CSI Fashionista: Brrrrrrrr

Going along with the theme of staying warm, the past two days of outfits have been all about warmth. We have been hitting almost 0° at night, and because I'm crazy and sleep with my window open, I've been waking up in a ball and not wanting to get out of bed.

I wanted to show these past two days that there's a way to dress warm, but also looking stylish/put together. I know it's common among college students to, once it gets cold, to resort to sweatpants/sweatshirts/whatever is comfy and warm. Well, I'm here to show you there are other options!

Day 11: January 19, 2012

What's one of the best alternatives to a bulky sweatshirt? A thick, chunky sweater! This is one is from Ann Taylor, bought over Christmas break! It's kind a of funny story about how I happened upon this sweater: had to spend 4 hours at the dentist office one day (4 hours??!! Yes, I know, but someone had to supply the office with their holiday bonuses!) While in the chair I saw the Today Show was offering an Internet coupon deal: if you went to their website and printed off the coupon, you would receive 70% off any full-priced faux-fur item at Ann Taylor. Since this was before I was on a shopping ban, of course I took advantage of it! I mean, 70% off!! That's like music to my ears! So, this sweater, which was originally $200, ended up costing $60. For a sweater like this, I had no problem paying that! The deal almost makes up for all the drilling I had to endure in the dental chair!

Ann Taylor faux-fur sweater; New York & Company blouse; AE jeans; Simply Vera boots

I also wanted to draw attention to these boots. I received them as a Christmas gift (thanks Grandma & Grandpa). I am starting to like motorcycle boots more and more every day. They're the perfect way to add a little "grunge" to an outfit. These are a little girlie with the rhinestones, but every girl likes a little sparkle...or a lot of sparkle, in some cases :)

Day 12: January 20, 2012
Today was cold. Usually my last day of running each week is a longer one, but today, I made an exception because I knew my fingers would be numb about halfway through anyways. The only good thing: got to wear my new shoes, and I'm in love!

Today's outfit, again, was about warmth. I want to first start off by going against the fashion grain, and explaining why I believe a turtleneck should be a part of every woman's wardrobe. Now, I know what everyone pictures when I mention "turtleneck":

This?

Or This?

Well, I'm here to tell you a turtleneck is a perfect accessory to any closet. I personally recommend black or any other neutral color (blue, tan, dark gray); I look at a turtleneck like a basic-t, something to go with an open-faced sweater or vest or even a jacket. It's also great, because it gives you a great neutral backdrop, so feel free to pile on the accessories!

So today, obviously, I went with the turtleneck. I paired it with a 3/4 length jacket, jeans and knee-high boots. Oh, and because it was freezing, and I had to walk to my office, I decided to finally sport what I have deemed my "Sherpa hat". Andy said I looked goofy, but gosh-darnit I was warm. I bought this hat last May, and it was like 99% off, making it $.99. Best $1.00 I have ever spent. Goofy or not, it made me smile, and, I think, accessorized the outfit well :p