cozy & casual

hi, friends!

hope your new year is off to a great start. i’ve been sick (just your run-of-the-mill cold/sinus bug) but am starting to feel better finally, and i’m really excited about 2016. last week i discussed my 2016 style resolutions, and i’m looking forward to keeping you all posted on my progress. this year i’m hoping to continue to build my blog, so if you love it please share with friends/family (and follow me on instagram!). i truly appreciate you all taking the time out of your lives to read, like, and comment.

this week is inspired by the cooler temps we finally started to get here in nashville, and although this is not perhaps my single warmest outfit ever, the key takeaway for you to staying cozy while also looking polished is developing your skills in layering.

hat – ale by alessandra; dress – knot sisters; sweater – ascot & hart; boots – free people; socks – free people

style tip

here, i layered a long cardigan sweater over a long-sleeved knit dress. the socks and tights and high boots add warmth without bulk, as does having something top my head. you probably have the basics for a similar look already in your closet. for a cooler day like the weather we’ve had lately, i’d add a long wool coat or parka (check out this one i just got from asos for an amazing price) depending on the occasion, one being more dressed-up and the other more casual. faux fur or teddy-style coats add style, texture and coziness as well.

now, y’all know i love my hats. but, let’s not forget that they’re actually highly practical accessories. they add instant style to simple outfits, but also can extend your blowouts by hiding dirty hair, and are warm (imagine that!). from beanies to wide-brim fedoras, they really are versatile and cozy. you’ve seen a lot of this hat recently – i waited and waited until it got marked down and then snatched it up. i love the horsehair detail and distressing, and the color goes with everything. while this particular hat makes any look slightly more western, you can easily go more polished/feminine with a floppy hat in a neutral color like this.