Draped in Velvet

I'm not always on top of things when it comes to shooting holiday content in a timely manner, aka, before the actual holiday; I usually drop the ball when it comes to taking photos on the actual holiday as well. However, approximately one month later is when I can get it together and share what I wore for Christmas Eve.

I'm sure you know I've got a bit of an affinity for Banana Republic and may have over done it when it came to purchasing holiday styles; I first bought the velvet cami in navy, but then decided I also wanted it in taupe, only to conclude that it would just be foolish to not have the matching midi skirt as well.

As Christmas Eves go, having 30+ family members gathered in a space where the oven has undoubtedly been on all day, means that sleeveless tops, bare legs, and open shoes are easy to get away with, even if I have to be extra bundled up outside. I did have a cardigan, but I barely needed it all night.

Thankfully my delays in photographing this outfit worked in my favor, as we had that warm weekend, and I was not freezing to death shooting this outside. Perhaps we can forget this was meant to be Christmas outfit and instead repurpose it for early Valentine's Day? You can even still pick up the top and the skirt in a gorgeous deep red at a delightful 60% off.

     

The Rundown
Velvet Cowl-Neck Camisole Banana Republic
Velvet Midi Skirt Banana Republic
Asymmetrical Strap Mules Zara similar
Scalloped Clutch Matine similar
Pave Disc Earrings similar
Fresh Water Pearl Necklace S.V. Decker 
Bracelets The Cavernous Jewelry Box
Midi Stackable Diamond Ring c/o AUrate New York
Thin Gold Ring Etsy via Ellyn Blue Jewelry
Nail Color "Bubbles Only" Essie

Cee & NYC

Back in November I got to meet one of my oldest blogging friends Cee, for the very first time. Cee spends as much time traveling as she possibly can, and over the years I've thought about the times our paths almost could have crossed. When she mentioned that she'd impulsively booked a trip to New York, my first thought was, "We could meet up!"

Several weeks and email exchanges later we'd made plans for Sunday brunch at Augustine. It's been quite some time since a 6 a.m. alarm excited me, but that morning I woke before it chimed and excitedly headed to the train station before the sun had barely risen.

When we met outside the restaurant, the first order of business was outfit photos, of course. I admit, I attempted to pull off Cee's signature subtle smile, and massively failed. My grin was a far better reflection of my mood anyway, and we had the most wonderful afternoon together, dining, talking, shopping, and enjoying New York.

Whenever I ask myself why I'm still blogging after all these years, the answer is always the same; the wonderful connections and relationships with other bloggers we've created together.

     

The Rundown
Cream Mock Neck Sweater Ann Taylor
Black Faux Leather Pants Ann Taylor
Leopard Fur Coat Loft
 Sock Booties "Neola" Naturalizer
Bucket Bag "Johnny" Danse Lente
 Gold Twist Hoops Thrifted similar
Thin Gold Ring Etsy via Ellyn Blue Jewelry

Winter Classics

It's funny to think that back in September the thought of purchasing a new sweater was the last thing on my mind. I knew I had a very large dresser drawer filled to capacity, and as I was enjoying the summer heat, these frigid days seemed so far away; the idea that I could even want a new sweater seemed absurd.

Needless to say, at the first cold snap I was rationalizing how my cream sweater needed replacing and I'm so pleased with how cozy and warm this mock neck sweater from Ann Taylor turned out to be that I'm now contemplating picking it up in the new spring blush shade as well. I should probably listen to my September self, who knew I had more than enough sweaters to survive the winter, I've probably got enough blush in my closet I don't wear nearly enough as it is.

     

The Rundown
Cream Mock Neck Sweater Ann Taylor
Velvet Pants Loft
Velvet Bow Mules Loft
Fur Bag Vintage via Roundabout similar
Cream Beret Amazon
Gold Twist Hoops Thrifted similar
Midi Stackable Diamond Ring c/o AUrate New York
Thin Gold Ring Etsy via Ellyn Blue Jewelry
 Nail Color "Bordeaux" Essie