I’ve previously disclosed that I kind of give up when the weather calls for relentless, heavy rain. The same is true of bitter cold.
When it’s really (rilla) cold, you have to cover up with layer upon layer. That is the highest imperative. If can look stylish — and remember, the Michelin Man is French — that’s great, but it’s a secondary consideration.
Under these circumstances, color and decorative details are key because cut and fit . . . cut and fit are a lost cause.
I showed you this sweater a few weeks ago and predictably bought it for myself during the post-Christmas sales. I am totally charmed by it and have worn it almost non-stop for 72 hours, including one day at the office.
The orange trim cried out for a blue shirt, I thought. This micro stripe is just the right shade of blue: bright, but not electric.
This shirt may require a separate entry. It’s a standard menswear-styled tuxedo blouse. It has darts in the back, but I think they need to be deepened. I also think the front should be two inches shorter than the back and have an idea achieving this: a horizontal seam (to create a bib effect) that I will discuss with Fatima. Regardless, it suits my immediate purposes as it is.
The shirt is charming, will have much utility as soon as it is tightened up a little.
The best feature of this sweater is on the back. Should I approach people walking backwards and converse with my back to them while looking back over my shoulder? I think so.
Someone previously suggested that I simply turn the sweater around, which I will try the next time that I don it for 72 hours.
Finishing things off: a black and grey Orla Kiely bag and a sporty but feminine watch. The white top-stitching reads sporty to me here.
Some of you have asked me privately how I manage to write this blog and do all of the other things that I appear to be doing in my life: demanding job, marriage, pets. (Note: “Demanding” describes only the job.) My answer is this. First, I don’t do any of these things as well as I’d like. Second, the blog is a my reward, my treat. Perhaps if I show you how blogging looks from my perspective you will understand?
A commenter named Amy sent me a link to this necklace a few months ago. I told The Photographer that I wanted it for Christmas. And lo it appeared! It will be the focus of future post.
I love it when readers send me such ideas, which you can do by writing to me c/o Harper.
Sweater: Derek Lam 10 Crosby; Blouse: Thomas Mason for JCrew Striped Tuxedo Shirt;
Cords: Talbots; Boots: 8 from YOOX; Bag: Orla Kiely; Watch: Shinola Birdy
ooo! i am not sure how i will pass the time while waiting for that yummy necklace post! it looks like it is made of exotic corals and sea anemones!
on the topic of the sweater, while i am sure it is worth a try, i think that wearing it backwards will result in losing the Mullet Surprise Charm Factor.
A charming surprise back closure – but I would expect nothing less from the Directrice. Is it comfortable when driving or sitting in a chair you lean into?
It is comfortable, Susan — I wore it on a plane for a long flight and to work. You don’t feel the d-rings or the ties. It’s also made of a very soft merino-cashmere blend.
Just crazy about the sweater outfit including the artful back closure. Some designers just get it right, do they not? You look great in it and that it’s warm is a side benefit. Love that I did not realize it was a necklace. Thought it was marzipan fruit. Lol
Isn’t the necklace magical? I feel like I could stare at it all day. The petits fours — beautiful as they are — were quickly consumed. (And yes, I feel like the sweater was an inspired design, Kate.)
I am swooning — that you got the necklace, and that you mentioned me. It is lovely!!
The necklace is gorgeous! Is it fabric/textile? (Tulle, maybe?)
It is fabric, Ellie — not sure that it is tulle, but it definitely has that combination of flexibility and structure. Here is the artist’s web address — https://www.marikokusumoto.com. Her work is captivating.
Aha! I’d assumed it was blown glass!
Can’t wait to see what outfit you style the necklace around!
The sweater is cheeky… reminds one of a straight jacket closure a little… but in the nicest way 😉
I think it will look best with grey or navy blue. I wouldn’t ordinarily pair pinks with navy, but I have a feeling it will work. I think black would be too heavy. I am happy to take suggestions, Sharla!
Oh what fun ,relaxation, and sweet surprises!
I thought the necklace was candy at first too!