4 January 2010, originally uploaded by academichic.Sources:
- Cardigan – BR Outlet
- Blouse – BR Outlet
- Jean Skirt – BR Outlet
- Sweater Tights – Banana Republic
- Wellies – Banana Republic
- Belt – Ann Taylor
- Earrings – Banana Republic
Endnotes:
It wasn’t until I wrote up my sources that I realized almost everything I am wearing is from either Banana Republic or the Banana Republic outlet. This is not the first time this has happened, of course.
These BR wellies were a Christmas present from my Mom and I can’t get enough of them. They keep my feet dry and warm yet are versatile and stylish too. All of the other BR items I’m wearing today were bought on sale! I mentioned the other day that one of my favorite post-holiday activities is shopping. I love the sales and the sense of freedom to experiment when things only cost $3!
Bakelite Earrings, originally uploaded by academichic.I bought this floral blouse the day after Thanksgiving for a whopping $7. It’s rather outside my comfort zone in both fit and pattern and not something I probably would have ever tired on with its original price tag still attached. The cardigan on the other hand, purchased on post-Christmas sale, was a bit more of a splurge, but I’ve had my eye on it for a while. What better way to wear two new patterned items, than together? My tights are patterned too!
Pattern Mixing, originally uploaded by academichic.In time, I’ll be revealing more of my great post-holiday finds. For now, a few thoughts on post-holiday shopping: hit the store early for more selection; if you have time, go back later in the week to see what you missed and push yourself to consider items outside your comfort zone; visit a Banana Republic, Gap, etc outside of the mall, or in a office district where there isn’t much weekend traffic (often you will find these locations deserted after the holidays and thus have the best selection); skip the bargain stores because their stuff is always cheap; buy things you would normally pass up but keep all the tags on until you’ve had a chance to reevaluate all of your purchases (try things in different combinations with items in your existing wardrobe). What are your post-holiday shopping strategies?
4 January 2010, originally uploaded by academichic.
It looks so lovely on you! Those colors look really wonderful on you. And I think you’ve done an excellent job of mixing patterns!
I really like how you’ve mixed the patterns – I think it works really well when the tones/colours are similar. It’s not so much that I’m afraid of mixing patterns, it’s that I don’t naturally gravitate towards patterns, period, but I’ve been slowly trying to change that.
I love the wellies, the black and brown together make them so versatile. And the pattern mix looks great!
My post-Christmas shopping strategy this year was online! Mostly because I was snowed in, but I also like immediately knowing if the size/color I want is available. I found lots of bargains with the perfect online “trifecta” of on sale/free shipping/coupon code!
Great layering (as always) and I’ll second the love for the mix of pattern. You make me want to be more daring in that arena.
I love the floral and argyle pattern mix! It’s feminine yet preppy and classic.
This outfit is such a chic mix of neutrals *love*
~Dana
You look great. I love how the patterns and colors mix with each other.
As for shopping after the holidays, I like to wait a few days for all of the returns to come back and usually end up finding a better selection. Happy bargain hunting.
I really like the mix of floral and argyle!
Such a great pattern mix, lady. And I’m so impressed with those wellies!
I love the mix of prints in this outfit!
My post-holiday shopping strategy… is to not go to the mall. It’s always so crowded, and I get stressed out, and don’t really find amazing deals. I prefer to either shop online after the holidays, or to visit smaller local stores that are having sales.
I love this outfit–particularly in front of that wall! The colours suit you so well.
I enjoyed your advice on trying things out of your comfort zone. I do that with gifts… usually when people give me clothing as presents, it’s something I’d never have picked for myself, but I try to work it into an outfit, and oftentimes it becomes a staple just because it makes me feel like I have a fresh wardrobe!
I love your mix of prints and the way you tied your belt.
The best embroidery book I have ever used (but not necessarily the cheapest) is Simple Embroidery by Marilyn Green, published by KLUTZ. It comes with everything needed, clear directions, iron on patterns, and includes the CUTEST project ideas. Good luck!
LOVE the pattern mixing here as well as the wellies! Such a great winter look :)
[...] typically look a bit more like this. I’ve done this exact pattern mix once before (almost the same outfit) so I won’t say too much. Four observations: I still love the way all the soft neutrals [...]