The sun will come out at some point, but in the meantime...

I've realized my most recent music and fashion obsessions are indirectly reflective of my feeling towards the current weather. Here in Boston, it is definitely hard to rock any sort of outfit that doesn't include a parka, sweater, and some form of waterproof footwear. Stuck indoors, I've indulged in Ann Margaret's classic summery beauty in the reprise of Bye Bye Birdy and the plethora of kimonos seen on spring runways, including Fausto Puglisi, Uniqueness, Etro, and Emilio Pucci. What do these things have in common you ask? Statement belts of course! 

(credit: Fausto Puglisi, Uniqueness, Etro, Emilio Pucci)

Taking cues from these, I took to Newbury street yesterday in search of statement belts. Statement belts do so much more for you than than other loud accessories. While also being a fun accessory that can spruce up and pull together any outfit, they instantly silhouette an hourglass figure by defining your waist. In the midst of burly winter layers, a simple bright belt can draw attention to all the right places, even if its just peaking out from underneath your peacoat. Its like a little beacon of hope reminding you that someday soon you'll be showing off your gams in tailored shorts and flouncy sundresses. I would definitely take advantage of transitional sales in between seasons (now!) to invest in some good statement belts. Yesterday, I bought these three ranging in price from $5.95 to to $30. You definitely will  be seeing these in style posts soon enough!

patent skinny bow belt from Madewell

beaded baroque belt from Anthropologie (similar here)

classic blue belt from H&M

Keep warm for now,

The Cosseted Pauper 

The Case of the Indelible Denim Button Down

I have  pondered whether or not to invest in a denim shirt for a while. Phillip Lim's eccentric blouses, trousers, and jackets salvaged from patches of different denims finally convinced me to act on my intuition.  

(credit: Brands Exclusive)

His sentiment isn't in the pieces themselves, but denim's trademark versatility. I've discovered that my slightly faded denim button down is of the 'sisterhood of the traveling pants' variety for my wardrobe. No matter what skirt, pair of pants, or accessories I pair it with I always walk out of my door feeling effortless and cool. This would also be an excellent piece for backpacking or traveling when you don't have the luxury of lugging a 50-pound suitcase full of possible options. Since I have bought mine, I have rolled it up in a backpack, slept in it, and worn it approximately 10 times (not all in one sitting). It has shown no sign of wrinkles or wear -money well spent in my book. 

pom pom hat from Portlano (similar here)

chambray button down from J.Crew

double belt from  Club Monaco

gold skirt from J.crew (unavailable)

turquoise bracelet from Anthropologie

tan flats from J.Crew

xo,

The Cosseted Pauper