The benefit of getting older, sartorially speaking, is that you eventually figure out what works for you. It's a relief to know that you aren't wasting money on clothes that will languish in your closet, or held captive by a need to be trendy. The downside is that everything you wear starts looking the same, which is why this week is focused on wardrobe alternatives. I don't think I'll ever give up cardigan sweaters, or flats, or my black blazer. It's just nice to have one or two items to remind me that stepping out of the box has it's own rewards.
Posts for January 2012
Instead of a cardigan sweater...try a poncho
posted by Jo Frances on January 31, 2012 11:27 pm
Jessica Alba's shirt by Madewell
posted by Jo Frances on January 31, 2012 10:10 am
Instead of loafers...try ankle boots
posted by Jo Frances on January 30, 2012 7:27 amIn my search for comfortable shoes I can wear all day, I've gotten stuck in a rut: loafers or flats with everything. Now, loafers and flats are great---but there are alternatives, especially when I'm reminded of how much better jeans look with a little heel:
Instead of a black blazer...try a pastel
posted by Jo Frances on January 29, 2012 9:04 amSoft shades are big for spring, and are just as dressy as black.
Pippa Middleton's Red Flats
posted by Jo Frances on January 26, 2012 3:29 pmThe British fever continues....here's Pippa Middleton wearing her red London Sole ballet flats, and a few look for less alternatives:
My new favorite UK retailer
posted by Jo Frances on January 25, 2012 11:02 amI fall in love with foreign labels on a regular basis. I brought back a suitcase full of clothes from Marks and Spencer in London (decades ago when the dollar was strong) and I once spent one day of a two day trip to New York at H&M. This was when there was only one store in the country, instead of in every mall like today. Zara, Topshop---I've had flings with them too. I know they are mass market brands, but with a non-US label, you still get a unique, cosmopolitan look---at GAP prices!
My latest fave is Dorothy Perkins, a UK based retailer. They've been around for a long time, but I've only recently discovered that I can order clothes online, and the $10 shipping makes then equal to ordering anything domestically. Here's an example of their feminine style:
A blouse wardrobe--- nothing over $50
posted by Jo Frances on January 24, 2012 10:33 amThe one thing I can never have too many of---blouses and tops! I don't know why, but when I'm out shopping, I never think of shopping for blouses. I have the requisite amount of white button front blouses and black turtlenecks, but whenever I want a "cute" top, I never seem to have one. This selection would be a good start: nothing is too casual, and everything can be paired with jeans or a work skirt.
The Year of the Dragon
posted by Jo Frances on January 24, 2012 12:01 am
Celebrating the Year of the Dragon 2012, this stunning pendant represents emperors, success, passion, strength, and good fortune. It sparkles in clear crystal pavé with vibrant Light Siam crystal eyes. The perfect good luck talisman.
Grown up plaid
posted by Jo Frances on January 22, 2012 10:44 amI love plaid, but my jeans/plaid shirt combos makes me look too grunge, or like a six year old boy. Here's an outfit with a decidedly grown up plaid pattern, and a feminine, fitted cut.
The Jason Wu for Target collection
posted by Jo Frances on January 20, 2012 1:53 pmVisit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
