Happy Friday, ladies!  We've made it through another week and are headed straight into Memorial Day Weekend.  We've got a fun post for you:  a Fridays With Oscar roundup of 5 comfy casual outfits for Summer.

I went through the archives and pulled together some of my favorite summer outfits, as well as cocktails perfect for a warm summer day.  For each outfit, I pulled together a similar with in-stock items from some of my favorite retailers.  Also, just for something extra, I also pulled together my top 5 handbags for summer.

So sit back and relax:  Oscar, Ollie, and I all wish you a blessed holiday weekend.

The Summary

  Today features 5 comfy casual outfits for Summer

  The outfits I've modeled are all old, but I've put together similars for each 

  My top 5 handbags for Summer 2022 are at the end of the post, so don't miss them!

5 Comfy Casual Outfits For Summer

1. Raspberry Mint Mojito Mocktail

My first outfit could not be more simple:  a graphic tee, drawstring pants, and sandals.  Perfect for those lazy Summer days inside and out, you can't go wrong with a graphic tee.

[GET THE COCKTAIL RECIPE]

FWO-7

Similar outfit

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2. Old Fashioned

For those early Summer mornings or random 60/70 degree days, pair a sweater and shorts.  Obviously, you can't go wrong with gingham---and don't be afraid to pattern (mis)match to add some levity to your outfit.

[GET THE COCKTAIL RECIPE]

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3. Red Wine Berry Spritzer

Such a classic pairing:  a clean white midi skirt and a crisp button-down.  I love midi skirts for Summer, and every woman needs a pair of metallic sandals.

[GET THE COCKTAIL RECIPE]

DSC01692

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4. Long Island Iced Tea

Stripes and shorts---a classic summer pairing.  Whether you go with a button-down, tunic, or blouse, blue or red stripes embody Summer.  Pair your shirt with striped sandals for a more put-together look.

[GET THE COCKTAIL RECIPE]

beth from Style at a Certain Age wears a striped shirt, white shorts, sandals, and rattan handbag

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5. Gin & Tonic

I definitely don't shy away from a pair of dark-washed jeans during Summer.  Paired with a neutral blouse, you've got a timeless classic look.  And remember, always have a pair of animal print shoes in your closet---they function as a neutral and add visual interest to any outfit.

[GET THE COCKTAIL RECIPE]

ann taylor bow blouse, sailor jeans, leopard flats

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My Favorite Bags Summer 2022

1.

Medium Transport Tote

(shop more Madewell bags)

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2.

Elpis Woven Straw Handbag

(shop more J.McLaughlin bags)

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4.

Bamboo Handle Rattan Round Bag

(shop more Talbots handbags)

5.

Banya Leather & Paper Straw Tote

(shop more Simon Miller bags)

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In Case You Missed It

Yesterday, I shared this year's Summer Lingerie mega-roundup. Click the title or image below to read the article.

Happy Wednesday, ladies!  Really gorgeous weather here in Georgia.  Already got me thinking about the transition from Spring to Summer.  So, I thought I'd do something a bit out of the norm for a Wednesday.  I pulled together 5 comfy casual outfits from our Fridays with Oscar archive that are perfect for that Spring-to-Summer transition.

My long-time readers know that Fridays with Oscar always feature a cocktail and recipe.  I didn't go that far today---have to respect the Friday tradition.  But I did pull together 5 of my favorite healthy eating cookbooks this year as a little something extra.

The Summary

  Today we've got 5 comfy casual outfits for Spring-to-Summer transition

  The outfits I've modeled are all old, but I've put together similars for each 

  My top 5 healthy eating cookbooks are at the end of the post, so don't miss them!

5 Comfy Casual Outfits

1. Sweater & joggers

Best for those in the low 70s, the first outfit could not be simpler.  A comfy sweater paired with joggers.

Joggers are great for the days when you're lounging around the house.  But dress them up slightly with your favorite Spring sweater and they're also perfect for running errands.

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Similar outfit

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2. Polo & Shorts

We're headed for 80-degree weather here this weekend, so I'm reaching for a pair of shorts.

I'm loving the girlfriend shorts from Talbots this season and they pair perfectly with a simple polo.  I'm keeping the outfit neutral today, but add a pop of color for levity.

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3. Stripe on Stripe

My third outfit is a matchy-matchy stripe-on-strip top and bottom.  I broke up with 'monochrome' with a big dose of color.

I love, love, love pink.  And there's nothing easier than adding color to your outfit with a sweater and your accessory choice.

If pink isn't your color, no problem.  Try yellow, orange, or even a bright green.  Have fun with this one!

Screen Shot 2022-04-20 at 9.48.17 AM

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4. Blouse & Jeans

Probably the most "dressy" of the five comfy casual outfits, I went with a print top and jeans here.

So many prints to choose from this year at retailers like Talbots, my similar outfit below features a floral ruffle top.  But swap it out for your favorite, if you're not loving my pick.

And what's so great about this outfit, you could swap out the top for a crisp white button-down or a simple black tee.

So many options here.

Screen Shot 2022-04-20 at 9.46.24 AM

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5. Sweater & Print Pants

My final outfit features a printed pant paired with a simple navy sweater.

Just like the above outfit, there are so many fun printed pants to choose from this year to fit your own personal style.

Keep the sweater simple and just have fun with the pants.  You really can't go wrong.

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The Cookbooks

1.

The Mediterranean Table

Sonoma Press

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2.

Skinnytaste Meal Prep

Gina Homolka

3.

The Comfortable kitchen

Alex Snodgrass

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4.

Well Plated

Eric Clarke

5.

The complete salad cookbook

America's Test Kitchen

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In Case You Missed It

Yesterday, I featured a dress from FARM Rio perfect for any occasion. Click the title or image below to read the article.

Friday is finally here, and this weekend is Super Bowl weekend? Will you watch? Who are you rooting for? I’ll definitely put on the game, even though I don’t have a dog in this fight. (Except Oscar, of course.) That’s OK, though. Georgia had a great run in 2021:  the World Series and National Championship ain’t bad. For those of you looking to make it through the weekend in one piece and (maybe) show up for work on Monday, we’ve got 2 things you need 2 survive the big game:  an Aperol cocktail and a super simple take on nachos good for one or more!    And, of course, it wouldn’t be Friday without that smart-casual style we’re known for around here. 

Smart casual style

Today’s OOTD couldn’t be simpler:  this button-trim sweater is from Ann Taylor and jeans from Wit and Wisdom. I do love little adornments like buttons, especially on a classic neck sweater. (So much so that I featured one prominently on yesterday’s how-to-style faux leather pants.) 

Sweater (three colors, Ann Taylor) | Denim (Wit and Wisdom) | Snakeskin sneakers (old from Vince, similar and similar 2)

Grapefruit Aperol cocktails

Anyone who follows me regularly knows my love affair with Aperol cocktails. Today, I’ve got a real simple grapefruit Aperol cocktail that’s perfect to satisfy this weekend. If you’re looking for other Aperol cocktails, check out my introduction to Aperol. But also check out this winter Aperol cocktail. If you love Aperol, you’ll love this too.  

Print

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Grapefruit Aperol Cocktails


  • Author: Beth Djalali

Description

A light and refreshing alternative to grapefruit margaritas with an edge.


Ingredients

Units Scale

16 ounces tequila

4 ounces Aperol

12 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice

8 ounces triple sec

4 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice

4 ounces simple syrup

Fresh grapefruit and limes slices for garnish

salt for rims


Instructions

  1. Fill a pitcher with ice and add tequila through simple syrup. Stir well to combine.
  2. Place salt on a small plate. Run a grapefruit wedge around the edge of the glass and dip in salt on plate. Fill glasses with ice and pour cocktails into prepared glasses.
  3. Garnish glasses with fresh grapefruit and lime slice.

old fashion glassespitcher | tidbit plates

Mini nachos

If you’re not spending this weekend with a large crowd, but you still want to get in the Super Bowl spirit, then this recipe is for you.   I put together these mini nachos:  a super simple way to make delicious nachos for a few. I mean, you can’t go wrong with shredded chicken, but substitute for any protein (or not), and these things are just as delicious.  

Print

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Mini Nachos


  • Author: Beth Djalali

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 bag tortilla chips

1 1/2 cups shredded chicken

3/4 cup cooked black beans

3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced

1 jalapeño, thinly sliced

1 avocado, diced

3/4 cup salsa

1/2 cup sour cream


Instructions

  1. Preheat your broiler on low. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. On the baking sheet, build a small spiral of 15 chips, stacking them close together in a 3-inc circle. Repeat to make a total of 6 piles.
  3. Sprinkle 1/4 cup chicken and 2 tablespoons black beans on top of each pile of chips. Top each with 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
  4. Place the baking sheet in the oven and cook until the cheese is totally melted, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
  5. Top each pile with 2 tablespoons scallions, a few jalapeño slices, 2 tablespoons avocado, 2 tablespoons salsa and 1 tablespoon sour cream. Serve immediately.

Sweater & jeans

Sweater (three colors, Ann Taylor) | Denim (Wit and Wisdom) | Snakeskin sneakers (old from Vince, similar and similar 2)

Snakeskin slip ons

Sometimes it’s easy to forget just how much fun sneakers can really be. They don’t get featured that often over here on the blog, but how cute are these snakeskin slip ons from Vince? (Similar here and here.)  Animal print adds visual interest to any outfit. And when you already have something fun going, why not make it that much more fun-er? (Double comparative for emphasis only!) 

Sweater (three colors, Ann Taylor) | Denim (Wit and Wisdom) | Snakeskin sneakers (old from Vince, similar and similar 2)

Fridays with Oscar

Happy Friday, ladies! And enjoy the big game this weekend with friends and loved ones.  

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Daily Looks

If you haven’t checked out our new addition to the blog, DAILY LOOKS, make sure to do just that. Daily Looks is a really simple feature:  a dedicated photo feed of my daily outfits. And you can shop those outfits easily through the shop the widget below the picture. Today’s look is below.  

Daily Look 2.11.22

well, gang, it’s work from home day take three. or is it four? maybe forty-four?  i think we’re all starting to lose count.  a couple of weeks ago, we ran my top 3 work from home pants, but if you’re like me, you’re starting to look for new WFH outfits.  many of you have asked me for new work from home outfits that don’t involve lounge-wear (or an elastic waist). well, you asked and today I’m thrilled to partner with Nordstrom today to share a very casual outfit that’s comfy and cute. it’s a loungeable look that works for home (pun intended) but will transition to the weekend with ease.  (hopefully there’s still a distinction in everyone’s mind.) 

this post sponsored by Nordstrom

change up your work environment

now that spring has sprung here in the south; there’s been one gorgeous day dished up after another. this is the time of year i grab my laptop and wander outside to sit a spell. what a treat to work from home when the sun is shining and the birds chirping.  even though the temperatures have been on the mild side, it’s nice to throw on a lightweight cardigan over a simple cotton tank top to keep the chill at bay. and what about these adorable camo crop utility pants that add pizazz to this OOTD? slip-on sneakers have been my go-to’s of late as they slip on and off in a jiff. this pair of platform sneakers from Calson comes in two colors: nude leather that goes with everything and black leather.  it might not be spring where you are, and temperatures may not be as forgiving to pick up and work outside.  but it’s important to remember, change up your work environment as much as possible to the extent that you can.  

pants | tank | cardigan | sneakers | necklace | earrings

 

staying comfortable without resorting to pjs 

i think many, if not most of us are tired of loungewear as our WFH attire.  like, if we never wore them again, we’d all be fine.  am i right?  i kid.  but there’s a deeper point there.  part of maintaining our own sanity during these times is finding a middle a ground—somewhere between totally casual and formal.  accommodations have to be made given our new lifestyles, but bringing in aspects of the old is important too. 

funny how little things like fashion can help bridge that gap.  take today’s OOTD:  not pajamas by a long shot.  totally wearable on a Webex or Zoom conference. the white tank, camo pants, and platform sneakers are from Calson. the long cardigan is from Halogen.  both brands are Nordstrom Made designed with you in mind. Calson is made with ease. Halogen is made to mix.

pants | tank | cardigan | sneakers | necklace | earrings

 

check in 

i like to check in with you, my readers, every week or so.  i still think it’s important to remind ourselves that we are in fact there for each other.  so do me a favor today.  leave a comment below letting me know how you’re holding up.  from all of us here at style at a certain age—kelly, junior style, oscar, ollie, pax, and myself—we’re committed to continue to bring you your daily fashion distraction.  

pants | tank | cardigan | sneakers | necklace | earrings

 

a big thank you to Nordstrom for this sponsored post. and thank you lovely readers for supporting the brands that allow me to bring you fresh ideas.

kelly, junior style, oscar, ollie, and i continue to be here for you.  we’re going to keep reminding you every day, even when you’re sick of us.  news continues to change rapidly, and uncertainty is still the name of the game.   most, if not all of us are now home.   so, when stuck inside, shop your closet.

when stuck inside, shop your closet

the items for today’s OOTD are all old.  i shopped my closet as they say.  makes sense, given the times.  most brick and mortars are temporarily closed, and although online retailers are still open, now’s a perfect time to open your closet and really see what you have available.  last week, i gave you five ideas on what to do when stuck indoors, one of which was a closet cleanse.  now’s the perfect time to do so. 

i’ve been all about pastels this week.  yesterday, i featured a pink raincoat, and today i’m continuing that trend with a matching pink jacket and sweater.  (comparables below.) such an easy outfit to put together and works perfectly with a pair of cuffed skinny jeans and/or jeggings.  for those of you working from home, but don’t want to be in your PJs all day, an outfit like this goes a long way.  comfortable enough for the home office.

similar jacket | similar sweater | similar sweater 2 | similar sweater 3 | similar sweater 4 | similar sweater 5 | similar sweater 6 | similar sweater 7 | similar sweater 8 | similar sweater 9 | low wedges | similar bag | similar jeans | similar jeans 2 | similar jeans 3 | similar jeans 4

setting routines and keeping them 

over the past few weeks, i’ve read a lot of good suggestions on how to deal with what’s becoming the new norm:  shelter in-place.  one suggestion that resonates with me, mostly because i’ve worked from home for so many years, is this:  set a routine and keep it.  part of coping with our new reality is attempting to emulate our old reality to the best of our ability.  some advice:

  • wake up at your normally scheduled time; 
  • take a shower and get dressed;
  • start work at your normally scheduled time; 
  • take regular breaks, including lunch, coffee, etc.; 
  • make time for breaks, including spending time outdoors; 
  • regularly reach out to friends and family; 
  • don’t watch the news more than you normally would; 
  • go to bed at your normally scheduled time. 

all of this may seem totally obvious, but believe me, the temptation to stay in our PJs and watch the news is real.  and it’s not sustainable.  trust me. 

similar jacket | similar sweater | similar sweater 2 | similar sweater 3 | similar sweater 4 | similar sweater 5 | similar sweater 6 | similar sweater 7 | similar sweater 8 | similar sweater 9 | low wedges | similar bag | similar jeans | similar jeans 2 | similar jeans 3 | similar jeans 4

i want to hear from you

we may be in it for the long haul, and i want this blog to be relevant to you and your new normal.  kelly and i have been batting around some ideas for posts over the next few weeks, but i want to hear from you.  what would you like to see on the blog in the upcoming weeks?  a lot of you have reached out to me with some great ideas.  let me know in the comments below!  

similar jacket | similar sweater | similar sweater 2 | similar sweater 3 | similar sweater 4 | similar sweater 5 | similar sweater 6 | similar sweater 7 | similar sweater 8 | similar sweater 9 | low wedges | similar bag | similar jeans | similar jeans 2 | similar jeans 3 | similar jeans 4

a margarita for Christmas? not quite apple cider.  not quite egg nog. and not quite what you were expecting.  but let’s mix things up a bit at the end of this year.  ’cause if you’re feeling at all like i am, i know there’s a lot of change coming in 2020.  

and change is a good thing:  big or small.  you may be looking to change careers.  or potentially retire.  you may move to a new town.  or you may just change your outlook.  whatever it is, you’ll be better than fine, because you’re, well, you.  so let’s start small today:  raise your Christmas margaritas, because here’s to fridays with oscar.  and more importantly, here’s to you.  

outfit of the day

if this sweater from Anthropologie doesn’t put a smile on your face.  so comfy. so cozy.  and perfect for the winter.  and Anthropologie is having 30% off everything sale.  couple that with J.Crew’s 50% off sale, there’s a deal to be had on these crop trouser jean and ankle bootsankle boots have been a big hit this fall and winter, and i’m loving these ivory ones from J.Crew. who remembers white go-go boots from the sixties? white boots continue to be on-trend so i decided it was time to add a pair to my closet.

sweater | crop trouser jean | ankle boots

entree:  beef & cranberry stuffed acorn squash

roasted squash is a personal favorite of mine.  i’m putting a slight spin on it today by stuffing it with beef, cranberries and spices.  but the recipe remains simple, straightforward and easy to make.  whether you’re hosting a holiday lunch or looking for a quick bite on a Saturday afternoon, reach for this recipe.

cocktail: a margarita for Christmas

i just love the sweet and spicy flavor combination.  if you do too,  or if you’re looking to break out of the holiday same old same old, make sure to check out this week’s cocktail:  a blackberry margarita.  the bite of the jalapenos is offset nicely by the sweetness of the blackberries.   pair that with a traditional salt rim, and you’re running the full flavor spectrum.

alright gang, that’s a wrap!  as we approach the holiday home stretch, remember to always take a deep breath and always give yourself a few extra minutes of alone time.  if that means getting up 10 minutes earlier to enjoy a quiet moment with your cup of coffee or staying up 30 minutes later to finish The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, do it.  

it’s friday gang!  another busy week here over on the blog:  we rolled out definitive denim guide for fall in case you missed it.  i’ve got a new episode of my friday fives on YouTube.  this week i’m showcasing my top 5 mascara picks.  be sure to check out the video below. and of course, oscar and i have a great recipe for you this week.  in honor of the low country, we’ve put together a sheet pan, low country boil for you.  super easy to make.  and unbelievably delicious.  you’re not going to want to miss it! 

outfit of the day 

it’s casual friday here over at the office.  and today it’s all about comfort.  i’ve got a tissue turtleneck from J.Crew underneath a cozy lounge hoodie from Talbots.  when it’s dark, grey, and chilly like it is in Athens today, there’s nothing quite like bundling up in oversized hoodie.  i’ve got on a pair of boyfriend/girlfriend jeans today and rounded up these ones for you to try: jeans |  jeans 2 | jeans 3.  what’s perfect about this outfit is that you can lounge around in it for sure.  100%.  but if you just throw on a pair of ankle booties, you’re perfectly good to go out for a late lunch or early dinner. 

turtlneck | turtleneck 2 | turtleneck 3 | hoodie | hoodie 2 | hoodie 3 | jeans |  jeans 2 | jeans 3 | booties | booties 2 | booties 3

tablescape: minimalist fall flowers

this fall, i’ve focused on tablescapes that rotate out a in and out a core set of decorations.  the idea was to show you how much mileage you can get from an investment in a key set of items.  (here, here, and here.)  today, i want to demonstrate how much mileage you can get from simply being a minimalist.  

i’ve been all about the plaid napkins this year.  and notice how they pair perfectly with a floral bouquet i picked up from Trader Joes thrown in measuring jar.  easy peasy.  sometimes you don’t have to put a lot of effort to add a little life into your fall designs. 

entree: low country boil

in honor of living in the low country, today i’ve pulled together a sheet pan low country boil.  it absolutely could not be easier.  and it absolutely could not taste any better.  the key ingredient here is Old Bay Seasoning.  so check your spice closet and make sure you have it. 

other than that, we’re simply going to throw together a few starches and proteins, mix, and bake.  the shrimp and andouille sausage pair perfectly with with the potatoes.  and they’re all set off by the citrus/spice combination.  i can’t wait to hear in the comments what you think of this recipe! 

cocktail: dark and stormy 

we’re pairing our low country boil with a dark and stormy.  it’s the perfect flavor combination to take any bite coming from the Old Bay seasoning.  dark and stormys are super simple to make.  you’re going to need your favorite dark rum and a ginger beer.  mix and throw in a lime to boot, and you’re good to go. 

alright, gang!  that’s a wrap.  i hope you had a wonderful week.  oscar, ollie, and i sure had fun sharing it with you.  stay tuned next week.  we’ve got another themed week for you:  travel week.  join me and junior style on our week long river cruise in France!  

if you haven’t dropped us a comment this week, please do.  we love to hear from you at Style at a Certain Age.  and make sure to scroll down just a bit further to see my #1 classic movie! 

turtlneck | turtleneck 2 | turtleneck 3 | hoodie | hoodie 2 | hoodie 3 | jeans |  jeans 2 | jeans 3 | booties | booties 2 | booties 3

#1 Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)

all week, i’ve been counting down my top 5 classic movies.  in case you missed the top 4, here they are in order linked to the original posts: 

5. Thomas Crowne Affair

4. It Happened One Night

3. To Catch a Thief

2. Casablanca 

and my number one favorite classic movie needs absolutely no introduction.  starring the great  Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard, it’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s.  if you have not seen it, you must.  

it’s friday gang!  time to take a deep breath and relax.  finally.  per usual, i’ve got a wonderful recipe and cocktail for you.  a perfect manhattan paired with a skirt steak with chimichurri sauce.  one of my daughter in-law’s, kelly’s, favorites.  you’re going to love it.

it’s been another big week on the blog.  we’ve rolled out a new series on YouTubefriday fives.  every friday, i’ll be showcasing my 5 favorite items that week.  this week, i’ve picked out 5 essential lipsticks for you.  make sure to watch the video below. 

we’ve talked a lot about self-care, change, and growth this week.  today, i want to shift gears, just a bit, and talk about the constants in our lives—the bedrocks.  for me, that’s family.  as you all know, i’ve got three kiddos and a daughter-in-law.  and they mean the world to me.  amidst all the change that’s going on in my life, they serve as a constant reminder of what’s important, and who is always there for me.  

and family isn’t always easy.  it can be a bit messy (or a lot bit).  but it’s worth it.  when the grounds seem to be shifting around us, there’s nothing better than being able to call and confide in those that know and love us best.  and really, what’s better than sitting around the table, cocktails in hand, with sharing a lifetime of family stories on a friday night. 

outfit of the day 

fridays are always about contempo-casual, which is just to say “comfort”.  i get a lot of questions from readers about what i wear when i’m “bumming around the house”.  today’s outfit of the day is a perfect example.  fall’s finally broke here (for real), so i’ve got a beautiful, oversized, cocoon sweater from Talbots.  i’ve paired it with a comfy but classy pleated, silk blouse.  (you can find simile ones here and here.) 

sweater (Talbots)similar blouse 1 | similar blouse 2 | similar camo pants 1 | similar camo pants 2 | driving mocs | similar belt

 

 

camo is always in, and this year is no exception.  you can grab similar pants here and here.  pair the whole outfit with a pair of driving mocs, and you’ve got the perfect outfit for lounging around the house or running errands.  

tablescape: modern fall twist  

this month, i’ve shown you several variations on a fall harvest tablescape.  (see here and here.)  i’m continuing with that theme today, only with a modern twist.  i’ve kept with pumpkins (but see also pumpkins 2 and pumpkins), but swapped out my place mats and napkins.  i keep the spirit of fall with plaid, but introduce just a touch of modern flare with black and white. 

plates (Macy’s)glasses (Macy’s)place mates (Pier 1)napkins (Pier 1) | pumpkins 1pumpkins 2 | pumpkins 3

entree: skirt steak with chimichurri sauce

one of kelly’s go-to recipes for entertaining a dinner crowd is skirt steak with chimichurri sauce.  skirt steak is a cheap cut of meat that packs a big punch when cooked on the rarer side and paired with chimichurri.  broil it or grill it, you can’t go wrong.

cocktail: the perfect manhattan

over the past few weeks, so many of you have wondered what happened to Ollie.  well, here she is.  her and Oscar are doing purrfect, and are here to share my cocktail pick of the week:  the perfect manhattan.  

if you’re a whiskey-rye-bourbon fan, then you’re going to love this pick.  this family of liquors pairs perfectly with steak.  

cocktail shaker (Pottery Barn)coupe glasses (Williams Sonoma)

 

alright, gang!  that’s a wrap.  the weekend is here.  Oscar, Ollie, and I all wish you a wonderful one.  for those of you that haven’t left a comment for me this week, make sure to say “hi” below.  we here at a Style at a Certain Age love nothing more to hear what’s going on in your world, even if we can’t respond to all of the comments.  after all, you all are our extended virtual family.  and there’s nothing more important than family. 

sweater (Talbots)similar blouse 1 | similar blouse 2 | similar camo pants 1 | similar camo pants 2 | driving mocs | similar belt

 

 

who are you?  probably one of the most basic questions; and probably one of the most debated ones throughout history.  i’m not a philosopher, so i don’t and won’t have any deep answers here.  but today i’m thinking about the idea of self-expression through style.  as a reader recently pointed out, when a life event like a death happens, you’re gonna reflect on who you are in some form or another—like it or not.  and this week since i’ve talked about career and trailblazing women through the lens of fashion, i thought i’d turn it inward:  how do we express ourselves through fashion, especially as we age?   

fashion foot forward

fashion can say everything about us; or it can say nothing at all.  that’s the beauty of it, really.  every morning, we can wake up with the intent to express to the world a myriad of different aspects of who we are simply with what we wear.  it’s powerful.  through simple outfit choices—basic color combinations—we can express confidence, intelligence, and social-awareness.

it will come as no surprise to you that one of my go-to looks is preppy.   it has been my entire life.  over the years, i’ve talked about that aesthetic on the blog here, here, and here.  i’m a generally cheerful and optimistic person.  i’m deliberate and mindful.  this is what preppy conveys to me.  and this is doubly true as i’ve gotten older—more confident in who i am and the fashion choices i make.  

similar coat (Talbots) | denim (Ann Taylor) | shoes (J.Crew) | Similar Tote (Nordstrom)

today i’ve put together a perfectly preppy autumn outfit.  i’ve gone with a mixture of Talbots, Ann Taylor, J.Crew, and Nordstrom. (Make sure to check out J.Crew‘s sale.)  i’ve got on a perfectly plaid coat that Ann Taylor can’t keep in-stock.  so i’ve got a similar coat from Talbots for you. 

as i’ve said numerous times this week:  nothing says fall like plaid.  and plaid is in a big way this year.  i’ve paired the coat with a pair of skinny jeans from Ann Taylor.  we’ve talked a lot about denim this fall, and make sure to check out the different types of sported below. 

can’t keep it in stock

similar coat (Talbots) | denim (Ann Taylor) | shoes (J.Crew) | similar tote (Nordstrom)

the weather has finally turned here in Athens.  it’s getting chilly outside.  yesterday on the blog, it was all about blazers.  today, it’s all about coats.  as i mentioned, Ann Taylor can’t keep this plaid one in-stock.  so i’ve got a similar coat from Talbots for you.  i’ve also compiled a list of fall coats and their variations i’m currently loving.  and make sure to stay-tuned to our YouTube channel.  more on jackets soon!  

penny loafers for your thoughts

similar coat (Talbots) | denim (Ann Taylor) | shoes (J.Crew) | similar tote (Nordstrom)

part of the preppy style is a good pair of penny loafers. so easy.  so stylish.  so comfortable.  if you need to be on your feet all day, get a pair.  your tootsies will thank you.  and they pair so perfectly with a skinny pair of denim.  

if you missed our Monday’s post, i put together a large selection of fall bags. today i’ve got a simple leather tote.  super simple, but super practical.  you can grab a similar tote at Nordstrom.

all right, gang!  hump day is here.  we’re halfway through the week.  today, talk to me about your personal style and aesthetic.  what does it say about you?  what do you want to project with it?  have you maintained and developed your style through the years?  or has it changed?  has it evolved, or are you totally rethinking it?  leave a comment below.  your outpouring of love, support, and interest is always an inspiration to me. 

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