Monday Musings on Elevated Casual Style and Fall Colors

Happy Monday, ladies. I have a lot on my plate this week and many things on my mind. I mentioned that I arrived home after 4 months away from my wardrobe and hated everything I owned. That may be a bit of an exaggeration, but I donated even more bags over the weekend. I’ve seen lots of holiday gifts and decor in the stores of late, so get ready because stores are gearing up to start everything early.

REEXAMINING ELEVATED BUT NOT DRESSY

This week, I’m musing about ways to develop an elevated casual wardrobe with refined elements that aren’t fussy or formal-looking. I’ve never been a big fan of shabby elements or things that are too casual, but those things have crept into my closet, and I’m not happy to see them there. I am not a fan of preppy or traditional styling, so that leaves me wondering which elements I do need to add.

Over the last year, my lifestyle has changed. I’m now spending half my time living in a city and half my time in the suburbs. This changes my activities day to day, and opportunities to go out on the town. I don’t want to look too dressy or formal for everyday activities, but I do want to have an elevated look that’s casual and appropriate for my lifestyle.

I’ve been deep-diving on Pinterest and online fashion sources for some inspiration. I haven’t figured it out yet, but I’m on the hunt and can share more as I continue.

FAMILY TIME

It was so great to see my youngest grandson this weekend. It’s been 4 months since we saw him last, and he’s really changed a lot! I was afraid he would have stranger danger, but he warmed right up to us and is the sweetest little guy! We’re picking up our older grandson from school tomorrow and can’t wait to see him. Grandchildren grow and change so fast! I plan to travel back and forth more frequently going forward with shorter stays in both homes.

FALL COLORS

I’ve spent a lot of time in the stores this week and am soaking up all the change in colors. This fall, I am seeing lots of rich browns, such as chocolate, mushroom, espresso, cocoa, etc. I don’t gravitate to brown and surprised myself by buying a brown sweater dress to wear with my new brown suede boots.

What I like about these rich brown hues is they’re softer on the complexion than black, and have a more relaxed vibe. I also love navy, but I think it can lean more towards a corporate feel if you’re not careful. 

Burgundy also seems to be just about everywhere this fall, and I’m thinking it might be nice to combine the two colors together. In terms of burgundy, I have some boots and a bag– but no clothing. I’m on the lookout for a burgundy cardigan to add to my fall wardrobe.

OUTFIT OF THE WEEK

I’m spotting lots of tweed blazers this fall that combine burgundy and brown, which would make it an easy way to tie the two shades together. This J. Crew blazer combines burgundy, beiges, and brown for a versatile piece that will go with so many pieces. I layered it over this Talbots perfect turtleneck in burgundy, which will be a workhorse in any fall/winter wardrobe. The J. Crew wide-leg corduroy pants are a soft cotton blend that comes in 6 colors in reg, petite, and tall inseams. I added a woven vegan leather tote that’s lightweight and soft, some Blondo waterproof suede booties, a chunky gold chain bracelet, and two-tone hoop earrings.

Have you thought of combining burgundy with brown?