Plaid, Stripes, and Leather Pleats

Happy Fri-yay, friends! And ’tis the season! I don’t know about you, but I’m in need of some coffee and holiday cheer to pep me up this Friday morning. It’s been one of those weeks, no? And I’m afraid with the end of semester quickly approaching, the coffee channels will be flowing steadily for me over the next few weeks.

When it comes to the winter season, there’s nothing more cheery and bright than an oversized plaid scarf to keep you cozy and warm. I don’t know about you, but I have been living in blanket scarves recently (like here). There’s just something about blanket scarves that allows you to balance style with comfort warmth (hello winter in Colorado for this Texan!). I especially love all the colors and patterns that are available this season,and I’ve linked a few of my favorites below if you are interested.

Mixing patterns is one of my favorite ways to style an outfit, so I knew this stripped sweater would pair perfectly with this plaid scarf. That’s right…I chose my sweater based on my scarf! Sometimes you just have to roll with the inspiration punches. And I have a feeling, starting outfits with my coats and scarves will become a recurring theme as we get deeper and deeper into the Colorado winter I’ve been so heavily warned about. And why not? If it’s really cold outside, your coat and hat and gloves are all that people will see anyways, right? 😉 But I digress.

This sweater is made of a thin but substantial material and is oh-so soft to the touch. Seriously, it’s heavenly–“the jersey knit” of the sweater world, I kid you not. I love that it’s thick enough to keep me warm, but thin enough to layer with most things I would usually wear with silk blouses or cotton tops. The fact that it isn’t bulky like most sweaters is perfect for a more polished and feminine look that isn’t frumpy.

To add some texture to the ensemble, I chose this pleated faux-leather skirt. I love that the pleats ruffle as you walk, adding a playful and girly vibe to the otherwise edgier tone of the leather. I’m a fan of the mini skirt length, but J. Crew also has a midi length version as well. This is my first time trying out a leather skirt, and I have to say, I love how it keeps the outfit from being too sweet. It’s a nice juxtaposing touch, don’t you think? I’m not typically a person who you would describe as edgy, but adding in a little leather sure has a way of making me feel sassy. (my last leather experience here)

And what better way to tie this festive look together than with a bright red lip and some sparkle?! You guys should know by now that I love a good candy apple red lip (here, here, here, here). And this sparkly necklace is the perfect piece to make any holiday-inspired outfit shine.

As we get closer and closer to Christmas day (how is it December already?!), I’d love to know what you are most excited about this holiday season! It truly is the most wonderful time of the year. Have a great Friday!

Photos by Outside Ourselves

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Get the Look…

Sweater: Express | Skirt: J. Crew (similar here, here) | Scarf: Dillard’s | Shoes: J. Crew Factory | Necklace: J. Crew Factory | Bracelet: Francesca’s | Watch: Movado (from Switzerland) | Rings: Aggie Ring, KD Ring gifted |Lips: Revlon (certainly red) | Coffee Cup: Starbucks

More blanket scarves to love…

here, here, here, and here