If it’s November, then it’s time to pull out the heavy artillery to beat the weather in style – sweaters, boots, faux fur jackets, and corduroy utility pants are on my checklist. What’s on yours? There have been hard freezes down here in Georgia this past week. Not only am I bundled up for warmth, but several of my plants have an extra layer of protection, too, like my Meyer Lemon Tree. This year I had a bumper crop of nine lemons that I harvested before the first freeze. Fingers crossed, the tree makes it to next spring healthy and whole for another crop of delicious lemons. This year I think I’ll try my hand at preserved lemons which taste fantastic in salads or stews or even Bloody Mary’s. 

Phew! The upstairs is up and running once more as my bookcase and bathroom are finished just in time for company to arrive. Next week the electricians stop by to add an outlet for my subwoofer so it can stand upright. Plus, I had to order a TV stand to raise the height of the television, so it doesn’t sit flush to the bookcase. Guess who is over home improvement projects?! One thing leads to another and another, and, well, hopefully, I’ve finally got it all figured out. Being single has its challenges now and again. Home theaters aren’t my strong suit, even with the advice of my kiddos. It’s trial by error sometimes. Right?! But I have to admit I’m loving the addition of a TV on my main floor, especially when the basement is still under construction.

Corduroy utility pants

If you’ve been following the blog the past several months, then you know I’ve been on a Banana Republic kick. Back in the late 90s and early aughts, Banana Republic was a go-to brand of mine. But something happened along the way as they lost focus of the iconic brand they created. But they’re back! At least in my opinion as I have a hard time leaving the store without something in my bag. This summer, I fell in love with their utility pants, so I was über excited to see these corduroy utility pants in their fall lineup. What perfect pants to wear all winter long, and they come in four colors. They’re also the ideal length to show off suede ankle boots (old similar here, here, and here) that keep my tootsies warm. Since it’s downright cold, I pulled out a favorite cashmere cable knit sweater from Vince (sold out, similar here, here, and here) and a Teddy Coat (similar here, here, and here) scored several years ago at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. For those of you who want a slim-fit coat, this jacket’s not for you. But if you’re going to look modern and fresh, Teddy Coats are still going strong and a fun option during the long cold winter months.

Frye boots have been a favorite brand since my teenage years when I sported their iconic Harness boots non-stop. I think I own three if not four pairs of Frye boots. Why? They’re well made and last for years. The Frye Company is based in Massachusetts and has been going strong since 1863.

Along with yours truly, Jackie Kennedy, Candice Bergen, Barbra Streisand, and President Nixon have all loved and worn Frye boots. And Frye is having a Black Fryeday Sale with up to 50% off. Frye offers tall boots, ankle boots, wide calf boots, sneakers, flats, and handbags. Lots to choose from at Frye.

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pants | sweater (sold out, similar here, here, and here)  | jacket (similar here, here, and here) | boots (old similar here, here, and here) | handbag

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Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.

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