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Toasty Legs: Recommendations for Warm Tights

by Sal on January 27, 2012 · 22 comments

Honestly? My legs seem to have fewer nerve endings that most of my other bits. I mean, my hands are CONSTANTLY cold, if my neck isn’t covered I get pretty miserable, and my feet can feel frosty through two pairs of socks and a pair of boots. But my legs? They don’t care. I take a 45-minute walk every morning so long as it’s 10 degrees or above, and yeah, my legs get cold but never the miserable, unbearable, make-it-stop kind of cold that afflicts my other parts. So I feel entirely ill-equipped to handle this particular reader request, which I believe has been submitted by at least nine of you in recent weeks.

Additionally, if I’m going to spend any length of time outside during the winter, I DON’T wear an outfit that includes tights. Tights outfits are for days when I’ll be heading from my house to the car and then into another building. If I’ll be walking far or doing a lot of in-and-out action, I wear ponte pants, leggings, slacks, or jeans. Even maxi skirts work better than tights in the leg-warming department. I’ve lived in wintry climates long enough to know that tights will not work if it’s very cold, very windy, or very wet outside.

So. Now that I’ve destroyed my own credibility, here’s what I know about warm tights:

Tights that are decidedly not-warm

I buy a lot of tights from Target. They suck. I buy them because they’re cheap and easily accessible and come in a decent variety of colors and styles. And I aim to change my evil ways some day because they are SO not-warm, and they snag the instant I remove them from their packaging. Target has created and sold a few “premium” styles over the years, and they seem to appear on shelves and then promptly sell out. In my experience, those are more expensive but also warmer and more durable. The standard-issue, every color of the rainbow ones? Thin, delicate, not-warm.

Hate to say it, but We Love Colors tights aren’t warm either. Their leggings are a different story, since they’re a much thicker weave, but the tights themselves are pretty thin. This vendor wins on color and size variety, but falls short in the warmth department.

Hue is totally hit or miss, in my experience. Their standard opaques are passable, but not super warm. Some of their thicker styles are fabulous deep-freeze options (see below), but a few of the fashion-y options are just too lightweight for winter wear. Check reviews when you can.

And, of course, common sense dictates that sheers and patterns will be less warm than opaques.

Tights I know to be warm

Express opaques - I am wearing my red Express tights in the photo above. I LOVE THEM SO MUCH. In fact, I just ponied up for several more pairs because I realized my red ones had held up beautifully to several years of hard wear and laundering, because they don’t run, and because they’re marvelously warm. Stock seems to be running low online, but check your local mall for more options.

Sweater tights - These lose in the sleekness department, but win in the warmth department. While many pairs of tights offer a single, flimsy layer of colorful nylon to protect your gams, sweater tights are made from thicker, warmer fibers. Skip the openwork versions and go for something that offers solid coverage from toe to torso. My Hue sweater tights are incredibly toasty.

Falke 100 denier - I’ve worn my Falke opaques three times, laundered them three times, and am madly, madly in love with them. They’re expensive, yes, but they are durable, virtually snag-proof, and marvelously cozy. They’re also a gorgeous matte black, in case shiny opaques bug ya. Go for the 100 denier. Worth it.

SPANX - This is another brand that just doesn’t mess around when it comes to tights. My two pairs of high-waisted tights are good and warm, but my reversible pair is AMAZING. Since two colors of fiber are needed, these tights are naturally denser and a bit thicker, but not to the point of bulk or discomfort.

Tights that Trusted Sources assure me are warm

Fleece-lined - I know it seems preposterous that someone living in Minnesota hasn’t yet sampled fleece-lined tights. But my legs! They just never get that cold! (See above.) Despite my lack of personal experience, I can tell you that many, many readers and fellow bloggers have assured me that fleece-lined tights are a wintry miracle. They’re not bulky, they cut the wind considerably, and they feel amazing. Another option here.

Smartwool – Since Athleta sells these with their ski-related apparel, I’m inclined to believe that they’re the real deal. User reviews confirm that these tights are perfect for winter, even calling them the “warmest tights ever.” Intriguing, no? Available in basic neutrals: Black, brown, charcoal.

Let’s consider this a mere jumping-off point: Do YOU have any recommendations for warm, toasty, cozy, wind-blocking tights? Are they bulky or sleek? Where do you get them? Brands? Size ranges? Share links and info in the comments, I beg of you!

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Insomniac Sale Picks: Denim Jackets

by Sal on January 26, 2012 · 3 comments

*In this new late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

MM requested a few picks for denim jackets, so here we go:

Levi’s Juniors Trucker Jacket – was $58, now $42.99

The Trucker jacket is a classic, but Levi’s has updated it a bit over the years. This cute, cropped, slightly distressed version is pretty much my ideal denim jacket. (I’ve got one just like it in my closet!) This version comes in juniors small, medium, and large – great for petites and younger women. This slightly longer, non-distressed version is also a great bet, and is available in XS through XL. Plus sized trucker jackets in 1x-3x right here!

Lee Denim Jacket – was $80, now $36

Another failsafe bet is the fitted, dark wash denim jacket. This Lee version is clean, unfussy, and ideal for stylish spring wear. It’s getting rave reviews, though it sounds like sizing runs a bit large. Available in M,L and XL.

Lucky Brand Sabrina Denim Jacket – was $119, now $95.99

If you’re looking for a lighter wash and a more vintage feel, this Lucky Brand option is a great one. The coppery snap closures give this jacket a definite retro edge, and it’s got a slightly looser but still tailored fit. Available in sizes XS to XL.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for denim jackets:

Old Navy – Just one style available right now, but it comes in sizes XS through XXL, as well as petite and tall sizes, plus, and maternity. And keep your eyes peeled. This retailer relies on denim, and generally offers jackets in several styles through spring and summer.
Etsy and eBay – If you’re looking for vintage, unusual, or a bargain, either of these sites will deliver!
Nordstrom - More than 25 adorable denim jackets, including petite and plus sizes, and not a one of them on sale. DANGIT.
And, of course, THRIFT STORES! My experience has been that most denim jackets available in thrift stores are of the oversized, boxy variety, but that can work for some folks. And occasionally a more fitted version will surface! (thethriftshopper.com can help you locate stores near you.)

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Dressed for: Decompressing and Debriefing

by Sal on January 26, 2012 · 7 comments

Cowl/capelet, courtesy Eileen Fisher
Black long-sleeved tee, Target
Striped maxi skirt, Rachel Pally via Piperlime
Boots, Kork-Ease via eBay (no longer available) - similar
Earrings, PureKatherine – similar

Last night’s event was a rousing success! We had an absolute blast, and are so grateful to all the amazing women who came out and asked amazing questions and gave us their feedback. You can check out some photos over on the Strong, Sexy & Stylish Facebook page.

Today I feel like a wad of putty, as you can imagine. So I dressed in comfy, cozy, drapey layers to do some post-event errands and attend a debriefing session with Sarah Von.

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How to Step Outside Your Sartorial Comfort Zone

by Sal on January 26, 2012 · 11 comments

I’ve written several times and at great length about my fears of androgynous dressing, but I believe I’ve made great strides in the past few months. The outfit above isn’t my most recent foray, but I believe it’s one of my best: I look tomboyish and preppy, yet also perfectly myself. A successful example of stepping outside one’s sartorial comfort zone.

Now, some people are perfectly happy to locate their zone, create a wardrobe that works within that zone, and dress impeccably within its parameters. Not a thing wrong with that … until you get bored, or feel stagnant, or just want to explore. It’s all down to your preferences and choices. So if you’re currently feeling a bit stylistically restless but unsure how to reach beyond your established looks into more challenging ones, here are a few ways to test the waters:

Make a plan

If you know it’s time to shake things up a bit but you don’t know how you want them shaken, take some time to think. What about your current style feels stale? Is it the colors? The proportions? The overall aesthetic? What looks are you feeling drawn to that are different from your own? Are they more romantic? Minimalist? Rocker? All of the above? Or is there a specific person whose style you wish you could emulate, but with your own flourishes? Consider making an inspiration board – on paper, in a folder on your laptop, or maybe in Pinterest – to give yourself focus. Otherwise you won’t know what to change and what to keep the same.

Start with accessories

Once you’ve determined your new direction, a great way to begin mixing up your looks is to incorporate accessories that align with your aspirational aesthetic. Clothes are the foundation of any look. Shoes and accessories add depth and character, but often feel like less of a commitment so they’re fabulous tools for easing out of your comfort zone and into a new realm. If you’re headed in a romantic direction, consider some chandelier earrings, soft scarves, or patterned tights. Minimalists can do sleek necklaces and sculptural shoes. Rockers try studded belts, combat boots, and cuff bracelets. Consider thrifting any experimental accessories, since you’re still in the process of honing and may not want to spend big just yet. See if you can work these items into outfits built from your existing wardrobe.

Consider taking self-portraits

Since venturing outside your sartorial comfort zone can feel daunting, and since it can be difficult to gauge your progress, consider snapping some quick self-portraits in the mirror. Give yourself a day or two to get some distance, and then take a peek at them. What do you love? What would you change? Do you feel like you’re headed in the right direction? If not, consult that inspiration board and see what folks who nailed it are doing.

Don’t force it

Experimental dressing is a marvelous way to expand your horizons, but it should never feel like a chore. Don’t feel like you’ve got to start dressing in a new way and never fall back on your tried-and-true outfits. Let any changes unfold as slowly and organically as you need.

Identify a few key garments to purchase

Once you feel like you’re on a roll, you may want to make a short list of garments that will help you continue to build new looks. It’s important to keep the list short, and I’ll tell you why: You lived in your comfort zone because it worked for you, and the items and looks that reside in that zone should still be a part of your dressing life. Completely transforming your look is an entirely different project. If you just want to add some new and different touches to your current style, make sure that the clothes you were wearing before stay in rotation.

Now, this is a long-term, meticulously planned way of shaking up your style. It’ll work best if you have one or two main looks you’d like to incorporate into your daily dressing patterns, and also if you feel ready to commit to making some real changes. If you just want to create some mini dressing challenges within the context of your current wardrobe, here are a few great ways to keep yourself sartorially alert and engaged:

No black for two weeks
No neutrals for three days
All pants-based outfits for a week
All dress-based outfits for a week
Craft outfits around the same pair of shoes, skirt, belt, or other item and wear them for seven days straight
Limit yourself to 15 items for two weeks
Pick out your top five favorite-but-underutilized items. Craft two outfits around each one.
Mix patterns. (Here’s a great guide.)

These are just examples, of course. Cook up any challenge that strikes your fancy, stick to it, and see what happens. I suggest taking both notes and photos so you’ll be sure to remember the experience, and can apply new knowledge moving forward.

Have you ever consciously decided to step outside your sartorial comfort zone? How did you approach it? Any other suggestions for pushing your personal style boundaries?

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Insomniac Sale Picks: Colorful Plus-sized Pants

by Sal on January 25, 2012 · 4 comments

Jayme requested a few picks for colorful plus-sized pants, so here we go:

Not Your Daughters Jeans Sheri Skinny in Elderberry – was $120, now $83.99

So. Colorful denim is very trendy right now. And what I found in doing this particular search is that most colorful plus-sized pants are denim. Or sweats. So I stuck with denim assuming that it would be more useful, especially since some of these pairs could pass for non-jeans if styled with dressy tops. These dark purple skinnies have a 30″ inseam, a 12″ front rise, and are available in US sizes 14-26.

Roamans Three-Piece Duster Pant Suit – was $119, now $65.99

Right. It’s a suit set, not pants. But INCLUDES pants, and they’re non-denim, non-skinnies! This set is available in the bright red shown above as well as a very on-trend emerald green. I can’t say I’d recommend wearing all three pieces together, but break apart the set and you could get some real mileage out of it. The duster could make a great spring coat. Includes a sleeveless shell and 44″ long duster jacket. The pants have a 29″ inseam, and this set is available in sizes 14 to 34. All pieces are machine washable.

Torrid Denim Dark Teal Skinny Jeans – was $48.50, now buy one get one 50% off

Torrid is currently running this special on many of their jeans, including this gorgeous teal pair and the same style in a dark pinky-red. Both colors are fantastic picks because they’re bold enough to add some pizzaz to an outfit, but not so bright that they’ll have limited application. These jeans have a 32″ inseam and are available in sizes 12, 22, 24, and 26 in teal, 22, 24, and 26 in blackberry.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for colorful plus-sized pants:

Avenue – These red stretch canvas pants are a particular favorite!
Macy’s - A few pairs of non-denim pants in fun colors including these rich velvet straightlegs.
Eloquii - If the Torrid skinny jean colors don’t send you, check out Eloqui’s classic and curvy fit skinnies. Bright red and bold blue available in both.

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Dressed for: The Big Event

by Sal on January 25, 2012 · 18 comments

Scarf, a gift – similar
Dress, courtesy UnitedStyles – giveaway forthcoming
Belt, via Amazon
Tights- SPANX High-waisted Tight-End Tights
Boots, Diesel Go-go (no longer available) - similar - more Diesel boots
Dichroic glass studs, art fair – similar items

By the time you read this, I’ll be at the Lowery Theater prepping for tonight’s Strong, Sexy & Stylish event. I will be jittery and excited and unable to eat my dinner. Planning this event has been a real eye-opener, and I suspect that I’ll be an exhausted, quivering mass once it’s over.

I wanted to wear something comfortable and washable and easy to move around in. This funky print jersey knit dress seemed like the perfect choice, since it will allow me to do schlep and sweat unimpeded, but also help me look fun-loving and approachable.

We’ve still got seats, if anyone wants to join us! The event starts at 7 p.m. and details are here.

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Already Prettypoll: Body Talents

by Sal on January 25, 2012 · 45 comments

I’ve done a poll similar to this a couple of times already, but it always generates such amazing and varied responses that I think it’s worth retooling and reintroducing:

What is your body good at? List five things that illustrate your own physical prowess, gifts, or talents.

Here are mine:

My body can bike, walk, and climb for hours without complaining.
My body loves lifting weights and building muscle. LOVES.
My body has curves that please me endlessly.
My body is so flexible that I’m often asked how much yoga I do. (I don’t do any.)
My body may not be able to fill out a strapless dress, but it looks amazing in anything super low-cut.

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Insomniac Sale Picks: Roomy, Casual Handbags

by Sal on January 24, 2012 · 8 comments

3goodrats requested a few picks for roomy, casual handbags – as did many others! – so here we go:

Bellino The Dean – was $120, now $91.99

I adore the details on this rugged leather messenger bag. This model will fit a laptop and a tablet, if you’re going the business route, and at 15.5″ x 12.5″ x 4.5″ it’ll make a great casual carryall regardless of what you’re hauling. Lots of interior and exterior pockets for your bits and bobs, too.

Gap Leather Travel Tote – was $125, now up to 35% off with code GAPSTYLE (through 1/25)

On the opposite end of the spectrum is this no-frills leather tote. It’s unlined and completely without pockets, making it ideal for hauling and travel. But the pared-down, classic shape and large size make it a great bet for anyone who needs room more than organizational capacity. Dimensions are 15″ x 14.5″ x 4.25″, comes in yellow, blue, orange, and tan in addition to this raspberry red.

Quick note: The coupon code will vary in percentage off depending on your session. I was offered 30%, 25%, and 35% at different times. Regardless, you’ll get a discount if you order by tomorrow at 11:59 p.m.!

BIG BUDDHA Lana Satchel – was $94.95, now $60.99

This company does very soft, supple synthetic leathers in about a bajillion different colors and styles. This bag caught my eye because it features this long shoulder strap, but also can be carried using the shorter handheld handles. Nice and big at 2″ x 17″ x 12″, this convertible satchel should fit your daily essentials and then some. Three interior pockets and one external.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for roomy, casual handbags:

Manhattan Portage – This company produces a lot of bike messenger bags, many of which are sleeker than the more popular Timbuk2. I’ve owned a DJ bag from Manhattan Portage for seven years, and it’s traveled with me to Australia, New York, Iceland, San Francisco, and more. VERY casual, but great bags.
eBags - This site has an incredible selection of casual bags AND diaper bags, and is nearly always running a free shipping offer. This canvas and leather Fossil bag is a fave.
ASOS - Seriously, friends, this site has bags galore. Satchels, totes, hobos, the works. Many of them vegan, and the majority pretty darned casual.

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