Outfits Not Just Clothes

 We had a few days of very sweet, yet allergy-inducing tastes of spring but it's still winter and the weather can be fickle. While the official start of spring equinox is on the horizon, we all know here in Pittsburgh that days can turn chilly far into May.  Here's a wintery outfit that may be pulled out a few more times before I change over my wardrobe for warmer days.  pants-J.Crew(similar here ), sweater-Nordstrom Rack(similar here ), pull-on pants-Banana Republic Factory (similar here and here ), hat- KIN Apparel , sunnies-- Diff Eyewear , boots-Nordstrom(similar here )   Some may think the whole "pop of color" styling is outdated, or even cringe. But these red boots last seen here  enliven this navy and grey outfit. The fair isle sweater speaks to the winter we are transitioning out of while the punchy boots are stepping towards (pun intended) the coming fresh spring ahead.  Also, the "Mama" bracelet was made by my oldest! 👧💗

 Turtleneck, Layers, & Pull-On Pinstripes coming at you! turtleneck-H&M(similar here ), coatigan-J.Jill(similar here ), pants-Banana Republic Factory(similar here ), coat-Asos(more options here ), boots-LL Bean(similar here ), ring- Mejuri , necklace-Thrifted, sunnies- DIFF Eyewear For this OOTD I layered my beloved coatigan (cardigan/coat hybrid) under a trench for a extra bit of warmth and texture. I always like to approach a mid-layer with the idea that it should bring another element to the overall look, and add sense of coziness.  Speaking of cozy, these pull-on pants are a dream. They have the appearance of a traditional trouser, but the feel of sweats without the worn-out slouch. Plus the pinstripes are a subtle way to work in a bit of print to break up all of the solids. With pull-on pants consider ordering a size down from you normal size to maintain a good fit without the droop.  As for this week's turtleneck, it actually kicked off this whole turtleneck...

Two weeks ago my husband and I attended the 1st Annual Pittsburgh Sunday Best Bloody Mary Festival  and it was a beautiful afternoon for some winter day drinking! shirt/jeans-Anthropologie(similar here & here ), vest/hat-J.Crew(similar here & here ), necklace- chloe + isable , ring- Le Tote (similar here ), boots- Columbia Sportswear This layered OOTD isn't setting the style world on fire, but it's getting the job done of being warm, comfortable, and featuring a bit of flair with the woven pattern in the button-down and contrasting pinstripe of the vest. Also, the jewelry is a polished touch, especially with the silvery VIP bracelet. We definitely VIPed it up check out some drink pics-- This bloodie from Luke Wholey's came in 2nd overall, and had the BEST garnish game hands down!  Yep, that's an Old Bay rim job with a deconstructed pizza garnish from Bado's A beer-mixed bloody from Round Corner Cantina ...

cardi/clutch-Banana Republic(similar here , bag here via Poshmark ), tank-Mango(similar here ), shorts-Uniqlo(similar here ), loafers- G. H. Bass , sunnies-Ralph Lauren(similar here ) I wore this low-key chic ensemble to a very grown-up brunch at Union Standard , followed by a post-brunch beer at The Commoner . The whole (kid-free) outing was quite a treat! Made even the better with the contrast of business-like pinstripes in a casual drawstring short topped by a luxe cardi and ironic clutch. I've has this "tomboy" bag for years and it's been a quirky addition to many an outfit, as seen here , here , and here .  Now check out pics of the eats and drinks!  Scramble with baby kale, mushrooms, shallots & chimichurri--YUM! New-American Hoppy Ale from Foreign Objects Beer Company And for your viewing pleasure, my excitement could barely be contained!