There is a bit of poignancy to finding a pretty summer frock late in August; it only serves to underscore the changing of seasons. I was determined to give this one a whirl before it was too late, but I definitely felt a chill the day I wore it. There’s been talk of an Indian summer here, but I am not getting my hopes up. Winter is always just around the corner. Edmonton is basically Winterfell. But, you know, minus the King in da Norf. Alas.

This dress was hanging on top of a rack at Value Village, but the fabric felt nice to the touch, so I pulled it down to have a closer look. Sure enough, it proved to be an Anthro brand; I haven’t lost my touch entirely. It was also $25. I had to think twice about getting it, as a matter of principle. Value Village, we have a problem. This dress would sell for something like $35 at my local consignment store; if I purchased it there, I would be supporting a local business, and enjoying a boutique-like shopping environment at the same time. Neither is something that applies to VV. Just saying.

Leaving that VV nonsense aside, this is a lovely dress, so I’m glad I bought it. It has a tie in the back which is a feature I usually despise, but this one doesn’t bother me too much. The dress is a size Medium, and loose, so it feels more like a swing dress than anything else. And we all know I love me a good swing dress. I also appreciate that while the dress is on the shorter side, the neckline is not scandalously low. It’s getting hard to find a casual dress that doesn’t feature a deep v. As someone who doesn’t have a cute bralette to flash, I appreciate the extra coverage.

It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these outfits. I am happy to report that the formula still works. Also, this blazer is still the most comfortable thing that ever blazered. I’ve been low key looking for a plain black version of it — I am forever without a good black blazer, go figure — for a while, but no dice. Most other soft/slouchy Talula blazers I have found are too structure-less for my taste. It’s the same story as with my favourite pair of pants. It’s sad.

I wish there was a way to order “back issue” versions of your favourite clothes. Wouldn’t that be just wonderful? I have a growing list of items that I really should replace but can’t because I cannot find an exact replacement. Bah.

This is pretty standard fare, but it’s always pleasing when new(ish) pieces come together so nicely. This floral blouse has a fairly relaxed/casual vibe, but it can be dressed up easily with a tailored topper. And this CarlaG blazer is tailored, alright. I would love to have it in a few other colours, but I have had zero luck tracking it down on eBay. Bah!

Can we talk about my hair for a moment? It’s looking rather tragic in some of these photos, which I can partially blame on the wind … and partially not. I haven’t had a haircut in ages, and the ostensible reason was because I’m trying to grow out my hair, but the reality makes me think I need to reconsider this plan. Though I’m certainly not growing out a pixie this time, the process hasn’t been as straightforward as I had hoped. I think it’s because I had layers cut into the back, and they are growing out a tad funny. Should I stick with it? The goal was to get to a long bob (aka “lob”). Or should I just cut it short again and be done with it? Decisions, decisions.