Polished

A few weeks ago, I got together with some of my best gal pals and shopped our hearts out at Mosaic District. I've talked about what I wear holiday shopping, but with the after Christmas sales, I thought I'd share one more post!

When I'm shopping, I (try to) wear things that are cute, functional, and won't get me overheated. I keep the layer game strong so I don't get cold, but wear a lighter layer underneath so I don't get too hot. Of course, a larger tote is necessary to stash all my layers once I hit the heated stores. (The one I'm using is only $48 with code: ITSJULIEN) 

Even though it's been so cold out, I've been obsessed with silk tops as of late. They're perfect for layering. This one is edgy enough to wear out with my friends (can we talk about the leather shoulder details?!), but classy enough to sport into the office as well. Man I love it when that happens.

Top, Dora Landa c/o. Sweater, Soft Joie via Piperlime c/o (sold out) Jeans, Not Your Daughter’s Jeans. Boots, Luxury Rebel. Bracelet, Margarget Elizabeth via Rocksbox. Earrings, Kendra Scott via Rocksbox. Knot, pave, and triangle rings via Hanuel c/o. Bag, Mimi’s the Look (only $48 with code ITSJULIEN) Hair by Hair Cuttery.

Holiday Snaps

I've been pretty quite over here since Christmas, so I wanted to fill you in on a few fun things that happened over the holiday!

Before we left on our 9-hour journey to our Greek family-filled trip to Boston on Christmas Eve, I cooked a fancy little dinner for the hubby and me. We decided to celebrate together early, since we wouldn't be alone for much of the trip ahead. I made this amazing Kale Gratin, North Dakota potatoes (need to share this receipt with you sometime), roasted beets, french bread, and baked goat cheese. We opened presents afterwards and watched Elf to finish off the night.

The next day, we traveled up to Boston via car. Boy is that a drive. Once we arrived, we were greeted with great food, too much wine, and lots of family time. We visited a local winery, brunched at the Wayside Inn, explored the Harvard area, and watched Love Actually. Twice. 

Although I'm terribly sad the holidays are just about over, I'm also a bit relieved. This year I was quite the grinch. Maybe it was about resenting the pressure that's put on all of us to look just right, decorate just right and buy just the right gifts this year. Maybe I was broken hearted that my sister had to work over the holidays instead of being with her big sister, just like old times. Maybe I was upset with the lack of resolution from Serial's last episode. Maybe the winter blues are setting in early. Did anyone else feel this way?

Green Tartan Coat

One of my goals for this winter has been to not let myself be overtaken by the cold. That means no making excuses when friends invite me out for dinner when I'm already home in my sweatpants. That means not wearing aforementioned sweatpants out in public (unless dressed up like Natalie did here.) That means not getting into a style rut that involves this black coat, while classic, can be a bit boring when worn on repeat. 

Next week I'll be sharing 10 tips on surviving winter, mentally, physically and stylishly. In the meantime, I'll share one of the tips: Buy a few cute coats.

I'm not saying spend a ton. The one I'm wearing from Lookbook Store is under $80. The one I wore in yesterday's post? Under $70. If you're looking for a more classic style, my mom bought me this gorgeous grey one for Christmas for under $200. This might sound totally weird, but having a fun selection of winter coats has really helped keep away the winter blues. 

How do you stay upbeat in winter? I would love to hear your tips below!

On Julien: Classic Green Tartan Coat from Lookbook Store c/o. Tank, Anthom. Cardigan, Soft Joie via Piperlime c/o. Pants, Not Your Daughter's Jeans. Necklace, She's Unique. Ring, Elaine B Jewelry. Boots, Luxury Rebel. Clutch, c/o Bishop Boutique. Lipgloss, Laura Galler in Perked Up Pink.

Warm and Bright

Wrap those presents, bake those cookies, curl that hair, plan those outfits! Christmas week is upon us! I promised another holiday outfit and I'm so excited to share today's! You've seen my cozy choice here and my cool and unconventional pick here, so now I want to share my classic look. 

After a month-long shopping spree (one for Shawn, one for me...one for my sister, and one for Julien...) I've been banned from shopping anymore until the holidays are over (boooo.) In search of something I already had in my closet, I looked back through my blog archives to see if there was something I could add a wintery flair to. I found this outfit post and knew it would be just perfect!

I traded my summery scarf for a sparkly statement necklace from Hanuel and added some more sparkle around the ears, wrist. Then, for good measure, I threw on some more sparkle to my hair with these adorable bobby pins from the babes at Ban.do! To top it off, I added a pretty coat I found at Lookbook Store.  I'm obsessed with the slightly oversized lapel and gorgeous camel color. This winter, I'm all about finding great jackets to stay cozy. This one isn't your overly heavy winter coat, so it's perfect for running around for holiday parties and taking advantage of all those after-Christmas sales. I can't wait to show you the next festive jacket - it'll be on the blog tomorrow!

On Julien: Jacket, Vintage Inspired Camel Coat from Lookbook Store c/o. Dress, LOFT (old.) Shoes, Michael Kors (old.) Necklace, Hanuel. Earrings, bracelet, ring, Hanuel c/o. Bobby pins, Ban.do. Lipgloss, Laura Geller - Perked Up Pink.

Girls Day at Mosaic District

Is there really anything better than grabbing a bunch of your girlfriends and going shopping? No. No there is not.

So that's what Tammy, Natalie and Cheralee and I did last weekend at one of my favorite shopping spots, Mosaic District. Mosaic is fairly new, but already has almost all my favorite shops and restaurants. Check out my favorite spots below!

SHOPS:
Anthom // A gorgeous boutique featuring thoughtfully curated clothing and accessories by under-the-radar designers and independent labels from the USA and around the globe. You've seen me wear outfits from Anthom a lot (like here, here and here.)

Take 5 Boutique // When you walk into Take 5, you know you're on a whole 'nother level of style. With eclectic pieces from all around the globe, it's where DC's most fashionable women shop for luxe basics (think wool and leather skirts and Haute Hippie sweaters) and also one-of-a-kind evening wear. 

South Moon Under // I popped in here to shop for gifts and accidentally found a bunch of super cute items for myself. (#sorrynotsorry) They carry so much awesomeness that you just have to see the store for yourself (also told my hubby I needed this for Christmas or else.) 

Federal // My hubby loved every. single. thing. in this store. If you're a last minute shopper, head here first.

Sophie Blake + Erika Schrieber Pop Up// Two of my favorite local fashion babes collide to bring the DC area a chance to try on their amazing pieces. Think edgy earrings and the coolest crop top in town. 

FOR THE FOODIES:
Ah Love Oil & Vinegar // These olive oils make salads worth eating.

Swirl & Sip // Such a fun place to go in search of a special wine (and treats to go with!) They do wine tastings in store so basically it's the best place that ever existed.

CAVA // Basically the chipotle of Mediterranean food. It's so good you'll never ever want to leave.

Dolcezza // Please do not leave Mosaic without going here for coffee/gelato/croissant. Prepare for instagram-worthy awesomeness to ensue. 

Have you been to Mosaic District? If so, what are your favorite places to visit there? (If you haven't, I highly recommend a visit ASAP. Follow along with all their fun happenings with their calendar of events, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, blog and Pinterest!) Photos above taken at Anthom, Sophie Blake + Erika Schrieber pop up and Take 5 Boutique, respectively.