Oct 4, Rain boots

This outfit started with my rain boots and then worked it’s way up. I often decide my outfits this way- choosing my shoes first, then building the outfit from that. I take into account several factors; including the occasion, the weather and how long I am going to be on my feet.

I’m teaching school today, so will be on my feet a lot, so need comfy shoes. Since it’s supposed to rain all day, these Hunter rain boots are perfect. They are comfy and warm, and much cuter than the clunky and awkward boots on the left.

As for my leggings, I’m not usually a fan of wearing yoga pants to work, they seem too casual, so I have dressed these up with a long blouse and cardigan. The black cardigan is fine, but isn’t the burgundy one on the right better? I love the pop of color, and the longer length is sure to cover my entire behind. The blouse also covers everything (front and back!), and has such a cute but subtle pattern.

The blouse (old) and sweater (new) are from Target, boots are Hunter (Nordstrom) and my leggings are Athleta. I recommend buying high quality leggings! Cheap, thin ones look terrible. They stretch and sag easily, and often you can see right through them. The more expensive ones hold their shape and last for years.

Sept 16, Opposite Day

Today’s outfit is jeans, a top and a super comfy long cardigan. Originally I started with blue skinny jeans and a white top with the cardigan, but then I decided to try the opposite of that look- white jeans and a blue top.

Personally, I think both looks work- but I like the version with the white jeans, simply because it’s a little different for me. So next time you are getting dressed- think about flipping your outfit around and trying something new!

Jeans- Gap

T shirt- Nordstrom Rack

Sweater- Marshalls

Shoes- Dr. Scholl’s Marshalls

April 18, Black Dress

I bought this black cotton dress at Nordstrom three years ago when my hubby and I were going to Europe to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I thought it would be a great staple to have on vacation- since it is a perfect base piece that you can add anything to!

Today I’m keeping it super simple and easy by just throwing on a cute long chenille cardigan and my slip on tennis shoes. This is such a comfortable outfit, the cotton dress is not too snug, my feet are in heaven and the sweater is keeping me nice and warm. I love outfits like this!

Dress- Nordstrom here is a similar one! And another! (these are actually cuter than mine!)

Sweater- TJ Maxx, here is a similar one!

Shoes- TJ Maxx (Dr Scholl’s brand!)

April 4, Silk Tank

Today’s outfit is jeans, a silk tank, cardigan and cute sandals. In my before look, I am wearing straight leg jeans with a huge cuff (which actually could be kind of cute with the right top and shoes). However, today- with the loose fitting tank, the bulky grey cardigan and flip flops- I just look frumpy! 

So, to improve this outfit I have selected skinny jeans in a dark wash, I’ve tucked in the silk tank and changed to a much lighter weight cardigan. The length works well to make my legs look longer, and the cute (and very on trend) sandals replace the boring flip flops. As for this tank, I used to think silk was only for special occasions- or as a ‘going out’ top. But then I realized that it can be worn during the day too. It’s a great fabric because it doesn’t cling to my tummy- it has the softest feel and makes any outfit look more pulled together than a regular t shirt. Wear it alone, or under a blazer or cardigan.

This cute silk tank is from Banana Republic. I bought it years ago. I love the way the front is polka dot, and the back is striped! So cute!

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This sandal by Steven is a knock off of the Hermes Oran Sandal- as can been seen here! The only difference is mine has a heel… oh, and mine cost $39 at TJ Maxx, the Hermes is $650. Yes, you read that right. $650. My college tuition when I started college back in 1989 was $800 a semester. YIKES!

March 6, Duster Cardigan

If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll know that all the rage this winter has been the duster cardigan, which for those of you who are wondering is one that falls somewhere below your knee. Today my OOTD is my cream duster paired with grey jeans and a cute patterned top.

In my before look, my cardigan looks a little too much like a bathrobe, and the plain t shirt underneath doesn’t add much interest. My bulky UGGS also aren’t helping! I look like I just rolled out of bed!

For my after look, I replaced the bathrobe sweater with this cute lightweight duster from Target. You may have noticed, but I seem to be finding A LOT of really cute clothes at Target lately. I’m warning you, be careful, you go to buy toilet paper and come out with a new wardrobe!

This cute silk top is perfect under the cardigan. The pattern is subtle, yet interesting and the colors are perfect. I bought this in a local boutique a few years ago, which sadly is now out of business. Swapping out the Uggs for my cute grey booties completes the look. I wear these grey booties all the time- grey is my new ‘go to’ color, and having grey shoes is really coming in handy. I will need to look for some for spring! Any suggestions?!