It’s at this point of Winter that I really start dreaming of yellow sunshine, green grass and colorful flowers. But we’ve still got weeks to go before the official start of Spring. So in the meantime, I’m going to try to add some brighter colors and prettier patterns to my everyday uniform of mostly black.

I haven’t yet completely walked away from black, but I’ve made it more of an accent and less of a statement. And if it’s too soon to watch my own garden grow, another of Jersey City’s gorgeous street murals is the perfect alternative. 

This look relied heavily on shopping my closet: basic black turtleneck (everyone needs one…or two!), opaque black tights (they look good on anyone at any age) and simple yet sophisticated black booties (waterproof, super comfy, and a very walkable block heel). Not to mention previously posted here, here and here.

My golden crushed velvet dress and floral puffer are both Target scores. While I’ve made a conscious choice to minimize shopping, I applaud Target’s consistent big fashion bang and high quality for not a lot of bucks. Especially the Who What Wear collections. I plan on wearing this dress well into Spring. And I’ve already gotten lots of wear, and lots of compliments, on this versatile jacket. I love that it dresses up or down, is super cozy but very lightweight, has practical patch pockets and a flattering cinch waist. 

To top it off…my faux fur leopard chapeau. Aren’t the ears smile-worthy? This was somewhat of a splurge more than four years ago and has been featured in quite a few earlier posts (here and here), so at this point it’s amortized itself into a very smart purchase that I still happily reach for today. And my retro chic, croc-embossed top handle bag (previously seen here), which was another splurge, has stood the test of time. And it still looks brand new!

We’re headed south on a road trip in a few weeks, where I will hopefully get a preview of the mood-boosting weather and scenery I’m really craving. As our world continues to spin crazily, it’s a little something special to look forward to. Happy Sunday!

Jacket: (Who What Wear x Target, on sale for under $60, also in orange floral.) 

Dress: (Who What Wear x Target, on sale too for under $40, also in black.)

(For fit reference, I sized up to M in both.)

Turtleneck (old) Affordable designer option here and basic version here (in a great stretchy knit).

Tights: Two of my current faves: Commando and Wolford. Both are a bit pricey but last for years.

Boots: (old, Aquatalia) The best, bar none. Current version here. Again, an investment but you will love, and wear, them for years.

Hat: (old, Kate Spade) Super chic alternatives here and here, affordable small business alternative here. 

Bag: (Demellier) And a mini crossbody version here (20% off with code FORYOU).

Photos by Kristin Moore-Gantz @artdirectthis. Art by @emilioflorentine.

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