Wearing a Shawl Like a Parisian: Comfy and Chic

This post surfaced from my desire to wear both a plaid shawl and a long sleeve, striped shirt. About two years ago, I saw a ModCloth ad for a reversible poncho, bought the one I'm wearing in this photo, and regret nothing! Best purchase ever.

Ponchos, have so many great uses; but for me, the appeal lies in its blanket-like shape. I really just wanted to be super warm on my way to work. Following my layering rule—as per my previous post—I choose a light, long sleeve black and white striped shirt from Banana Republic to go underneath. Paired with my maroon beret (also from an earlier post), the pair make for a cute Parisian look.

While I love dressing borderline costume-y, I also try to rock a sensible style for the office, especially because I work with college students, and want to look older (haha!). The shawl helps balance the Parisian top, with a more down-to-earth let's-go-take-a-break-in-an-abandoned-cabin feel.

Of course, the ModCloth librarian skirt is the perfect length for the winter. According to one my coworkers, I looked like a model from Stitch Fix, honestly one of the best compliments. When I was younger, I use to imagine myself as a personal stylist—helping women of all ages and sizes find their everyday fashion—which makes the comment all the more perfect.

A tiny accessory that goes slightly unnoticed in the full photos is my mother's vintage opal ring. My birth stone is actually garnet, but wearing my mother's jewelry makes me feel like an adult. Plus, I get to carry a bit of her with me wherever I go!

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