if the grey skies of november are swirling overhead, then it’s time to wear a perfectly preppy puffer vest. while we’re at it, let’s throw in a fair isle sweater for good measure. last week this fair isle sweater was paired with a shetland blazer. read how to wear a fair isle sweater. this week i couldn’t resist wearing it with a perfectly preppy puffer vest. ‘cuz i’ m a sucker when it comes to the classics.
some of you might know eddie bauer invented the puffer jacket after a fishing expedition went awry with a severe case of hypothermia. when eddie narrowly escaped freezing to death, he was determined to create a jacket that would resist the harsh elements. thus the quilted puffer jacket encased with down feathers emerged. it’s seen many renditions through the years, but this outerwear staple morphed into a puffer vest along the way. it can be spotted on television shows Succession or seen on Jeff Bezos. it’s been a wardrobe staple of mine for years.
today’s outfit starts with this metallic puffer vest from Talbots with a detachable faux fur collar. the gold metallic color adds a hint of sophistication, as does the collar. the waist is cinched in the back of the vest, and it comes in several colors besides gold metallic. a puffer vest is the perfect third layer when temps are chilly but not downright cold. it looks fantastic popped over a fair isle sweater and blue jeans from Madewell that have been on style repeat this fall. add a pair of suede booties (old, similar here), and you have an outfit that’s not only perfectly preppy but oozes weekend chic. this ootd can go for a walk in the woods or sip coffee at an outdoor cafe. don’t you love choices? a puffer vest is a favorite of mine to throw on when it’s time to take oscar for his evening walk.
there are so many choices when it comes to fair isle sweaters. so i rounded up a few of my favorites. pick one any one because fair isle sweaters are a perennial favorite.
denim | shirt | sweater | puffer vest | similar booties
the detachable faux fur collar and flattering cinching at the back waistband are the details that set this puffer vest apart. it’s also water-resistant and has fleece-lined pockets.
denim | shirt | sweater | puffer vest | similar booties
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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.
Love your outfit. I purchased this vest in red last year and it is perfect for the in between weather here in the N US.
Always enjoy your styling. Love the hairstyle.
it is the goldilocks of outerwear. not too hot and not too cold. it’s middle of the road weather for sure.
You look gorgeous in these colors!
This is also one of my favorite ootd. I’m an outdoors gal and like you mentioned ;walk in the woods or lunch with friends (social distancing of course!)
I have this vest in red and ivory. I love how the fur collar gives it some interest.
Your hair is perfect!
i am so lucky to have the best hair stylist in the world! doesn’t she do a good job?!
as for the puffer vest, i love that the fur collar is detachable. and your right about it giving
the vest interest.
I love this outfit. Living in Iowa, this would get a lot of use. Your hair looks great this length. It is very flattering. I enjoy looking at you outfits each day. Thank you for the blog. Blessings and wellness to you and your family, Beth.
thanks so much for following along from Iowa! i don’t know if you know this fact but I was born
in Iowa City! my mom was an Iowa City girl and I attended college there. Go Hawkeyes!
Oh Beth, I wasn’t going to buy another thing this month …LOL. And then you post the puffer vest. You look so good in it, well truth be told, you look great in everything. I have multiple vests from Talbots and didn’t think I needed this one, until I saw it on you. I clicked on the link and bought it! Thanks also for the great video on how to look classy. Great suggestions. I so look forward to your posts and videos. Have a great Thanksgiving with family. Stay safe and healthy!
it’s hard to refrain from shopping when you spy something as cute as this puffer vest! thanks so much for your sweet comment.
Thank goodness I don’t look good in gold, or I’d buy this darling vest in a second. (And yet, I’m still tempted.) I have a lovely Talbots silver puffer vest from last year and many others in various colors and patterns. Lots of opportunities to wear here in NJ. I Love having all 4 seasons – more fashion opportunities!
four season dressing is the best! i do love fall and winter outfits and you do have lots of opportunities to wear them.