

This is a perfect combination of trends for the season. It’s got the velvet, floral print, and shift dress silhouette. Once again, perfect for all the evening events this fall and winter. It’s great if you want to show off your legs.

I love this unique color combination! It’s definitely head and shoulders above all of the basic solid velvet tee shirt and shift dresses I’m seeing out there this season.

Tops

I think this top is really pretty from Loft. I think it’s a great “day to night” look. You can wear it to work, at night, or the weekend.

There are a lot of basic velvet tees and mock necks out there right now, but this one has a little more flare and interest to it.

On the more casual side, what about a velvet sweatshirt. You definitely don’t need a holiday party to break this one out. You know I love a sweatshirt.

Pants and Skirts

Do these not look like the comfiest leggings ever? They would be great with a chunky sweater for a weekend look or a casual party.

I think midi pencil skirts are so chic, and this is a perfect party look to pair with a tee shirt or sequin tank top for a holiday party.

Here is your velvet weekend wear. Adidas is doing velvet justice this season and you need to check it out!

I think this is how you make velvet a work horse for 9 to 5 outfits.  It will look really smart with a white, black, or blush blouse.

Accessories

I love these fancy flats. I think they’re a good daytime or night time option, and a great neutral color that goes with almost anything. Plus $79 is the right price for a trendy shoe.

These are the perfect height for me and I think the extra straps will actually add stability for those who don’t love heels. Again at $89 and often on sale at Nine West, a good price for a trend.

I love this color and this look is very in right now and very wearable. You could wear these all day at work or out on the weekend.

Finally,  I think a burnout velvet kimono over your LBD or jumpsuit this year is probably the best way to wear velvet this year. Love this one!

How are you wearing velvet this year?

Fall Staples: My Sweater Wardrobe Standbys

So I’m just going to pretend that the high today isn’t 89 degrees, because I’m ready for sweater weather. Here are the basics that I need in my sweater wardrobe every year.

  1. Chunky White Sweater– I would wear one everyday if I could. The cable look is so classic and it goes with everything. By everything, I mean all of my jeans.

2. Fine Knit Black Turtleneck– My go-to when I’m out of ideas. I throw this on with pretty much any skirt or dress pants for work. Not everyone likes wearing a traditional turtleneck but I think it’s so flattering.

3. Jewel Tone Long Cardigan– A basic for work. I love a long cardigan with basic black dress or a white blouse and dress pants. It’s good for days when a blazer just seems like too much. I like to have a couple lightweight, washable cardigans on hand in jewel tones that go well with black and navy.

4. Cowl Neck Tunic– this is every winter weekend with jeans or leggings. I love a cowl neck because it’s warm, comfy, and still put together if you’re heading out of the house.

5. Camel Fine Knit V-Neck/Crew Neck– I love a camel sweater with navy dress pants. It’s old school preppy which is not usually my style but it’s so easy, I’ll take it.

6. Something trendy– I need at least one or two trendier sweaters that I can throw on for brunch with friends when I’m trying to look a little more “with it.” There are so many sweater trends this year, you can take your pick: chenille, off the shoulder, eyelash, bell sleeves, rufflesrib knit

What are your go-to sweaters every year?