How many ways can one really accessorize a black sweater and a leopard skirt? Apparently 3 and counting (see prior looks: one, two)! I know, I really need to venture out of this combo. Every time I think about doing so, I'm reminded that classics are classics for a reason.

Instead I decided to have some fun with the faux fur scarf, beauty pageant style.

On second thought, I'm better off leaving that for the beauty queens.

A few years ago, Burberry released these black equestrian rain boots that my preppy heart fell in love with. I wasn't able to track down any in my size, so simply resolved to keep my eyes peeled for dupes. When I came across the Banana Republic version, I couldn't help but be excited that my search could potentially be coming to an end! I say "potentially" because I'm picky about the fit of rain boots. Now that I've experienced the perfect fit with Hunter Tour rain boots, I just can't go back to shorter and wider boots.

The BR boots turned out to be perfect in person. They are TTS, the same height as my Hunter Tours, and are snug against my small calves -- I'm wearing my usual tall boot socks over jeans and there is not much of a gap. The buckles are what initially sold me on the boots, but I have to say they are a bit disappointing in person. The straps have a tendency to uncross, whereas I'd prefer if they remain criss-crossed. I've yet to explore solutions, but have a couple in mind that I plan to try (double sided tape, tighten the buckle), so fingers crossed on that front.

This has been my go-to weekend outfit for the last 8 consecutive weeks (no lie, DH can attest to this). It's perfect for all the times we go out to eat at restaurants where the grease just embeds into your pores. I'm looking at you, Vietnamese pho (edit: phodor!), Chinese beef stew, Korean soondubu -- all of which I love too much to give up, so instead fashion is sacrificed in the process. I used to wear a holey sweatshirt (literally multiple holes at almost every seam) and baggy jeans, so this sportier outfit is a slight upgrade. It's so easy to just toss every item into the wash and not have to think about dry cleaning.

I imagine if I were to ever visit somewhere cold and rainy (Scotland?), this is what I would look like. Colorful (and packable) jacket amidst the dreary backdrop? Cozy scarf? Rain boots? Oversized and lightweight bag? Lots of comfortable neutrals? Checkkkkkk!