When I am not power clashing colors, I am power clashing patterns. This is one of my superior combinations yet.
the J.Crew houndstooth skirt
Like the corduroy skirt from Poppy Aflame, I bought this houndstooth tweed skirt from J.Crew circa fall 2016. It has the same tab back brass snap closure as the corduroy version and was also available in the tall size range. I have worn this skirt several times on the blog and even more times IRL. This wool skirt is a workhorse and that is exactly why I love a good quality clothing in a classic wardrobe aesthetic. While this skirt is long gone, I uncovered a wool / poly version via the Factory brand.
I am wearing this skirt in a size 12 tall.
the La Vie Style House coat
I love the contrast of the small scale houndstooth tweed mini skirt against the large scale buffalo check La Vie Style House coat. The smaller plaid pattern lining the coat is an instant upgrade. The wool is sure to keep me warm through the frigid Central Asia winter. There is not a zip, button, snap, toggle, or any other kind of closure and the sleeves are rather roomy; both qualities facilitate wearing a chunky wool sweater beneath the coat. (Big plans for that!)
This coat is a one size fits all style. I don’t see this style working on someone super skinny or petite due to the scale and the length of the coat. But it is perfect for this 6′-2″ tall giraffe!
the J.Crew lucite block heels
Can we talk about the shoes? This pair and I go back to 2016 but since they are suede, I never wear them when it rains. They are so good and so classic that the brand rereleased them with an updated croc stamped heel but also in an outlet version.
I love the version I have for the burgundy lucite heel. (Who would have ever thought that I would don a pair of shoes with lucite?) Since I procured them over six years ago, I have worn them several times a month during autumn and into winter and even did so throughout the majority of my pregnancy, which makes these shoes an official closet staple.


















sweater: Long Tall Sally • skirt: J.Crew (similar here) • shoes: J.Crew (similar here) • coat: La Vie Style House • sunglasses: Krewe (similar here) • handbag: Kate Spade • earrings: J.Crew • bracelet: J.Crew • signet ring: Kendra Scott • diamond band: Kendra Scott • pointed ring: Kendra Scott • watch: Cartier (also here)