Monday Musings – Accessories

Happy Monday ladies. This trip has ended up being much longer than I anticipated. Even with the clothes my husband brought up, I’m struggling with a tiny, unorganized wardrobe compared to what’s at home. A limited wardrobe is normal when we travel but this change of seasons is throwing me for a loop. I wish I’d packed a couple more scarves because they’re real game-changers for any outfit. Plus, with this chill in the air, they’re the most welcome accessory to put on.

So here are a few things I’m musing about this week-

Scarves

I love the magic that an artfully placed scarf can add to an outfit. Large, small, and everything in-between, I’ve been collecting them for years. Many of mine have wonderful memories attached to them so when I lost a favorite one last summer, I was crushed.

Related –Ā Priceless Memories Our Accessories Hold

Jennifer Connolly of A Well Styled Life wearing pink scarf to brighten gray outfit

I’m not a big fan of wearing a pattern in my garments but I really love them in a scarf. Once a scarf is wrapped or draped on you, the pattern is usually hard to discern anyway so my advice is to go for the colors you love. Since I keep scarves forever… or until I lose them… I’m willing to spend investment dollars on one I adore.sabina savage scarf

I’ve fallen hook line and sinker for a Sabina Savage wool/silk scarf that is sold out so I’m waiting, not so patiently for it to restock. It’s in the soft and muted colors I’m seeing in the landscape…out my window these days.

wool and silk scarf
CANGUU MERINO WOOL AND SILK SCARF

The colors and feeling of this above pattern speak to my desire to cozy up and read a great travel book. It almost reminds me of a Gray Malin photograph. Then when I can travel again, it’ll be great in my carry-on. I’m sort of obsessed with the colors of this one too. BTW- the merchandiser who decided it was clever to photograph the above scarf, all scrunched up is out of their mind:)

wool silk scarf
ETRO SCARF more than 50% off

Are you a scarf lover? Please share your favorite brands.

Cell Phone Case

I looked at my cell phone the other day and decided it was really ugly. The phone itself is like any other iPhone but the case on mine is blah. It protects my phone from shattering when I repeatedly drop it, but it’s also uglier than it needs. Since I see and touch it multiple times a day I want it to not offend my style so I had a look around for a new one.

ELEPHANT PHONE CASE on sale

Cell phone cases have become works of art in many ways. I spent hours looking at designs yesterday and finally ordered this one. It’s pretty obvious I’m anxious to travel again.

When’s the last time you updated your cell phone case?

Thanks for reading ladies and remember to wear what makes you feel confident.

 

 

 

32 Comments

  1. I love scarves and find they are a chic accessory for any outfit. I have a few Hermes and Chanel scarves (including one of each bought from the respective flagships in Paris). But I’ve also been successful in getting lovely designer scarves from The Real Real – for a fraction of the price. And, like another reader, I love buying scarves at museum gift shops (most of which are online too!).

    1. I keep forgetting to check Real Real, and they are a wonderful resource!

  2. Love, love, love scarves! They’re so helpful in coordinating an outfit and are so chic. My friend in Victoria took me to Value Village right by downtown as she knew I enjoyed scarves as much as she does. They have a whole wall with scarves hanging by color. I found several I liked. We took them home, hand washed and hung them up to dry. They came out good as new. I also usually look for scarves as souvenirs when traveling. They bring back such happy memories when I wear them.

  3. That Sabina Savage scarf is to die for. I can’t wait to see how you style it! I need a new cell phone case thank you for reminding me!!

  4. KathleenO says:

    Hi, my name is Kathleen and I have a scarf problem….. I am hooked. the Hare scarf is gorgeous! I would also add the 3 cats / Trinity scarf to my collection. What a delightful find. I will revisit and use the 10% discount on a next visit no doubt. Love your blog, too!

  5. Hi Jennifer,
    I just bought myself a loopy cell phone cover. It was the best purchase! My adult daughter told me she and her friends all have them and they are great. It is so much easier to have that little outside loop to hold on to when taking pictures, holding your phone while walking or just grabbing your phone out of your purse. I highly recommend it, bought the white marble and black/white check. There are lots of fun designs!

  6. I wear my large scarves in Susan Street way, under my jacket. Comes in handy if you pull jacket off in restaurant to keep shoulders or neck warm. Mine are 35″ square in pure silk because it drapes so well. I love your pink and rabbit scarves.
    I miss small phones that fit in my watch pocket of my jeans,

  7. I never had a huge scarf collection, but since I have been replacing the burned ones, I find Poshmark and Esty great places to look. I have found some identical replacements for lost ones and some new ones I like a lot. (A pre-owned scarf is not the same as pre-owned underwear!)

  8. Maybe you could a segment on how to wear scarves and what size is best for outfits. I have a problem tying them or just making them look great!

  9. I spent 5 years in Thailand and collected a number of Jim Thompson scarves, which I wear frequently except in the summer. Ironically, I didn’t wear them at all in steamy Bangkok.

  10. Doxylover says:

    Hi Jennifer!
    I was just telling my husband I need to write a story about each of my scarves as they all have memories attached. I have a large number arranged on non slip hangers by color. Most were purchased as souvenirs of trips – at museums or little shops- some were gifts made for me. They add so much to an outfit and take up such little space when traveling. šŸ˜„. For my iPhone cases I have a special photo or two made into a case – Snapfish does a great job. Always makes me smile to see a photo of my son and doxies on the back of my phone. Love the beautiful scarves on your post. Take care! ā¤ļø

  11. Scarves are my thing! I have over a hundred collected over the years including vintage. My last scarf was from Luisa Cerano but also love Annette Gortz, Suzi Roher, (Toronto online) , Alexander McQueen, Burberry … Always on the lookout but buy only when I have an emotional response. Not just utilitarian with me I have to LOVE it!

  12. Yes, the mornings have been cool but it is suppose to warm up tomorrow. You might find some pretty scarves at a consignment shop to at least hold you over till you return home.

    I have a huge scarf collection that I wear in the winter. Iā€™m not one to tie a pretty silk scarf around my neck to add colour or design. But come colder weather, I have my pick of scarves. I hang them on hangers to make it easier to see at a glance.

    I need a new phone case myself. My fushia one is looking a little dirty around the edges. There are so many pretty designs to be had now. We look at our phones all day so we should see pretty.

  13. Tammy Ply says:

    I am new to this particular style blog, and I am liking what I’ve seen so far. Forgive me if this topic has been covered in a previous post, but I would love to see various ways of styling differently-shaped scarves.

  14. What if you are large busted?

    1. Experiment with different weights and sizes of scarves. Maybe a long, rectangle scarf in silk or a thin wool will look better for you. I usually have the knots below or above the bust-line. Try knotting a long rectangle at your shoulder and let one end fall forward and one end backward. There is a scarf style for everyone. Also remember to not clutter up your chest with too many accessories. a simple necklace and a scarf is plenty. Keep statement jewelry for times you don’t wear a scarf.

  15. I bought a scarf years ago in a train station shop in France and every time I wear it I get compliments. It’s nothing really fancy or artistic but it’s open weaved, has colors from black to greens to blues and seems to go with just about everything I own, dressy or casual. I actually saw another woman wearing the same scarf in my area and had to ask where she bought it. She too found it at a train station shop in France! How coincidental was that!! After wearing it all of these years it’s starting to look a bit frayed so it will soon be retired– I know it will be a sad day….

  16. Hi Jennifer… Because I feel the cold I love scarves but I bought a merino wool cami from MEC and just pulled it out. I wear them all winter … black or cream white, cannot see them under my clothes but they keep me warm.
    Love your posts and the fact you are visiting our beautiful Province.

  17. I absolutely love scarves and have collected them from many travels. Like you I do not wear prints or patterns in my clothes but find the added colors or textures from a scarf are just enough to bring an outfit together and add that pizazz. Always on the lookout at Nordstrom Rack & TJMaxx for bargains and have found many made in Italy and France pure silk etc.

  18. Francesca B. says:

    I love scarves and have found some good ones on Ebay and in the Sundance Catalog. I have my eye on one from my favorite store Hobbs (from England) and I am waiting for the sale for that. Lovely threads Jennifer thanks for posting.

  19. I collect scarves everywhere but never pay more than about $25 for one. Nordstromā€™s Rack, TJMaxx, small boutiques and other stores always have a nice selection. I buy whatever catches my eye and I love seasonal colors and prints. Large shawl types are good for warmth when flying. I have also knitted many warm wool scarves. A fun hobby!

  20. I agree that a scarf can pull an outfit together much faster than any other accessory plus adding that extra warmth and color close to your face. Several of my favorites have come from shops selling gently used, vintage clothing and accessories. I have never felt that they were an investment piece but rather a fun addition to my wardrobe. I have never gone ā€œscarf shoppingā€ but just found some surprise bargains when traveling or just browsing.
    Actually, Iā€™ve never given that much thought to a phone case. I do think the one you featured with the slip pocket would be very functional. I could slip a card or cash there for some quick trips.
    Happy fall everyone!

  21. That hare scarf is so beautiful I am not sure I would wear it, rather frame it or hang it to enjoy all the time. I have far too many scarves, but love them all and have fun picking one out to wear. After seeing the scarf wall in the Style Crone’s home, I wish I had a spare wall and room to display them. I just wanted to mention, if you are needing some for warmth and style, I find some amazing ones in thrift and consignment stores as well. I hear there are some great ones in Vancouver/Victoria area. A gentle wash and pressing and many look brand new. It is so hard to pack for weather that is constantly changing.

  22. As you are now in Canada, check out Lovespurelight scarves. They are magnificent works of art done by a Calgary artist. Truly investment pieces. You can order them on line from various retail outlets including Shepherds fashions in Ottawa where there is a large selection.
    Enjoy the rest of your time in BC.

  23. Like you Jennifer, I love scarves. During the 1990s, Instarted collecting Hermes scarves, but a couple of years ago felt they looked chicer on younger women, so I sold them. I do regret however, selling the red and black Pampas de argentina scarf (I think that was its name). The bunny scarf above is unique with its beautiful colours and design.

    1. Itā€™s so funny you say that, Susan. I have two HermĆØs scarves which I donā€™t reach for often enough and wondered if they were dated looking. Iā€™ll have to try new ways to wear them.

      1. Not so much dated, but I think they look chic on either young women in their 20s or older as in The Queen. Anything inbetween, not so much.

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