It’s sweater weather!!
Well, not really in Texas yet, but Aaron and I are headed to Seattle today, to visit my sis and brother in law. So naturally, I’ve been planning sweater-y outfits all week. EXCITING. STUFF.
And as far as sweater-y outfits are concerned, this one is an instant win.
THE COLOR PALETTE
I’m just going to be a little proud for a moment and pat myself on the back for how this whole whole grey, cognac, and black color palette turned out here.
All the accessories share that cognac color — but the reason it really works is because there are three cognac pieces, not just two, like a typical bag and shoe situation.
Taking note for the future. Three accessories, all in one neutral color = one really put together outfit.
THE SWEATER
First, this sweater is soft. Like really soft. It’s got a zipper detail on the sides, which I don’t really care about, but I do care that the zipper is lined with fabric — meaning I never feel a cold zipper bumping up against me throughout the day. YAY.
Second, it’s got a drapey, slouchy fit that I freaking love. In fact, I sized up to get an even slouchier fit. This means that there’s no clinging around the stomach area — instead it’s just drape, drape, drape.
Third, it feels well-made, like I don’t need to coddle it. The fabric is a little fuzzy, but I wore it with my black jeans and there was little to no shedding going on. I’m guessing it’s going to pill after a few runs in the washing machine (because exciting stuff, it’s machine washable too), but I’ve got to be honest, pilling isn’t a deal breaker for me. I can always just grab my little defuzz/depill comb and eliminate pills in a snap.
(I’m also about to try this battery operated fabric shaver to see if it’s better than my comb. I’ll let you know how it goes. Have you ever used one?)
THE FUNCTIONALITY
It’s rainy and chilly in Seattle, so first things first, I’m going to throw a no-show base layer underneath.
Look! Functional layering! Bit by bit I am going to figure out how to dress for cold weather, you guys. :)
Right now, my base layer is just a simple cotton tank. I’m interested in getting this tank from Smartwool for extra warmth, but I’m also open to suggestions from you layering pros out there.
Finally, I’m going to toss on a rain resistant jacket with a hood, and I’m all set for the day in Seattle. :)
• • •
Liked today’s outfit? You can shop it and support Unfancy at the same time by using these affiliate links:
01 | Sweater by Topshop (Fit note: I’m wearing a 6)
02 | Black jeans (old by Joe’s Jeans) | similar by Mott and Bow (made responsibly)
03 | Ankle booties (old by Sam Edelman) | similar by Madewell | similar by Fortress of Inca (made responsibly)
04 | Beanie by Iron and Resin (made in USA)
05 | Bag gifted by ONA | similar (made responsibly) | similar (made responsibly)
• • •
xo,
Great Look Caroline! I love the boots and the sweater! It is getting cold here (in Greece) too, so I am gonna copy it! Thanks!
I bought a battery operated shaver in Tokyo (random) and I actually love it. It does such a surprisingly great job at bring sweaters back to life without any nicks in the fabric itself.
I’m loving the rule of three here, will def keep that one in mind!
Love, love love! This outfit looks so comfy and chic. The colour palette is great. This is seriously one of my favourite outfits.
Aw, thanks Charissa! It’s exciting to wear something cozy. :) xo, Caroline
Lol! I can’t help but laugh when you talk about smartwool tee or thermal tee as a base layer. I only wear that when I go skiing or plan to spend a really long time outside. It’s 30 today in montreal and I’m only wearing a coton tank and a Chunky cardigan Under my wool coat. Cold is soooo relative!
Gen, oh that is too funny. You’re right, the cold is so relative and we get acclimated to wherever we are! :) xo, Caroline
Very cute outfit! The 3 cognac pieces do look really nice and put together. I would guess it would look too perfect, but with the beanie and slouchy sweater your outfit has a great relaxed vibe. You nailed it.
I have heard so many good things about Seattle. You should post some pictures from your trip when you get back!!
Safe travels,
Laura
http://www.thriveorsurvive.us
Thanks Laura! I was worried about it being matchy-matchy too, but pleasantly surprised how well it worked out. :) xo, Caroline
The sweater combs are great. Be careful with the battery operated one, I have seen them rip holes in sweaters.
Yikes! Thanks for the heads up, Susanne. :) xo, Caroline
I can’t see the outfit on my iPad!!!
Did the pictures ever show up Christe? xo, Caroline
They show up on my iPad!
Love this post and that sweater is gorgeous! I’m going to Seattle in a few weeks to visit some friends, I’d love to hear about what you do while you’re there!
Oh Claire! I bet you’ll love it, no matter what you do. Enjoy! :) xo, Caroline
Please keep me posted on your sweater-de-pilling-tools findings! I’m in the market for one and would love to hear your thoughts.
Enjoy Seattle!
I’ve actually only used the battery operated type of shaver – it works great for me and I’ve never had a problem with it catching fabric. I also so appreciate the tip regarding three matching accessory pieces = a put together look. I’ll have to try it! THANKS!
Love it! I live in Portland and this is my uniform much of the time. I’m on a shopping fast but that sweater is making me want to break it! Staying strong. Thanks for all the great posts!
Will power, Cara! ;) xo, Caroline
Love that sweater! It looks so cozy, yet so cute! I live in Minnesota and just wear plain cotton tanks under my sweaters, but then I have several varying weights of coats to wear over sweaters. Right now I just do a trench, but I have a heavier fall field jacket that I’ll wear when it gets just a bit colder and then 2 wool coats for winter. I do tend to wear heavier wool sweaters as it gets colder.
YES SMARTWOOL! I wear those smartwool tank tops on the daily in Salt Lake City, UT. Thin, simple, and long enough to tuck in. They also have tight fitting t-shirts which work well to layer under tighter sweaters on colder days. Layering level up!
You know it Emily! Thanks for the tips :) xo, Caroline
I love this outfit. This could be me, all winter long, and I especially appreciate the bit about not feeling the cold zipper. That’s the worst!! Enjoy Seattle :)
Thank you Marie! :) xo, Caroline
Caroline! I absolutely adore this outfit! I wanted to wear more grey and more cognac this Autumn (living in England we are having the fantasy fall kind of weather) as I’ve really enjoyed seeing those colours on other people and thought they would suit my colouring.
I’ve recently been wearing a lot of outfits with grey, cognac/burnt orange and denim (black or blue) and it has become my go to colour palette. It also looks stunning and a bit edgy with a dark(ish) red lip ? xxx
Hey Sarah, I love that you take it up a notch with the red lip. Sounds divine! :) xo, Caroline
Back in the 80s, my grandmother got us all knitbuzzers for Xmas (for dealing with knits or nits???? Aka polling on sweaters.) It doesn’t really work much better than a razer and duct tape, but it makes a very satisfying crunching sound when it grinds a nit not unlike the sound a garbage disposal makes (I did not grow up in a housewith a garbage disposal in the sink so I find them very cool).
I’d throw in a long sleeve tee as an added layer… useful if you have to take the sweater off cuz you are indoors and warmer if you need a third layer. Plus, I find if sweaters get wet, they go from cozy to itchy….really itchy….in a NY minute! And then you’ll want a barrier layer or a way to get out of the sweater…(maybe that’s just me)
Have fun!
Hey Holly, that is so true! Thank you for the tip, I might just do a long sleeve. :) xo, Caroline
Awesome Caroline! I’m in Seattle and I love our rain, but I have to tell you it’s been coming down hard this week. Like, jackets soaked through in one minute hard. So just bring an umbrella or two to help your coat not become a soggy mess, waterproof or not, the rain will soak them. Hope you enjoy Seattle! And yes I totally recommend Smartwool or Ibex base layers.
Hey Molly, I’ve been seeing that it’s a big soggy up there! Thank you for the tips :) xo, Caroline
Great look Caroline, I love the colour combination!
In fact, I do use a battery operated defuzzer regularly on my wool sweaters. They eliminate all the pilling (but I guess it does work well only on natural materials like merino wool, cashmere, but not on acryl and alike, but this is just a guess). But I have never used a comb for depilling so I cannot say if it works better.
Short sidenote: My wardrobe goals for the colder months were (a) to include more colour in my wardrobe and (b) to make summer pieces work for the winter, e.g. light fabric trousers. For (a) I got myself a mustard coloured coat that goes so well together with all the washed black and grey clothes I wear. This is the only new piece and it adds color instantly to all of my looks. For (b) I just added some no-show tights under my light fabric trousers. Have been wearing it all together today and felt awesome! Thank you so much for being such an inspiration!
Aylin
I have been thinking about mustard too – I was actually looking at shoes or a vest but would love to know what coat you got, if it’s still available? Yes mustard is highly underrated as a way to enhance neutral grays/blacks…(which is okay with me, glad not everyone is wearing it!) Thanks!
Hey Lynn, thanks for your answer! This is where I got my coat: http://www.massimodutti.com/us/women/coats/mustard-coloured-coat-with-flap-detail-c680658p7605605.html?colorId=305&categoryNav=680658
For me, it was quite an investment. But I am 30 now so I thought it’s time to get a decent coat. Also, the sleeves are quite long so I roll them up a bit which showes the nice lining and has a more relaxed vibe to it.
Sounds great, Aylin! Thank you for sharing! :) xo, Caroline
Sounds great, Aylin! Thank you for sharing! :) xo, Caroline
In the land of layering, there are two types of base layers: those that will always be undercover and those that might see the light of day. If your base layer (the layer next to your skin) will always be covered with other layers, you can focus solely on function and comfort. If you might be shedding the outer sweater or shirt, your base layer should be able to be fashionable on its own. Here’s where a scarf comes in handy to dress up that bare tank or tee. If the scarf is too much with the sweater. tie it around the handle of your bag. Have a good trip.
Great tips, Virginia. Thank you for sharing! :) xo, Caroline
Love this look! As a fellow Texan (technically a Georgian, but been here for 10 years ha), I’m deeply jealous of your sweater weather. So nice in the mornings, but mid 80s by early afternoon. The worst. Soak up the chill, and bring some of it back!
Hey Austin, I sure will try! ;) xo, Caroline
Nice sweater! Since last year I started wearing a lots of this type of sweaters, are very practical and as a layer I always wear a cotton t-shirt or an undershirt from H&M, they are good as a fabric and also price. I have a few for the winter, on black and cognac colours, just in case they will need to be seen in some way or it gest warmer :)
kisses from RO!
I live in the rain and chill of Portland, OR and spend fall and winter wearing a base layer of an Icebreaker camisole. They are made of thin soft wool, washable and great quality. Not cheap but I wear one of two most days and have even worn my black one as a shirt under a cardigan. They last me years, I highly recommend.
Oh great! Thank you, Jess. :) xo, Caroline
I hope you have a great time. I live in Seattle and this outfit is perfect!
Woohoo! Thank you, Casey! :) xo, Caroline
I live in Seattle and this color pallet and outfit is right up my alley. You will look like a native! Supposed to rain all weekend but don’t let that stop you [we never do].
This outfit is so cute and cozy! I love outfits like this in the fall!
Very stylish, comfy look!
Liz @ ShoppingMyCloset.com
Love my Brookstone fabric shaver! I use it on everything from chambray to jersey knits. I even use it on my couch!
Love this look!
I tuned back into the blog excitedly earlier this year when I saw you were making a commitment to ethical shopping. I think you’ve gone a great job highlighting a lot of independent, ethical companies!
I’ve also loved seeing more repeat items in the blog lately! It helps me find fresh ideas for my own small closet!
I’d love to hear your thoughts on supporting brands like Topshop and Madewell. Madewell used to be my favorite store but I have been unwilling to support them since I committed to ethical/second hand shopping–which has been hard!
I’d love love love some roundups of ethically made sweaters!
I feel the same way, but ebay has been great for that. If I see something by a major conventional retailer that I really love, and if I wait long enough, I can often find it second hand which eliminates most of the problem for me. I even found a couple of Caroline’s items on ebay a couple years ago that I didn’t want to purchase outright. Waiting is the hard part. I haven’t had much luck finding things on ThreadUp for some reason, but it’s probably just my bad luck. Note to everyone: consider selling your used clothes on ebay! I’ve also sold quite a few things on ebay, and so glad to have found a good home for them that way. Much better than dropping off at Goodwill and making it someone else’s problem. I’m always so thankful when someone goes to the trouble to list their clothes on ebay so that I can find them. :)
Great point, Lynn! I’ve been turning to eBay and the like more and more. The waiting is totally the hardest part!
Hello! Have you ever tried Poshmark? I never had very good luck on ThreadUp either but I just started using Poshmark to buy 2nd hand and also sell my pieces I don’t wear enough. It’s quite handy :)
I have looked on both Threadup and Posmark but haven’t gotten lucky with either yet, but eBay has occasionally come through! I’m definitely interested in trying to sell some lesser worn pieces as well. Totally agree with Lynn about it being the better than donation!
Cute sweater! For a base layer, you might want to get a silk crewneck – I like the ones from Lands End. You can’t beat the natural fabric, and it’s a great thin layer that allows sweaters to slide on easily – no getting caught up in layers of cotton.
Oh! Great idea Leslie :) Thank you for the tip! xo, Caroline
Adorbs! Great tip re the 3 matching accessories! And I’m seriously coveting that sweater. So challenging to see cute things in straight sizes and then look at the plus size options, bleh :-(
Bettye
Hey Caroline! I’ve been looking to get a quality beanie made in the USA in that exact color! Can you tell me about the fit? Does it seem really secure or maybe a little looser like it might slide off? Loving this outfit!
I LOVE Smartwool! And I love this outfit. :) Sometimes I like to layer with a cute v-neck, long-sleeve tee. It’s not visible under the sweater, but if I end up somewhere with the heat cranked I can shed a layer & still like my look.
Enjoy your visit in our fair city!
I love how the beanie makes the outfit very playful! I live for tiny details so I love the side zippers on your sweater. ^_^
So, I just found out about the little sweater comb from one of your older blog posts and my mind was blown. When looking through amazon for traditional comb vs. battery operated, many of the reviews said that the electric one is more forceful and effective for sturdy and thick fabric (think couches, pants, super thick knits) and can pull or tear through finer items that you wouldn’t have trouble manually combing through. Just a word of caution.
Noted! Thank you, Laura :) xo, Caroline
I am so glad to see that your posts show up in my emails again! :) Also, I love this outfit– and you get to dress for ‘fantasy fall’ for a few days! Yay! As a current mid-western transplant, I’ve had to learn to layer. My circulation is a dud, so I am constantly cold. I usually never wear a sweater with no layer underneath. I’ve found that I really love these tank tops by Merona from Target! They’re simple cotton, but do the job! I like that they’re longer, soft, cheap, and bonus: they wash super well over time! Here is the link: http://www.target.com/p/women-s-favorite-tank-merona/-/A-50417500
As for layering for warmth, what makes the biggest difference for me when it is cold (below 50), is wearing wool socks. Game changer! When my feet are cold, I am cold and I can never seem to get over it until my feet warm up. So wool socks were such a ground breaking thing for me! I highly recommend! I wear Smartwool brand socks. I can see the Smartwool tank being great for warmth because I swear by their socks :)
Have fun in Seattle!
So true about the socks, Ally. Thanks for sharing those ideas! :) xo, Caroline
Heattech from UniQlo is really great when you need an underneath layer. They come in patterns but also neutral colours, with scoopneck or turtleneck options. And it’s so comfy!
Your outfit is super cute, by the way. Especially the beanie and the sweater together – I love it!
Hey Gwen, I’ve heard about their gloves! Sounds so cozy. Thanks for sharing :) xo, Caroline
Another vote for Uniqlo Heattech. Much more comfortable on skin than merino, in my opinion.
Hi Caroline,
Love the look! Very comfy, functional, and cute! I just made a cross-country road trip from the East Coast out to Seattle, arrived just yesterday amidst the cold, wind and rain. Can’t wait to start layering and weather proofing myself for a wet fall :)
Oh awesome, Dee! Enjoy!! :) xo, Caroline
Wow!! Love everything you have on! I love cognac! It’s one of my favorites!! Gray being my second!! I use to color my hair arbrun red and cognac was one of the best colors to wear! Now I’m letting my hair grow out and I still want to wear this color but not sure it will look good with brown and gray hair! Yikes!!! We’ll see! You always look so pulled together! I’m so ready for some chilly weather but Mississippi doesn’t get chilly till the end of November! So short sleeves and sandals are still in my closet. Love that sweater you have on but it’s sold out! Ugh!! Hope it comes back in stock soon!!! Have a great trip!! Looking forward to your next post!!!
Thanks for this: Three accessories, all in one neutral color = one really put together outfit. I use a cheap disposable razor to depill and it works wonders! (Probably not a good idea to use the razors with the lotion strips.)
Hi Caroline,
I never thought to throw the color cognac into my grey/black mix. Sheer genius!
Donna
I’ve been using a battery operated shaver for years, and though it works fine, I’ve recently found that a single blade razor works even better. Cheap, easy, and super functional! Highly recommended!! (Love the black / gray / brown look. I’m wearing the same colors today. Favorite!)
Love your blog and your emphasis on purchasing ethically. I know that for me I’m coming out of a year long hiatus on purchasing while I figure out how to be both ethical, monetarily responsible and not an all-consuming thought process, meaning mainly ethical but not killing myself in the process. Just wondering if you had heard anything about topshop being an ethical brand or anything about their manufacturing to indicate that or if it is just one of those have to have because genius cut, color and zipper cover (why is that not more common?) pieces?
I live near Seattle & it’s been rainy & gross since last week. If you pull out the umbrella, we will laugh at you.
I have used the battery-operated depiller for years on sweaters & it works great! Use a GENTLE touch as not to snag the fabric. I have tried other methods: pumice stone, comb, etc… and the battery one seems to work best.
Go to RockCreek for oysters. So delish! We ate there on my birthday a couple weeks ago & the octopus was spectacular.
Cute sweater, Caroline! I’d love to know what kind of rain jacket you have. I’m in the market for one, and have been shopping around. I also live in a warm climate so I could really use one that isn’t too heavy, like so many anorak styles are.
Check out nau.com
Also check Topo Designs (Mountain Jacket) and Freeman (Lady Freeman). Both made in USA. Might be too heavy, not sure.
Hey Jessica, I don’t know that it’s technically a rain jacket, but I have a Patagonia fleece jacket for outdoor wear. Have you seen the city anorak from Everlane? (http://bit.ly/2e2MTME) It looks pretty light, but protective. :) xo, Caroline
I’ve been looking at the Everyone City Anorak since it replaced their older style and never pulled the trigger on ordering. My loss, since it’s now backordered until mid-January :( :(
I’d be really interested to see your recommendations or choices for the rain resistant jacket with a hood. I’d love to find something similar and I always come up at a loss when it comes to this piece.
I picked one up from Eddie Bauer outlet. It was from the summer line but it’s an unlined anorak, with a hood and waist ties. Just perfect for going over long sleeves and sweaters in the fall!
Also nau may have something lightweight!
I have a black waterproof trench with a hood that is Michael Kors, but I bought it at Burlington. I happened to find it when I was not looking for something like that at the time, but it was a great deal and I knew I should scoop it up because finding one with a hood when you are searching for one generally proves to be impossible!
I need a new one too since moving to a rainy climate – I am looking at Topo Designs’ Mountain Jacket and Freeman’s Lady Freeman. Both made in USA as I am a little bit of zealot about that. :)
Hey Kate, I think the city anorak from Everlane looks cute and protective! http://bit.ly/2e2MTME I don’t have a lot of expertise on rain wear, living in Texas! Haha :) xo, Caroline
I love this outfit so much! I’m wearing a cognac sweater today, which is the most colorful item in my capsule wardrobe!
Great minds! I have been wearing a similar jumper with zips (in burgundy) today, a darker burgundy beanie with a furry pompom, jeans, trainers and thin scarf.
We went for an autumn walk in the woods (uk) and I layered a long-sleeved tee under the jumper and a sleeveless but padded denim jacket over. I actually brought my parka with me as it was chilly in the shade of the trees.
I agree totally with what someone else posted about layers you don’t intend to show, they are often tighter so they don’t bulk out outer layers. Also uniqlo heattech is great, but I would probably only wear it in freezing temperatures.
Have a great time in Seattle!
Thank you for this awesome cold weather outfit! I usually wear a long-sleeve cotton tee under my sweaters. That way I only need to wash the tee. Yes, and I never had a problem with the battery-operated depiller als long as I used it carefully.
Love it, and I love Seattle! If the bay area housing market keeps on heading in it’s current direction, we’re contemplating moving up there. (I’ve sorta got my fingers crossed that we can).
As far as layering tips from a die-hard layerer (I think it’s the only fashion thing I’ve really GOT DOWN), lately I’ve been layering tight fitting l/s shirts underneath my sweaters and rolling the sleeves so the under layer pops out — for example, I have a gray/white striped l/s shirt and I’ve been layering it over a Black Crane moss-colored oversized quilted sweater, and roll it so the stripes pop out just a bit. It’s subtle but adds interest. I’m into it.
Pop on a denim jacket (rolled sleeves too) and a blanket scarf and you’re good to go!
Sounds so cute, Alyssa! Thanks for sharing. (And I’m sure the move will work out just the way it’s supposed to) :) xo, Caroline
I find that the plug-in de piller works better than the battery operated kind. I thrifted my winter sweaters this year and it made them look new! The trick is to keep moving the de piller across the fabric. If you stay still too long it will cause a tear.
Stay warm! We live on the other side of the sound and it has been a doozy weather wise. I’m used to the drizzly days and overcast days, but yesterday it just poured all day long. Not surprising given that the news said we had about 4 times as much rain this month as we normally do! Stay dry and warm. The rain always adds a chill for me. I’ve been dressing much like you- leather boots, skinny leggings/jeans, and a light sweater (and a really good Marmot jacket).
Yes on wool underlayers. We live on the coast north of Seattle. The wet-cold can be hard to get used to, especially when you are accustomed to “dry heat.” I have a whole drawer full of wool underthings and wear them daily in winter. When we lived in New England, I wore wool leggings under my jeans every day. Nau is one of the more responsible wool brands I’ve found, though I haven’t looked that hard as I already have what I need and haven’t purchased any new wool items in quite some time. I have Icebreaker and Smartwool too, and they can be easy to find on ebay for much less. We keep our house pretty cold in winter (in striving for a lighter footprint, plus we heat with wood), so wool underlayers are a necessity. Cold weather speaking, I don’t think you really need a beanie here – more like a wide brimmed wool hat akin to your floppy hat.
When it’s not raining, my thin down puffy black jacket (I bought it in Europe when our luggage was lost) is an everyday essential. I don’t care how popular they are: they work! I sometimes try to wear cute sweater outfits like this and I often end up with some sort of black jacket or wool vest over it anyway, so I’ve learned to incorporate those outer layers into my outfits, even in fall. E.g. this Woolrich vest was a game changer for me in jazzing up the outer layers: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B005ANO6MK/ref=twister_B012ATISL6
For those asking about a rain jacket, Topo Designs just came out with their Mountain Jacket that I have been eyeing – made in Colorado. Also check out Freeman – made, happily, in Seattle! (i.e. perfect for Seattle weather). Also Stormy Kromer makes great brimmed wool hats – also made in USA.
Enjoy Seattle!
Lynn, thank you so much for all the great recommendations! Will be checking them out for sure. :) xo, Caroline
Just a little word of warning: the battery operated defuzzers can end up thinning the material of delicate pieces like cashmere sweaters and make them see though over time. Just something to keep in mind.
Love the beanie!
I love your posts. So inspirational. I have been doing a capsule since last winter and it has been life changing! I would love to see a post on your fall/winter capsule.
Thanks and keep up the good work!
This look is PERFECT for Seattle! I live in Vancouver and the weather is basically the same as in Seattle, so you are good to go girl. ;)
http://www.skinnybelle.com
That sweater is cute, but acrylic/polyester!? Eek. Synthetic fabrics – and especially that particular blend – has been the absolute worst for me. In hand feel, breathability, durability, everything. In a weak moment I bought a fuzzy acrylic sweater last winter and it didn’t last the winter. So many synthetic sweaters just seem to end up looking shot and cheap after a season or two. (Of course, I hope that is not your experience here!!) Plus synthetics are pretty resource-intensive to manufacture and not easily disposed of. Luckily wool has made a tremendous comeback the last 10-20 years and natural fiber garments are now easy to find. Maybe hold out for better stuff? I hope you’re not giving up on your ethical/sustainable clothing experiment! You’ve helped me a great deal in my own.
How do you get that beanie to stay on your head?? Maybe it’s because I have thick hair but I can never get those to stay on the ol’ noggin. Any tips?
I tried the battery operated de-pillers and as much i wanted it too, my machine didnt last. Ive switched to the sweater stone by a company called the laundress. They are based in new york I believe.
I wish we were in the same state so we could have coffee and swap season tips, because I am the actual worst at dressing for warm weather (and I’m living in Alabama! Help!) but I can layer like a champ. (I miss you Seattle and New England.)
Anything in a merino-silk or cashmere-silk blend is a fantastic light, layering piece, and much better insulating and body temperature regulating than cotton. Grana currently have a silk-cashmere range that includes tanks. If you check out one of my recent posts, I have a 10% off offer code you can use for a first purchase if you’re interested. Couldn’t suggest Grana more highly enough.
Cool. Thank you Cindy! :) xo, Caroline
I love the sweater and I love that I got this post in an e-mail! Happy, happy. :)
Carol, I am so happy to hear that! Hooray! :) xo, Caroline
Great outfit! I love how hats automatically bring the style level up a notch.
Confession: I’ve had a battery-powered depiller for YEARS and I finally… bought batteries for it. That are still in the package. I just never think to myself, “Hmm, what should I do today? I know — depill my sweaters!!!” Maybe you could do a post on clothing maintenance and how to fit that into your life…?
I am definitely working on a clothing care post. Thanks for the suggestion! :) xo, Caroline
Seattelites like myself love a good flannel shirt, or I’ll pair a sweater with a vest or a scarf (if it’s not too rainy). Love chunky socks and ankle boots paired together or a dress under a sweater for some fun fall texture ( like a fitted dress with a cozy sweater, maybe that black dress with that sweater would be cute). I’ve got a kind of capsule-y situation going on and I’ve been mainly living in a lightweight, but soft light grey caridgan (from forever 21), which I’ve worn so much. Lately I’ve been turning to a fuzzier, warmer one from TJ Maxx, paired with a black lace fit and flare dress and a beanie. Have fun in Seattle! Let me know if you need any restaurant reccomendations! I’m a big foodie :)
Thanks Elise — cute ideas! :) xo, Caroline
I love the boots and the sweater! Pretty much all I’ve been wearing lately in PA ;)
As far as base layers go, I swear by UNIQLO’s heattech line! The tops are super light and soft, but keep you warm all day long. They’re especially great under sweaters because they’re not bulky. Plus, they’re cute on their own, tucked into skirts or pants. The big plus is that they’re also super affordable. I own a few of the long sleeved u-necks, and one short sleeved u-neck… may have to go back for more this year!
As others have said, I wouldn’t invest in thermal baselayers for where you live, unless you insist on being able to wear slim shirts in colder temps (which doesn’t sound like you). With a wool sweater, I find cotton undershirts all I can bear. Add a coat and scarf for the outdoors. But if you’re looking for a good brand: Icebreaker makes amazing cruelty-free merino underthings that are machine washable and that last way longer than those horrible Uniqlo ‘heattech’ things. My heattechs have all started pilling within the year and they aren’t actually that warm either. My Icebreaker underlayers look ship shape after an equally long time. They were about 3 times more expensive, but from a more sustainable brand, more functional and way longer lasting.
I am actually thinking of making the opposite switch, from an electric sweater shaver to a comb! I have used an electric one for years with no problems. Mine has a good guard on it, and I just make sure not to go over a major wrinkle! However, I recently read that the combs are actually better for sweaters in the long run because instead of snipping the thread (which could lead to more loose threads, and pilling, in the future), it just pulls the already loose bits, with less damage to the rest of the thread.
Hey just wondered if youre wearing a size 6 in jumper UK size?
I’ve used the battery-operated one and thought it was fine. However, I prefer just a regular, cheap razor. Working carefully, it does the job better and faster.
This color palette is perfect for the Pacific Northwest! The three touches of cognac really do make a difference.
Do you guys have Uniqlo in the US ? It’s simply the BEST for layering. They have tons of well made, no so expensive, super simple, thin tops to wear under your sweater. They even have some “heat-tech” tops that are made in a special fabric that is super super warm.
Also, what I absolutely love are bodys ! I have a few from Oysho or Princesse tamtam (great French brand that you can find abroad as well), there are sexy but comfy and I don’t mind if we kinda see them underneath, because they look great ! Only downside : takes you 10min to undress every time you need to pee…
LOVE this color combo. And that beanie. Do you know if it’s machine washable? It doesn’t specify on website
LOVE this sweater!!! As for layering tips from a Chicago gal…JCrew tissue turtlenecks are worth their weight in gold. So soft and comfy, cute enough to stand on their own, but can also be thrown under virtually anything as a base layer when it gets chilly. They’re on sale right now and the Spice color is a beautiful warm neutral like the cute Madewell tee you’ve featured in other posts.