Happy Friday! I’m happy for the weekend, but I’m a little nervous, too. We’ll be seeing a couple more houses this weekend. And at this point I don’t know whether to be excited or discouraged. I’m trying to keep my hopes up while also being realistic. It’s a tough market! Alas, it will work out in the end. Enough of that! Let’s talk fashion. Here’s how I really dressed for the past seven days.
Sizing Information
Just for reference, I’m 5’8″ and weigh about 155. I generally wear a size 8 or medium in dresses, tops, jackets and pants (or 29 or 30 in jeans), so that’s what I’m wearing in these looks unless I tell you otherwise. That way you can assume everything I show you is true to size unless I alert you to sizing up or down. I wear a size 9.5 shoe and, again, I’ll just let you know if I sized up or down in a shoe, otherwise it’s true to size.
How This Works
I want to focus more on styling tips and less on the products. So please assume everything I’m wearing is true to size and fits and feels great unless I tell you otherwise. After all these are the things I’m choosing to wear in real life.
I’m providing shopping widgets after each outfit, and a lot of what I’m showing you is still available. I’m also trying to include more economical options where that’s appropriate. But if I forget to do that, just ask.
Let’s get started!
How I Really Dressed for Errands Friday
Friday I got in a quick workout and then dressed to make some returns and do a little shopping. I got a bee in my bonnet about this time last week to add some color to my outfits. I felt like I was just wearing the same blacks and browns over and over. So I headed to the mall to see what I could find.
I knew I’d be wearing my coat most of the time anyhow, so I just wore this pretty bright pink and red Sankaty shep shirt from Vineyard Vines. It’s incredibly soft. In fact, you’re going to see that rather than color being the theme of the week (as I’d intended), soft was in fact the theme! Of course I wore a tank under the zip front shirt. And I paired it with my fleece lined joggers.
My fleece lined joggers actually have a faint camouflage design in them. In fact, they’re also available in a traditional green camo print. I did size up to a 10 in these joggers at the retailer’s suggestion. I just love the combination of black and bright pink/red here. This was a great outfit for getting out and about to run errands, but it also served me well when working at home.
How I Really Dressed for Saturday House Viewing
Saturday morning we had to be across town to view the house we didn’t get (grrr!) at 8:15. And it was freeeezing outside. But I was feeling bright and cheerful and still trying to incorporate more color into my outfits. I’d picked up this cotton sweater (remember what I suggested in this week’s video?) at J.Crew, and decided to wear it over a long sleeve layering t-shirt and jeans. I really prefer the length of this sweater to that of the pink one I have from Talbots.
While skinny jeans are not trending and we may be seeing less and less of them, they sure are unbeatable for tucking into boots. That’s why I don’t think we’ll be saying goodbye to them altogether. Here I’m wearing my Talbots jeggings in ocean blue rinse. They tuck nicely into my Sorel boots, which I needed because snow was on the ground. They’re back to 40% off by the way.
Oh, and my cotton cashmere fisherman crewneck sweater was 30% off last week (and I used my birthday discount), but as I’m typing this post it’s not on sale. Favorite it in the shopping widget below and you’ll get a sale notification. It’s also available in navy and ivory. Oh, and I love this navy and white stripe sweater, too. These cotton/cashmere sweaters are going to be great for spring.
How I Really Dressed for Church Sunday
Sunday morning was, of course, Valentine’s Day. I went to the more contemporary of our two services, so I elected to wear straight leg jeans, a vibrant red ruffle front blouse and my tortoiseshell blazer with suede boots (in almost the exact same color as my blazer).
I think brown and red is such a pretty combination. And the two colors work beautifully with denim, too. I added my leopard print belt (no longer available – option) to highlight the brown even more. And I added pretty sparkly earrings for another feminine touch.
How I Really Dressed for Sunday Afternoon
As is my weekly tradition (at least during this pandemic) I changed into loungewear for Sunday afternoon. Since it was Valentine’s Day I decided to stay with the red. I wore my pretty graphic tee from Chico’s (no longer available – my readers purchased almost 100!) with my black joggers from Talbots and my red cardigan. And yes, I actually did put on and wear my wedge sneakers all afternoon and into the evening. I pretty much wear shoes of some sort all the time.
And you better believe I also changed into my Soma wireless bralette. That’s a Sunday afternoon must! (As I’m writing this post the bralettes are part of Soma’s BOGO 50% off bras deal.
How I Really Dressed for Monday Working from Home
This is the day that my plans to add more color to my outfits went to the wayside. After I got home from a brisk long walk in the snow, I just longed for my black cashmere turtleneck. Ha! You know, I just can’t stay away from my beloved neutrals too long. The beckon me. LOL!
So I slipped into my cashmere black turtleneck and my other Athleta lined pants. These Chelsea lined cargo pants are also available in black and Etruscan red. I love how these pants have a modern vibe and dress up so easily. I sized up to a 10 in these, too.
I continue to enjoy my Paul Green python print loafers. They wear like clouds on your feet. But they also add interest and a little light to an all neutrals outfit like this one. By the way, I notice I’m adding a necklace less and less often these days. Partly that’s because they just get in my way a little when working from home. But also I’m appreciating a more pared back approach to accessorizing these days.
How I Really Dressed for Tuesday Working from Home
It’s been a crazy cold week. I know it’s been abnormally cold in other parts of the country, too. So while I’d hoped to wear more jeans this week, I focused instead on staying warm. That’s why I again worn my Athleta dark brown pintuck pants. These pants are made in a winterized ponte knit fabric that is oh so warm and soft. Going with the brown and red theme again, I topped the brown pants with my red cashmere sweater.
And since I was just staying home but wanted to get “dressed for my day” and not just wear house slippers all day, I put on my black Paul Green loafers (more economical option) with red socks. I’m still preferring socks that match my top over socks that match my pants. I shared this concept of treating socks like an accessory rather than an undergarment in this post.
How I Really Dressed for Wednesday Teaching & Going to the Dentist
On Wednesdays I teach Bible studies via Zoom. And this week I had an afternoon dentist appointment, too. I determined to put on jeans, so I topped my L.L.Bean signature denim boyfriend jeans with a cashmere blend sweater I’d picked up from Everlane last year. This exact sweater is no longer available, but this one is very similar, minus the buttons.
I styled this simple outfit by wearing the sweater over a camisole, which I allowed to peek through a bit, and then tucking it only slightly in the front. (It’s a slightly cropped sweater.) Then I added a leather belt in a similar shade of brown to my brown captain boots. My boots are actually in Old English, by the way. Then I added dainty jewelry to balance the masculine vibe of the boots and boyfriend jeans. I really like how this look came together. And it felt polished and comfortable for my day.
How I Really Dressed for Thursday Working from Home
Finally yesterday I spent much of the day trying on jeans that I’ve ordered recently. I’ll probably provide a post next week with a try-on session of all of them. I think I have at least a dozen pair. I’m looking for the perfect straight leg cropped jeans and more relaxed leg jeans. But with all that trying on of jeans, I decided I wanted to wear something else rest of the day. So I opted for my ponte pants from J.Jill. Mine are a dark brown they no longer have. But they are still available in navy and black.
I topped the ponte pants with a camisole and this v-neck cashmere sweater. I think I’m wearing the same jewelry as I did the day before. And I completed this look with my Paul Green loafers. You can see my no-show sock there. Ha! But I think that’s because I’m pointing my foot. They do peek out a little at the edge, but I didn’t go anywhere. And I’d had them on from trying on jeans with sneakers.
So that’s a wrap! Let me know if you have questions about anything I’ve shown. And thank you so much for stopping in today. Let’s get dressed and make it a good day!
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Blessed for My Day
Public opinion is important to my job. Maybe the opinions of other people matters in your profession or life, too. If nothing else, we definitely want those who are closest to us to think highly of us, to appreciate our decisions and esteem our work. Yes, as self-confident as we may be, we still care what others think about us.
But when the opinions of others come at you like a swarm of hornets, causing you to feel like running rather than celebrating, it can be hard to stand your ground with both grace and grit. Do you find yourself feeling misunderstood at times? Or do you ever feel that other people have unfairly judged you or your work? Take courage. Your God is for you. Even at your lowest moments, He is standing in your corner. And if He is for you, that’s all that really matters.
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? ~ Romans 8:31
Dear Kay,
Thank you for today’s post, your daily blog and your Facebook community. You are an inspiration and I have learned so much from you.
Wishing you and James many blessings today. Know that we are all thinking of you and are with you in spirit.
I look forward to tomorrow post, but if not tomorrow, then another day. Maybe tomorrow should be just for you, dear Kay.
Ahh, thanks so much Lee Ann. I really appreciate your kindness. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the Dresses for My Day community. I’m amazed at what God has built here. ?
I have to say that I absolutely love your haircut! It totally transformed your look
Thank you. I’m enjoying it too. ?
Hi Kay? I discovered you this week, and haven’t stopped watching your YouTube channel since. I have been enjoying them so much, and love your style! I do have a question for you. I love the front tuck you do with many of your shirts. I am unfortunately a full figured women (5’2” and wear a 16W and my largest area is my stomach area) and am not sure if this is something I should be doing or not even though I love the look and would love your advice. When I tried it, I feel like you see my stomach even more. What’s your thoughts and recommendations?
Hi Helen. You might want to check out this blog post about dressing the oval shape. I’ll maybe do another one for spring. Or maybe even a video. ?
https://dressedformyday.com/dressing-the-oval-shape-this-fall/
Thank you so much Kay, I’ll check that out now:)
Hi Kay! Ive been enjoying your posts and dressed for
my days recently! I’ve sent a link to my sister and now she too is enjoying it!
Is your bible study group on line too?
My husband n I were missionaries yrs and now he has been on staff at one of our supporting church’s for 13 yrs.
Wonderful! Thanks for letting me know Vicki. My Bible study is wrapping up in just a few weeks and it’s just on Zoom. But I do have teaching videos with my Joseph study, which is what I’m teaching right now. You can get info on them at my other website kayharms.com
That was helpful! Thank you again. Another spring time one would be wonderful;)
Great!
Can you tell us how you would describe your haircut to a stylist – it looks great on you!
My hairstylist says it’s an updated shag. And she used clippers to cut it and a straight edge to thin it out around the neck or the bottom third.
The red blouse with the brown blazer is gorgeous! I would have never thought of pairing those together. I’m praying for your house situation. My husband and I bought our house about 3 years ago after nearly a year of looking. Needless to say, there were a LOT of disappointments during that time. I thought we were never going to find a house! However, at the right time, we found a house that is “perfect” for us, and even the buying process was smooth and easy. I really feel that God taught me patience through that, and I learned that His timing is perfect. I know you know that. ? I hope the process is much faster for you and your husband, but I pray you both sense the peace of God throughout, no matter how long it takes. Have a wonderful day!
Thank you so much Jennifer. You are right. At the right time God will provide. ?
Kay,
Your Blessed for My Day post about being misunderstood and judged unfairly really resonated with me. I have just started working for a new company and already feel misunderstood. But the Lord IS for us! Words of encouragement!
I thoroughly enjoy all of your blogs and videos. Please keep them coming!
Bless you Maryann. Persevere! God’s got you. ?
May God Bless you in finding the right house for you and James.
He knows which one it is. We know it is hard to be patient sometimes
and wait on Him. Thanks also for the BFMD today. It is so true.
I too like the red blouse with the brown. Striking.
Thanks so much for that blessing, Sherry. ?
I love your hair, too! How do you get so much lift at your part when you wear your bangs off your face? My hair always falls flat, do you have a special tip or hack I could try? And I look forward to your Blessed for My Day comments. Thank you for sharing His word. It’s very encouraging !
Hi Bonnie. I do dry it with a round brush one section at a time. But I don’t wash and dry my hair but maybe twice a week. So I think I just happen to have a lot of body in my hair. ?
Thank you so much for your inspiration. I just lost my job due to COVID so I can’t honestly pay that much money on clothing, but you have shown styles and ways to wear them when I find cheaper versions. You always look so fresh and polished. Good luck in your house hunting!
Absolutely. There are bigger priorities in this world than clothing for sure. And you truly can find more economical options. I try to link to some when I can find them. But this late in the season it’s a little hard to do. Thanks so much for reading. ?
Hi Kay, I am from Mississauga, Ontario and it has been freezing cold here too with lots of snow.
Thank you for inspiring us all middle aged women.
You have a special gift of speaking and writing. I love your fashion advice and
especially your scripture words and quotes.
Good luck with your house hunting and have a blessed day!
Thanks so much for saying hi Helen. I have a lot of Canadian readers and subscribers and I’m so grateful. I’ve been to several parts of Canada and found your country to be so warm and friendly. Blessings!
I love your haircut too!! I would love to see how you style it, and how you refresh it on other days !
I am praying for your house search to go well! The Lord knows, and He will guide you to the best home! “Rejection is God’s protection” is a saying in our household. The Lord is a Good Shepherd ?
Blessings,
Mary
I’ll see what I can do about that. Maybe when we get a new house with a pretty bathroom I can do that. ?
When we moved into our new house, freshly married, we had no money left. I ask God to help with a carpet. A friend said she had a barely used one we could have. Delivered the next day in bright green. My sister in law looked at me and said, “You should have told God you wanted tan.”. LOL So make sure you tell God exactly what you want in a house.
I really love all these looks and I do like ponte pants. Mine have an elastic waist. They give a more dressy look and perfect for waiting in waiting rooms where jeans can get crouch tight if you are there awhile.
Hahaha! Point taken. ? Yes these ponte pants have an elastic waist too. And I love that! Some days you just need a little give. ?
Kay, I remember when we bought our house 25 years ago. I thought we would never find a house that we loved! My husband wasn’t yet saved but I kept praying the Lord would show us the house He had for us. My husband went and saw a house without me and said I had to come see this house because he felt it was the one! So that weekend I went with him to see the house. I didn’t LOVE the outside but I saw potential. Then I saw the inside. WOW! It needed some work. Painting etc. simple things, just elbow grease but I saw a great deal of potential! We fixed it up and have been here since then. Of course we have added and done many things to our home over the years. Several times we considered moving and buying a larger home. Our son is grown and gone. Our home now seems plenty large enough even though by the average American home standard it’s small. Our little cottage in Arizona make us happy! Plus, it’s paid off. The Lord will provide the perfect home for both of you! I’ll pray and you pray and keep trusting the Lord. He is our provider! On a clothing subject. I loved your Valentines Day church outfit!
Ahh, thanks so much for sharing. Those are precious reflections. ?
Kay, you might want to try Quince cashmere. The price is right and the cashmere has held up better than any of my more pricey sweaters. I enjoy seeing your outfit picks and your thought process that’s involved. In your daily pictures I noticed you have on pants other than jeans. Here recently, I haven’t wanted to wear jeans and I’m a jeans gal. It started one evening when I came home from work and I had on a pair of J Crew gray plaid Cameron pants. My husband commented that they were classy pants.??I replied these are more comfortable than jeans. Hence my moving away from jeans. The non jean outfits you wear remind me of the poised and elegant way my mom, grandmother, and aunts dressed.-this is the highest compliment I can give. For me , what I’ve been missing in fashion is the simple everyday elegance that women of yesteryear had.
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts Robyn. I know exactly what you mean about classy dressing. And you know we really don’t have to sacrifice comfort at all these days because they have such nice feeling clothes. And a lot of the time those pieces are actually much more comfortable than denim. ?
Kay, your hair looks fabulous!!! (For the hundredth time I’ve told you). I am so accustomed to working outside the home so I am used to getting dressed up….business casual that is. I think it is really neat that you dress up (even wearing your loafers) while working at home. I don’t think I could be that disciplined. You are doing great. I really like your scripture for BFMD….one of my favorites.❤️
~Lisa~
Thanks so much Lisa. I’m enjoying my do. ☺️ Yeah, as someone who has worked from home for years I had to determine years ago that it was worth it to get dressed. I stay focused and on task better that way. And I take myself and my job more seriously too. And if I don’t take myself seriously others won’t either.
Kay, you’re just rocking these reds and pinks. They really seem to light up your pretty face.
Congrats on the offer on the house. Sending positive thoughts for a smooth transaction and move.
Thank you so much Caryn. ?
Kay, I couldn’t be happier for you in finding such a beautiful home to ‘nest’ with your sweet husband and family! May the Lord bless you in this home with His presence and peace! Praying the location will be even better than the other you made an offer on!! ????
Thanks so much Sheree. Well if nothing else, it costs considerably less. ??? I think we’re going to love it. But I will admit we’re a little in shock today. Hahaha!
I just subscribed a week or so ago and love the suggestions and fashion tips even though I am trying to pare down my closet after retiring 2 years ago. I like to learn the tips to update and modernize my wardrobe and well as where to find items. Thank you!!
Dear Kay – I just found you this week ! Im so impressed with your videos, advice and modern style for us women over 50. God will bless you in Cincinnati-my sister s live there in Loveland and Newtown,so I will visit in the Spring after my 2nd vaccination.
I’m reviewing my wardrobe/accessories with the Classic with a Modern style-such fun!
Question:I have several sets of estate quality jewelry-earrings,necklace,bracelet and ring. Is it still appropriate to wear the entire set ( dainty style) with a dressy outfit ?
God bless you in your work and settling into your new home.
Thank you, Susan
Kay,
So happy for you and James finding a beautiful home!
May you make many happy memories in your new home!
Thank you so much, Maryann. ?
Kay.
Congratulations on the home purchase. It’s a beautiful home!! Wishing you and family a very happy life in your new home!
All of these are great outfits and I really like the variety from more structured to casual.
I was wondering if at some point you could cover handbags. I really like handbags in different color and style but I find I never have the time to move my things from one bag to the other so I end up using the same bag all season long. I’ve tried to use a bag insert but it didn’t work well for me. I found the insert didn’t fit well in the different bags. Anyway maybe you have some suggestions how to make a quick transition from one hangbag to another? Also I’m a lot shorter than you at 5′ tall and was hoping that you would also have suggestions on size of handbag in proportion with how tall or short a person is.
Looking forward to your next posts. I really enjoy them!
Linda
Hi Linda. I’m so glad you’re here. Welcome. I actually just posted a blog post about this a couple weeks ago. https://dressedformyday.com/whats-in-my-bag-and-how-i-switch-out-my-handbags-with-ease/
Perfect, thanks for sending the link to it. I just changed the frequency to daily vs weekly digest so I won’t miss any of the blog post.
Have a loverly Sunday!!
I really enjoy your posts. How may I join your zoom teachings?
Thank you, Sherry
Hi Sherry. Email me and we can discuss getting you into the last few sessions if you’d like. I just need your email address and that’s the best way to do it. ?