Favorites for a Reason

I don’t know about you, but I sat out Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Not Giving Tuesday and that made me feel fabulous! What else makes me feel fab? An outfit of timeless classics shopped straight from my closet. You probably have your own version of these pieces waiting for you to wear them. And if not, I have a few suggestions you might want to check out.

When it comes to jackets, your best bet is always back to black. You can dress it up or down, layer it over almost everything, and look like you mean business (of any kind) day or night. I happen to like a slightly lengthened cut, because it streamlines your silhouette — no matter your body type. And I love the silk leopard lining, for a stylish and kind of sexy surprise.

My black jacket is by Veronica Beard, a transformative and now timeless brand, created by two sisters-in-law — each named Veronica…Beard! When they launched in 2010, the Veronicas focused on perfecting the jacket. And I can testify that they have more than succeeded. VB is most famous for their Dickey Jacket, which is pretty darn genius. And next on my splurge list.

Underneath my jacket, is a black silk camisole. I searched for the right one for quite a while. What was I looking for? Something not too bare, straps wide enough to accommodate bra straps, a touch of lace, and a flattering, not-too-tight fit. This sale score fit the bill (and me!) perfectly. And can top off so many looks — a silk skirt for a (2021) holiday party, black faux leather leggings for a dressed-up girls night out (again, here’s hoping in 2021), and so much more.

When it comes to jeans, I firmly believe every woman needs (and deserves) a slim cut (not skinny!), straight leg, dark wash pair with a mid-to-high waist. Trust me. You (and your body) will love them. You actually saw these jeans in this casual and colorful post, so you know they dress down too. Perhaps just the WFH alternative to sweats or PJs that you’ve been craving?

OK, now about these Rockstuds. They are probably the single most important splurge purchase I’ve made in the last 5 years. Why? Because these designer shoes check every box — beautiful craftsmanship, not too high of a heel, amazing details, and that timeless “je ne sais quoi” that sets the right designer purchase apart from any other. I am not underplaying their cost, but I have literally worn them on every possible occasion and they’ve never made a style misstep. Something to consider. Or be on the lookout for during sale season.

Last but definitely not least…’tis the season to mask up. I hope you’ve spent the past 8 months creating a small family/social bubble, so you can safely celebrate the season (maybe in an outfit like this?) with those you love and know are also observing healthy protocols. But wherever you’re going and whatever you’re doing, please (please!) bring along a mask (or two or three). Like the one I’m wearing here, there are lots of fun, festive options out there and I’ve noted a few below.

I’ve also recently discovered that mask chains/necklaces are a lifesaver. They act as a fun piece of jewelry and keep your most important accessory always at hand. Perhaps the perfect stocking stuffer?

I’m not a Good Housekeeping reader, but I loved Dolly Parton’s Letter to Santa Clause. And she has a Christmas Netflix movie, Christmas on the Square, that everyone is saying is pure corn that will make you cry. Can’t wait to watch it. But the biggest thing to celebrate this holiday season is how this American icon and hero (yes!) donated a million dollars to Vanderbilt University that directly helped fund three COVID 19-related projects. Yeehaw! Now that’s the Christmas spirit we can all celebrate.

Jacket: (old, Veronica Beard) Found this and this on sale. More affordable options here and here (extra 20% off with code FESTIVE).

Camisole: (old, CAMI NYC) Current versions here (on sale but limited sizes) and here.

Jeans: (old, Mother). Similar here, more affordable here (30% off with code JOLLYGOOD) and here (super deal with secret smoothing pockets!).

Shoes: (old, Valentino) Pre-loved @ The RealReal and pretty wowza affordable dupe here.

Masks: (Baublebar, so many cute 2-packs to choose from!)

Mask chain (pearl): (Baublebar, also available in evil eye, peach acrylic, petra, pisa and yellow acrylic.)

Photos by Kristin Moore-Gantz @artdirectthis. Photos taken on location @whitestarbar, one of our favorite local spots.

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8 thoughts on “Favorites for a Reason

  1. Love the tip on Mask Chains. Cannot tell you how many times I’ve gotten to a store’s entrance only to realize I’ve left my mask in my car!

    1. Same here.That’s why I’m loving my mask chains. Even bought some beads and charms to try making my own!

    1. Thanks, Yvonne. I’m with you on the Rockstuds. Bet they’ll end up in The Met Costume Institute.
      Wishing you a safe and merry holiday season!

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