Black and White
This outfit had a little bit of everything. Geometric print. Leather. Draping details. Interesting angles. I added a mesh turtleneck because it’s what transitional dressing sometimes requires. Strangely enough, it does add some legit warmth. I am quite pleased with this Oska skirt; it has a front faux-wrap/origami-style pleated detail that’s similar to my Crea Concept skirt (except more dramatic), but it’s made from wool not silk. I think it’s what some retailers call “tropical wool” and use in suiting. I had not heard of this brand before, but the quality seems quite good. And I just love a funky skirt.
Notes: Sarah Pacini vest (consignment, $85); Deletta top (consignment, $12); Rebel Sugar turtleneck (gift); Oska skirt (thrifted, $10); Poppy Barley shoes (thrifted, $25).
Butterscotch & Blue
Orange and blue is a very striking and underrated combination. This is a mellow take on it – both shades are somewhat muted – and I am here for it. I’m calling this yellow shade “butterscotch” by the way; it reminds me of the colour of pudding packs sold under that description, and also it’s a more pleasant name than “mustard”. The blue I am calling “slate” because it has strong grey undertones. The top and jacket are quite a close colour match, which pleases my latent matchy-matchy instincts. Plus it makes for a nice colour-blocking outfit.
Notes: Babaton top (thrifted, $12); Tabitha jacket (retail, $60ish? It was, like, 7 years ago, I don’t remember); Anthropologie pants (gift); Rafael necklace (gift); Chelsea Crew shoes (thrifted, $7.50).
Still Mad For Plaid
How many plaid skirts is too many? I think the only possible answer is “n +1”, “n” being the current number in my closet. That being the case, you see why I had to pick up this Uniqlo skirt. It’s so fun! There are so many styling possibilities! The funny thing is, I was at West Edmonton Mall recently – for the first time in about 6 months – and was astounded to see that we now have a local Uniqlo store. How did I not know about this? Well, my excitement quickly gave way to disappointment. I’ve heard people sing the praises of Uniqlo, but I found the selection in the store underwhelming. A lot of clothes felt cheaper than Old Navy, and the stuff that seemed nicer was quite expensive. Plus, nothing jumped out at me as Something I Had to Have. The funny part of the story is that I have been impressed with the few Uniqlo pieces I’ve found at the thrift store recently – this skirt and a Lemaire x Uniqlo collab dress. Maybe Uniqlo is like Aritzia: I can never find anything I like in the store, but the stuff I thrift is excellent.
Notes: Artizia sweater (thrifted, $8.50); JW Anderson x Uniqlo skirt (thrifted, $8); Mackage jacket (thrifted, $50); Stuart Weitzman boots (thrifted, $20).
Wear Your Brights
This time of year, I feel like “wear our brights” is an imperative much like “eat your greens”. It’s one line of defence against the cold weather doldrums. And boy, is this outfit bright. This coat remains one of my favourite Winners finds from back in the day (when I used to shop there a LOT); I get tons of compliments on it every time I wear it, and it’s holding up really well both in terms of style and quality. Also a compliment-magnet? This Gap sweater. I have been fully converted to the power of a rainbow coloured sweater. Highly recommend.
Notes: Gap sweater (thrifted, $5); Madewell jeans (consignment, $26); Amaryllis coat (retail, $36); Arnold Churgin boots (thrifted, $20).