Reader Request: Riding Boots at Work

Happy (Fat) Tuesday!  I hope y'all had a great weekend - I spent mine finishing up Baby Cardigan's room and running errands, which put naps on the agenda too.  However, I'm back, and today I'm excited to put together a post for Carrie.

She's a recent transplant to Seattle by way of Texas A&M (whoop!) and is looking for some ideas on how to wear her brown riding boots to work on days when it's rainy and she has to walk to work.  Obviously this won't work in a traditional business setting, but some boots can definitely go business casual with the right skirts and dresses to elevate them.

First of all, I must preface my advice with the callout that if nobody else in your office ever wears boots and you're unsure if you should, then don't.  However, for many of us, there's no question that it's acceptable and they can be practical alternative to skimpier shoes.  For a dressier look, choose boots with a rich even tone no distressed leather or chunky hardware.  A heel is great, but flat is fine too, just make sure they aren't so big in the shaft that it looks like you're standing in a bucket.

Obviously, I prefer pairing the boots with skirts and dresses as opposed to tucking pants into them - I'd save that look for Fridays.  A knee length pencil skirt or subtle a-line keeps you looking like an adult (flared, short skirts can quickly bring your outfit into sexy territory, which isn't what you want at the office) and a classic blouse or sweater balances the casual vibe of the footwear.

When it's chilly, you can add thick opaque tights in the same color family as the boot leather, or even a small weave pair of fishnet tights if you'd just rather not have bare knees. (This kind, NOT what you see at Victoria's Secret!)

Now that you're armed with some guidelines, are you brave enough to wear boots at the office?

Business Capsule Wardrobe: 2014 Edition

As fun as shopping can be, the whole paying for it part can be a real drag.  When you're starting a new job after college, wearing a new size of clothing, or adapting to an office with a different dress code, it's even worse because you need lots of things all at once.

Although my office is as casual as they come (Converse + dog sleeping under my desk today), I haven't forgotten how hard it was to buy a work wardrobe on a limited budget.  I have done several posts on this topic, and as I prepare to facilitate a style workshop later this week, I wanted to share this year's version of the capsule wardrobe:

Avant garde, it is not.  However, if you need to make two weeks worth of outfits (or more) you only need a handful of pieces that fit well and can multi-task:

Pants that Fit: I think you need both a black and gray pair, but you can get buy with just one at first if you're willing to wash them often.  A slim, straight leg hemmed to where it doesn't drag the floor will work with most shoes and is universally flattering - much more so than flared cuts!

A Black Sheath Dress: Look for a close-fitting cut that can be layered under blazers and cardigans - bonus points if it has sleeves and can be worn alone in an office setting.  This can double as your funeral dress and a blank canvas for festive accessories, so go ahead and get the best version you can afford.

Two Skirts:  At least one of these should be a fun, but not too seasonal color (I vote for a saturated blue or burgundy).  Pick the cut that makes you feel prettiest, and keep the length somewhere from 2 inches above to an inch below your kneecap.

Two Button-down Shirts:  At least one should be white, and fit you perfectly with a proper bra.  No gaping buttons!  The other can be colored or black - whichever you're more likely to wear as a base layer.

A Blazer (Optional):  Depending on your needs, a well cut black or gray blazer could get loads of wear both in and out of the office.  I prefer closely fitted, semi cropped cuts as opposed to longer hip length versions, but try on several styles and see what flatters your shape.  It will be obvious! However, you can skip this if you don't think it is needed.

At Least Three Completer Pieces:  These are cardigans or more casual blazers that you'll pair with your base pieces to add color to your outfits.  I highly recommend a few jewel tone cardigans, plus a more structured piece like a sweater blazer that is a little dressier. 

One Pair of Friday Jeans:  These should be a dark wash in either a trouser or slim straight cut.  This is not the time for jeggings, or anything too distressed.

Quality Accessories:  I recommend a skinny black belt, and preferably a leopard print one as well.  These will add interest to your cardigan combinations, and define your waist.  You'll also need a well-made pair of black pumps that aren't going to kill your feet - I highly recommend the Cole Haan/Nike collaboration.  Finally, invest in a purse that isn't coming unstitched and doesn't look cheap.  I'm not saying you need a designer bag by any means, but a well made thrift store purse is a better choice than most $14 versions that start to reek of vinyl after a few weeks.

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Wow, that's a lot of information!  What do you think are the most important starter pieces for a business wardrobe?

Going to Extremes: Getting the Most Out of Your Wardrobe

Happy Tuesday!  So it turns out that I needed a long weekend even more than I realized, and decided to spend Monday taking two impromptu naps, watching a Drunk History marathon, and getting a much needed pedicure.  Clearly, blogging had to take a back seat to that kind of productivity.

However, if you've been reading this blog for a while, you know that I love getting extra mileage out of my wardrobe.  I try not to buy things that I can only wear one way, and choosing versatile pieces  makes investing in what you love a lot less painful. 

I know not every garment can go from the board room to the farmers market, or be worn year round, but there is tons of potential in the right pair of trousers and a great-fitting dress. 

Here's what I mean:

If you want to find something to wear to a variety of events year-round, be sure you pick a fabric that's not prominent in just one season.  That means no heavy wools or floaty chiffon, but mid-weight options that will work as the weather shifts from warm to cool. 

You should also be very particular about the fit, as you'll need to be able to add layers or go without.  Not to mention that fact that the right cut makes you look slimmer and more put together!

Finally, try to stick with neutral colors that you can jazz up with playful or sexy accessories.  Think of your investment piece as a chameleon - it should blend in with the rest of your outfit and not necessarily take center stage. 

Got it?  Now go take advantage of those pre-spring sales! 

What I Wear: Casual Valentine's Day Outfits

True confession: Even though I live in a large city, I wear jeans at most restaurants.  I don't pair them with my tennis shoes at dinner, but they fit in best at most of the places we go.

I get the feeling that I am far from alone, and with Valentine's Day looming, I thought I'd put together a few pretend outfits that I'd actually wear... were I not 8 months pregnant with one pair of jeans that fit me.

As you can see, a lot of jewelry and some fun shoes go a long way!

Business Casual Doesn't Mean Boring!

Oh hey, internet.  Sorry I ended up taking a little unplanned break, but I am back after a fantastic weekend with my family and some really busy work days that didn't leave time for blogging.

Speaking of work, I have been browsing on Pinterest in hopes of being inspired to create some new outfits with my very limited, 8-months pregnant, maternity wardrobe.  I didn't see much to help me, but I did see lots of the same old basic work outfits.  /sad trombone

I know that some offices won't take kindly to those who push the envelope (which sounds terrible to me!) but for the most part, I think there is absolutely nothing wrong with injecting some personality into your wardrobe and wearing classic silhouettes in unexpected colors and prints.  Unless you are required to wear suits in a conservative setting, you probably have a little more freedom than you realize!

Here's what I mean:

In my opinion, wearing a black striped dress instead of a solid one does not suggest that you're any less capable, especially when you pair it with a ladylike wedge.  You can also make your bright dresses work at the office (if the fabric is right) by wearing them under a blazer or cardigan.

Also, basic slim black slacks suddenly feel more Deschanel-esque when paired with a printed flat and creamy blouse, as do a subtly patterned pair that can get down to business with a sleek sweater as well as your favorite evening top and heels. 

Isn't that more fun than a plain white button-down?  I agree.

Back to Basics in 2014: What to Buy

Happy MLK Day!  I hope that many of you are enjoying a day off like me - I'll be fabric shopping for my new dining chairs, getting a much needed pedicure, and hopefully spending a little time cleaning my house before relaxing with a magazine and the last few episodes of The White Queen (yes, from this summer/fall.  I got way behind.)

As promised last week, since we covered what to toss this year, I'm back with a little guide on what to buy.  One thing I'm trying to be better about this year is not being a sucker for a sale and buying things because they're a good value and I will sometimes wear them.  I know I own way more than I need, and as this roundup of items proves, you don't need a whole lot to be classicly on-trend in 2014.

(sorry, these got out of order)

black dress / green dress / lace blouse / denim shirt / gingham shirt / gray tee

slim straight jeans / black crop jeans (similar) / chino shorts / faux-leather jacket

slip-on converse / leopard flats ($42 on clearance!) / bib necklace / scarf / watch

cross body bag / sunglasses

The best thing about having a collection of staple pieces is that you don't have to overthink anything when you get an invitation.  If you're not happy with your wardrobe and plan to start over, or at least fill some voids this year, these are all pieces that you'll be glad to own.  Here's what I mean:

Back to Basics in 2014: What to Toss

Is it weird that I really enjoy cleaning out closets?  I'm pretty ruthless when it comes to purging, and it feels great to drop off a big donation or watch my PayPal balance increase.

However, I know not everyone shares my zeal, so I've created a little guide to help you make some space in your closet for bright, shiny new clothes this year.  Check back on Monday for some suggestions on what to buy!

(Truth time: I am guilty of holding on to every single one of these until very recently!)

Maternity Clothes: The Good, the Meh, and the Ugly

I know today's post won't be relevant to most of you, but this is the sort of information I sought out when my normal wardrobe quickly become inadequate and I ventured into the world of maternity clothes shopping.  Let's just say that I'm not a fan, but have tried a lot of different options and wanted to share my observations in hope of helping some other mama to be find clothes that don't make her feel like a whale.

Here's my take on the shopping situation, now that I'm a third trimester veteran (31 weeks yesterday!):

Don't be surprised to learn that...

- You'll usually have to choose between expensive, ugly, or poor quality.  I'm sorry, it's true.  However, there are some good options out there - we'll get to that shortly!

- Clothing manufacturers seem to think that numbered pant sizes are no longer necessary, and you'll see jeans and dress pants in S/M/L.  However, be assured that the same tiny back pocket will be used on all three sizes because cutting multiple patterns is just too much trouble for pregnant customers. (Can you tell this upsets me?)

- Pants with stretchy elastic waists are COMFORTABLE.  You'll revel in their glory at first, but don't be surprised when the stretchiest of stretch denim gives you a saggy butt after prolonged sitting.  That said, you don't know that comfort is until you find the right pair of full panel maternity leggings.

- You won't need shirts with elastic on the sides until you're very far along, and otherwise, maternity shirts and dresses are just longer versions of what you usually buy.  You can often find better deals by getting non-maternity items in a larger size, especially if you're short like me!

- You'll probably go up one or two bra band sizes because your rib cage expands to accommodate your new giant lungs.  It's cool and awful at the same time.  Plan to buy bra extenders, and eventually some larger bras (discount chains like TJ Maxx will have name brand options for under $15)

- You need to get used to shopping online, and sales are rare.  Most maternity collections are only sold on the web, so fill up that shopping cart enough to get free shipping and try multiple sizes!

maternity style example by cardiganjunkie featuring blue tops

When to buy...

I'm sure others will disagree, but the way I see it, there is no point in waiting until you are 5.5 months along and uncomfortable in your normal pants before you break down and buy some that you won't wear for very long.  If your pants won't button anymore after the first 2-3 months, get some mid-priced maternity pants and jeans and wear them to death!  Struggling to fit in normal jeans causes weird lumps and bumps in the hip area, and the knit belly bands meant to hold up your normal jeans result in large knots on your belly because the button isn't fastened and sticks out.  If you need a more substantial full-panel version, get them later and sell them on eBay when you're done or save them for the next pregnancy.  Suffering with ill-fitting pants is not worth saving $40 when you already have enough reasons to be uncomfortable!

Shirts, on the other hand, are a different story.  All you need is a little extra extra length until your belly really pops, so pick up a few non-ruched maternity tanks to layer under your existing shirts and cardigans and wear them until it starts to look silly.  Since a pregnancy spans multiple seasons, you don't want to buy tops in the beginning that will soon be too thick or thin for the weather.  

Another option is to buy inexpensive non-maternity pieces in a larger size to last through the first few months and then again after the baby arrives.  I bought two $15 plaid flannel shirts from Old Navy in a large instead of a medium, and was able to wear them until I was about 6 months along and will break them out again during the dreaded "fourth trimester" right after Baby Cardigan arrives.  Similar maternity versions were $39 each, and would not have gotten as much wear.  Another favorite piece is a knit tunic top from Target intended for taller ladies a size larger than I usually wear - I'm pairing it with leggings at the moment and only spent $19 compared to the $29 maternity equivalent 50 feet away.

my maternity wardrobe (March due date) by cardiganjunkie featuring Old Navy

What you really need...
It doesn't make sense to buy an entire wardrobe that you won't wear long-term.  I treated my maternity wardrobe sort of like a packing list, with a few clearance purchases sprinkled in.  I invested in some great jeans that fit well, and wore them nonstop from September until now.  (My favorites are the Leigh skinny jeans from Topshop, and the Gap Always Skinny but the Topshop pair wins by a mile!  I got mine on sale at the store in London, but Nordstrom carries them too)  I also got some inexpensive basics like non-ruched maternity tank tops from Target, comfy maternity leggings from Old Navy, and a few thin sweaters from Gap since they're appropriate for my casual office as well as anything I do on the weekend. 

Then, I found some stretchy non-maternity dresses that are still in heavy rotation (with leggings) at 31 weeks, as well as a couple of clearance Gap Maternity dresses that fit great and will look nice at my baby showers.  Other than that, I'm layering cardigans I already owned over the pieces you see above and rocking my collection of large necklaces and scarves to keep from wearing the same thing all the time. 

All in, I think I've spent about $350 thanks to sales and eBay, and many of the pieces will still be useful after Baby Cardigan is here.  I can also sell what I won't wear again if my next pregnancy doesn't require cold weather maternity items.  I realize that not everyone wants to invest that much money, and someone could certainly get by with less, but I'm very picky about clothes and it's important to me.


Where to shop...

The Good!

Gap - Their maternity line is my favorite by a mile, and they are one of the only players in the mid-priced range.  The styles look like the normal womens line, are of comparable quality, and you won't find many shapeless blobs of fabric.  Plus, with constant 40% off promotions and a pretty sweet clearance section, you can get some well-made items for very little money.  I am in love with my dresses and sweaters, and plan to wear them next year.  However, I must warn you that the denim sizing is crazy and you should read the reviews before you buy or find a store that carries maternity and try it on, then account for stretching of the denim. 

Topshop - I checked out the maternity line in store and while a lot of it was not my style, the staple pieces were nicely made and not outrageously priced.  If would recommend sizing up in pants, though.

LOFT - Surprisingly, I cannot recommend the LOFT maternity line because I don't own any of the pieces.  They only sell online, and their shipping charges are the highest around and I am a cheapskate.  However, their non-maternity cardigan selection and sale prices in store are second to none and the sizing generally runs a bit large so there are tons of options.  My favorite thick knit dress is actually not maternity, but from the LOFT Lounge collection (love love love that line!), and I want to wear it until I'm an old lady.

The Meh...

Old Navy - Aside from their sweet leggings and tank tops, I'm not impressed by what ON has to offer the pregnant ladies.  The fabric used on their tops and dresses is thin and cheap, and the denim stretches out so much that I looked like I had some sort of knee saddlebag after 4 hours (I returned the jeans for a refund).  There are a few gems among the collection, like their affordable denim shirt, but for the most part you'll find lots of henley tops and super thin jersey knit dresses that show every lump from your bra.

H&M - Let's just say the quality of the maternity clothing isn't any better than the rest of the items in the store, and the tiny sizing makes it hard to shop online.  However, if you have the right body type, you'll find lots of love but it's not astoundingly cheap.

Macy's - At the higher tier stores, you can find some lines like Jessica Simpson and Pea in the Pod, but I didn't really see much for someone who doesn't usually wear drapey jersey tops and swirly prints.  Plus, the prices were pretty high to me (think $65 for a top, $79 for pants) but it would be a good place to look if you need a dress for a wedding or party.

A Pea in the Pod - Of the various Destination Maternity lines, this is the higher end option with the cutest stuff.  The clothes here are most like what you'd see in regular stores, and the fabrics are not super thin.  However, the prices are very steep and the markdowns were not very generous, so don't expect to walk out with a full bag after dropping $100.  I do recommend their full panel denim leggings, though, since I ordered a pair on clearance for $30 and have been pleasantly surprised at how comfortable they are.

Target - If you need some sweaters or a basic dress, this is the place to go.  However, I was not impressed by the lack of variety in pants, or the fit of the ones I tried.  They're definitely not going after someone who plays around with clothes, even though the rest of their womens clothing is fairly on trend, but it's nice to have options you can try in person.

The Ugly...

Motherhood Maternity - I can't sew a straight line and I think I could put out a better maternity line than these people.  Everything in the store seemed frumpy, as though pregnant ladies are just dying to wear weird henley shirts and tops with an empire tie waist and pull on some "three sizes fit all" jeans and pants with tiny little back pockets and weird baggy legs.  I realize that they need to keep costs low to sell at the under $50 price point, but their fabrics were as bad as those at Old Navy and they were charging more for them.   (To be fair, it looks like there's a lot more to be had online that isn't as heinous as what I saw in the two stores I visited)

Forever 21 - Unless you are a tiny person and typically enjoy buying clothes there, look elsewhere.  All the fabric felt disposable, and the construction didn't look like it would hold up to months of stretching. 

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There you have it - my very lengthy opinion on maternity fashions.  Now, I'd love to know your thoughts on the matter so that our pregnant friends can learn from any other tips not covered here! 

Holiday Style: Christmas Morning (2013 Edition)

Today's post is my annual Christmas morning style guide, where I assume that everyone else has covered what to wear to parties and we talk about the sort of holiday event that I'm most familiar with - a morning spent with family, in our soft clothes, eating some kind of cinnamon pastry while opening presents.

Since you're as likely to be photographed on Christmas morning as you are at Christmas dinner, it's important to put forth a little bit of effort and make sure you look mildly presentable as you post with your son or nephew and his sweet new lego set.  In my opinion, the best way to achieve this is to wear at least one piece that's not actually pajamas.

Like this:

christmas morning 2013 by cardiganjunkie featuring christmas holiday decorations

I think an inexpensive flannel shirt from Old Navy or Target is the perfect partner for leggings and flannel pants, as is your trusty chambray shirt worn over the tank top you slept in.  (Pro tip: For extra butt coverage, pick up a non-ruched maternity tank that will act as a knit dress of sorts)

Another option is to pull out a pair of your favorite running tights or yoga pants, since they're much thicker than your average pair of leggings, but wear them with a long non-pajama tee or button-down and a cozy cardigan.  Easy, right?

Need more ideas? Here are some similar ideas from holidays past:

Reader Request: Styling Your LBD for Holiday Events

Good morning!  I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving weekend, and are gearing up for the weeks ahead.  I'm actually relieved that my calendar isn't too full, but today I'm excited to help Becky style her favorite little black dress for the holidays.

Becky lucked out and found a flattering dress at Target, and realizes that it makes zero sense to search high and low for something new when she's got lots to work with already (and 5 kids!).  She can easily take her dress from church to a party by swapping out a top layer and accessories. 

LBD for holiday events by cardiganjunkie featuring slip on shoes

Just for fun, I decided to only feature pieces that are fairly affordable and similar to what's available at national chain stores.  You can also substitute a basic blazer for the structured sweater in the first look, or a regular cardigan instead of the fitted sweater in look three.

So, before you run out to buy a new dress, consider restyling the one you have... and treat yourself to a new bag instead!  I hope this was helpful - if you have any advice for Becky, leave a comment and share it!

Travel Chicly - Without Sweatpants!

I'm not going to pretend that I always dress up when I travel, especially for extra-long flights.  However, there's a difference between being comfortable and being sloppy, and I think lounge wear in the airport is unnecessary.  There are so many soft, stretchy things you can wear without resorting to yoga pants that say PINK on the butt.

Sadly, we'll be seeing lots of Ugg boots and pajamas in public this week, so I wanted to share a little bit of inspiration for a super comfy travel outfit that's still high on style:

travel chic by cardiganjunkie featuring a yoga activewear

Believe it or not, there are stylish pull-on jeans that are soft and stretchy and not intended for grannies.  If you haven't already, get yourself to Last Call and check out Fade to Blue jeans.  They're under $60 and come in lots of different cuts and washes, including a regular boot cut for those who don't like skinny jeans.  (Pro tip: go up a size)

I'm also a huge fan of structured sweater blazers like this one from Gap.  I checked it out in store, and it's the perfect length and looks like a blazer from afar, but much more comfortable and not likely to wrinkle.

Target has got lots of great drapey tees (like this one, pictured) but I'm intrigued by this one with faux leather trim that would add a little edge to basic jeans.  (I haven't seen the tee with trim in person yet, though)

And finally, if you can get your hands on some Elorie ballet flats, buy them.  They are so well made and comfortable (go up a half size, though) and a great deal on Gilt.com.  Mine are the black metallic suede, which have a really subtle shine, and I am seriously considering buying a brown pair as well.  (Update: For $49, I just did!)

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Safe travels, everyone!!  I will be taking the rest of the week off, so please check back Monday for your regularly schedule fashion, baby rooms, and randomness.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Holiday Style: Long Weekend Packing

Happy Monday!  I hope you all had fun this weekend, and that this short work week flies by for all of us.  Since this is one of the busiest travel weeks of the year, I put together a bit of Thanksgiving weekend packing inspiration for those of you who will be away from home.

Here are some outfit ideas that will fit in a carry-on, and take you from airport to eating to shopping to watching The Family Stone while drinking hot chocolate on a sofa (everyone does that, right?)

thanksgiving packing 2013 by cardiganjunkie featuring pave jewelry

Have safe travels, ladies!  Let's try not to over pack...

P.S. I'd like to wish a very happy birthday to my mom.  I love you!

Fall Favorites: Cardigan + Leopard

If you haven't guessed from the name of this blog, I am a cardigan connoisseur.  I am also very aware of how best to dress different body shapes, and a not-too-long v-neck cardigan without much bulk is universally flattering.

If you agree, check out the LOFT boyfriend cardigan (currently only $25).  I have three, and they go with all of the things.

cardigan + cuff + leopard by cardiganjunkie featuring Sperry Top-Sider

You know what else goes with everything?  Leopard accessories.  If you're starting to assemble a wish list, I highly recommend adding a great scarf, pumps or flats, and a bag that you can wear year-round with all sorts of outfits.  They're the kind of item that people like to give, especially scarves and bags that can't be the wrong size!  (I'm hoping to receive this scarf from Banana Republic because the print is not hooker-ific and it's very soft)

P.S. You know what else also goes with everything?  The gold astrology cuff that I'm giving away courtesy of Uncommon Goods.  Leave a comment on the giveaway post by midnight on Friday to enter!

Reader Request: Tights for Beginners

Today I'm excited to help Elizabeth, an Atlanta lady looking to incorporate tights into her fall and winter wardrobe.  I am hoping to do the same (maternity style) so this was a fun challenge, since the mild winters in Dallas and Atlanta give us lots of opportunities for outfits that wouldn't quite stand up to a snow day.

I think the key to styling tights is being open to layers, and keeping the tights a neutral color.  I know there are lots of people who can rock bright colors on their legs, but it's tough to keep the look from going juvenile and I lack that talent.  However, earlier this year I showed how some other ladies manage to do it and look great.

Now, here are my favorite options for beginners:

tights for beginners 1 by cardiganjunkie featuring a wedge bootie

tights for beginners 2 by cardiganjunkie featuring Sperry Top-Sider

So, are you a tights devotee? Or do you wear pants as much as possible from October to March?

Lazy Girl Style: Looking Current With Little Effort

I think one of the big misconceptions about being seen as stylish is that you have to construct elaborate outfits and buy tons of new things every year.  Thank goodness that's not true, or very few of us would have anything to blog about.

Lately I've noticed that some of the most popular outfits on Pinterest are actually pretty basic, with small tweaks to make them stand out.  For the rest of us, that means that classic cuts and staple pieces are always a good choice, and you can choose inexpensive ways to mix things up.

To prove my point, I've created a couple of outfits that would be Pinterest-worthy if photographed on the right woman by someone who knows what they're doing.

lazy girl style by cardiganjunkie featuring leather shoes

In each one, the silhouette itself is common, and it's the fabric choice on one piece plus an interesting shoe that brings them to the next level.  That's it! 

Personally, I can't get enough of gray denim and have been wearing my own pair to death with sweaters and cardigans.. and button downs and tee shirts.  They're just different enough from blue jeans that people notice the change, but they're just as easy to wear.  The same will apply to skinny pants with unexpected detailing, or a printed ballet flat instead of basic black.

Now, who else is inspired?  I think I might recreate the outfit on the left for work tomorrow!

Mad for Plaid, Not Lumberjacks

There's something about crisp fall air that makes everyone want to bust out the plaid flannel.  It's a look I personally love, but not when it involves visible legging-clad crotches and outfit combinations that evoke the bounty paper towel man. 

Here's how I avoid both of those situations:

fall flannel done right by cardiganjunkie featuring slim jeans

First, I cannot say enough good things about Liz Lange maternity tank tops from Target.  They're basically a long, butt-covering version of the great $12 cotton tanks that you usually get.  There is no ruching on the sides and the cut hasn't been changed otherwise, which makes them perfect for pulling off the leggings and boots look when you shirt or sweater isn't quite long enough to cover everything it should (because leggings are not pants!!)

Second, don't get me wrong, I am not saying that regular jeans don't go with flannel.  I wear it too, but the lighter the jean and the more casual the shoe makes the outfit start to feel rustic.  However, swapping your normal jeans for black denim and a ballet flat with some edge (or not) and a cute clutch makes the flannel feel more chic and on-trend.

Still need a flannel shirt?  Here are some affordable options:

What's your favorite way to wear flannel?

Pushing My Style Boundaries: Wedge Ankle Booties

This weekend I was super productive.  I ran a list full of errands, including WalMart on a Saturday, which reminded me why I don't go there very often. This emotional pregnant lady walked past the fish tanks looking for dog beds and teared up a little at the abysmal state of the tanks and all the dead and dying fish.  Today I'll be calling the store manager, who probably hears this often and doesn't care.

As a reward for surviving retail hell, I went across the street to Target where aisles have labels and the employees don't stare at you like cows when you ask where to find the under bed storage bins.  I wasn't planning on getting any shoes, but this pair caught my eye and I tried them on:

They don't make my feet look like hooves (a common ankle bootie problem that you'll notice everywhere now that I've pointed it out).  The quality seems decent - they're not a shoe I expect to wear for years, and I'm not looking to invest $79 - $150 in a comparable style.  However, I need a little inspiration and some closet shopping time to convince myself to keep them. [10/9/13 Update: I've decided to take these back after wearing them around my house. The angle of the wedge hits my foot in an odd place. The hunt will continue!]

Here's the first part of that process:

image of TracyQ via Chictopia.com

image via The Styleograph

image via Lands End Canvas (not current)

image via Restyle. Restore. Rejoice

At the moment, I think these little boots will be a cute addition to my dark denim, gray, black, and olive green maternity pants (how versatile!) and a great alternative to ballet flats and smoking slippers this fall.  Plus, my office is casual, and any of the outfits above are more than adequate. Purchase justified?

Getting Back to My Roots: Fall Cardigan Roundup

Good morning!  I hope you all had a great weekend.  Mine was lovely, and it was nice seeing my family since I live 3.5 hours away from them.  It was also nice to enjoy some fall-ish weather, even if it was the result of rain. 

One of my favorite fall staples is, of course, a cardigan and there are so many amazing options available right now.  Luckily for all of you, I did a little scouting:

fall cardigans 1 by cardiganjunkie featuring a plum cardigan

fall cardigans 2 by cardiganjunkie featuring a green striped cardigan

Unfortunately for all of us, my favorite options are hovering around the $125 mark and it's more than I like to spend.  It looks like I'll be stalking Anthropologie and waiting for some price reductions!