In today's post I decided to tone down the color and mood of my outfit. Back in the 90's I wore so much black. It was hard to see the clothes in my closet because mostly dark clothing hung on the rod. Last year I was at a birthday party of a friend and I noticed the room was divided into two groups. Younger women wearing colors and older women wearing black. I do love black, but when I saw this division of color by age I knew I wanted to add some brighter hues and patterns to my wardrobe.
It is with this outfit of darks, I wear as an old friend, that lends me the ability to look at the lens. Some of you have been asking me why I look away from the camera. For a somewhat shy person looking at the lens leaves me feeling vulnerable. I promised myself I'd try look straight into the lens for some pictures to say hello with my eyes. Blogging is much more than just clothes for me. I've have become fond of many of you and I truly enjoy sharing these weekly posts.
coat--jessica simpson (here)
skirt--bcbg (here)
purse--bcbgeneration (similar) (similar)
pumps--nine west (same style, many colors)
earrings--kenneth cole
tights--hanes
location--state fair grounds, pictures by dean
links
style sessions
the pleated poppy
because shanna said so
three-fer thursday
working girl with style
modly chic
lulu's love list
favorite fashion friday
passion for fashion
not dead yet style
This is my favorite so far. The dark hues look wonderful against the white building and snow. I promised myself to add more vibrant color to my wardrobe. I got stuck in a neutral rut.
ReplyDeleteI love this outfit, Ann! The coat is wonderful with its different textures mixed together and the gorgeous dark red color. I would also like to compliment the way your clothes fit you - perfect! I have some challenges with finding good fit on mass market for myself, but you seem to know your body so very well - all your outfits are just a perfect fit. And of course, good for you that you tried something new in your blogging journey! Now when you've done it, it doesn't seem so intimidating anymore, does it? I love your first portrait - I love seeing your eyes looking at me from the screen. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you Natalia. I'm particular about how my clothes fit and I mostly buy items I can try on in the store because of this. Luckily I'm fairly easy to fit but there are some types of clothes I find hard to wear. Thanks for the encouragement. I will do more looking into the lens!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteYou look wonderful, Ann! This coat has a perfect fit and I love its texture and duo colour. The shoes are very beautiful too. Isn't it nice of you to do something for your blogger friends' sake? Thank you for giving us that "straight in the lens" look.
ReplyDeleteInteresting observations here. I hadn't thought about how you don't look at the camera, but I think the bloggers are divided like that room of young and older women. Some people feel more comfortable looking at the lens, but some feel self-conscious. I do both, but I feel sort of conceited when I look at the camera!
ReplyDeleteI love the dark burgundy here. It adds a richness to the black. And as always, you look gorgeous!
I've been taking the straight on pictures all a long but they feel so intense. I seem never to pick them when choosing for the post. Thanks for the comment Val.
DeleteYou look great either way. Colorful clothes bring the playful side of you and dark hues confirm your classy and lady-like style. Talking about looking at the camera! I wear sunglasses most of the time because of that, I feel more relaxed when my eyes aren't the focus of the picture, plus, my sunglasses are big part of my outfits…lol (excuses). Now, let's talk about those adorable suede pumps over the snow. Are they still in good shape after the photoshoot? if they do, please tell me what type of suede protector you use. I want a pair of suede pumps, but the delicate material is keeping me away from purchasing.
ReplyDeleteXo
Carelia
MySmallWardrobe.com
I use and water suede protector made by a local shoe store. I seem to wear a lot of suede boots and shoes, I'm careful with them. I don't wear them in the rain but snow is fine. I've tried some pictures with sunglasses but it seems like my eyes need to be seen for the pictures to be me. You look great in sunglasses in your pictures Carelia!
DeleteAnd your eyes are too beautiful to hide, I love blue eyes myself.
DeleteI adore the envelope clutch. I have a mint green and a brown.
ReplyDeleteI, too, used to wear a lot of black in the 90s.
I love that skirt! Do you enjoy wearing it? I am thinking about getting it, but would love to know if it fits (in real life) well--around the waist in particular. Are you able to pair it with many things?
ReplyDeletehere I am now with my name….first time commenting here. I ADORE YOUR BLOG.
DeleteI love this skirt. In fact I also have it in red and black. The fit is true to bcbg, I am wearing a small and I wear a 4-6 usually in most skirts. You can see the red skirt in a post I did in December called "Fashion, Art and Creativity". Just go to December and scroll around 5 post back in time. I think this skirt is a great price right now. The only down side is I have to wear it with a slip with when I wear tights.
DeleteWOW! It's very cold where you live!!! I lke the combo black & burgundy colors in your look! And you are lovely whith them!
ReplyDeletekisses
MCarmen
MyEmptyBag
Burgundy is one of my favourite colours this season. Fabulous look, Ann!
ReplyDeleteInteresting that it makes a difference for you whether you look at the lense or away from it. Never thought about that! For me it is the process of having photos taken in general. Whether I feel confident with myself and my outfit or not...
Annette | Lady of Style
You own the most stunning pieces, Ann. That jacket is fabulous!! It is great to be warm and look so good!!
ReplyDeletesuch a beautiful, classy look
ReplyDeletewww.thefashionfraction.com
www.thefashionfraction.com
You look great with these colors (or non colors!) Burgoundy is a good balance to be a little more shine!
ReplyDeleteI'm new on your blog and started following it!
If you would like to check mine back I leave my links here!
bonjourchiara.blogspot.com
Facebook Page Bonjourchiara
Bloglovin Bonjourchiara
You make me want to add some burgundy to my wardrobe! It's a lovely mix and a nice way to soften and break up the black. I also find it very hard to look at the camera, and usually take my best photos with an indirect gaze. Introverts, unite! :-D
ReplyDeleteI spent most of my late 20's and 30's wearing black, and finally in my 40's I started adding some colour (still have my black days though). I am a big fan of wearing leather clothing, so I particularly love this outfit - I've always wanted a flared leather skirt. You look chic, but kind of fierce too ;)
ReplyDeleteA wonderful look. I love this combination of black and burgundy. Everything is really cute, jacket, skirt, bag and shoes. Very elegant, very beautiful and very attractive. Lovely outfit.
ReplyDeleteYou always think of such creative shots for your accessories! Obsessed with your shoes- they are such a pretty color <3 Alex
ReplyDeletehttp://tobebeautifulingodseyes.blogspot.com/
I couldn't agree more about looking in the lens. It's hard enough taking photos of myself regularly, let alone looking directly at the lens. Often I dislike my expression. Like I'm somehow arrogant.
ReplyDeleteWith all the leather this is a bit rough/tough look but ladylike because of the cut on the skirt.
I'm glad you choose colour now. There is enough black in the world without wearing it all the time too.
bisous
Suzanne
I know what you mean about looking directly into the lens. When I look away the pictures seem more fashion like. Thanks for commenting Suzanne.
DeleteAnn you are wearing my fave color of the moment, burgundy! And looking fab as always. To be honest, I think its up to the blogger to decide where to look;-) I love your pics the way they are! Sabina OceanblueStyle
ReplyDeleteReally appealing, this combination! I'm in love with tertiary colors. Love the variety of textures as well, and, out and around, t am seeing a general return to a little more color coordination that makes me very happy ... you show it here. That skirt is killer. All pieces, of course, are beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI'm can get just exhausted by lots of bright color. Is that strange? Right now I'm finding darks very insulating and comforting. Not ready yet to burst out into brights just yet.
My favorit color combo :-) And the skirt is a dream!
ReplyDeleteVery stylish I really like it!
With the Pumps in the snow, Respect!
Have a nice time Ann,
xoxo Kira
Dear Ann, like you, in my younger age a always had black clothes. And for the same reason i changes my wardrobe, but sometimes i wear black, Black lools so elegant.
ReplyDeleteYour Outfit today is fantastic. i fall in love with you jacket. I really like your pictures and if you are not looking staight to the lens, makes your fotos very special. (sorry for my bad english, i hope you understand what i mean) ;;))
http://glamupyourlifestyle.blogspot.de/
Burgundy is a very versatile colour and it is perfect in combination with dark tones. Your beautiful jacket and skirt are so nice on you!
ReplyDeleteYou are right: when older women want to be elegant, they often wear in black! What a pity! It's a such severe colour! ( Ifor that reason I don't usually wear it )
P.s.
Yes, blogging is much more that just chatting of clothes! For me is a a way to meet wonderful people like you!!
One of my favorite looks of your Ann. I am just in love with the color and fit of this jacket. I have such a hard time looking away from the camera - I feel so unnatural since we grew up smiling into the camera. I think that looking away from the camera gives it a caught in the moment look that I just love so much.
ReplyDeleteAlice
www.happinessatmidlife.co
You look lovely - I love the collar on the jacket, and you've made the black and burgundy combo look so lush and rich. Interesting observation about the colour-age divide in the room. I'm probably wearing less black now than ever before, though I admit it can be easy. Blogging is a personal thing. If you don't want to look at the camera, you don't have to! Either way, you always look stunning, Ann! Xo
ReplyDeleteLooking at the lens, or not, you are gorgeous. However you decide to interact with the camera is fine by me. It is an expression of all that you are, which is what blogging is about. As you state, it's much more than the outfit.
ReplyDeleteI am a fan of black, so I adore your ensemble of burgundy and black. I love color as well, but for now, black remains my friend.
Chic and elegant look as always Ann! I wear so much black clothing and in NYC grey is considered as adding color to the wardrobe. A couple of years ago, I went to a wedding where, except for the bride, practically everyone wore black. The room was also dark and it made me feel that I was living in a 1940s movie! I love color and do try to add it when possible. Your use of color is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI do love black, but I wore all black for so many years. I'm trying to mix it with pattern and color more these days. It seems like a good idea to change it up to some color. Interestingly I see many of the young top bloggers in black here in the US.
Deletelooking very winter chic! i love this look and i love your hairstyle :)
ReplyDeleteFound your blog via Style Sessions link up... hope you stop by and let me know your thoughts on my outfit :)
Rhea, Et Cetera - chevron dress & blazer
Soft you in the hard snow is perfection.
ReplyDeleteThe first shot took my breath away. I love the way you look at me.
Loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Wonderful!!
ReplyDeletex Laura
I like your clutch :)
ReplyDeleteR.
http://rougezo.blogspot.com
Gorgeous combination of burgundy and black! That jacket is awesome. :)
ReplyDeleteOxblood and Black - a wonderful combination during this cold and snowy winter and you wear it well! Swinging by from The Pleated Poppy - Happy Hump Day Wednesday!
ReplyDeleteYou are adorable! And good for you for coming out of your comfort zone to take outfit photos...for a shy person, I know that it's not as easy as it looks.
ReplyDeleteStunning look today...I especially love your skirt!
Stay warm. xox
It's funny but I love your "Look away" from the camera looks. You have a great profile and you do this so well. When I look away from the camera I feel all my shots are dorky! How about if I push myself to get better at away shots and push yourself to get better at "Look into" shots?
ReplyDeleteWant to link this up? We are here this week: http://www.modlychic.com/2014/01/makerwear-hats-stylehop.html
Dear Ann. You know my english is really bad and it´s not easy for me to say all my thoughts in english. I just want to say thank you so much for all your great comments on my blog. I really like your style and it´s every time a pleasure to visit you.
ReplyDeleteI had to look twice at the coat. Up here, Jessica Simpson is a mid-price line, and this coat looks very high end designer. Lovely detailing on the sleeves, and the furry collar is pure luxury. The colour palette is beautiful on you. Different brands but everything is very cohesive. Stunning...and whichever you are looking, I always enjoy your photos!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comments Sue. I really like the coats by Jessica Simpson. I'm a bit short waisted and the designs fit me great and the price is good too. i've shown some coats by Guess that fit really well and the prices are good also. The large discount/outlet stores here in US seem to have a good supply of both brands in the fall.
DeleteBeautful, beautiful color combination, especially next to your blonde hair and the winter background. I had to chuckle when I read the part about the room separation because it so true! And, shame on us. So glad we are venturing out of the 'dark' side and embracing more fun and vibrant colors once in awhile. Although, you sure did an excellent job of reminding me how and why black will always be a staple. By the way, it was nice to see your beautiful eyes looking at me, but I also love the look-away concept too. (I usually only look straight on when my eyes are covered in sunglasses so I guess that's cheating.)
ReplyDeleteI love that coat, I can't believe it's by Jessica Simpson! And it's nice to find another fashion blogger rocking the short hair, there aren't many of us!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.wearwagrepeat.com
Such a beautiful bag! Love the color!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous look!! Beautiful photos!
ReplyDeleteThanks for linking up for Passion For Fashion! Pinning this look!
I love all the deep maroon pieces in this outfits! That shade is so rich and gorgeous and pairs so well with black leather! You always find the best coats. When I saw the fist picture I thought, "Ooh that coat must be super expensive!" I can't believe it's Jessica Simpson!
ReplyDeleteHello Sweet Ann. Love this entire ensemble you have done today! I love the intense deep tones. Have you seen my latest posts? I was gone for a while and now I am back. ♥
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteI love burgundy, and this outfit is perfect. It's maybe a little dark, but that's what I like. And the shoes are fabulous!
ReplyDeleteGreat outfit, very well styled. Chic and I love the skirt. And your eyes LOL, you shy blogger. Isn't that a great contradiction? Let me tell you that you have nothing to be shy about. Lovely eyes as well.
ReplyDeleteGreetje
Fantastic outfit and love that you are looking directly at us. Wow, such a division b/w black and colors by age? I would have thought it would be New Yorkers and non-New Yorkers, haha!!! I do love my black and it's always the easiest and safest… and just like you I'm trying to wear more of it. Hence the blue v-neck this week. It's a big step :) But I've always invested in bright accessories and shoes. I love the pop of color they add to darker clothes. Maybe the black is palette for the rest?
ReplyDeletexo, kim
Hello,Ciao Ann...thi's a pretty outfit...so classy and elegant!
ReplyDeleteStunning plum color and love the quilted sleeves, Ann! You are the queen of matching pairing and I am a huge fan!
ReplyDeleteMrs Jack Of All Trades
Dubai UAE
Oh, Ann! Thank you for your sweet hug and comments about my dear situation. I knew you would want to know and that it would be yucky news but most cancers are yukky. This one is curable but about a 9-10 month journey into hell first. My only consolation other than saving my life, it that I'll have SMALLER boobs {big yay}{never ever have had small ones} when this is ordeal is over. Still loving this ensemble. You could leave this post up for a month and you would still get comments galore on it. lol (hug) {and thanks for the compliment on doing the pics in the park instead of my back yard.
ReplyDeleteYou own amazing pieces Ann, this outfit is great and I love the burgundy with black! First picture is my fav :) hugs, Beata xxx
ReplyDeleteAnn I am just catching up so slow to visit. Lovely outfit. As you know I love black so interesting to hear about the distinction of age between those wearing black and those colour:) This outfit is stunning and interesting and the darker tones work beautifully against your blonde hair and fair features.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteAt Electric Wire and Cable Specialists Wholesale Cigarettes, we have the highest quality cable and electrical wire for you to use on projects in both residential and commercial areas Cheap Cigarettes Free Shipping. When you choose the Electric Wire and Cable Specialists, you will be getting electrical wire that is durable and reliable.
ReplyDelete