Checkmate
After all my deep dive into color last year, I’m still drawn to the simplicity of black and white. Yes, the contrast is not the most flattering for my coloring, but I invariably feel chic in this combo so it’ll always have a place in my wardrobe. Today’s outfit is as comfy as it is classic which is really important to me these days. It’s also part of Chico’s biggest sale of the year with up to 70% off which makes them an amazing value.
I now own several of these Coolmax turtlenecks and find them the perfect way to stay cozy. The fabric is soft enough to not feel like it’s strangling me and they’re a great backdrop for so many other things. Plus, at $29, you can’t beat the price! I’m wearing a 1 (8-10).
These are the Juliet pants from Chico’s that fit like a dream! They simply pull on so there are no lumps or bumps to show under your sweater. I love the little slit at the bottom of the leg which helps them adjust to whatever shoe, boot, or slipper you wear them with. 
I’m wearing them with my trusty Birdies, which I seem to be wearing constantly! I reach for these so often it makes me wonder what I wore before I bought them. I have my eye on these leopard ones so I don’t wear these out.
For me, pearls of any variety add elegance to an outfit. South Sea, Akoya, Tahitian, Freshwater, cultured, or faux…pearls add a glow you can’t get from other “gems. I love the mixture of burnished gold-tones with this pearl, coin, and filigree charm necklace. When one bracelet will do, three adds more punch so that’s what I did.
A black bag would have been expected so I pulled out this burgundy one that I use each winter. To help balance the black, I added a pop of red lipstick to brighten my face.
Wearing flattering colors may be smart, but I’m not letting that prevent me from wearing the colors I love. The two are not always synonymous. Getting dressed needs to be fun and if we follow too many rules we miss out on the joy we can get from fashion. Expect to see me wearing plenty more black and white, warm and cool colors because if I learned anything about color last year… it was to not pigeonhole myself for the sake of looking my best.
MORE FINDS FROM CHICO’S
Thanks for reading ladies and remember to wear what makes you feel confident, no matter what color it is:)
xox
You convinced me to purchase the pants and I have a question regarding the laundering instructions. It recommends laying flat to dry. Is this what you do or will a clothes dryer be ok
I hang them to dry with a skirt hanger and when dry, pop in the dryer for a few moments to remove wrinkles.
Thank you for the tip
I love this outfit on you. It is so classic and fun. I feel the same way about Birdies. I am coveting those leopard ones as well. What size are you wearing in that turtleneck? I think I need to give that one a try.
I have found black & white houndstooth pants (or a skirt) to be as timeless & versatile as a plain white shirt. I’m especially partial to the black turtleneck, but also pair mine with red, royal blue, Kelly green & sunflower or canary yellows. I love how you style pieces so that you are wearing the clothes, not the other way around. Love your posts. And the pearls! Pearls are so calming!
Thanks Jan!
A really lovely outfit on you. Black and white always seems so chic. I especially love to wear it now that my hair is silver. Great handbag!
Jennifer, this is one of my favorite outfits ever! You look so chic yet comfortable. I love my Birdies, too. The first pair I got were leopard…and I’m worried about wearing them out too.
Mary Ann
Thanks so much, Mary Ann. I finally went ahead and ordered the leopard ones:)
Love that black and white outfit. I too, have a closet full of black and white choices.
Not the best colors for me, but I think I look good. 🤣
And that’s what counts
This outfit from Chico’s looks fabulous on you – you are right, black and white are classic! Personally, I have given up on Chico’s because of their sizing and fit. At 5’10, the fit is never exactly “right” on me. Most of the shirts/tops are shorter than I prefer, usually hitting me across the tummy in a place that at my age (62), I am not comfortable with. Also the pants are never long enough…. Lovely pieces, just not for this tall gal!
All black is my go to outfit, second only to black & white. It is easy to look elegant in those two combinations. Add some gold jewelry and you’re done! I love houndstooth! And, you can’t go wrong with a touch of red.
I was listening to YouTube videos on what’s trending in fashion for 2021. One of those was pearls. I love the updated look on a pearl necklace. It’s being combined with gold and more of a statement. Your necklace is spot on!
Does your lipstick match your purse? Brilliant!
I think it does:)
Fantastic outfit and I love the bag! Love the prices too, thanks Jennifer.Happy new Year:)
Happy New Year, Francesca
I agree with Jan. Too many colors can look a bit juvenile. I lean towards the classic look as you are in today’s post.
So classic and sophisticated. The look is beautiful on you and timeless. Although I am retired and not buying too many new clothes right now with this virus going crazy here in Florida, we are staying in for right now. You are the perfect model for us to follow , your sense of style is exceptional
Question about patterns. Does the vertical ribbing of the turtleneck clash with the checkered pattern of the pants? I thought a ribbed top should only be worn with smooth solid colors for the rest of the outfit. Old rule?
On another note, I just purchased my first Birdies! I ordered the black velvet and I can’t wait to get them.
Happy New Year! I love reading your journey through fashion and seeing the various outfits on you as well as the sound advice you give. 😘