I take my mom to get her radiation treatments on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. She has a small skin cancer on the top of her wrist and will require 20 treatments. There was a slight chill in the air, and the morning fog was heavy, so a V-neck sweater and black jeans were comfortable. I thought it might be helpful to show you how easy it is to change the same sweater and jeans look with accessories.
Scarves are the perfect way to add warmth without the bulk of layers. The look above includes a rayon scarf from Chico’s last year. The scarves they have now are here. The black shoes are here. The sweater (here) is lightweight and comfortable when you need something more elevated than a tee. All the other elements are old.
I always style scarves in the most simple ways. Fancy knots that require watching a three-minute YouTube video to figure out are not for me.
A small black-and-white silk scarf folded on the bias makes for easy styling. Mine is a few years old, but I bought it at Nordstrom. The silk scarves they have now are here. I loosely tucked in the sweater and added a belt to match the tan in the shoes.
Straight-leg jeans hemmed to the top of your foot are great with sneakers or flat shoes. I never find completely flat shoes without structure comfortable, but I was sold when I saw these with a low block heel and a padded footbed. I bought the shoes (here) in two colorways, as shown below.
Thank you for the update on the Hurricane Helene flooding. Our Tennessee & North Carolina neighbors continue to be in our prayers. As my fellow Pittsburgh neighbor, Mr. Rogers said, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping”.
God bless!
Wendy Dunbar
Thank you for sharing those touching examples of people caring for neighbors and strangers alike. Especially in these troubled times, those actions speak to Lincoln’s reference about “the better angels of our nature.” Wonderful! (May your Mom’s treatments go well.)
Hi Susan, I hope all goes well with your Mom’s treatment. It is something when a community rallies together to help with those in dire need of essentials. May they all be blessed for their efforts.
On a lighter note I absolutely adore your outfit it is so perfect for cool weather.
Keep safe and God Bless.
ELIZABETH SA
I’ve a huge collection of scarves as I have a ( very unattractive) enlarged thyroid. Chico’s scarves are lovely.
Cheering all the lovely people helping others. In a world where there’s so much awful news and seemingly a lot of hate it’s heartwarming to hear of strangers helping others.
Susan- your upbeat attitude is inspiring and refreshing. The story about your friend and the spontaneous generosity of others truly was the best thing I’ve read in a while. I’m still admiring how you put your outfit together. I, too, have a Forever Sweater, but in the crew neck style. I love it and it doesn’t pill or lose its shape. Do you find that the v-neck sits high enough? And would you mind telling the size?
Thank you for the updates. We are on the East Coast and many people are donating toward helping those affected, including the animals.
I also have the crew neck sweaters in a couple of colors for colder weather. The V-neck stops before any cleavage, but I have to be mindful if I’m leaning over. I buy both styles in a size medium.
Wonderful story of volunteers! My sister escaped from Elk River by many hours of chain sawing a path through the blocked roads. Most had to leave by helicopter. So grateful for her safety as Banner Elk was one of the worst locations.
This post of people helping people is beautiful. We watched a fellow on YouTube who was using his helicopter and his money to rescue people and was told by local authorities to cease and desist. Sad. I cannot imagine the complexity of cleanup and restoration of the area.
Hope your mom will respond to the treatment on her wrist.
Good inspiration for casual outfits for errands.. Your houseplants look very healthy.
Thank you! Brava – Another attractive, classic, wearable outfit! Yr story of a woman needing to hire a van to transport needed supplies to her neighbors & friends brought tears to my eyes
Ps I ordered the sweater.
I hope your mother’s treatments will be successful. I will include her in my prayers. Your story about the kind and generous gentleman reinforces my belief that humans are inherently kind and good.
I love wearing scarves and I agree that the simple knots are the best!! Although I am so sad by all the devastation from the hurricane I am always so proud of this country and its citizens in how they are always ready to help others in need. These people are in my prayers every night.
It is good to hear that people do still care for others. When I read about the donation it brought back faith that our people are here to help others in need. I do pray for those in need. This is a tough time.
On another note I really like the change up of the one base. It shows how to use what I have in my closet already.
My aunt 95 is getting radiation treatments for her cancer on her face and after 1 year is doing great. The doctor says she has another year to go. Hope your mom does well. Giving is always a better experience than getting. I love the blue in the first scarf. A printer once named a color after me Berger Blue. I don’t think you are Jewish but in any event a Happy Healthy New Year to you and your family.
It’s so encouraging to read an example of the goodness of people in these divisive crazy times. Thank you, Susan. Praying for the people affected by Helene, your mom and you.
Thank you for your beautiful scarf outfit.
Mary in Washington State
Love hearing about everyday people helping everyday people. We do live in a great country!
Love that light sweater! I still can’t believe the massive destruction your area rec! Robin
As awful as it is, it does bring out the kindness in people..
Hi Susan, wishing your Mum all the best. I have just read out to my husband (we are in NZ and he is an emergency management advisor) about your friend. It is wonderful to know how generous people can be in times of need. God bless you all.
It has been truly heartwarming to see and hear about the acts of kindness for the hurricane victims and businesses.
This brought tears to my eyes. Bless your friend.
unimaginable. Sending prayers and prayers and prayers up.
How very generous of that man to give to your friend money for vital necessities and thoughtful and kind of your friend to help others in desperate need after the devastating aftermath that Hurricane Helene left in her wake.
Love the scarves they have always suited you and give a pop of colour to a smart casual outfit. Hope your Mothers
treatment goes well for her.
Regards,Pamela U.K
.
Our love for everyone dramatically hit by this storms. We’re in Florida and it could have been us. We’ve sent donations to Samaritan’s Purse and the Red Cross. But we’ll be willing to do more specific things where needed. Diapers, toilet paper, cleaning supplies. Send me a link and my husband and I with a couple others will participate. We’ll get it to you if you’ll accept it. This isn’t a joke I’ve got some strong people to help
Who, what, where and when.
I send my deepest thanks for your kind offer. If you send monetary donations, (PayPal) all of it will go to my local church here. We began taking supplies directly to the places we can reach since the day after the flood. Many areas are still only accessible by helicopter or mule team. Our pastor (John Swonger) also owns a manufacturing company so he has trucks and other equipment to deliver supplies as the roads are cleared.
Prayers for you mother and all the people who are suffering.
Charming, classy, comfy! Love the helpers! Best wishes for your mom!
Best wishes for your mother’s treatment; luckily the storm hasn’t disrupted everything. I absolutely loved both the outfits you are wearing! I’m a big fan of neutrals, and love the way you have put them together.
Thanks for sharing the story about people helping each other, looking out for each other. It’s comforting in these times with so much fighting and anger in other areas.
I’m so glad you and yours are safe.
So glad to hear people helping one another. It’s a shame the federal government isn’t in there doing what they are supposed to do I’ve given to Samaritans purse because I believe they’re helping too.
The National Guard, and many military trucks rolled into our area right away. The response may seem slow to some, but the destruction is over such a vast remote area, it will take time to find and help everyone. Thank you for any donations.
Susan, you are so beautiful and put together (always), and I love seeing the different looks with a base of a sweater and pair of dark washed jeans. So nice to hear of the people chipping in to help the people in east TN. I heard today that folks in that area can’t even get to NC from TN because roads and bridges gone or falling.
I also want you to know that I have been working hard, studying your posts and photos, putting together a wardrobe over the last 2-4 years. Never have the problem of “nothing to wear” anymore. And today I received an order for jeans purchased online for the first time. I now own 4 pairs that fit me well and look nice on me. That was a job figuring that out, but I did it! Thank you, Susan.
I applaud you for trying to discover what works for you. Having a wardrobe tailored to your needs will make getting dressed much easier over the next few years.
Thank you for being part of a kinder world of sharing and uplifting each other.
You look charming!
Susan,I hope your mother recovers quickly from the treatment. Very nice post about your clothing with different accessories, and about the very kind people to help all the victims of the flood. Thank you and God bless you all! Sincerely, Jolanda
Storming heaven for your mom. We have a mess in Spartanburg. Our area (Converse Heights) is full of beautiful old large oak trees. Our neighbor’s large trees are now covering our driveway,. Thankfully no trees hit our roof. Several houses on our street have trees through their roof. Terrible upset about situation in Asheville. It will take many years to restore area.There are people who lost their homes. Chimney Rock is no longer. This is so sad. Cannot watch TV news. Poor people. Regardless of damage to our property we have our lives. So far over 200 people in Asheville and surrounding area lost their lives. At least 50 or more people still missing.WE lost our electricity for sev days. Have no idea reason print is so small on computer. PLEASE take care of YOU, your mom and Mr.Mickey.
I’ve visited Asheville several times and my brother and his husband live just over the border in South Carolina and it’s one of their favorite places. It’s simply unimaginable how much damage there is in your state and I’m doubting I’ll ever see the Biltmore Estate and visit Morning Glory Gallery in the village again.
My heart goes out to the people whose lives are forever changed by this event.
Beautifully put together as always. Love the ease and flexibility you share. I have the shoes and find them versatile. Thanks!
I love those shoes; they are comfortable and style!
Do you know if there is somewhere I could send like new women’s clothes?
I don’t know of any services collecting clothing at this time.
That is wonderful..people are good. ❤️
It gave me goosebumps Susan, we have hope still of good people.
Thanks for the update and fashion looks. It’s good to see how people are working together in the middle of chaos. Blessings on you and your family.
So happy you are safe. Thanks for your inspirational (in so many different ways) posts. Wishing you & your family continued health, safety and strength as you navigate these challenging times in your hometown!
What a tremendous story! The love, respect and grit that made this country great is still alive!
I have a question for you. I need to, yet again, buy another pair of prescription glasses, and I cannot decide what shape I need. I wear my glasses all of the time, and have blonde hair, blue eyes, and I am 76 years old, but don’t want to look “old,” but not trendy either. I am very much in tune with your “style.” It is particularly difficult to pick out frames when you don’t have your glasses on to see well!! Can you please offer suggestions about picking out glasses frames? Shapes, color, etc.
Many thanks, and best of luck to your mother as well!
Best wishes,
Helen
Hi Helen. Thanks for your comments and question about glasses. There are several things to consider, but my priority is not to repeat the shape of my face. For example, I have a roundish face, so I would never buy round frames. I always look for ones with a D shape or a slight cat eye frame. The temple or arms (part that goes over your ear) should never be attached to the bottom part of the frame since that points downward. Colors close to that of your hair will draw the slightest attention to themselves, but colors such as blue or red are always fun ways to add color. Wireframes or frameless glasses are often very fragile, don’t add much style, and almost always make us look older.
Hi Susan,
Oh my gosh, the story about your friend gave me goosebumps. There are so many kind people out there.
My daughter and her husband recently (last April) moved to Asheville. His folks live in Burnsville. When I see your stories of the places that you go to visit – I always tell her to “try this place or try that place.” It is so sad to see the devastation. I was able to see the Biltmore while on a recent visit (in July, my first) to the beautiful city of Asheville. My heart and prayers go out to all the people affected by Helene all the way up from the gulf. I really wanted to see Lake Lure and Chimney Rock – and we didn’t get there in July. I did see a few images of those areas. 🙁
Thanks for your links to all the beautiful shoes, and clothes. I love your blog.
PS: I hope your mom does well throughout the chemo.
Thank you, Carol.
How wonderful people are when there is a need. Your friends’ story is such a good example.
Susan, I was so touched by your story of what your friend did and would like to share this on my FB but would like your permission. My daughter-in-law’s cousin lives in N.C and she has had a similar experience. She went to Costco and started loading up supplies to take to the areas affected. When people asked her what she was doing and she told them, they all opened their wallets. Real Americans help one another, that’s what we do.
You have my permission to share.
Lovely about your friend and the kindness of strangers.
It’s wonderful to hear all the stories of people helping people.
I too use scarves in simple ways to liven up my outfits. I never grow out of them. I collect them on my travels some are from my high school trip to Europe. Fussy knots are not for me either. I’m wearing one now to teach in. Just a triangle thrown over my shoulders.
I send best wishes to your Mom. I hope radiation helps and is not painful.
Happy Friday to you and yours.
Susan I am so thankful you and your family are safe. This is so so sad from Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. So so sad.
Thank you for the updates on the disaster. I am in Canada and most reports so far are focused on lack of help, FEMA holding back and general chaos and helplessness. I am really glad to hear positive news. Having spent a lot of time in the US over many years, also heartened to hear that the American spirit i ofte encountered of kindness, concern and helpfulness towards one another is alive and well. Blessings!
Americans pulling together. Praise God we were born in this country
Love your posts, always! I love the practical, elegant, classic looks you have. When I worked in DC, I wore a lot of black classics and changed it up with scarves and a few blouses. I had a pair of classic black trousers I got at Lord & Taylor that I wore out. They were lined. An example of buying quality item that helped anchor the wardrobe! Please keep these posts coming. I always enjoy your budget friendly and classic looks. Kindly, Peggy Musselwhite
I love how you style your clothes, and make the same base items look so different. Such sweet examples of people helping others. My friend who was trapped near Green Mountain has made it out and is in, of all places, Johnson City. She says they are receiving exceptional care and support. I sincerely hope your family members in the Green Mountain area are safe, also.
I’m so glad your friend is safe. My family members are safe, but without power and only spotty communication.
Loved the “how a scarf makes a difference” post. Very helpful. I’ve realized that a trendy color that isn’t exactly “my” color may work great over a white shirt or sweater. It’s such a cool way to expand my seasonal wardrobe. Thanks for your examples.
And a special thank you for sharing your friend’s story. So uplifting to see how much people want to help!
Best to your mom. My mom had two facial skin cancers which both successfully treated.
That’s awesome
That is awesome what your friend was doing and for the word to spread, I see God’s hand helping out there….Wow, a truck load of “stuff” for those in need. Blessing to all who are helping.
Our church is sponsoring several different ways to help as is our community as well. We know what it is like to have that kind of disaster happen in IA so we are more than ready to help too.
I couldn’t copy and paste the first picture of you with the scarf, sigh. However the second picture let me copy and paste but I liked the first one a little better and would have liked to include it in my portfolio on traveling tips by you.
Thank you for reporting what all is transpiring in your area and for the tips you pass on to all of us.
Clara from Iowa.
I sent that one to your email, Clara.
Hi Susan,
Question #1 – You posted a couple weeks ago what you eat and that on Mon-Thurs you fast between 11 am and 5 am. My question is what time do you go to bed? My guess is that you’re getting at least 8-9 hours of sleep, maybe more per night.
Question #2 – Some years back, you posted about a water dispenser that you use. Does it filter tap water? Are you still using it? If yes, how do you properly clean it to mitigate bacteria build-up? Do you recommend it?
I hope your mother continues to make good progress with the radiation treatments. It’s also good to hear that in spite of Hurricane Helene’s devastating destruction that its aftermath is bringing out the very best in humankind.
I fall into bed exhausted at about 8 pm. If I sleep six hours, I’m thrilled. Waking at 3 am (or earlier) has been my normal for years.
I upgraded to a SimPure reverse osmosis water filter last year.
Thank you for your kind wishes.
I believe Americans are generous and kind hearted. What a wonderful example of this in the small town your friend visited.
Susan
May your mother be wrapped in prayer as she continues her treatments and you as well as her caregiver. I am a bit envious of your ability to wear sweaters. I am in the Midwest and it’s still in the 90’s here. We need cooler weather and rain. I pray things improve in your town soon. The pictures are heartbreaking all over the area. Prayers continue.
Great fashion! But an even greater story of generosity! Thanks for sharing!
To Peggy who posted above: I’m glad that Susan’s response clarified that the National Guard and many military trucks rolled into her area right away. Please do not listen to the political candidate who is using people’s suffering as an excuse to falsely attack his opponent. In times like this, we certainly don’t need more division, we need to work towards common goals.
Wow! That is an incredible story of generosity and the giving spirit of Americans. Wonderful!
I think many times people want to do something, but they’re not quite sure which direction to go. When confronted in person with need, people are all to willing to pitch in. I love this story.
Very attractive outfits, as usually Susan! I have that scarf from Chico’s last year! Great tip for how to style it.
Both pairs of shoes are great too!
You make it so simple!
I think those are two of the most beautiful outfits that you have modeled. That sweater with two examples of scarves options looks so nice on you!
What a lovely heartwarming story about your friend. Sending you love and best wishes.
Hi Susan, I’ve been following you for quite a long time. I feel as though I have two closets full of clothes and I can never put an outfit together, so I’m trying to replace them slowly with solid tops like you. I love that gray v neck sweater and plan to order it in several colors, does it run large? I am busty and self-conscious about it
I ordered the sweater in a size medium.