Reader Mail: Sweater Dresses

13 November 2009

After Monday’s post, I received a reader mail request from Alyssa, who wrote:

I’ve recently become obsessed with sweater dresses and am determined to purchase one/wear one for Christmas (and beyond). I like the idea of long-sleeves, no turtleneck (to facilitate scarves), and a nicely-fitted shape (if that makes sense). I’m looking for guidance in terms of color (I get super pale in the winter and my hair gets significantly darker), style (casual is good), and price. I’m willing to spend up to $50 but would prefer to spend more like $30 (haha). Also, tights?

In terms of color, I think a navy, gray, or cream dress would be the best choice for Alyssa’s complexion — black might be too severe for a casual look, especially with her pale skin. Working (mostly!) within Alyssa’s budget of $50, here are a few of my finds:


Old Navy Striped Sweater Dress ($24.99, available in pink and black)


Forever 21 H81 Novelty Sweater Dress ($26.90, available in black, gray, and pink)


Old Navy Scoop-Neck Sweater Dress ($29.99, available in black and cream)


Old Navy Cowl-Neck Sweater Dress ($36.50, available in white, black, and plum)


American Apparel Knit Sweater Crew Neck Dress ($65, available in heather gray and black)


Banana Republic Wool-Blend Sweater Dress ($98)

I hope this helps, Miss Alyssa! A sweater dress is a very versatile outfit base, so I’m sure you’ll be happy with whatever you choose.

Thanksgiving table

12 November 2009

Doesn’t this image from Country Living just get you in the mood for Thanksgiving? It’s absolutely my favorite meal of the year. I’m really digging those bittersweet/pepperberry branches (yeah… not surprising). If you don’t have them in your yard, I like the faux version available here.

Cabbage bouquets

11 November 2009

I am LOVING these bouquets! Is that cabbage I spy? Brilliant! Bouquets by Jesi Haack. See more of this wedding on photographer Sarah K. Chen’s blog here.

Board No. 54: Blooming Navy

9 November 2009

To me, this board is all about the romance: soft pink, soft blue, and dramatic navy and ruby all mixed together with swash-filled stationery, old cameras, and dusty books. And aren’t those rose-filled ice cubes beautiful?

The Details
First row, left to right: bridal party from JL Designs, tuxedo strawberries from Martha Stewart Weddings; tie photo by Justin and Mary Marantz

Second row: guest book from MSW; tablescape photo by Docuvitae via Style Me Pretty; pomegranate dessert photo by Lara Ferroni

Third row: pom via Weddingbee; “Monogram” invitation by Mika78; rose-filled ice cubes

Fourth row: old books photo by Laurie Frankel; cake by Ngoc Minh Ngo; Gourmet Invitation via Style Me Pretty; vintage camera via 100 Layer Cake