You would think I’d be sick of these black jeans after wearing them for the remix challenge for the past two weeks.
Oh, but no. I’m still in that honeymoon phase with them.
Not that they’re new — they’ve just been in storage for the summer, so I haven’t seen them in a while.
I love that feeling when I pull an old favorite out of storage and get excited about it all over again. It’s like getting something new without buying anything.
While I actually think black jeans are seasonless, I kept them in storage over the summer because (a) for the most part, it was too hot for jeans in general, (b) that smokey black color lends itself to fall, in my opinion, and (c) I wanted that excited-all-over-again feeling when it was time to pull them out of storage.
(By the way, in case you’re wondering, “storage” is just a basic plastic tub in our guest bedroom closet.)
Anyway. Back to this outfit.
I’d wear this anywhere, anytime.
Not only do I love the neutral color and drape of the sweater, but it’s also somehow both warm enough and cool enough for the temperatures right now. Although, during the warmest part of the day, I’d shed the sweater and tie it around my waist — I have a simple tank on underneath.
Same story with the ankle booties — they keep my toes covered and warm if needed, but since they’re low profile they’re also cool enough for a warm afternoon. Plus they are wildly comfortable / walkable for a three inch heel — which I’ve about decided is the max height heel I’ll ever wear. I mean, never say never and all, but I’ve bought a few four inch heels in the past, and no matter how cute they are I just don’t wear ’em as much as my lower heels or flats.
So how about you? Pulled any pieces out of storage lately? Did you get that excited-all-over-again feeling? What do you think about this super simple outfit?
• • •
Liked today’s outfit? You can shop it and support Unfancy at the same time by using these affiliate links:
01 | Sweater by Leith (Fit Note: I’m wearing an XS.)
02 | Black jeans (old) / similar by Mott and Bow (made responsibly)
03 | Ankle booties gifted by Fortress of Inca (made responsibly + sustainably) (Fit note: I took my usual size 7 and they fit just right — although if you want to wear them with socks, you might want to size up a half size.)
04 | Bag (old) | similar | similar (made in USA)
05 | Necklace in Yellow Raw Diamond by Julia Szendrei (handmade in USA)
• • •
xo,
I love this outfit and I particularly love the sweater. I have an old taupe cotton V-neck sweater, but I want something a little more fine-gauge and flowier, so I think I may replace it if I can find the right thing.
Obsessed with the sweater… such a great and easy outfit!
Love this outfit Caroline! I’m based out of Arkansas, so I definitely need clothes that work for both warm and cool weather in the autumn season. I just pulled all of my fall clothing out of storage, and it’s been so fun to have that “new clothes” feeling without buying anything! I have a heavier weight pleated midi skirt I put away and the end of winter, and every time I’ve worn it this fall I’ve been complimented on it and asked if it was new! Just loving your fall posts!
-Lauren
http://www.chic-ethique.com/
Hey Lauren! Awesome! It really is an exciting feeling to fall in love with your clothes all over again :) xo, Caroline
I adore your booties! Outfits that are warm enough and cool enough for fall are the best!
Love this outfit – it’s so simple and yet still interesting – you’re really good at that!
I’m a new reader but am really loving your blog!
Bettye
https://fashionschlub.com
Hey Bettye! Welcome! Glad you could join us. :) xo, Caroline
I really love this outfit! Those boots are perfection! Miranda xxx http://mirandasnotebook.com/
Hey Caroline! Out of curiosity, what size is the sweater you’re wearing? I love the drape of it, and I’ve generally found that you and I are about the same size.
Hey TJ, the sweater is an XS — pretty true to size. :) xo, Caroline
Lovely outfit. I feel the same about black jeans too. I wear them in autumn/winter as the darker colours feel right for that time of year. I am wearing a pair of pale blue jeans today, but I will probably put them away soon, as they feel too summery to wear much longer.
Even in colder climates (UK) the autumn weather can be very changeable. This morning was really cold first thing 8°C (40°?) but then turned into a gorgeous, sunny, warm day. I have definitely got my autumn jumpers (and jackets) out, I agree it’s so nice to rediscover favourites.
Hi Caroline, I’m curious about the size too. Did you order your normal size or size up one to make it slouchier? Thanks!
Hi Dawn! The sweater is an XS, my usual size. I didn’t seem to need to size up for the drapy fit. :) xo, Caroline
Thanks!
I love this one! It screams easy and classic …. Something that since discovering your blog nearly 2 years ago, I’ve slowly been trying to incorporate into my clothing choices and styles for the seasonal weather where I live.
I’m curious ….. I remember from a previous post that it was mentioned, you were about 5’5″ ….. or around there. When you purchase your jeans, do you buy them extra long so you can create a decent cuff if you want to achieve that particular look? I only ask because I’m 5’6″ and in between a ‘regular’ 32″ inseam and a ‘long’ 34″ inseam so I often need to get a long for the cuffing experience :)
Hey Codie, I usually purchase a regular inseam. With my flare jeans, I was actually worried I’d have to have them shortened by a tailor, but they worked out great. You might just have longer legs than me! :) xo, Caroline
I’ve recently been able to pull a few things out of my “Too small for now, not for long” tub. I know Marie Kondo would have a fit, but I couldn’t bear to get rid of things I loved that didn’t fit just because I hadn’t been taking care of myself. It’s been a double victory to be able to add them back into the rotation.
Kelcey! That’s awesome and so exciting Great feeling for a job well done :) xo, Caroline
Just pulled out all my clothes this weekend and purged and put summer away. All my sweaters and boots are ready for fall/winter. Super excited to wear my boots – my favorites!
Hi Gloria, ‘Tis the season! Enjoy your Fall faves :) xo, Caroline
Do you ever undercuff your jeans (so you tuck the length back inside your pants instead of where it shows on the outside)? I’ve seen you do some interesting cuffs lately, but not that one! I find it’s the one that lengthens my legs best when I don’t want any bunched up bottoms on my skinny jeans. Just a thought as you’re continuing to experiment with styling.
Hey Alison, I’ve always like the look of the cuff, so I haven’t really worn my jeans that way. But thank you for the tip! :) xo, Caroline
Hi! Just wanted to tell you that I recently bought these Fortress of Inca booties, based on your recommendation. And they are spectacular — comfy, perfect heel height, and the little dip in front makes them very flattering. Plus I feel good about supporting the company. Wearing them today & enjoying them.
Hey KD! Yay! I’m so glad you are liking them :) xo, Caroline
I’ve been following/reading your blog for-freaking-ever and love everything about it! I’ve had a burning question for awhile now though. Can you do a blog post about your laundry routine? I want to know how you’re able to wear your clothes so often and yet have them keep their color and shape. Thanks!
Hey Christie! I’ve definitely got that on my list of post ideas. Thanks for the suggestion :) xo, Caroline
Gorgeous outfit! Those jeans are dope, kind of in love with them too :D
http://www.skinnybelle.com
What a perfect outfit!! I’m curious if you’ve purchased the clogs from No.6 yet? I’ve been eyeing them as well.
Hey Hilary, I ended up with a pair of booties! Stay tuned :) xo, Caroline
Tonight I openned my fall/winter storage bag. I was kind of surprised : it seems I do not need any new item, maybe one pair of pant.
Hey Agathe, that’s great — enjoy! :) xo, Caroline
Hey Caroline! Love this outfit. Ive been on a search for some booties and love the ones your wearing but before i splurge on these, are they comfortable? I don’t usually wear anything with a heel, i tend to stick with flats, but i am only 5’3 so a lil heel always helps.
Hey Tania, they are really comfortable! I think the fact that they’re more of a stacked heel than a pointy heel makes all the difference –wearable and easy to walk in. Win win! :) xo, Caroline
#perfection. this is my kind of outfit (+ a leather jacket)
ox
Love this simple look.
Liv
http://www.livforstyle.net
I would wear this all day, every day!
Simple chic look. Absolutely love.
Inez | My Small World
I definitely love this outfit. Loose on top + slim on bottom + booties define my fall. I recently bought some black jeans as well and wonder how I went without them for so long! While I haven’t pulled my beloved TOMS booties out yet (which are pretty similar to yours!), I have enjoyed my cardigans and ballet flats being in regular rotation again. I’m soaking in this comfortable, mild weather while we have it. :)
Hey Taryn, I hear ya! Enjoy :) xo, Caroline
I had the opposite problem this year…I pulled out my fall and winter wardrobe and WENT- I CANNOT WEAR THIS SWEATER ANOTHER SEASON. I AM SICK OF IT.
Now, granted, I ‘ve been wearing them for over a decade. I don’t think you could find a Christmas photo of late that didn’t feature these duds. And I had hit the style wall with them.
But, no more. They were in great shape, so it was off to the local second
hand shop for some trade ins and upgrades….
Hey Holly! That’s understandable, hope you have fun looking for some new-to-you duds :) xo, Caroline
Hi Caroline!
I am tempted to by a pair of high rise skinny jeans from Mott and Bow since you recommend the company! I have been sticking to Madewell 10 inch high rises for a while now and am ready for something new. Would you be able to tell me if they are a similar fit? Thank you for all your advice :)
Hey Crissy, the fit is very similar. Madewell jeans are just ankle length whereas the Mott + Bow are full length. And even though they are both technically 10-inch rise, the Mott + Bow did feel a tiny bit higher on the waist too. But still similar. Hope that helps! :) xo, Caroline
Have any other subscribers been missing the emails of Caroline’s posts? (Yes, I checked my spam.) I always received them consistently until the last couple of weeks, I missed nearly all of the remix in my inbox and the last two posts.
Hey Jen, my email system is down actually. We are working on it! Sorry about that. xo, Caroline
Hey Caroline,
I am in the process of going through my wardrobe and trading out cheaper pieces for more quality, long-lasting staples. Once place I’d love to do this is with my jeans. I’m willing to spend more than usual and was wondering if you could give me a few brands that are top notch, well fitting and good quality.
Thanks!
Nicole
Hi Nicole! I think jeans are so worth the investment. I am loving Paige Denim and Rag + Bone for top notch quality made in the USA. Madewell jeans are also fantastic for a lower price point. And Mott + Bow is in third place — responsibly made, and less expensive than the others. I recommend trying lots on to see what works best for your body type. Good luck finding the perfect pair! :) xo, Caroline
Hi Caroline, great post! I have recently moved from the UK to Singapore, where it’s pretty much hot and humid all year round. I’m sad about missing out on seasonal dressing. I’m trying to think of a way to ring the changes in my wardrobe without having the weather to lead it. Any ideas? Xoxo
Hi Emma!
Great question. I actually had another reader, who also lives in a hot climate year-round, mention that she incorporates the seasons through color. Spring + Summer is her time for vibrant, playful colors (think pink/orange/blue) while Fall + Winter were darker and more subdued (gray/burgundy/burnt orange). Everything down to your nail polish and accessories can still give you the feeling of Fall without wearing layers and boots.
If the weather allows, you could also consider just changing the types of fabrics you wear for the season. I’m thinking shorts in a textured fabric. Or a knit vest for light layering. Possibly a lightweight scarf in a dark color. And even booties instead of knee-high boots. Just a couple thoughts! :)
xo, Caroline
Gorgeous outfit, thanks for sharing! I’ve already got black jeans, but do you think it would work with a lighter pair of denim over the winter period? Thanks :) x
Hey, I missed that post and just saw it today! Great outfit – I love my black skinny jeans just as much as you do. I got my fall / winter clothes out of the storage box yesterday, and I was happy to welcome back some favorites. I totally agree with you – it’s like getting something new without buying anything. I also found a summer sweater I haven’t worn lately, so I decided to test-wear it today – and bingo! Love all over again. thanks for your inspiration xoxo
LOVE this look – it’s one of my fall go-tos. I liked your sweater so much that I ordered it in the orange-rust color (my fave!) and it arrived Friday. It fits perfectly. Thanks for the recommendation!
This outfit is just perfect for the temperate first days of fall. The texture and color of the sweater add visual interest while the jeans keep the look casual and neat. I love it!