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.
Earrings – Scarf – Sweater – Belt – Denim Skirt – Boots – Tights – Bag 1 – Bag 2 – Coat
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!
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.
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!
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..
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.
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.
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.
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.
I’ve had the boots since last fall, but I haven’t worn them much.
Don’t think those boots are for ice!!
Be very careful.
I only walked from the car into the building, but I was very careful.
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.
You look awesome. Just be careful on the snow and ice with those high heeled boots! Take care be safe. Hi to Mr. Mickey.
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!
You are most welcome, Mary. I’m glad you enjoyed the tips.
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!
The scarf I am wearing is at least seven years old. It is by Versace.
Looks so nice!
Susan- You really look terrific!!
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.
Love this look!!
I think a well cut black coat is timeless and a good investment. Your coat is elegant and looks gorgeous with your hair.
Do you ever wear black and brown together as in a brown jacket with black pants?
I don’t have a brown jacket but I wouldn’t mind wearing that combo at all.
I love this look, it is amazing how much difference the accessories make. As you said I am getting tired of dressing neutral and minimalist lol
You are such a classy person. I love everything you style. Hope Mr. Micket is doing well!
Good morning!
I love your scarf. I use them all the time to add a little zing to a basic outfit. They last forever and I never grow out of them. They can be a fun souvenir. I have collected some of mine at art museums. They are usually of a piece of art that the museum has on display. Just a fun way to remember my travels.
Thanks for sharing!
I love your black coat more than the gray coat you have shown in other pictures although both are good choices for you. It just seems the gray one looks to me like it is too big on you.
Just adding the colorful scarf really did make a difference to this look. Really stands out in a good way. You are so clever and I do learn a great deal from you. Each blog just reaffirms something you have mentioned before or gives a hint on what you can do to improve a look so easily without costing a lot of money to do. You are so inspiring , creative and generous of your time and talent. Thank you.
Clara from Iowa
The gray coat is oversized and modern, but very comfortable with casual attire. Thanks for your comments and your kindness, Clara. I always enjoy hearing from you.
Susan; I loved this article! But I have to tell you; I’ve been following you for more than 10 years and I appreciate every single word of advice you pass on to all of us. I’ve have unfollowed many “fashion” bloggers over the years for a variety of reasons but still continue to read your articles and take your advice and recommendations. Everything you suggest is practical, down to earth, and reasonably priced. I’ve always loved that about you. I just wanted to let you know, even though I don’t comment much; just how much your wisdom has helped me over the years. My best to Mr. Mickey (always love his socks) and positive thoughts for your continued good health. I went through breast cancer the same time you did and I’ve been very fotunate to recently been moved to the survivor program. Please never stop posting; I would be lost without you!
We are blessed to be survivors, Beverly. Thank you so much for your kind comments. I never tire of hearing from readers who enjoy being part of our little community.
Love this look, you pop! Sometimes the classic looks bore me, this makes you look young and vibrant!
How’s Mr Mickey? He’s so cute; my hubby loves the patterned socks, too. We used to get at Stein Mart, which we miss so much.
I love your posts. I live in a small rural community. Everything you wear, would be considered Sundays best. Do you have any suggestions for a rural atmosphere?
Keep it neat and simple. A plain black tee with boot leg jeans and comfortable low boots can look great paired with a flannel plaid shirt or even a hoodie. A less structured shoulder bag and small silver earrings can be your go-to accessories.
I can’t say I’m tired of minimalism. (I’d probably say simple?) But then some days I just want brighter, perkier, edgier. A scarf is a perfect way to get me out of my rut. LOVE the scarf you’re wearing and how you’re wearing it. Beautiful as always. I appreciate your inspiration.
Love all of your style tips! But…your plants are so healthy looking! What is your secret to your green thumb?
I repot plants as needed and give them some water every Sunday. They get light from the three large windows in the sunroom, and a ceiling fan is always on. I close the shades when the sun is brightest in the afternoon.
you look great. I used wear classic colours and styles when I worked. .
now I’m retired and have MS , I like my clothes and accessories to cheer me up for my day.
cannot wear heels, but I wear nice sneakers and mococssins around the house.
thank you for sharing
I’m pretty tired of my flat, lug-soled snow boots for safe walking, and was wondering how you navigated snow and ice in your lovely high heeled boots, but realized you probably only had to get from the car to the offices. You certainly looked elegant for your appointments.
Yes, you are correct, Noelle. I only had to walk a few steps on well cleared sidewalks from the car into the offices.
Susan you always look so nice and pulled together. You are an inspiration! You are also very lucky that you had a day in the high 30s. And sun! At least the snow and ice would be melting. We live in Michigan and are having an old fashion winter. Cold temperatures and very little sun right now. Thank you Mr Polar Express!
And i agree that you need some bright color when it is so gloomy out . Have a nice weekend !!
I just went to the dentist this week and I sure didn’t look as good as you do! Your simple elegance and pop of color look fantastic! What a difference between wearing the scarf and not wearing the scarf. I’m so sad that exact scarf isn’t available because it would have been in my cart immediately!
You look radiant Susan! Continued good health in the New Year…keep posting. Love your posts!
The heels on your boots don’t look appropriate for snow and ice. They look very fashionable but are they really the best for snow and ice?
I only walked a few steps on well cleared sidewalks.
Dear Susanne, my body shape is pear. What do you think, what length should the blazer be? Where does it meet the hip line?
Thank you for your supportive answer: Éva
Never let a blouse, top, or blazer stop at the widest part of your hips. Dark pants or skirts with a shorter, lighter color top or jacket will always be most flattering.
Have you tried the undercut A-line bob?
With your tendency with turtle neck and rolled (cowled necklines you could add height to your back and modern lines to the front. I’m 69 and the same measurements as you, but was drawn down by a heavy block head of hair. Honest friends. A blessing and curse.
You are a very good blogger and angel taking care of loved ones. Think of you a little bit too!
I did have that cut a few years ago. Thanks for your comments.
Good Morning, Susan,
Thank you for all you do, not only for your readers, but your family. I commend you, sometimes it is a difficult job, but I am happy that I could be there for my family.
I remember reading that you were having issues w/your blog. For a period of a month or so; I was not receiving any updates. That changed and I received a few. I checked and did not receive the most current, so I am wondering if you are still having problems w/the blog.
Thank you and you are my favorite blogger! I have and continue to always learn something new.
Hi Nancy. It is so frustrating to have this problem again, but yes. It was corrected for a couple of weeks, and now, some email addresses are blocked from receiving the newsletters. It may be a few weeks before the fiber optic cables are installed so that I can get a new ISP, otherwise I may have to start from scratch with a new website. I apologize for the continuing issues.
No apologies necessary. But thank you. I know it can be frustrating. Hope things are worked out soon.
Love the outfit – the website for the black jean skirt indicates “large” size skirt – did you order a size down? Thanks you
I ordered a size medium in the skirt.
Love the change you made, that scarf is stunning on you! I struggle to wear scarves – at 5’2′ they can overwhelm. I Tend to tie them to my purse for a pop of color. Additionally, 99% of the time in Houston, it is just too hot to wear one:). We are having our week of winter right now and I wore one the other day; I received a couple of compliments from strangers! I will try to incorporate them more often. I was thrilled & surprised to read that you are an inverted triangle! My little granddaughter is and I’ll use info from your styles to guide her thru dressing. Thanks for all the information and style inspiration!