Outfits Not Just Clothes

skirt/cardigan-J.Crew(similar here and here ), henley-Gap(similar here ), boots-DSW(similar here ), necklace-Gifted(similar here on Etsy ), watch- Wenger It can be difficult to pull off seasonally-appropriate novelty prints during the holidays without coming off as gimmicky. And while this skirt, doesn't scream "Xmas" by any means, its library motif and rich/dark colors definitely speak to a comfy/cozy, yet polished aesthetic of the season. That's quite a tall order for a skirt, eh?  I topped it off with a studious cardigan--another great, yet subtle piece for holiday outfitting. Also, hello evergreen background, just another nod to the season for this OOTD! Check back later this week for Part 2 of my Gift Guide. See Part 1 here . 

culottes/cardigan-J.Crew(similar here and here ), tunic-Gap(similarish here ), necklace/ring-Jewel Mint(similar via Poshmark here and here ), boots-DSW(similar here ) The sheen on these shantung culottes is giving me LIFE!!!! They really amp up the chic factor on this OOTD, while this grandpa-esque cardi brings in some low-key balance. This outfit was originally inspired by a cardigan styling slideshow from Refinery 29 , here's the original inspo pic: I took the general idea of culottes topped with an oversize striped cardigan and made it my own with more of a navy palette, plus boots! Really pleased with the results, what say you? 

It's always a pleasure to find a new company/brand/product/website especially at this time of year when searching for unique gifts. Thanks to a beauty article in the October issue of Glamour I came across Rituals -- Inspired by the wisdom and ancient traditions of Asian cultures, we created an extensive collection of luxurious yet affordable products for home and body. We hope to enrich your life using unique signature fragrances that are carefully designed and composed by the world’s finest perfumers. So far I have these items in my cart as potential gifts: Night Balm for Hands I'm thinking of picking up several bottles of this night balm for those "just in case" for when someone unexpected surprises with a present and you feel obligated to gift in return. Also, this will be great for daycare teachers, work friends, the neighbor lady who gets the mail when you're out of town, etc.   Mini Fragrance Sticks Hello, hostess gift! Especially f...

trench- Costco , sweater-Madewell(more options here ), shorts- Anthropologie (similar from Asos here ), legwarmers- American Apparel , boots-DSW(similar here ) I've had this oversized statement sweater for years, when chunky knits were having a moment. The current knitwear trend includes off-the-shoulder silhouettes, prints, and embellishments, like fringe and tassels. And while this pullover isn't necessarily "of the moment" it's a great piece for late fall/early winter AND a comfy option for holiday dressing. To balance out the bulkiness of the sweater I went with these tweedy shorts, tights, and legwarmers. Loving how these shorts "match" my basic Costco-brand trench! 

vest-Anthropologie(more options here ), shirt /necklace-ModCloth(more options here ), leggings- Zara , boots-Nine West(similar here ) Technically, this "vest" is more of a gilet/outerwear piece, and definitely the star of this OOTD. The black, grey, and pink palette is a fresh take on plaid for autumn, and is actually a subtle move toward transitioning from fall-to-holiday dressing. I'll definitely be wearing this piece as we head into December festivities!