Satchel up.

Plaid flannel button-up shirt (Similar here, here, here, here, & here)//
Ivory cable knit sweater (Exact here; Similar here, here, here, here, & here)//
Skinny dress pants (Exact here; Similar here and here)//
Burgundy riding boots (Almost exact here; Similar here & here)//
Bobal satchel c/o Angel Reinares (Exact here)//
Champagne pearl cluster necklace c/o T+J Designs (Exact here)//
Pyramid stud cuff ℅ Stella & Dot stylist Erika Lehman (Exact here)//
Belt buckle bracelet (Similar here)

Plaid flannel button-up shirt (Similar here, here, here, here, & here)//
Ivory cable knit sweater (Exact here; Similar here, here, here, here, & here)//
Skinny dress pants (Exact here; Similar here and here)//
Burgundy riding boots (Almost exact here; Similar here & here)//
Bobal satchel c/o Angel Reinares (Exact here)//
Champagne pearl cluster necklace c/o T+J Designs (Exact here)//
Pyramid stud cuff ℅ Stella & Dot stylist Erika Lehman (Exact here)//
Belt buckle bracelet (Similar here)

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I’ve said it many times before—but, if I had to pick just a few wardrobe pieces to invest in, I would always choose staple accessories: a chic coat, great boots, and a well-made, beautifully constructed bag. The first two are pretty self-explanatory (see this post)-- especially for someone living in the North Pole. 

Just kidding, I live in Michigan. But, that’s kind of the same thing, right? Only minus Santa and cute little elves? =P

But, I digress.

 A gorgeous bag will last for years and become a staple in a wardrobe that’s bound to change with time. I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for bag-investment—first, because I love beautiful bags. (Who doesn't?!) But, mostly because I am really tough on bags and if it’s not a quality piece, it's guaranteed to fall apart in a couple of short months. I’ve literally had a cheap-o bag rip with all of my work materials in it (in a parking lot). It was not fun. To put it into perspective, I’ve had the same Louis Vuitton bag for 11 years and it’s still in great condition. And my relatively new Michael Kors bag (which I had longingly saved for) still looks brand new after months of daily wear. And as with most things, quality matters. But, I think this concept is most important with core pieces and accessories.

So, when I was asked to review a bag from Angel Reinares, a Spanish handbag company, I was more than happy to do so. I’m always up for discovering new brands—especially those who feature classic, quality pieces. After some back and forth, I ordered the Bobal satchel in the cognac color (called Lion on the site) instead of the Cabernet tote in Brandy. I think my indecision was due to the fact that I couldn’t decide if I wanted a tote or a satchel, and I was lusting after both bags equally. Generally, a tote or purse with a long strap is more convenient for me because most of my week is spent at work. So, I just cram all of my things into it, hang it over my shoulder, and go. But, I figured since I had just bought the MK Hamilton tote, I should venture out and get the Bobal satchel. And boy, am I glad I did! 

This bag is seriously beautiful. Soft, luxurious leather. Great construction and color. Lots of room for all of my things. And wait for it… a detachable strap! Boom. 

So, if you’re looking for a new bag or a great piece to pop on your Christmas wish list, check out Angel Reinares. They have so many drool-worthy pieces that are truly well worth it!   

Winter Survival 101.

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Wool coat/parka (Exact here; Similar here, here, here, here, & here)//

Mittens (Exact here; Similar here; LOVE these patterned mittens here and here)//

Earmuffs (Similar here, here, here, & here (the earbuds detach!)//

UGG boots (Exact here; Similar here & here)// 

Hunter wellies (Exact here; A wider fit here)//

Hunter Brit Cuff boot socks (Exact here; Love these here & here)//

Sorel Joan of Arctic boots (Exact here; Similar without fur here)

Generally, I don't claim to be an expert in any particular area (except my job!). Sure, I know a number of things. But, there are many things that I don't know and I'm okay with that. And what I do not know, I can always learn, right?
 However, I am here today to proclaim myself an absolute EXPERT in dressing for frigid temperatures. 
If there was a PhD in dressing for warmth, I would have received it (with high honors!).
...
Having lived in Michigan most of my life, I have learned that in order to stay alive and functioning from November through April, I have to dress for the weather. As a blogger, I would love to wear something other than boots and sweaters for those six long months. But, in reality, I'm a total wuss in the cold. And I'm fully convinced that when I'm cold my body goes into hibernation mode. (Let's not even talk about how unpleasant I am when I'm freezing.) So, out of basic necessity, I've learned to bundle up and just get on with it. 

So, above, I've linked my favorite (fashionable!) cold-weather accessories. Seriously, if you know me in real life, you know that I wear these exact pieces every single day for months on end. But, they are tried and true items that I recommend from my own personal experience in surviving the Polar Vortex. ;)
Stay warm, friends!
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A few afterthoughts:

-A wool coat or a parka is a MUST in cold temps. I really like versions with faux fur because they are especially cozy and help insulate your entire neck and face.

-Faux fur earmuffs are fantastic-- they're warm, cover your ears (which are bound to get cold faster than your head), and they save you from having crazy hat hair all day.

-UGGs-- the warmest boots I have ever owned. However, they are NOT waterproof (even with the waterproof spray). 

-Hunter rain boots-- I didn't own a pair of Hunters until last year. Apparently, I lived under a rock. But, these boots are LIFE CHANGING. They are completely waterproof. However, they are not warm. If you want to "winterize" them, get some Hunter boot socks. They don't make the boots super warm, but they are pretty good.

-SOREL Joan of Arctic boots-- if you live in a snowy climate, do yourself a favor and buy these boots. They are the most important winter boots you'll ever buy and you will thank yourself for the rest of time. They are REALLY warm (too warm for Fall) and completely waterproof.