Get Creative

The trend toward 90s minimalism is becoming tiresome, leaving us craving more creative looks. Fashion ebbs and flows, keeping things interesting. I notice the general direction but don’t follow the trends too closely.

Personal style is artistic. There is no right or wrong answer. Sometimes, simply trying new combinations will open your eyes. Texture, color, pattern, and silhouette create fascinating, unique looks. Adding bolder accessories, wearing an unexpected color, or a new-to-you silhouette can make your style more authentic.

As I dressed to visit my accountant and the dentist, snow and ice covered the ground, and temperatures were in the high thirties. I started to wear the look below, but it lacked interest or a focal point. Adding a colorful silk scarf to fill the neckline and switching to a solid gray bag made the whole look more interesting and cohesive.

Nothing I wore is new, but I’ll share links to where I purchased each item so that you may search for something similar if you are interested.

EarringsScarfSweaterBeltDenim SkirtBootsTightsBag 1Bag 2Coat

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20 Comments
  1. Your scarf adds a pop of color, warmth and interest to your outfit. Great choice for these wintery days. I’m going to follow your example and use my favorite scarves to brighten my winter outfits. The before and after photos highlight what a little closet shopping can do!

  2. I have enjoyed seeing new ways of tying my scarves on YouTube and Instagram. Sometimes I felt my Hermes scarves were looking matronly, but interesting ways of tying them add a youthful and fashionable spin to them.

  3. Looking magnificent. Such a simple addition to take an outfit to the next level. As a lover of black and white forever, I find now that my hair is white I really need the pop of colour so I don’t disappear or look lifeless!

  4. Susan, can you do a post about handbag contents organization so its easier to change out bags to coordinate with outfits? I tend to use the same bag for months because changing everything out is not easy…..glasses, meds, cards, tissue, snack, etc

    thank you..

    1. Hi Julia. Please visit the post I did on closet organization here.I showed a picture of a tote organizer that I leave on my dresser. In the organizer, I keep everything I might need to put in my bag. I also group small things and put them in zippered pouches.

  5. Your small leopard print bag adds much to your outfit. I find I don’t like to wear a leopard print as the main attraction, but on a belt or handbag, yes! You look beautiful as usual. Have a great week and enjoy these winter months: a time for contemplation and reflection.

  6. What a difference a pop of color makes. I do like the picture of the basic outfit but the scarf really adds so much.
    You look nice.

  7. Hello Susan, wouldn’t these black high boots be new in your wardrobe? Because I don’t think I have ever seen them before. They are absolutely gorgeous and I love the way you wear them. And I also love the pose you have on the third picture, my favorite. High boots, high heels, and your exceptional smile… just perfect once again.

  8. Fabulous outfit for being out and about for appointments! I was a little concerned about the boots also, but you have good common sense regarding hazards and danger. Love the scarf for the pop of color and texture, and I’m sure it added a bit of warmth also.

  9. You look awesome. Just be careful on the snow and ice with those high heeled boots! Take care be safe. Hi to Mr. Mickey.

  10. Julia, I bought one of the purse organizers that Susan showed in her closet organization post and use it as she recommends. This makes it super easy to change from one bag to another. At the end of the current day, I just take everything from my bag and deposit them into the organizer where they’ll be ready for me to select from for the next day’s purse. Thanks again for this great post, Susan!

  11. I love the scarf you are wearing, but no link to that one — is there a brand or mark on it? it looks gorgeous and so colorful!

  12. I like both of the looks, but adding the scarf really brings attention to your face, especially your beautiful eyes. I hope you and all your loved ones are doing well.

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I share tips and inspiration for using what you already have in contemporary ways. Defining words include effortless, classic, refined, discreet, and elegant. My style is chic, minimal, and timeless with a bit of edge.