I’m so boring when it comes to getting dressed in the wintertime. Summer is so easy! Pick out a cute dress, throw on my favorite sandals, grab your go-to bag. Done. Winter? There’s the temperature to consider, what shoes to wear, matching a coat to your outfit, dealing with tights (I hate it), layering so you’re warm outside but don’t suffocate indoors. Not so easy.
With the weather cooling off and now that I’m in Connecticut working from home most days, I’ve found myself in a serious sweater+jeans rut. With that… I’m turning back to some of my older posts to get re-inspired.
(Also, this was such a good exercise for me. I’ve been feeling a little less than confident about my “style” lately. I know I like to dress comfortably and I have a lot of favorites in my closet, a lot I’ve had for years and years. I think I found myself comparing myself to everyone on Instagram and felt like I needed $800 over the knee boots, a super fancy handbag, and a wide-brimmed hat. But… they’re not me. At all. I love that the outfits I fall back on are things I truly feel comfortable in and 100% myself in. And I really like that I get a ton of use out of my favorite pieces– they’re not collecting dust in my closet!)
Original Post // I splurged on this scarf and it was honestly one of the best purchases I made last year. It’s super cozy and soft. While I wear it frequently, it’s especially great for traveling because it goes with everything and can double as a little blanket on planes and trains.
Original Post// Definitely one of my favorite holiday looks for the year. I have a soft spot for LBDs (my closet is living proof of it) and this one was no exception. Paring it with an oversized, major statement scarf was just enough outside of my comfort zone. It was the red heels though that truly were the best purchase. I’ve gotten so much use out of them and they’re incredibly comfortable as far as heels are concerned.
Original Post // I found the cocoon coat on a major markdown and have since worn it what has to be hundreds of times. It’s my go-to coat and apparently the go-to coat of most of Manhattan. You couldn’t stand on the subway platform last year without seeing a handful of them. For good reason though; the coat is universally flattering, comes in great colors, and can be dressed up and down. (A version is also available at J. Crew Factory for much less.)
Original Post // My motto for the colder months is apparently “when in doubt wear a vest.” When I first bought the vest, I wasn’t sure how often I’d wear it. It’s probably embarrassing how often I reach for it, but I LOVE it. It breaks up the typical jeans/sweater look and can change the whole look of an outfit with very minimal effort. (Another version is available here for less too.)
Original Post// Although this looks like it’s featuring the cape, I really love the turtleneck. (Quick note, I’m obsessed with the cape but it really takes the right outfit, handbag, and weather to pull it off!) Turtlenecks can be hit or miss, but if the material is right, it’s the perfect way to layer in the winter. At least I think so! I love the way it looks under coats and you don’t have to wear a scarf or anything. I just purchased this one to add to my collection and it’s the softest thing in the world.
Original Post// Another staple in my winter closet is white corduroys. They’re a smidge more wintery than white jeans.
Original Post// My FAVORITE way to layer? A tuxedo shirt under cable knit sweaters. I do this at least once a week… Seriously though. The tuxedo shirt is the right weight for layering and the “collar” looks amazing under a sweater.
Original Post // I just love a good plaid pant. I got this year’s version already and intend on wearing them as much as possible!
Original Post// This faux fur vest turned into my favorite “glam” accessory. Forever 21 has the best selection of them that I’ve seen this year.
Those plaid pants are amazing! As a teacher, I love to wear a structured pant (but I love prints!) so plaid is perfect. I'm going to have to hunt down a similar pair 🙂
I love all of these outfits! I definitely feel you on the struggle of balancing your own style and what's trending. And you're right that we don't need $800 boots and THE handbag to look great. I love your outfits in this post though. They are adorable and so feminine!
Carly this is probably one of my favourite posts of yours. Thanks for the inspiration, and remember that while you are lusting after other people's wardrobes there are some of us lusting after yours!
Love this post! The looks are so great and I can completely relate. I have a majorly downsized wardrobe and re-wear my favorite looks countless times, and wouldn't have it any other way. 🙂
Hi, Carly! I’m an avid reader of TCP, and I’m currently going through your “cold weather” category posts trying to figure out the best cold weather necessities. I’m moving from CA to VA for law school, and plan to buy as I need, but want to get a few basics while they’re marked down in the summer!
I wrote down a list of things I wanted to do for fun in 2024. I crossed off exactly zero of them (having a baby will do that to ya) and my only hope of accomplishing one would be to host a cookie exchange! I wanted to SO bad but I was also feeling exhausted after a long year (losing a dog, having a baby, running a business, etc.) and I didn’t know if I had hosting a party in me. I sent out the invitations and told myself I’d figure it out. There was no going back! It was SO FUN though and I will be doing this again. I feel like so much of the holidays as a mom is spent making the magic for kids. It’s Santa meet and greets, Christmas shopping, holiday pageants…. And then seeing Santa again (and again and again). THIS party was for us! 🥂
🎧 Five 5-Star Audiobooks I Listened to This Year ✨
Audiobooks have been my secret weapon for fitting reading into a busy life. Whether I’m folding laundry, driving to preschool drop-off, or squeezing in a solo walk, I can dive into a story at the touch of a button—and @Audible makes it so easy. Eligible new subscribers can sign up for a one month free trial of #Audible Premium Plus anytime! #AudiblePartner #amazoninfluencer @amazoninfluencerprogram
This year, I listened to some incredible audiobooks, but these five stood out as absolute favorites:
📚 A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith: A beautifully written coming-of-age classic. I didn’t want it to end and could absolutely see myself re-listening in a few years.
📚 None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell: A psychological thriller with unreliable narrators that kept me guessing the whole way through.
📚 Such a Bad Influence by Olivia Muenter: Part mystery, part family drama—flawed characters, a gripping storyline, and a chef’s kiss ending.
📚 All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker: A masterpiece of storytelling that starts as a serial killer mystery and evolves into something much bigger.
📚 Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors: A stunning exploration of sisterhood, grief, and imperfect people. The ending left me in tears (happy ones!).
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Holding on for dear life this December ❤️ I have had SO MANY conversations this week with my friends near and far and we are *all* struggling. I have to say, just knowing it’s not just me feeling the pressure of “end of year-holiday magic- cold/flu/stomach bug season-darkest days of the year,” has made it a little easier to handle. Don’t forget to take care of yourself, too 😮💨 (Telling myself this because I could use the reminder too!)
If I hadn’t already mailed our Christmas cards*, I would be ordering a reprint because this first photo is IT. ⭐️💂🏻♀️
*Actually only half because for some reason, I didn’t order enough? Our list must have grown over the past year or I just underestimated how many people were on it! I had to order more so the second half will be going out later whoops!!
Traded in my mom jeans for a @jcrew tuxedo this holiday season! Whether you’re dressing up, getting cozy, or picking out a gift for someone special, J. Crew has you covered! #injcrew #sponsored
Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to shop this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/509U2 #ltkholiday
Those plaid pants are amazing! As a teacher, I love to wear a structured pant (but I love prints!) so plaid is perfect. I'm going to have to hunt down a similar pair 🙂
xoxo, SS
The Southern Stylista
I love all of your scarves but #2 is my favorite outfit!
I love all of these outfits! I definitely feel you on the struggle of balancing your own style and what's trending. And you're right that we don't need $800 boots and THE handbag to look great. I love your outfits in this post though. They are adorable and so feminine!
Phyllis | http://www.prettypleese.com
I love all these outfits!! Your style is super adorable – stay true to yourself!!
Carly this is probably one of my favourite posts of yours. Thanks for the inspiration, and remember that while you are lusting after other people's wardrobes there are some of us lusting after yours!
My favorite is your holiday look with the red shoes. You look stunning!
http://memoriesofthepacific.blogspot.com.es/
I just adore all these looks!
http://xoxobella.com
Love this post! The looks are so great and I can completely relate. I have a majorly downsized wardrobe and re-wear my favorite looks countless times, and wouldn't have it any other way. 🙂
AudreyALaMode.com
xxo Audrey
Love this post, and your looks! Classic!
Very cute outfits!
-Meg
http://www.smalltownsisters.blogspot.com
I love the blue gingham scarf, too cute!
xoxo,
Katie
chicincarolina.blogspot.com
What size do you wear in the Barbour jacket? Love all of your outfits!
All these outfits are so adorable!!
http://moosmusing.com
Hi, Carly! I’m an avid reader of TCP, and I’m currently going through your “cold weather” category posts trying to figure out the best cold weather necessities. I’m moving from CA to VA for law school, and plan to buy as I need, but want to get a few basics while they’re marked down in the summer!