Veteran’s Day + Election Thoughts

I’d like to take a moment to thank all the men and women who have fought tirelessly for this country. I never had enough courage to join the military, so I have an endless amount of respect and gratitude for everything you’ve done to keep this country afloat. (Be sure to check out my post last year on ways you can thank a vet!)

I’m grateful for the freedoms we all are able to enjoy - and by “we all,” I mean every muslim, Christian, black, hispanic, disabled, women and man - that make up this country. Didn’t our forefathers intend for this country to be a great place to live for everyone? 

There has been a great divide that we can’t ignore any longer. And today it feels more divided than ever before. This election did a number on me - unlike any other before it. And I’d like to take a few stands and make a few promises to you today.

While we have the freedom of speech, I will stand against anyone who berades, abuses verbally or ignorantly tells another human being to ‘go back to where they came from.’ It will not be allowed in my presence. I am not ok with hate speech in any way, shape or form. I don’t care if it is your right. That does not make it all right. My grandfather, an immigrant from Greece, fought for our country and I will fight too. Not with arms, but with words. Loved this piece by Mashable on what to do if you hear hate speech happening. 

I also want you to know that over the years, I’ve become quite the hippie. Not in what I wear, although I do love a good bell sleeve, but within my heart. If you need a hug, I’m here. If you feel like mourning, I will do so with you. I will not only pray for you, but treat you as Jesus treated others - and fight for the forgotten, as He did. I won’t tell you how to feel or not to feel. Don’t we each deserve that at the very least? Whether you agree or not, we all have the right to feel the way we want. Can’t we all just have a bit of compassion to both sides of the aisle?

Anyway - that’s where I am…let’s all love each other a bit deeper this weekend...take time to listen, and take time be kind to others.

Wearing Target skirt (similar), Take 5 Boutique sweater, Ukies flats c/o, Odeme scarf and nail polish in Odeon c/o, Fossil Q smartwatch c/o, Miu Miu sunnies, Sophie Blake bracelet, Cuyana tote.

The Navy Shirtdress from Banana Republic

Ah, Fall in the District. One day it’s 80 degrees and the next you’re waking up to frost on your car. And sometimes? That’s in the same day. Guys have it easy - regardless of the weather, they’re usually donning slacks and a dress shirt/suit and tie. But girls? We have skirts or trousers, blouses or sweaters, shift dresses or shirt dresses, tights or no tights, heels or flats, light coat or heavy coat…the options go on.

My solution for the madness? A pretty navy silk shirtdress with a classic wool coat. This particular dress is from Banana Republic and it was MOST DEFINITELY love at first sight. I actually did a little dance in my dressing room when I tried it on because it was *that* perfect. I’m very into styles that transition into seasons and this can totally be worn year-round.

I've said this before and I'll say it again - I want to have my cake and eat it too. Not everyone can have an apartment-sized walk-in closet (looking at you, Rachel Parcell!) and I want to find things I know I'll wear again and again. Come winter, I’ll probably be wearing this with tights, boots and a turtleneck underneath. But for now, it works ideally just as-is for both those 80 degree afternoons as well as those 40 degree mornings. 

I paired the dress with a classic pair of pumps with a fun fabric twist, also from Banana Republic. These are blush calf hair - another love at first sight moment. Best of all? They’re actually comfortable (they don't call it the 12 Hour Madison for nothing!) At about 3.5 inches, the heel is just the right size that it flatters your leg but doesn’t make it impossible to walk. (A must-have in my book!)

Lastly - THIS COAT. I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect wool coat and this one from Cuyana is beyond wonderful. It’s warmer than my other wool coats and has the most gorgeous lapel in the history of lapels. It’s quickly become my most favorite coat I’ve ever owned. It may be steep, but you can't really put a price on being cozy and warm.

How do you dress when the weather’s a hot/cold mess? Please share your tips below because me and my immune system are in struggle city over here. ;)

Wearing: Banana Republic navy shirtdress (love this similar style!) and blush calf hair pumps c/o, Cuyana navy wool coat (the cropped version is so cute too!), Kicheko Goods earrings and bracelet, Merjuri rings, Mansur Gavriel bag, Static Nails c/o. 

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