I was feeling free-spirited and optimistic when we shot this post a few weeks ago. Today I’m in a more somber mood. I’m going to look at my HRC button featured here as a talisman to get me through the next few months, then the four unchartered years to come. I had originally wanted to title this post “Fringe Benefits ” but knowing who we have coming into the White House I thought…maybe not. If you don’t subscribe to my political beliefs, you are certainly entitled to your views. I just hope you’ll embrace your victory with grace, not gloating. And that glass ceiling will be shattered. Of that, I’m sure.

For this look, I paired a mixed media cashmere turtleneck with black fringed jeans that I splurged on last year and am still happy I did. The Balenciaga Tote is my BIG splurge for the season…and beyond. I’d had my eye on it for months and just could not say “mais non.” Add a wool felt fedora and glam skater sneaks, and I was feeling on top of the world. A world I love, treasure and will fight for.

Sweater: (old, Leo & Sage, bought at Pop-Up Store NYC) but like this new look and this one, too.

Jeans: (3 x 1, old but still available!) and a very affordable option  here

Bag: Balenciaga but you can grab  this or this for a lot less

Sneakers: (old, Kate Spade) but check out these and these

Hat: (Biltmore x Madewell, old) but here’s this year’s version in deep navy and on sale!

All photos by Lydia Filosa and MP Allegaert on iPhone 6.