Outfits Not Just Clothes

cardigan-Anthropologie(similar here ), shift-Everlane(similar here ), boots- Lifestride via DSW , sunnies- Target This Monday morning doing "something" with my hair was just not in the cards. So I let the color and cut do the heavy lifting and focused on the pairing of this pocketed shift and oversized cardigan. I love how the hem of the sweater and dress just about line up, makes for an edgier, more modern look, than a standard cardigan that comes halfway up the dress. Another interesting feature of this OOTD, is the dress's collar and buttoned placket. True, there's nothing that revolutionary going on here, but it's these simple details that elevate the overall look, plus the boots! Hey, when your hair just won't anymore, you've got to compensate in your clothes, amiright?! 

blazer-J.Crew Factory(similar here ), dress- www.eshakti.com (similar here ), scarf-H&M(similar here ), boots-DSW(similar here ) I know, I know, red is such a cliche for Valentine's Day, but it could have been worse. I could have worn hearts, like last year in this post . 😋 All kidding aside, this red shift is so easy to wear and with this plaid blazer, a scarf, and boots I have a bold, but not over-the-top OOTD for the office.  I have no comment on the state of my hair... 👱😖

It's still arctic temps here in Pittsburgh, hence I am still mostly existing in fleece leggings and oversized flannels. In the meantime I've picked up a few keys pieces for warmer, more fashionable days ahead.  Tunic Tee I've had my eye on this top from ModCloth for quite some time. Their post-Xmas sale made it such a great deal that I couldn't resist. I can see this doing a lot of work in my wardrobe, being able to layer it over thermal shirts, under cardigans and button-downs, worn with jeans or knit skirts--more on that to come... Peplum Top For a bit of pretty I also picked up this printed blouse from the MC. I'm not a huge fan of peplum, but the looser silhouette makes me think the fit will be flattering. Overall it feels simple and fresh, no?  Merino Blend Skirt And speaking of skirts, this easy piece from Uniqlo is going to be another great go-to here this winter. Definitely looking to pair it with the olive tunic tee above, as...

collar-ASOS(similar here ), dress-Uniqlo(similarish here ), loafers- G.H. Bass This navy shift, and my work-a-day weejuns are given a bit of personality with the addition of this sequined detachable collar from Asos . (check out their collection of bibs here !) I'll be the first to admit that this outfit fell a bit short of the mark. It's just not as polished/striking as I had hoped. Looking at these pics I feel a blazer was called for, either my classic white blazer, last seen here , or my lavender blazer, last exalted, here . Also, these brown loafers are a bit heavy for the whimsical vibe the collar brings forth, so maybe a different shoe as well.  But the MAIN lesson here today boys and girls, is that adding a collar (or bib) to a standard garment elevates said garment from clothes into an outfit, you just have to stick the landing on execution.