WIW to launch a client's book

Last year I edited a terrific book of personal essays called A Life in Pieces. The author was a long-time academic in Alberta. The book is deft, witty, surprising, and at times profound. Sadly, my client died of cancer before the official release date. Her husband invited me to read in her stead last night at the launch. 

It was a lovely event, held in a local pub's private back room, with good friends of hers, including another author launching her own book about the female Vikings.   We read, talked, ate and drank, and reminisced. 

It was coolish and raining when I left the house, so in addition to my raincoat, I wore the Dries van Noten linen/cotton tartan pants, oxfords, an ancient cotton knit shell from J. Crew, and a knit military jacket. The other author also wore navy blue, so we were a match! 

Nothing new here, but I felt very comfortable and relaxed in these pieces. It's amazing how one quiet statement piece, like the Dries trousers, can make everything else feel right. 

This post is also published in the youlookfab forum. You can read and reply to it in either place. All replies will appear in both places.

16 Comments

  • Jenny H replied 3 months ago

    Stunning! You look so good.

    What a lovely tribute to your client. I'm so sorry she passed before her book's release.

  • Runcarla replied 3 months ago

    Love this so much!  

  • Karie replied 3 months ago

    Very sorry to hear of your client’s passing.

    You wear those statement pants beautifully, and they work so well with the military jacket.

    I still love my J Crew pieces from years ago. They seem to be classics and have great longevity.

  • MsMaven replied 3 months ago

    You look so well-put-together and at the same time, relaxed. Must have been an emotional evening. Thanks for sharing with us.

  • Angie replied 3 months ago

     What Karie said. 

    Those pants are KILLER, and your best thrifted item, Suz! You look fabulous. Short jackets add a cheeky touch :)

    The plaid is punchy, and the on trend shoes kick it all up a notch! The white soles bookend your silver hair. 

    A cathartic and therapeutic tribute to your client. My condolences. 

  • Suz replied 3 months ago

    Thanks, all. It is so nice to have a wardrobe that functions for unexpected and somewhat unique events like this one. Thanks to Angie and you all! 

  • Jaime replied 3 months ago

    What a bittersweet event - but I am sure her family and friends appreciated it so much. One extraordinary "basic" elevates the whole look. You look fantastic!

  • Helena replied 3 months ago

    Beautiful Suz - on every level x

  • Lisa replied 3 months ago

    Sorry to hear about your client. Those are some fabulous pants and how awesome you thrifted them too. What a find! The shoes and shorter jacket add a modern and fun touch to this outfit . You look lovely!

  • Firecracker (Sharan) replied 3 months ago

    Well done, Suz. Such a great outfit, professional yet relaxed, and yes, it's an accomplishment to have a wardrobe that serves so readily for these unique occasions. It's good you were able to represent your friend and client at the event. I'm sure it meant a lot to her husband and others close to her.

  • Sal replied 3 months ago

    You look wonderful Suz, and perfect for this occasion.  What an honor to speak, although I am sure there were mixed emotions.

    I love the jacket and pants combo.  A lovely quiet statement.

  • Star replied 3 months ago

    You look incredible Suz. Love those pants.

  • Brooklyn replied 3 months ago

    You look terrific Suz. Very chic academia. I’m very sorry about your client. It’s lovely that you were able to launch the book in her honour.

  • RobinF replied 3 months ago

    Aww sounds like a really nice event. Love the outfit.

  • SarahD8 replied 2 months ago

    Just a spot-on look Suz. What a bittersweet event but I'm glad to know about both of these books!

  • Janet replied 2 months ago

    Those pants are everything! I love a piece like that, which can make even the most basic additions pulled together. But also pairs with statement pieces as well! You look perfect for the occasion.

    I’m so sorry about your client’s passing. I’m glad you could read on her behalf. I’m sure you did beautifully.

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