Not too sure about your neck of the woods, but here in Chicago we're basically living in a frozen tundra. Not great. And having lived here my whole life, I'm no stranger to cold. But this is the kind of cold that makes your toes burn and freezes the snot right in your nose. Not even kidding a little.
So it goes without saying that I've been bundling up (as in, 2 scarves, up to my eyeballs) but there's no reason to sacrifice a little color in your wardrobe, even if it is only white and gray outside. As per usual, I did a little browsing at the usual haunts (Forever 21, H&M, Target) to find a bright but warm casual winter combo.
Rainbow Maze Sweatshirt - Forever 21, $24.80
I could curse myself for even finding this sweatshirt because I must.have.it.right.now. And it's not conducive to a strict wedding budget, which I'm now on. However, for $24.80, it's actually quite a steal and while I fully recognize that some people may find this entirely tacky, I love love love it. It's just obnoxious enough. If that's even a thing.
Superstretch Treggings- H&M, &17.95
Nope, I have no clue what a "tregging" is. I'm assuming it's some sort of variation of a "jegging" but heck if I know where the "T" is coming from. The point is, these are superstretch, which means comfort and that's all that matters. When you're trudging from car to office to train to bus in the snow, comfort is key.
BP. Ribbed Infinity Scarf- Nordstrom, $22
First and foremost, this scarf is about warmth and a big knit is where it's at. But I also like the black here because I think it helps to tone down the shirt just a bit. I think a necklace would be a bit too much so a dark scarf adds interest but doesn't compete with the cray cray pattern.
Mossimo Kyla Buckle Boot- Target, $34.99
You just can't beat a Target boot. For any large footed girls (ahem, me) and any wide calf-ed girls (ahem, me), Target always comes through with a very decent size selection. I love the look of a giant cozy sweater with super casual combat boots here. The boots manage to tame the sweater a bit.
What do ya' think? Are you with me on this tacky fun sweater?
Sometimes it seems like a bold piece, like this printed skirt from Forever 21, can almost be too one-note. When I have strong printed pieces, I tend to fall in the habit of styling them the same way each time I wear them and I categorize them strictly as "casual" or "dressy." I tried to step outside my comfort zone just a touch to style this printed skirt two ways.
Casual Printed Skirt Style
H&M Denim Blouse
I think the easiest way to have a casual but still "pulled together" look is by wearing a denim shirt. Here, the silhouette of the shirt (somewhat on the boxy side) pairs well with a slim fit pencil skirt.
Steve Madden Holey Infinity Scarf in Maroon
Since the denim shirt and the printed skirt are both "neutrals" here, I figured a deeply colored scarf would add a bit pop but not compete with the boldness of the skirt.
Lifestride Tempest Too Bootie
Since this skirt is somewhat long, I think wearing a heel, even a small one, makes a big difference. These heels are sturdy and low but still stylish and casual.
Dressy Printed Skirt Style
H&M Yellow Silk Blouse
When considering a pairing to dress up this skirt, I wanted a color that was bold but not overwhelming. This mustard yellow is perfect with a black and white print and the silk is an extra touch of class.
Charming Charlie Royal Rhinestone Necklace
Just because you're dressing up an outfit, there's no need to splurge on the jewelry. A piece like this looks lush but costs $20. The gold pairs beautifully with the mustard yellow and it adds just a touch of class to look professional.
Javelin Oxford Heel
Of course, you could easily pair this look with some basic black pumps and be set but I loved the look of these oxford heels. They're modest but surprisingly sexy and really prefect for colder months.
How do you like to wear a bold skirt?
