TBMD

The color inspiration for today's outfit comes from the gorgeous Pierrepont Hicks Gadwall Parka in navy, white/gray stripes, and burnt orange. After looking at these photos, there are a couple things I'd change for next time. I would've much preferred a top in a shade closer to burnt orange rather than the tomato red. Also, I think a pair of light blue skinny jeans would've suited the casual vibe of the outfit better than black jeans. Both items have now been mentally wish-listed!

2014 has only begun and I'm already at a loss for an accompanying outfit description. Nevertheless, a work appropriate outfit to start off a new work week. Have a good one!

I wanted to wear the scarf messily wrapped around my neck, but the jersey material wasn't the best choice. The material is too slinky, so I couldn't maintain the structured look that I envisioned in my head. I went with the next best thing, and just draped the scarf with the ends hanging. I wasn't looking for any extra warmth from the scarf, but for added color interest? Sure!

I first heard of Everlane from either Caroline or Kimmie (or maybe both). I think they were talking about tees at the time, but since I wasn't in the market for one, I filed the name away to check out later. When I eventually got around to window browse, I ended up really liking their items. They offer closet basics such as tees, sweaters, and blouses in clean, simple lines -- reminds me of Vince at a lower price point.

My uniform as of late has been loose tops with form-fitting bottoms, so I decided to give their silk blouse a try. It also helps that I've discovered a $2/item dry cleaners nearby so my lazy self no longer dreads washing items by hand. I chose the nude color, which is a pretty peachy-pink in person. Sheerness is not an issue with this color, but may be with a lighter color like white. Regardless, I wear a nude cami underneath. I don't own many 100% silk items in my closet, so the slight sheen of the fabric took a little getting used to (not visible in photos, more apparent in person). The fabric feels substantial so hopefully it can withstand random snags. But most of all, I love the way it drapes.

The cut of the blouse is straight through the torso, so it already has the loose-fitting look I was looking for. When deciding on sizing, I stumbled across a forum thread where one person shared that Everlane blouses fit similar to Equipment Brett blouses and are much slimmer than Equipment Signature blouses. Can anyone who's familiar with both share their thoughts?

Everlane silk blouse measurements:
- in XS (by me): 15.25" shoulder-to-shoulder / 27.5" length / 23.13" sleeve length
- in XS (from thread): 15.13" shoulder-to-shoulder
- in S (from thread): 15.63" shoulder-to-shoulder

Also see the silk blouse on Kileen, Elle, and Kelly.

Everlane offers free shipping and free returns on your first order, which is great if you're unsure of sizing or just want to try out their items. I had actually placed an order with a typo in my shipping address, so I quickly canceled my order. When I resubmitted my order, the system didn't reapply the first time free shipping offer, but an email to customer service rectified that. I've also read through other forum threads that customer service is prompt and helpful with sizing inquiries.

The last of my Black Friday purchase is this black sleeveless vest. I've loved how Elle wore both her black and white theory vests and was seriously contemplating the same purchase... until I saw Express' version for a fraction of the price. I learned my lesson with my last vest purchase (now donated) because the fabric was too stiff to drape nicely. For reference, I'm wearing a size 0 in the Express vest, but could've probably went with a 00 as well.

Happy 2014, everyone!

I'm not sure what's up with my smirk below, so please excuse that. Unfortunately this was the best photo of the batch with the vest buttoned.