Long jacket proportions

When I found this navy H&M fitted jacket on sale for $25 with further discounts with coupon codes (from $49.95), I snatched it up without a thought (thanks to my recent obsession with gold buttons).  The smallest size available at the time was size 4. I was happy that the shoulder width and sleeves length were just right, but the overall back-length felt too long. Thus, I decided to see if I can make a long jacket length work for my short frame...

Knee-length dress too dumpy.

Mid-thigh skirt is better. 

High-waisted shorts is the winner!

Then it got me thinking about how relevant "high-waisted" shorts is going to stay in fashion? It's not always comfortable to wear high-waisted bottoms all the time. Thus, I decided to test the top verses shorts waist placement...does it matter?

Ah, yes it does! If you close one eye and look at my photos from afar, it appears my high-waist shorts give the illusion of longer legs, thus more flattering proportion for my body type. I guess I better stock up on more high-waisted bottoms before they go out of style, haha!

The velvet blazer

My conservative office or church party look

 with these perennial winter favorites:

1. Velvet blazer - my vintage velvet blazer has been with me since high school (1990's), and it never goes out of style every winter; makes any outfit instantly more dressed-up (similar blazers currently seen at J.Crew, Banana Republic and Target)

2. Cable-knit sweater - since my velvet blazer has always been a bit loose on me, it is perfect to wear a chunky sweater underneath. My favorite cable-knits are from Eddie Bauer (I try to stock up when they go on clearance during springtime at my local outlet mall). 

3. Leopard print heels - fashion bloggers definitely influenced me on these. They do miraculously blend well with any outfit, yet are more "special" than just plain black pumps. 

4. Gold purse - my vintage Judith Jack convertible gold purse has probably made the most appearances on this blog. Another item that spruces up any outfit to a more festive level!

*More holiday inspiration here, here, and here. 

Hoarding Kmart Thom McAn Willa sandals

For those of you who love old-ladies orthopedic sandals like myself, that is...if you shop brands like Clarks, Sofft, Born, Ecco, etc....here's a more affordable alternative at Kmart and better! I bought these Thom McAn Willa sandals at the beginning of summer for full price at $24.99 to wear to work (I work in a casual cubicle office environment), and was amazed at how versatile and comfortable these sandals are! My favorite part is that they're "black" all-over, which is compatible with my wardrobe (I wear a lot of black), and the black insole hides any gross sweaty toe prints on the foot bed!  I love the easy slip-on-slip-off style which also helps to air out the hot and tired feet when sitting down. The padding, arch support, and 1.5" heel height is perfect with my flat feet. I feel like they are more comfortable than any of the Clarks sandals I've ever tried. These are mostly man-made materials (only the outer upper straps are genuine leather), but overall well-made and sturdy!

I love them so much, I bought 4 more identical pairs this week because they are on super clearance at $7.99 and with further discounts with the "Buy One pair of Shoes, Get One for $1".  This sale ends tonight! Thought I'd share in case anyone is interested. Fits true to size!  I'm wearing size 6.

Click on pictures to zoom in.

My first time hoarding shoes in the exact same style/brand because it's that WORTHY! If feels good to know I have these comfortable sandals to wear to work, travel, and play to last me more than 10 years (since I own 5 pairs of these now, haha!)