My Style >> Learning the Ropes

It's been unseasonably (aka awesomely) warm here in the Chicago area over the last few days, which means I've to break out a few warm(ish) weather outfits.  For whatever reason, the majority of my closet contains summery clothing.  I'm not sure if I just subconsciously prefer lighter weight clothes or if I'm in a constant state of denial over the fact that it's freezing here for half the year.  Regardless, it's been nice to wear maxi dresses and just throw on some tights and a cardigan rather than having to put on the winter coat, gloves and a hat.  And I know this weather's not going to last, so I've been taking full advantage.

Thankfully, this particular dress, despite its light weight fabric, is very layer-able (< not a real word). So I'm thinking that in addition to enjoying it during this brief period of mild temperatures, and plans to wear it on a daily basis in Mexico in two weeks, I'll get to wear a lot this winter as well.  It's called 'Learning the Ropes' (hence the title of this post) and is another gem designed by my friends over at Sugarlips.  I adore the red color, the tribal pattern is amazing, and the straps are uniquely cool (they're made from soft rope that is woven through the neckline, which allows them to be completely adjustable size-wise). 

It was a little chilly in the shade when we were taking these photos, so I paired it with a lightweight grey cardigan (one I've had so long that it's developed holes which I hand sewed shut - I'm just classy that way), some grey tights, grey legwarmers, and my favorite fall/winter boots.  As fun as I think it will be to get to wear it with nothing more than sandals, I'm quite a fan of the way it looks with layers as well.  There is nothing better than a versatile, all-season dress. 

To keep this outfit from looking too bulky with all of the layer action going on, I added a skinny belt to the waist.  Easy as pie.  Like the cardigan and boots, the accessories are all old favorites as well.  It's a simple, everyday kind of look, which to me is the best kind.

Dress: c/o Sugarlips  //  Cardigan: can't remember (it's old)  //  Legwarmers:  Target 
Tights: Target  // Bracelets: gifts and thrifted  //  Belt: F21  //  Boots: B.O.C. (last year)   

Before I go, can I just point out the fact that I look down in 75% of my photos?  Exactly what am I looking at?  Seriously, I couldn't stop laughing when I was going through these shots, because I just don't remember there being anything that interesting on the ground.  Maybe it's time to pay more attention to how I'm "posing."  Also, I look a little like a creepy alien in the photo with the faded black and white filter.  I'm cool with that though.