Happy Friday! I’m a little late with today’s post because yesterday was a jam-packed day. Not only did I get my hair trimmed and my nails done, but also I wrote yesterday’s post, we shot photos, we met up with some friends from church and we viewed a house at 8:30 last night. Yes, we’ve begun house-hunting. I’m so excited, but I think I’m a little anxious about it all, too. Anyhoo! Today I’m rounding up the mirror selfies from this past week and sharing how I really dressed for my 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. I’ll be building shopping “looks” for each outfit, too. That way you can easily return to them through the link in the top menu of this website if you ever want to buy something that I’ve shown you. Just click on the SHOP link and then on the Shop My Looks link.
Let’s get started!
Friday: Work from Home and Meeting up with Friends
Friday I got in these beautiful wool blend pants from Talbots, tried them on and never took them off. I love them. The high waist and flared legs look both modern and retro-classic, if that makes sense. They remind me of pants from the ’40s, maybe with a real British touch. They’re lined and oh so comfortable, but a little dressy, too. And today these flare leg Donegal tweed pants are just $29.99. Wowsa!
These pants work great with heels on my 5’8″ frame, but they also worked with my black patent loafers, which have a 1 3/4″ heel. I wanted to create a decided sophisticated but casual look, so I opted to wear my black cashmere v-neck sweater and a little jewelry. And I did something I rarely do. I left my sweater untucked. Ha! (I also had a camisole on under the sweater.)
Saturday: Afternoon Outing with James
Saturday afternoon James and I finally managed to get in our monthly “2nd Friday” outing to explore Ohio. It was snowing all day, but not accumulating. James had planned a little hike (which turned out to be a somewhat pathetic little jaunt through a trail biking path, hahaha!), a stroll through nearby Milford, an early dinner out and a little house-hunting.
So I chose to wear navy fleece lined pants (from last year, not available this year) with a navy and white striped tee and a goldenrod sweatshirt. I thought this grouping looked fun, but it was also warm and comfortable. I never really know what James has planned until it unfolds, so I try to wear clothing that is comfortable, versatile and still pulled together enough to wear in a restaurant.
Sunday: Church
Honestly, I couldn’t wait to get back into these wool blend pants Sunday. Ha! This time I wore them with my wine colored ribbed turtleneck (no longer available in this color). I like the look created with the close-fitting turtleneck, tucked and belted.
Because it was quite cold and still spitting snow, I wore my Thursday captain boots with this classic look. But just today I finally received these Paul Green suede pumps, and I can’t wait to try them with these pants.
Monday: Work from Home, Walking
Monday I got in a workout, but then showered and changed clothes into something I could walk in later also. This Fitbit is constantly prodding me to get out the door for additional walks throughout my day. I desperately need that nudge. Anyhow I wore these leggings and button up shirt .
Tuesday: Work from Home Editing Video
Tuesdays are always a long day. And try as I do, I never seem to have time to get in a full cardio workout. So I always dress in something comfortable that I can also get out in to take frequent walks up and down my little street.
Because it was still really cold, I put on my Sorel boots so that I could dash out and back in and stay warm. Plus, these are just really comfortable. boots. They’re no longer on sale, but I’m linking to other options, too. I’m really enjoying this cozy cotton blend hooded sweater from J.Jill. I’m wearing a small. I’m wearing my black leggings from L.L.Bean. They’re extremely comfortable and fit well on my 5’8″ frame, not bagging in the crotch or pulling in the waist.
Wednesday: Teaching Bible Study via Zoom and Running Errands
Wednesday I wore myself out. I’m going to have to learn to pace myself a little better. I’m teaching twice on Wednesdays now, two hours at a time. Plus I still have to crank out a blog post. But this Wednesday I also got out to run errands in the afternoon. I was a little stir crazy and wanted to get out, but I think I over did it. Anyhow, I chose to wear these Venice heathered pintuck pants from Athleta. I had just gotten them in and couldn’t wait to give them a run.
You can add these Venice heathered pintuck pants to my list of “what to wear instead of jeans this winter.” When I first saw the Venice heathered pintuck pants in the store I didn’t even try them on. They just seemed heavy and a little strange. They feel like very thick felt, if that makes sense. But when I received a $50 gift card from Athleta, I decided to give them a whirl. And I’m so glad I did. I got compliments on these left and right that day. They wear like pants, but have a bit of a legging look with the thick fabric and pintuck down the front. They also have a generous number of pockets and zip pockets, since they’re part of Athleta’s travel pants line.
Plus the Venice heathered pintuck pants are very warm, but I never felt hot at all. You could easily wear these with sneakers, especially these wedge sneakers. But I dressed mine up by wearing my brown suede boots from Talbots (now 60% off). I topped the look with a soft baby blue sweater (I’m wearing a medium and wish I had gotten the small).
Thursday: Hair & Nail Appointment, Work from Home
For the first half of Thursday I wore my oatmeal colored v-neck cashmere sweater and these black camo fleece lined joggers. Of course, these joggers are so versatile you could easily wear them with most any color of top, whether it’s a sweater, sweatshirt or tee. Add these fleece lined joggers to my list of “what to wear instead of jeans this winter,” too. I did size up to a 10 in them, and I’m glad I did. I knew to do that because my daughter has these and she sized up, too.
I don’t know what happened with that photo. I apologize for the poor quality. But you can click through the links to see the pants better if you desire. By the way, the sun was out full yesterday, so I didn’t mind going without socks. And I just think socks would ruin this look. But I did try the fleece lined joggers on with my Blondo booties, and I could have worn sock with those.
Thursday Evening: Dinner Out
Okay, I hesitated to show this outfit because I was tempted to save it for next week’s How to Wear Socks Stylishly This Winter post. Ha! But in the end, I decided I couldn’t hold out on you. I have so much more to say on this topic, but for now I’ll give you a preview with this “socks included” outfit.
I love that this blog community pushes me a little bit. I’ve been thinking and thinking on how to wear socks stylishly in the winter. And I’ve come up with several great formulas that I’ll share next week. But one of them is using your socks to add a pop of color to your outfit. I’ll let you know now that I’m steering away from socks with designs on them. But I’m all for a pair of classy looking trouser socks in a pretty color. I’m suggesting that you think of your socks the same way you would another accessory, such as a belt or handbag.
Hmm. I could go on. But I’m going to wait until Monday to share my other tips. For now, let me know what you think of this look. It’s not going to hurt my feelings if you don’t like it because I absolutely love it. And as a 56-year-old woman living in Ohio, I’m secure in that opinion. Hahaha!
So for this outfit, I wore black jeans, a grey cashmere turtleneck sweater (similar), a black belt, my black patent leather loafers and true red crew socks. I got my Lauren by Ralph Lauren socks at Macy’s (in store), but they don’t have the red option on the website. However, these would work perfectly, too. And I also love the yellow option there.
I promise not to leave you hanging long. We’ll talk all things socks on Monday.
Now, I’m going to catch my breath a little. It’s been a whirlwind week. Thanks for reading. If you have any questions about anything, please let me know. I’ll watch the comments today.
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Blessed for My Day
Honestly, I’m anxious about a few things right now. But over and over the Bible warns me not to let my heart be anxious. Instead I’m instructed to lean into God, my provider. It also encourages me to seek what I need in Him, to ask Him for what I need. So today I’m trying to diligently do that.
Replacing our anxiety with calm assurance requires work, however. I’m trying to discipline myself to say something like this. “I feel anxious and concerned about finding a house. But the truth is Jesus invites me to seek, knock and ask, and assures me that I will find and receive what I need from the Father who cares for me. Therefore, I will pray about this rather than stew over it because I choose to believe the truth rather than my feelings.” If you’re anxious about anything I invite you to join me in disciplining yourself to state your feelings, profess the biblical truth and then choose to believe and act on the truth rather than your emotions.
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” ~ Matthew 7:7-8
Wow, I’m surprised you are able to do so many things during the pandemic. We’re in lockdown in this part of Canada with 10 active cases. No in-restaurant dining, no haircuts or spa visits, etc. etc. The only time I get out is to get groceries which I do during senior hours, and pick up meds at drug store. Will be glad when everything gets back to normal.
Hi Kay,
I am looking forward to how you style socks. I live in Michigan and just like Ohio it is cold. I have really cute loafers and flats but, have to wait until warmer weather to wear them. Have a wonderful weekend.
Same here in California. I feel like I’m in jail. No personal freedoms whatsoever and no end in sight.
We are out much less than this post makes it sound. Remember I’m hitting the highlights here. I don’t even go in the grocery store. I pick up my grocery order in the parking lot. Our governor has opened things as much as possible and I’m grateful, but we still get out very little and always social distance and wear masks when we do.
Thank you so much for todays blessing! Always believe the Lord! I must do this over and over these days! We’ve had one big decision after another and it doesn’t look like our medical issues will be lifting anytime soon!
Yes, cling to God’s promises Natalie. Thanks for reading.
I love this weekly roundup post. Thanks for sharing how you really dressed each day. Happy Friday!
You bet! I’m glad you enjoyed the post, Sally. ?
So exciting looking at houses. Enjoy the process.
I am a sock person since we live in New Hampshire. I may feel differently when we move to North Carolina. I cannot wait to do as you and James: exploring our new home area.
Yes, I’m excited for you. How fun to be moving near your daughter and her family. And there will be so many places to explore in NC. ?
I am collecting pins on Pinterest of places in North Carolina!
Hi Kay .. I’m loving all your posts so first, thank you! I’m also 5’8” & weigh about the same but am a bit curvier than you (think bigger bust and bottom, ha!). I’m curious what inseam length you look for? I typically need 33 or 34 if I want to wear a variety of shoes, mostly flat or very low heels. Also I love your sock idea & look forward to reading more about it!
Hi Frani. I’m so glad you are enjoying the blog. I generally look for a 33” inseam to wear with heels, but the tweed pants I shared in today’s post have a 32” inseam and work well for me with a 2” inch heel or my loafers. I couldn’t wear them with flats. You may have longer legs than me. My daughter is also 5’8” but her legs are longer and she generally has to order the tall size, if there is one, whereas I do not.
Like Tina’s comment, I’m shock at how out and about you are. Here in New York, we are pretty much hunkered down. Our church is not permitted to have inside services, streaming only. A lunch date with friends is dream only
Hello Dee. I assure you we are living well within the regulations of our state and city. We wear masks everywhere we go and distance ourselves at least 6 feet from anyone we come in contact with. But our malls and many restaurants and nail and hair salons are open and operating with extensive safety procedures. Not only do I feel safe going to these places, but I am glad we can continue to support these businesses financially. My hairdresser is a single mom with two kids at home. This past year has been very hard on her. So I’m so glad I can still visit her safely and with the right protocols. At our church we social distance, sitting in family groups or single seating spaced out about 8 feet or more. We wear masks the entire time we’re there.
And honestly, while I did have a hair appointment (and then decided to have my nails done because I’m very conscious of how ratty they’ve been looking in blog photos) I’m at home most of the time. When I say I ran errands, I mean I went to the post office and drove to pick up my groceries with contactless pickup. Trust me, things are far from normal here and I am not out and about very much at all.
Guilt is every woman’s automatic default, and we all have to stop that! Then again, it’s usually (unfortunately) other women who make the remarks that can make us feel guilty. Like you, my husband and I have a little more money now than when we were raising children and building our household. There are several downsides to aging, so, by golly, when we can do things that make us feel good, do them! For some people, a $25 expenditure would be splurging, while for others it might be $1025. Makes no difference. After taking care of your obligations and helping the less fortunate however much you can, you do you!
I really like your hair on tues. Did you style it differently? I live in NC and it is nice that many places are open! Just have to wear a mask and social distance. I sub and have been in schools almost everyday.
Thanks Laura. I had just let it dry without styling it…like I was doing in the summer. But it doesn’t work for me on subsequent days, so I don’t style it like that usually anymore. ?
I love the colored socks! I’ll be looking forward to reading more about that on Monday!
I live in Oregon and many activities are curtailed because of Covid-19. However we are outdoors much of the time enjoying a mild winter. So all your outdoor looks were great and so stylish! I can see how to improve my outfits. I’m intent on staying positive and eagerly waiting to get the vaccine. Oregon has kept the spread of Covid 19 way down by distancing and mask wearing. I’m grateful.
I like all the casual, but put well together outfits for the week. I’m sure you will find a perfect home in time. Meanwhile find enjoyment in the looking if you can.
Thanks Lynne. Oregon is one of my favorite states to visit. We’ve spent a good bit of time there. It is a lovely place to get outside. ?
Hi Kay
Love your red socks! I am looking forward to your post about wearing them. I live in Michigan and socks are a must in the winter time.
I am a retired real estate appraiser who wants to encourage you to relax about buying your home. If you are concerned about the price, realize the market determines the value. What is a fair price will sell, and what is overpriced is on the market too long. If you are getting a loan, an appriaser will do a report on its value, and you are entitled to see their report. Enjoy yourself, look at a lot of homes and take time to recognize prices differ from neighborhood to neighborhood. “All real estate is local” is a true cliche. Lean on your agent for advice. Seldom is money lost in buying a home. It is the best investiment you will ever make. Even if you outgrow this house, you can sell it for another later. Don’t chain yourself to this house and realize later you might need or wish for another and that’s okay. For me, buying a house is easier than buying a swimsuit. Use your instincts and reasure yourself that time will reward you for buying real estate. The more you shop, the more you learn!
Thank you, Connie, for your encouragement and advice. We are looking forward to buying a house and really very excited about it. Unfortunately we lost a good bit of money when we left Arizona and moved here. We bought when the market was high in Arizona 14 years ago and we sold when houses weren’t moving a year ago. So we we left Arizona with a good bit less than we moved there with. And that makes buying another home a little scary. But we do hope to be in this home indefinitely and we are looking forward to it. Just a lot of mixed emotions. Again, thanks for sharing your perspective. I do appreciate it.
Oh, I do understand that time as the same thing happened to my daughter here in CA and she has been renting ever since. I know many who had to go into forclosure at that time. It was rare and painful. Leave it in the past, and enjoy your house hunting!
There are some things I splurge on now that I probably wouldn’t have before because it lifts our spirits. My husband just dismissed from the hospital after touch and go from congestive heart failure, came home with a new outlook to do more, live more, have fun because one is promised tomorrow. So true.
My SIL can’t believe I have a long sock drawer divided by colors. I like warm socks with my boots. I guess I’m going to be forced to buy a vest. I just love that cute look.
Love ❤️from MS Gulf Coast.
Oh I’m so glad to hear that your husband has been returned to you and is doing well. Good news indeed! ?
Hi Kay. I enjoy your posts and you are an inspiration to me. I too am a pastors wife who enjoys nice clothes with style. So thank you for sharing your ideas and creativity with us in such a positive and uplifting way. I look forward to the emails daily. You are a ray of sunshine. Bless you!!
Ahh, thanks so much Nancy. I’m really glad you enjoy the blog. Thanks so much for letting me know. ?
Thank you for your post today. Nice outfits.
Hope you fine a house to your liking. I have
also been anxious this week, with what all is
going on in our nation. Thanks for the words of wisdom
and Matthew 7:7-8. Bless your heart.
Blessings, Sherry. I think I’m learning I really must take time for a little recreation during the week, too. And some weeks that is easier than others. But you’re right. These have been some tough days…weeks…months! ?
I’m excited to see your thoughts on socks next week. I have neuropathy in my feet and I have to wear socks all the time to ease the pain. I feel frumpy and unattractive. I will be happy to see how to wear them for a better look.
Well I hope I can provide some value for everyone. I’m excited about what I have to share. Thanks for reading. ?
Hi Kay, I’m sorry to say I could not read much of your post this evening. There was a large Google ad box that kept blocking it and reappearing immediately if I dismissed it with the “x.” Even when “Criteo” closed the box the screen remained whited out in the same block shape. Just wanted you to know.
Hmm. Thanks for letting me know. I’ll pass that on to my ad company. That shouldn’t be happening.
Good morning Lael. Could you tell me if you were on a handheld device or your computer? There really shouldn’t be a video player like that. And I don’t even use Google ads. I use Ad Thrive. So if it was a Google ad box I wonder if you were on Chrome and it was causing the ad? Could you let me know? Thanks. I want to get to the bottom of this.
I so appreciate your honesty, Kay!
I too am a pastor’s wife and so enjoy your authentic, sweet posts. I am thrilled that you also have written books and teach women Bible studies. What a precious woman you are! Pray blessings over you and James!
Just loving the red socks. Looking forward to the posts on how to style them. I love reading your posts Kay, here in Cape Town, South Africa we are also in a heavy lockdown. I live vicariously through your blogs so just keep safe and share your day. It inspires me and truly lifts my spirit.
Thanks Nicky. I’m working on the socks post now ?. Have a great weekend.
Hi Kay! Here it is Saturday morning and I just finished reading this post. I love the outfit that you wore last Saturday for your exploring OH day! As much as we love living way out in a rural area, we don’t have a good place to get out and walk on an even surface. Our road is sand with some dirt, so it’s really tough to walk on. Larry has neuropathy in his feet due to the chemo, so he has to be very careful. Any way, I am a sock lover, always have been, but wearing socks that don’t blend in with my pants is not for me. But, I still can’t wait to read your post on Monday. Good luck with the house hunting! You’ve done it enough to know what y’all need. Keep asking God to help remove some of the stress that is taking away the fun. Great BFMD! I am going to send you an email about a topic I need some scripture references on from either you or James.
Thanks for sharing Ginger. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. Take care!
Bought my first purchase through your site! Thank you so much for all the effort you invest to help us! I love the look you posted with white jeans, black top and black belt. I’ve been looking for a black belt like that. Any ideas?The Lord will provide the perfect home for you! Matthew 19:29 is a promise I’ve held onto as we obeyed in moving where He directed, He would lead us to the exact right home. ??
Hi Sheree. I’m not sure which look with white jeans you’re referring to. I don’t think I’ve shared white jeans this winter? Was it in a previous post? Thanks for the encouragement! ?
The post that says you just ordered a pair of Everlane white jeans has a pic of a model with them on, a black sleeveless top, black sandals and belt? Maybe I misread or it’s an ad? No worries! You are such a blessing and do such a wonderful job saving us endless hours of shopping and since I live in Jackson Hole WY, the shopping is nearly all tourist boutiques so this is such a great joy to have outfits already put together, new brands introduced, sale notices etc!! ??????????
Oh I’m the email! Yes! ??♀️ That was just this morning. Hahaha! Yes I love that combo too. I bought this belt at Ann Taylor and have been enjoying it. https://shopstyle.it/l/bq1Vi Use code BONUS and get 40% off.
Hi, Kay —
Those Talbot pants look great; however, on the Talbot page they appear light brown. In your photos they seem more of a grey/black. Was that a color choice currently not available, or are they darker than they appear? I’d prefer the black over brown so I thought I’d check with you first!
Thank you.
Julia
Hi Julia. The color on the Talbots website is correct. I don’t have great lighting in my house (one of the reasons I’m so ready to buy a new house!), so my mirror selfies don’t always portray the colors accurately.
I love the socks! My feet and ankles are frequently cold. I’d like to wear my loafers and sneakers more and my ankle boots a little less. I’m looking forward to what you put together. Thankful for all God’s provisions.?
Hi Kay
I’m so happy to have discovered your blog about six weeks ago. Already I have learned so much and, like your other readers, appreciate all the work you do on our behalf. Your BFMD thoughts have frequently been right in line with what I have been experiencing. Thought you would be amused to hear that I did, in fact, find your blog after searching for how to decorate your home for Christmas like a Hallmark movie! Am so glad God led me here.
Hahaha! Well that’s delightful. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the blog. Thanks for introducing yourself, Amy. I always appreciate hearing from my readers. Have a blessed and beautiful Sunday.