Blue on Blue with a Southwest Flair

My mother-in-law lives in Albuquerque, NM, and she has gifted me with some lovely, handmade Native American jewelry, as you will see. After the following pics were taken by Beezy, I realized that I looked a bit like the American Girl doll Saige, whose story is set in Albuquerque! My mother-in-law gave this doll to Beezy for Christmas, along with two books. I have been reading the first one to her, and I think you will agree that this is where my inspiration came from!

sweater, Ann Taylor, Ebay

jeans, Gap 1969 Always Skinny

western style belt, Peebles

leather boots, Ebay

"Eye of Dragon" artwork in 2nd pic, Wayne Coryell

I have been living in these Gap skinny jeans as much a possible. They are super comfortable and flattering, and the quality is great. I have a black pair on their way! Though a girly-girl, I tend to favor something a bit rugged when it comes to boots. This water repellent, oil tanned pair that I've had for several years fit the bill and keep my feet warm and dry in this arctic weather we've been having. I wore this outfit for a visit with a friend I hadn't seen in awhile, who I hosted in my home.

Winter Wardrobe Update

To get back to the cultivation of the essential wardrobe, how is your daily style working now that we are in the heart of winter? I eventually brought the remainder of my cold weather clothes down from the attic and mercilessly sorted through each piece, sending many more items to the charity thrift store. I can honestly stay that I'm pleased with what's in my dresser and closet. I also have an antique cupboard with shelves inside in which I store pajamas, long underwear, and work out/dance class clothes. I went through the cupboard this week and now need to make another trip to give away what no longer fits well on my body or in my life, or is simply past its prime. I still had dance clothes from 2002!!

With all I have sent on its way, I was surprised to find that my closet and dresser are still completely full. Of course, I have purchased and been given additional items, and naturally winter clothing is bulkier than summer and takes up more space. I am keeping a close eye on those items I gravitate toward most often, and I have no doubt that by the end of winter there will be a few more pieces that I will bid farewell.

One of my favorite Christmas gifts are fringed Minnetonka moccasins (#532). We typically have a no-shoes-in-the-house rule, but the hardwood floors are too cold for just socks, and these moccasins are so much more comfortable and cuter than wearing slippers. Some days they never leave my feet!

Slowly but surely, it's all coming together. When the sun doesn't shine and there hasn't been any fresh snow for awhile, it's easy to feel as blah and grey as it appears outside. Looking forward to getting dressed can be just the inspiration you need to add a touch of color to your days and put a little spring in your step! I'm already thinking about rain boots...