Fragments of Fall, indeed

I had to laugh at myself, getting ready for this event yesterday. It was something between a "gallery opening" and a lecture, held in our country's oldest synagogue. (Friends were part of the study group that responded to a rabbi's lecture series with works of art in different genres/ forms.) But, ahem, I didn't exactly show April's New York sophistication and aplomb and drop dead killer style.

Sigh. Instead I reverted to blue and white type, which made me think of Kkard's recent post about how consistent her style has been over the years. I guess I am similar in that way. I felt similarly preppy yesterday, too, and wondered at how that translates into this west coast setting. 

But honestly, it was hard to know what to wear. I knew the event was not going to be dressy. (Nor was it -- the rabbi was in jeans and tee.) The temperature was still summer hot (daytime exhibition and no AC). I tried on and discarded a bunch of options before deciding just to be comfortable and neat and not worry too much about it. 

So here's what I wore, my "fragment of fall" being the transitional shoe, the loafer that I kept from the NAS. And the sweater thrown over my shoulder (and then stuffed in my bag, unneeded.) 

Loafers are always a near impossibility for me. And I only walked about six blocks and stood for a while. But so far, they pass the test!! Mind you, I did not wear socks. If I tried to walk further, I'd have blisters, for sure (and yes, I did use bodyglide). And if I wear socks, they will likely flip flop off my feet. But for this occasion, they worked and felt like a fun update of my usual jeans and shirt. 

I really like these super baggy Old Navy crops. They are fun to wear. Baggier on me than on the model in my regular size. 

Jeans: ON, this year.
Shirt: J. Crew from....I dunno, maybe 2012? 
Sweater: Diane von Furstenburg, consignment
Loafers: Franco Sarto from this year's NAS

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33 Comments

  • Zaeobi replied 1 year ago

    You look perfectly polished! I like how the loafers echo the jumper's print & your smartwatch - I imagine it would look nice with a patterned belt too? The jeans look modern & fresh in that silhouette on you!

    Here's hoping the loafers continue to work for you! Though you're braver than I am - I couldn't wear patent leather, a belt & denim under no AC in indoor heat :P The event itself sounds interesting though - I wouldn't know what to wear for it either!

  • LJP replied 1 year ago

    A really nice look on you, Suz, and the fit of the jeans is a fun change.  

  • Mirjana replied 1 year ago

    Beautiful outfit Suz as usual, very inspiring combination. The white jeans and blue and cardigan and chunky loafers so modern . I adore your loafers.

  • Roberta replied 1 year ago

    So cute! The pictures really dress up the shirt!

  • kellygirl replied 1 year ago

    How fab! This is polished and so pretty. White and blue are so refreshing. You look perfect!

  • Runcarla replied 1 year ago

    So fresh looking! Sounds like an interesting event :-)

  • slim cat replied 1 year ago

    Great look - love the white jeans in relaxed style! Your blue and white combo is perfect for event!

  • JAileen replied 1 year ago

    Excellent outfit!  Blue and white is your signature.  I find it so hard to dress for in between weather.  But you really nailed it, acknowledging the weather despite the change of season.  



  • Angie replied 1 year ago

    #2 is KILLER

    The cardigan draped around your shoulders brings it all together with the new loafers (which I'm thrilled are working so far!) 

    East Coast Prep on the West Coast. Why not! Loving the white baggy pants. 

  • kkards replied 1 year ago

    Lol the classics are the classics for a reason!  And you’ve worn them so well here.  The shiny loafers, the Tux shirt…both elevated basics and the proportions that are just spot on 

  • Helena replied 1 year ago

    Flawless!

  • Dee replied 1 year ago

    Oh I think you hit just the right note there with your wardrobe choice. Love the look of those baggier white jeans, looks fresh and comfortable. Glad the loafers seem to be working for you, they are a nice nod to fall.

  • CarolS replied 1 year ago

    You look marvellous as always. I really like those jeans on you. Can relate to the struggle with loafers and I'm glad you're able to make these work reasonably well.

  • Firecracker (Sharan) replied 1 year ago

    You can wear this cool version of prep really well. Great outfit! The baggy jeans are super, and they give the outfit a bit of attitude that I like.

  • rachylou replied 1 year ago

    Very pretty! The tassel loafers are awesome!

  • Karie replied 1 year ago

    You had me at Old Navy and J Crew! Two retailers whose clothes I like and they always seem to fit well. The white and blue combo looks very flattering on you, and it sounds like you were perfectly dressed for the event.

  • bella replied 1 year ago

    Oh, I like the new loafers, they really make this outfit for me. I'm sorry to hear that they are not more comfortable. I also like #1 a bit better than #2 because it looks a little less preppy and a bit more unexpected - and this is coming from someone who loves preppy! 

  • Janet replied 1 year ago

    Fellow blue-and-white lover here! Love it. I really like that easy fit on the jeans too.

    Loafers are near impossible for me too. Franco Sarto does seem to cut a last that works better than most, but I have that same heel problem so I sympathize.

  • Laurie replied 1 year ago

    An effortless look like this sometimes takes so dang much effort!

    You look fab, Suz!

  • Sloper replied 1 year ago

    Very classic and classy!  Adding the print sweater makes it extra special.

  • Irina replied 1 year ago

    Very nice, fresh, summery and classic. 

  • Jenn replied 1 year ago

    I think there's something to be said for being who you are and not necessarily trying to conform to the environmental norm.  I think at an East Coast preppy event, I'd probably still look like laid-back West Coaster! You look remarkably crisp for a hot day!

  • Suz replied 1 year ago

    Thanks for the reassurance and kind words, all. I feel as if my style needs a bit of a refresh but I am also loathe do edit out things that are still in good condition or buy too much new stuff apart from essentials, being mindful of the cost to the environment of wardrobe churn. I'll do a post on that soon, I think. 

  • Jaime replied 1 year ago

    Exciting news about the loafers Suz! I wonder if there is a kind of grippy sock that would work with them. Given the casual vibe of the event I think you look just right. Let's call if smart casual rather than preppy and see if that changes how you feel :) .

  • Brooklyn replied 1 year ago

    Looks good! And what Angie said.

  • Bijou replied 1 year ago

    Suz, you look beautiful. Your comments resonate with me as I have been pondering whether I have 'a signature personal style vs being in a style rut'! I can assure you, you look marvellous. However, if you don't feel marvellous, then perhaps changing something up will bring back that feeling. 

    I have been really influenced by how Brooklyn adopts style monikers like "Dark Romance" and "Byzantine" to help steer her purchases in a certain direction, adding to her already enviable signature style rather than a complete change.

    For me, as crazy as this sounds, I have decided that my theme for Summer 2022/23 will be "Studio 54" with a focus on pieces that evoke a sense of fun, glitz and glamour. 

  • Sal replied 1 year ago

    You always suit shirts so well Suz - and this signature Suz look is fashionable and stylish.

    Transitions between seasons can be frustrating - I want to wear spring summer clothes but the weather is getting in the way....I do have pieces for transitional weather but I am struggling a bit right now...

  • Staysfit replied 1 year ago

    Perfect look as far as I can tell.  There’s nothing wrong with sticking to what works for you and owning it.  It becomes your brand.  

  • lynn replied 1 year ago

    Adorable as always!  I like #1 a lot and I LOVE #2!

  • merwoman replied 1 year ago

    Now there’s a winning formula! What a breath of fresh air you are Suz!
    Those shoes are fab, and glad you have been able to make them work for you.

  • lyn67 replied 1 year ago

    This is where visuals are so invaluble and am so happy you posted the second picture as well.  The animal sweater is the perfect piece to make the bond between the  trendy chunky black patent loafers (which I love!)  and the more summery outfit itself. Otherwise all your pieces look  impecable and crisp so think that's adding up to  project energy, approachability and more fabness, of course!!! 

  • Jonesy replied 1 year ago

    You look fresh, chic, and fab in white and blue stripes, so why change such a perfect formula :)? I love the loafers--yay for no blisters thus far! They seem like they will work really well for fall too.

  • SarahD8 replied 1 year ago

    I think this is a great look! And, there is something about this look that seems very appropriate for the event you describe- polished and respectful but not too attention grabbing.

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