I used to throw together all sorts of wild print combos back in the day, but I’ve calmed down a lot in the interim. Or become a lot more boring. I’ll let you decide. I dipped a toe in the pattern mixing waters again with this outfit, but only because it seemed like a safe bet. Both top and skirt have that slightly folksy vibe, plus the top print is basically just stripes. Stripes go with everything. It is known.

My hair is driving me nuts again. Between the beach spray abuse this summer, and a long overdue re-perm, it’s … no bueno. No bueno at all. I find that I look odd in photos with my hair up (tiny insect head syndrome), so I’ve been reduced to all sorts of subterfuges like this one. Oy.

On the up side, I’ve got a hair appointment today. Send positive thoughts to my hair stylist. She’ll need them. Oy.

Not just any maxi dress. THE maxi dress. This is it, you guys. To borrow Adrien‘s phrase, this is a magical dress. Flattering, comfortable, machine-washable. It’s so magical, I’m showing it to you again, even though it’s been barely a minute since the last time.

Did I mention it has pockets? Also, it goes with everything. Pick a colour, any colour, in my closet … and it will probably go with my magical Target maxi dress. You think I am kidding? I don’t joke about Very Important Things, like magical dresses. See?

Exhibit #3:

I could go on (I have 12 14 15 a lot of cardigans in my closet), but I won’t belabour my point. Let’s just agree that I’m right.

Ok, just one more:

What was your magical dress this summer?

These pants are made from a thicker material (which is why haven’t worn them since the spring), but I’ve been missing my florals lately, so out they came. The outfit is really basic, in the best way. When you throw together a standout piece you love, plus a wardrobe staple or two … magic.

Ok, maybe not magic. Just your garden variety Good Outfit Day.

Still, there was drama. Minor drama. Really, really minor. Minuscule. I couldn’t decide which cardigan to wear. See, there was also this one:

I went back and forth for a good 5 minutes – which is generally time I really can’t afford to waste on stupid s**t – and I just couldn’t decide which version I liked better. Here, have a look.

Ultimately, I deferred to my mom. That’s totally normal for a 34-year old, right? Right.