The Woman In Red

Wearing red today was a really good idea. I actually bought this Apparis Sophie Faux Fur Coat off of Shopbop (a favorite online shopping site for me) a couple of weeks ago on a whim, but when it arrived I was more than a bit wowed by the brilliant cherry red color. Normally I am a go-big-or-go-home kind of girl and admittedly don't mind standing out, but I hesitated. I put it back in the box and decided I didn't need one more coat, having a bit of a faux fur coat obsession going on the last couple of years. Let's just say my coat closet is super fuzzy. And jam packed. :)

I have been told that I am an eternal optimist, and I think that is one of my qualities that I have had my whole life. Honestly, we all have our challenges, and some days are easier to be positive and seize the moment than others. But I have always thought that things work out the way they are meant to be and having that outlook on life has gotten me through some days when I have been my most challenged. Sometimes it doesn't even occur to me that things won't work out...although this may have gotten me into trouble, or even disappointed me, I am still going to be the never say never girl.

And isn't red an optimistic color? It is full of energy and power and positivity. There is an energy around wearing red that is undeniably so strong that it is impossible to feel anything but amazing when you wear it. So, the coat came out of the box on this rainy Wednesday and I put it on with my favorite grey Adaptation denim and a pair of kick-ass Golden Goose Superstar Sneakers in yes, red! I got my Golden Goose sneakers at MB Finds Designer Consignment, which was great because they are a bit pricy, but you can also occasionally find them on sale online as well. My exact pair is sold out but I also love this patent leather pair and this red velvet low top.

If you haven't had a chance to feel the luxury of this fabulous French brand Apparis, you can check out their pieces in person at Mercer in University Village or at Nordstrom. Their scarves are equally luxurious and the brand itself has a bit of a street style edge that sets it apart from the millions of faux fur coats out there.

I like to mix red with unexpected colors like a dark purple or pink, but grey is a rich neutral that really makes the red pop. I found this J.Crew Point Sur Ribbed Turtleneck on super sale in the store downtown and sized up from my usual small to an XL to make it super cozy and oversized. I love the look of a big soft sweater with a fitted pair of pants. And Adaptation makes a great pair of denim that fit like a glove. I have this pair pictured on repeat.

Almond milk lattes for the win!

My friend Allison Becker, the jewelry designer of Elliot Hunter, met me for coffee at my new favorite shop on Queen Anne Hill, Queen Anne Coffee Company. In addition to being the manager of Prada Bellevue, Allison also designs beautiful and original jewelry. Check her out on Instagram and follow her to find out when to catch her next trunk show. Allison kindly took my photos for this post too which was fun and awesome because only a fashion friend would take 98 photos for a short blog post without the blink of an eye. I appreciate you, my lovely friend!

My bracelet is engraved with the word "love" and matches my daughters

December is here and with it comes a busy time filled with crazy schedules, celebrations, long lists and of course, gratitude. Take the time to enjoy your family and friends, say yes to what you want to do and no to things that don't matter.  I think a little power red might be just what you need to feel festive and full of energy to take on the holidays in style.....

May all your days be merry and bright! See you out there! xx