What I Wore: November 2022, part 4

Details: COS sweater, H&M Studio skirt (both thrifted), Zara boots (retail)

Thoughts: I decided to pair these 2 pieces because the patterns struck me as sort of similar, with the through-line of orange as a cohesive element. I think it was a successful experiment! I’m glad I went with an outside-the-box pairing, since my default for this skirt would be black and white pieces. I am still figuring out if the skirt is a “forever” piece for my closet, but I am enjoying what it brings to the table at this moment.

Details: Tabi sweater, Ralph Lauren skirt, Fluevog shoes (all thrifted)

Thoughts: I loved this outfit even more than I thought I would, and I knew it would be a good one because I love both of these pieces a lot — separately and, evidently, also together. There is something about pairings of contrasting black-and-white patterns that feels very satisfying to me right now. And, of course, floral and plaid is always a winning pattern mix.

Details: Joie sweater, Tommy Hilfiger jeans, Office London boots (all secondhand), Amaryllis coat (retail)

Thoughts: Winter casual at its best. This sweater continues to disappoint quality-wise (it is already pilling) but it is so fun to wear. As you know, I find colours to be mood-enhancing, especially on cold, grey winter days. The other elements of this outfit are all unqualified successes, though. We know this coat; it’s 6 (7?) years old and still going strong. The jeans are my new go-to — the kick flare is perfect with winter boots. Speaking of which, this Office London pair was a great find. They have a nice, grippy bottom (a mini lug sole) and walkable heel which makes them perfect for errands and outings that don’t involve a ton of outdoor trudging in snow (they don’t have enough insulation for that, though wearing them with a thick pair of socks makes them quite toasty).

Details: H&M dress, BCBG belt (both secondhand), Zara boots (retail)

Thoughts: If you’ve been around for a long time, you know how much I love a “potato sack” dress. They’re so fabulous! And comfortable! And easy to wear casual — full potato mode — or dressed up (half potato? lol). Case in point: add a belt (or harness!) and voila! The bold graphic print of this dress really appealed to me as well, and I think the colour palette offers interesting remixing options from my wardrobe. Picture this with a lavender sweater …

Details: Le Lis top, Holding Horses tunic, Topshop pants, Stuart Weitzman shoes (all thrifted), selfmade necklace

Thoughts: I love this colour palette of muted blues and terracotta brown. I also like the mix of plaid and windowpane patterns — both geometric but different.

Details: Eddie Bauer sweater, H&M dress, Mexx skirt, Geox boots (all thrifted)

Thoughts: I looooooooved wearing this outfit. It was shockingly warm too (I wore a coat over it). Layering the Mexx skirt under the tulle dress — and over some fleece leggings — kept my legs nice and toasty. I also had 3 layers on the top, but the one that really matters is this vintage Eddie Bauer sweater that I adore. This outfit was inspired by a 1980s Ralph Lauren look (what else) and has that Jo March-on-the-prairie vibe that I’ve been loving this year.

Details: Babaton turtleneck, Tommy Hilfiger cardigan, Denim & Supply jacket, H&M pants, Brave belt, Eileen Fisher shoes (all thrifted)

Thoughts: Once again, bringing the prairie/southwestern vibe into the winter season with some judicious layering. What I liked there was the different textures and contrasts — black cotton turtleneck, white chunky knit, patterned jacket. It gives depth and intentionality (is that a word??) to the outfit.

Details: Equipment shirt, Lord & Taylor sweater, Etro skirt, LAMB coat, Office London boots (all thrifted)

Thoughts: I took advantage of some warmer weather to wear one of my lighter winter coats, this fabulous plaid number. I used some of the colours in that pattern — yellow and olive, to be precise — to guide the rest of my outfit-building. It was a bit of a cheat, as I wore this sweater/skirt combo before, but it worked so well in this iteration too.