The Set-Off

 
Green is my favorite color and I like almost every shade.

 
 
I bought this sweater a few years ago because its retro stripes struck a nostalgic chord.
 
I would describe this green as an olive green, but in certain light, and particularly when it’s worn with other greens, it takes on a bronze cast. Check out this sneak peek from January.
Gave you a peek
The Directrice c. 1979 (aged 10) looked just like this, only a little smaller

Set off
This is a teachable moment
 
 
But look at what happens when it is paired with navy.
 
Do you see? This green looks bright and fresh. More like a dill pickle than an olive.

 
 
That’s the whole lesson!
 
Are you asking yourself, What does she think she taught us?
 
Well . . . sometimes a color is set-off best by a contrasting color rather than a coordinating shade.
Kind of like it buttoned; drawstring waist
Listen, I never said I was the world’s greatest teacher

all buttoned up
You want more lessons?
 
 
OK then! Let’s wring a little more knowledge out of these photos.
 
Here, in a new combination, are a navy field jacket and a big silk scarf (48″x48″) that you’ve seen before in this post and that. This outfit is perfect for a casual Casual Friday; the jacket lends a little authority and the big scarf adds dimension and sophistication to what would otherwise be a very casual sweater and jeans pairing.

 
 
If you are going to buy a large silk scarf for yourself, may I suggest you pick a multi-colored one? I don’t mean tri-colored. More like a half dozen. The scarf will be surprisingly versatile.
 
Let me tell you something about scarves: A scarf doesn’t have to match your outfit perfectly to be chic. Indeed — and this may be one of the cruel ironies of style — the scarf may be more chic for not matching your outfit. This scarf has a few navy blue stripes in it, but no green. And it’s so preppy that it almost hurts. Yet, it works very effectively with my groovy sweater.
scarf
Am I telling you things that a blind manatee could see for itself?

Tassels
And calling it education?
wtahc
If it’s really 6:30, we need to wrap this up

 
 
Now we’re done.
 
Have a fantastic weekend!
ta da
Class dismissed

Sweater: Margaret O’Leary; Jacket: Marc by Marc Jacobs; T-shirt: JCrew; Jeans: JCrew; Scarf: Tory Burch Bag: Car Shoe; Shoes: French Sole New York; Watch: Shinola Birdy

4 thoughts on “The Set-Off”

  1. Your posts always bring a smile to my face–I especially love the witty captions. Now I need to see a photo of a 10-year-old Directrice!

    Reply
  2. I liked the outfit though I could not carry it off due to my shape. The scarf and the sweater are favorites and the jacket is authoritative on casual Friday. Would wish my waist smaller! You make me love color with your particular expressions of it. Kate

    Reply
  3. Thankfully, I discovered your blog a few months ago. Enjoy your humor which makes me smile and oftentimes laugh out loud. Ever thought of being a stand up comedian???

    Reply
  4. I’m liking your navy jacket. I may even be convinced that it’s a more pleasing neutral than my standby black…
    You are very convincing.

    Reply

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