Dress, Lida Baday (thrifted); blazer, H&M (thrifted); belt, Anthropologie; shoes, Sam Edelman (thrifted); bag, MbMJ
Dress, Lida Baday (thrifted); blazer, H&M (thrifted); belt, Anthropologie; shoes, Sam Edelman (thrifted); bag, MbMJ

I love a pretty, embellished elastic-backed belt — they’re functional (comfy too) and ornamental at the same time. I got this one years ago at Anthropologie (on sale) and I wish I could find something similar again, but I’ve had no luck the last few times I went to the store. Oh well. The one I do have worked nicely against the somewhat masculine print of the dress, and the colours paired well with the plum blazer. I kept my other accessories very minimal to make sure that the overall result wasn’t too dressy for the office. In the past, I reserved this belt for special occasions, because it *is* on the flashier side, but I think this shows that it can be “dressed down” if necessary.

hashtag: short hair don't care
hashtag: short hair don’t care
not a black belt
not a black belt

I have not had any luck in finding a better version of this H&M blazer which I love in all respects except quality. In fact, I don’t even mind the ponte material itself — it’s the lining that’s driving me crazy. It feels so incredibly plastic, and it’s almost entirely non-breathable. I hate it! Most of my blazer linings are polyester blends, and none are quite this bad. I’m not sure why this one is so different. Here’s hoping the thrift gods send me a suitable replacement soon because this blazer is quickly becoming a staple.

did I mention pockets!?
did I mention pockets!?
blazered up
blazered up

8 Comments on Embellished 

  1. It really is such a beautiful blazer! The color and fit are wonderful. It’s a shame the quality isn’t there (though not unexpected when coming from H&M). Prayers to the Thrifting Gods that you’ll be able to replace it with something a bit better soon 😉

    Have you checked eBay for Anthro belts? I’ve found a few steals over the years!

    • I’m afraid of the cost, and I don’t think the rest of the blazer is good enough in terms of quality and durability to justify a big investment. It’s probably just easier to wait for a replacement. The current one is certainly not unwearable, lining and all.

  2. Your hair is just looking amazing since you cut it! I did go to Ebay and typed in Anthropologie belt (you can include the word stretchy) and I got so many pretty ones in the style you’re looking for!
    Thanks for the great posts – I’m glad you’re back and I look forward to them every day. 🙂

  3. Love the idea of covering up some of the belt with the blazer – helps make it a little less dressy for work! I bought one very similar at Anthropologie for my wedding and loved the way it was so stretchy & comfortable but still very glam!