A recent day when I headed out to do some clothes shopping at Bloomies, I set a ‘rule’ with myself: Do not buy any animal print and do not buy anything red, primarily because I have quite enough of both. What the heck did I do? I bought a red jacket. Ha! A delicious, candy apple red jacket by Elie Tahari. So shiny, so soft, great for work or play, and on sale – who could resist?

It’s definitely a statement piece, but you can balance it with conservative separates and still be ready for business…notice that I opted not to wear black shoes…black looked too ‘matchy’, too predictable, too heavy for the spring day…metallic pumps (from Sole Amour in Winchester) instantly softened the whole look and they are a fresh alternative to nude patent pumps…white booties would also be fun!

Ok, let’s now move on to the scarf…it is Burberry, and it was without a doubt love at first sight…while I am more accustomed to wearing ‘cuddly’ scarves, it’s a nice change to wear a scarf that is strictly for style. 🙂

It will be fun to wear it different ways, and the black/tan/red color scheme is great with many wardrobe neutrals…there was one small detail, however, that had me pause for a moment – the back side is solid tan with word ‘Burberry’ printed in several places – I do not like designer names on my clothing…a subtle logo now and then is ok, but advertising a brand name? Yuck-o. Hmmmm, what to do? I decided that the tan print on tan silk was understated enough, and when I tie the scarf it will hardly show…

And it really doesn’t show! What’s great is that a new scarf like this can be added to separates that you already have and give them a whole new look. Even without the red jacket I would be excited about this outfit…

The basics: lightweight wool sweater by Vince, microfiber skirt by DKNY. Versace belt was a find from Revolve many moons ago…

So I broke my rule and bought a red jacket. It is chic – unique – and fun, fun, fun! You know what they say: rules are made to be broken!

HAPPY MONDAY!!!