I interrupt the regularly scheduled 30 for 30 Challenge to bring you an outfit that was pinspired. I enjoy finding new fashion blogs to inspire my own wardrobe, and when I saw this outfit this morning from the lovely Bethany of Perfectly Coutured (a new blog I stumbled upon today), I knew I had to recreate it. It’s so simple yet so stylish. It might be a new favorite.

On an exciting but slightly different note, I got a new fancy camera for Christmas so hopefully the quality of my photos will improve significantly. I also have a tripod so I went a little crazy with the photos this afternoon taking over 40! Since this is technically a lifestyle blog instead of solely a fashion one – my husband will post every now and then on cool DIY projects and recipes – I’m going to try to take more pictures to document our lives! Although, most of our time is consumed with work, school, and the dogs. But hey, we do some fun stuff, too, and you might like reading about that.

My best friend is flying in from Los Angeles today and I’m pretty sure she’s bringing that L.A. weather with her! Because of that, it was a beautiful day. I realize that I talk about the weather on the blog a lot – pretty much every post – but that’s because I dress for comfort and the weather plays a big role in that. This is what I wore to finish up my holiday shopping, hence the flats, and there was a light breeze so I wore the cardigan.

I wasn’t sure if this outfit was blog-worthy but this is my comfy casual look and it’s just as good as any of the others so I went with it.

I saw folks out today wearing shorts and sandals. It was only 65 degrees, which is nice, but definitely not shorts weather for me. And since when did North Carolina become Florida? Personally, it drives me crazy because I like for it to be cold in the winter.

Cardigan: Gap | Top & Necklace: Old Navy | Jeans: Loft | Shoes, Sunglasses & Earrings: Target

Look at how lovely and elegant gold and white are together! Gold/silver/white is my favorite winter color combination so its only natural that I would put it together in an outfit. White pants are still scary for me but I really like them here. After having a really warm couple of days, we’re back to chilly weather; sweater weather if you will! How’s that for fashion blogger cliche?

It’s hard to see in the photos, but this sweater has some sparkle to it. For that reason, it almost feels too dressy to wear to class tonight but I think the white denim provides a nice balance. And this scarf is perfect for fall with its muted colors. Its another piece that reminds me of something an old college professor would wear (much like my elbow-patch blazer),somewhat masculine.

Sweater: Banana Republic | Pants: Old Navy | Shoes: Target | Earrings and Scarf: Target | Bracelet: Old Navy

When I was working 9-5, it was Monday through Friday and my weekends were free. When you’re a grad student, you’re ALWAYS working. This is what I wore to meet my study group on Sunday to work on a project that is due next week. Truthfully, if it wasn’t for that, I would have staying in my pajamas all day. But, It was a beautiful day with the temperature around 70 and very few clouds in the sky. I apologize for the less-than-stellar quality of these photos, but I’m in a different location than usual and have to figure out the best lighting.

I just got these booties this weekend and I am in LOVE; I’ve hardly taken them off my feet!  On the other hand, when I purchased this flowy vest, I wasn’t sure I would get a lot of wears out of it. In fact, I wasn’t even planning on wearing it today until I saw all the wrinkles in my shirt (please don’t judge) and realized I should throw something on over it to cover them up. This vest is a clear winner. I can’t believe I didn’t think of it sooner!

 Top: Target | Vest: Ross | Scarf and Jeans: Old Navy | Booties: Target

What do you normally wear on the weekends?

This entire outfit is from Old Navy | Earrings: Target | Necklace: gift

Today I’m linking up with Bri of Work Clothes, I Suppose for her Third-Thursday Thread series. It’s my first link up so go easy on me! This is my first interpretation of menswear. I think it’s because of the cardigan and loafers. And the button-front under the cardigan. What is it about layering button-fronts and loafers that automatically make you think “menswear”? I guess Chambray also says menswear to me because I think of rugged cowboys/ranch hands when I think of chambray.

I mean, these shoes are adorable! Especially with the gold dot details. I can see why both men and women would want to wear them. Hey, I’m all about freedom of gender expression.

By the way, I’m only slightly embarrassed to realize that this entire outfit is put together of Old Navy pieces. Only slightly.

What do you think of when you think “menswear”?