It seems as though there are certain small details in fashion that tend to get recycled and reworked and feel as though they’ve been around forever.  Elbow patches fall into that category for me.  When a dear friend was talking about her hunt for the perfect sweater with patches I confidently proclaimed that I had a solution for her.  All you need to get started is a button down sweater, crew neck sweater, or blazer.  There are a variety of materials that can be used to create the elbow patches such as leather, suede, or tweed.  I used a sewing machine to secure the patches on the elbow, although you can sew it by hand using this guide or this type of stitch.  I love the way it turned out and I’m already envisioning other items in my closet that could benefit from this little upgrade.

Club Monaco Blouse, Smythe Blazer, Paige Premium Denim, Burberry Boots, Agnelle Gloves, Miu Miu Handbag, Michael Kors Watch, Swarovski Necklace, La Vie Parisienne Earrings

We received a huge downfall of snow these last couple of days, and instead of getting upset about the weather, I feel pretty excited about it.  When I was living in Vancouver I missed this sort of weather.  I missed building snowmen and going tobogganing, curling up inside by the fire while watching the snowflakes fall.  While it does make it harder to shoot outdoors, I think I’m doing a fabulous job of taking it in stride stripes.

 

I’m having a hard time letting go of the fabulous desserts that I experienced in France.  I decided to put my baking skills to the test when I came across a recipe for classic French meringues in this cookbook.  They came out like a dream, hard outer shell with a deliciously chewy inside.  I still can’t get over how just three ingredients can deliver such delicate little treats.  It was much less daunting and difficult than I had built it up in my head, and it’s definitely safe to say that I will be making a holiday version of these treats very soon.

 

Equipment Blouse, Alice + Olivia Skirt, Spanx Tights, Yves Saint Laurent Pumps, Yves Saint Laurent Wallet, Tiffany Necklace, Hermes Watch, Swarovski Bracelet, Leah Alexandra Bracelet

There’s something about a great pleated skirt that gets me every time.  Add in the fact that this particular one is made of leather and you can imagine my excitement about the combination.  It was almost too much when I discovered it came in navy, which is definitely my neutral of choice this winter.  Navy is the convenience of black with the softness of grey and a hint of color.  I find it so flattering against the skin and it serves as a fabulous back drop for a dramatic accessory, like a a bright purple pump.

Rag & Bone Jacket, Club Monaco Blouse, Rag & Bone Jeans (similar here), Rag & Bone Booties, Chloe Handbag (similar here), Michael Kors Watch, Chan Luu Bracelet, Swarovski Earrings

It was an absolutely beautiful day out yesterday, the kind that feels more like spring than fall.  It gave me a chance to wear something that felt much too autumn for the winter weather we’ve been having lately.  This jacket was my favorite find from New York last fall and I love its versatility.  You can throw it over a casual outfit of jeans and a tee, but due to its shape and detailing, it also looks incredible over a little black dress.  If only everything in life were this flexible.

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