In case you're as obsessive about my wardrobe as I am (doubtful), you may have noticed a distinct lack of skirts on the blog over the last year or two. Slowly but surely I got rid of almost every one I owned, with the most simple of reasons - I just didn't want to wear them anymore. It took a lot of online mental convincing to even get me to the point of trying any on this season, but Reformation got me over the finish line.

I got exclamations of shock from some of the associates when I said this in store, but I do actually find Reformation to fit true to size. It might not fit well, and it might not look great, but it does fit, and so I wasn't totally shocked that the size 12 did here. What did shock me was how well it flowed over the parts of myself I'm most self-conscious about, and how fun the bright green was. I considered the investment in one skirt I truly loved worth it, though after wearing it a couple times in real life I've also decided that for my own comfort I'm going to be sewing down the slit an inch or two hahaha.

And in an effort to be totally transparent, this lovely cross-body bag did a number on the weave of the skirt, causing some picks over my hip that did destroy my life a little. BUT. I am buying clothes to wear and you know what happens? Picks, runs, stains, LIFE. I refuse to invest in a skirt that makes me happy and never wear it because I'm scared of messing it up. I'm woosahing about the whole thing, because if you don't wear your favorite pieces, what's the point?

For a brief shining moment last Sunday (and to be honest Monday/Tuesday) DC was a beautiful example of the wonderful weather to come.

Now if only I could convince it to stick around for a little while...

I like to call this particular wardrobe piece polarizing because among my friends it's inspired a lot feelings. Some good and some bad, lol, as few can decide what they think about it.

It's not a traditionally flattering piece, this dress doesn't hug my curves or showcase my waist, but I loved it from the moment I put it on anyway. I loved the colors and the pattern, the pockets (of course), and the way it was just kind of "there", as its own type of thing. I think it's good for my brain to have pieces where I don't feel beholden to the shrine of "thinner is better", and I'm glad to add this one to my closet.

Despite DC's determination to take this jacket from me (damn you 79 degrees - really?!) it's one of my favorite Fall purchases. The knit arms and slim cut make it perfect to layer up for cooler temperatures, but it also goes great on top of just a plain t-shirt.

Also, just in case you're like me, these are my favorite plaid shirts this season - pretty much anywhere. I've looked in all my usual places (J.Crew, Madewell, Nordstrom, H&M) and just haven't been able to find anything that's both the right texture and not boxy as hell. I bought two of these shirts and they're soft enough to wear to bed (you know, if you were so inclined) with a fun back detail. Plus, if you keep your eye out, you can score them on sale (I bought mine at 40% off).

As the temperature finally starts to cool down in DC I've found myself starting to reach for the darker, more saturated pieces in my closet. While I'm lucky enough to not have to do any wardrobe transitions to bring forward my warmer options, I thought it might be helpful to highlight some of the trends I'm going to be rocking more often this season.
 
Burgundy is still going strong this year and faux-leather accents. I picked up this raglan inspired shirt from The Limited last year, but there are plenty of options in stores for you to take a look at (Banana Republic in particular seems to have embraced the look).  If I was that type of person I would have paired my jeans with Converse or some other cute sneaker, but at heart I'm a ballet flats kind of girl. I do have say these Vince Camuto ones (from DSW) are AMAZING and have actually replaced most of the other shoes in my closet. Who has time for blisters when you can walk on air? I can't find them online but they do seem to still be around in stores, in a variety of colors, so I highly recommend checking them out!

And since updating ones wardrobe can at times be a budget busting activity, may I suggest you take a look at Raise? It's an online tool that not only lets you sell unwanted gift cards, but gives you the opportunity to buy new ones at a discount. For example, you can save up to 4.2% on a BR gift card, or 25.5% on one from Ann Taylor! Personally I've got my eye on these AMC options since there are so many cool movies coming out lately.

What does one wear to Dim Sum? Clothing that in no way restricts the tummy. The end.



(Well it's the end unless you're someone who's not me, because then I would probably also have to recommend maxi dresses, since they do a great job of skimming - not clinging - to any post gorging food baby.)