Accent colors allow us to add interest and variety to a neutral wardrobe. I often use red or royal blue as accent colors. For example, adding a red jacket to a simple black-and-white combo adds a new dimension and personality to what would otherwise be predictable. I wore this look to attend church and visit with my parents later in the day.
The jacket’s trim harmoniously complements the bag’s color. A black bag would be rather dull, and a red one would be too matchy. The taupe bag adds an unexpected element to the look, making it more interesting.
The bag in a similar color is here.
The jacket is now on sale here. I’m wearing a size 8.
This red jacket is stunning on you. I love the idea of adding color this way. On a side note, am I correct in noticing that scarves are more in style these days? I seem to recall one of your posts demonstrating ways to wear them. Do you know where I could find that post again? From one early bird to another- Thank you.
Thanks, Patricia. Scarves have always been one of my favorite accessories to wear in cooler weather. Posts about tying scarves are here – here – here and here.
Would you remind us what you use for lip color? Does it have any “plumping” properties?
It’s a great color on you! Thank you in advance!
I use lip balms or lipstick over lip pencils by Lancôme. To my knowledge, the products do not have any “plumping” properties. The lip color I used here is 148 Bisou Bisou. The lip pencil is color 33 Idôle Nude. The lip balm color is 60 Million-Dollar Berry.
Love your haircut and jacket as well.
Lovely to look at …
Hi Susan,
I had left a comment a few weeks ago, saying I was not receiving your posts. Happy to report today, that I did receive this post. Hopefully no more issues for you.
Love you in red!
I’ve learned it was issue with Google changes made back in October. Hopefully it is all sorted out now. Thanks for letting me know you got today’s notice.
You look beautiful. I really like the red jacket on you. Take care.
Love the jacket Susan but I particularly love your handbag. Beautiful look.
Susan you are a total class act. Thank you! Your post is always a day brightener. I appreciate your transparency about your own life. You are adding beauty to the world one post at a time.
Lovely lady in red! ❤
I have a wardrobe of wonderful combinations for different seasons. But I am house bound due to spinal disease, rural location and limited transport. I am on a low income. Don’t go to dinner, cafes, holiday etc. When I go to medical appointments I may look overdressed in comparison with others seated in the waiting room. I love stylish clothes. My modest pension does not permit me to sit in a cafe sipping coffee.
My husband died four months ago. 54 years of wedded bliss. Occasionally I will invest time reworking outfits that I rarely get the chance to wear.
I’m sorry for your loss, Judith. Life changes sometimes take away many things that we enjoyed when we were younger and healthier. Even if I rarely get to wear some of the outfits, like you, I enjoy thinking of creative combinations for when I do get out and about.
I wore that same lovely jacket to church yesterday! I wore it with black pants and a black top. My shoes and bag were leopard print. One of my friends told me I looked “very Chanel.” It’s such a great piece. I hope both you and Mr. Mickey are doing well! I enjoy your adventures. Wanda
I think this outfit is so striking. Simple but not!
Love it when you tell us where you wore your outfits. Makes it easier for me to decide on what to wear for what occasion. Dressing without over doing it or under dressing for special events or plain everyday wear.
Today’s look is beyond my 80 plus year old mind with all the short, short skirts, ripped jeans I hate and won’t wear and the list goes on. So I want you to know how much I appreciate all the tips you share.
Clara from Iowa
I Love your style – the red jacket is perfect!
I’m not sure if this is a duplicate because I lost my connection.
Anyway I really like the red accent color. And it does make sense to use a different color in your handbag. Again a nice simple but nice looking outfit.
Susan, such a lovely outfit, love it with the taupe purse. I also recently discovered Lancome lip shaper, it truly does last all day. Enjoy the rest of your day.
Hello Susan,
I love receiving your emails and tips.
How is Mr. Mickey?
Have a Blessed Day!
He is okay. Thank you for asking.
Nailed it! Top to bottom.
Judith, I bet you look lovely at your medical appts! Putting together outfits with what you own-priceless.
Love the red jacket.
I really like the purse you carried with this lovely ensemble. It’s neutral, but it pops. I clicked on the link, and wasn’t surprised it is a Brahmin. I found that line of handbags because my sister-in-law, Sharon, always had the most gorgeous handbags, and most of them Brahmin. This style is especially good looking.
That look is absolutely you…so classic and chic, but with an effortless vibe. I love the handbag, the color you are carrying, and the color you linked to. Now the question is: do I need a Brahmin bag? Surely I must.
Judith: I have the problem of not going “anywhere” either. Here , also rural, people think wearing a blazer and trousers is dressed for “9 to 5.” I wear what I want and if someone thinks I am overdressed for a pharmacy pick up, that is their problem. I wear what makes me feel good, and what feels like me. These outings are my social life any more. I want to feel able to wear what makes me feel stylish no matter where I am. Enjoy life and be happy with who we are,as best we can.
Love this jacket will be ordering it from Talbots
Thank you for showing your lovely outfits . It gives me great fashion ideas
Cathy A
Hi Susan, Such a lovely look today and the taupe bag really works so nicely. I continue to learn so much from your advice. I went into my local Talbots today and got the red jacket. The sales clerk said that same jacket was worn by a lady sportscaster during one of the KC Chiefs recent playoff games. I also appreciate the advice on Lancôme lip pencils. Here in the foothills of NC, today we had such pleasant sunny weather which is a welcome change from all the cold….all the best to both you and Mr. Mickey. Hope to see you both around Biltmore this spring…we have visited once since the devastating storm in September 2025. We are going in March to see the King Tut exhibit with our daughter and her friends from Tennessee. I would love to see some of your ideas for transitioning into spring and anything new or different you have added to your diet. Take care and keep up the great ideas as time allows! I enjoy dressing nicely and not saving my nice things for someday….today is special enough!
For Judith – You never know who sees you and takes note of your appearance. When I see someone who has put some thought into how they look, it makes the day and event a bit special. I think it shows respect to others to appear attractive to them. Maybe you are inspiring someone. Sending you good wishes.
Red is also a color that you wear really well, Susan. What a wonderful smile you have on these photos, you look truly splendid. I love it so much…