Yesterday I didn't feel terribly well, and I knew I wouldn't be going out, so I dressed in my version of loungewear. It was still cold, so I pulled out what I think of as my 'magic trousers': they're a flannel made out of cashmere and merino that is impossibly soft, like a cloud somehow decided to wrap itself around my legs. And they're unlined, so the softness can be fully appreciated! They're also the most beautiful deer-like colour with a very subtle herringbone that makes me think of Scottish country houses. And they're even tapered & not too long for me! For all that, they're ridiculously large in the waist and hip region, so until I get them to a tailor (I've yet to find a tailor I trust) or figure out how to do alterations on my own, they're relegated to in-house wear due to the gathers on either side caused by my super classy waistband safety pinning. I paired them with a mauve-y sweater, one of my very favourite colours, but that needs to be de-pilled before appearing in public again, wrapped around a super comfy darker pink/purple modal tank with a sweet pleating and ribbon detail on the yoke but with a neckline a bit low for public comfort. The cardigan doesn't nip in enough at the waist to balance out the hips on the trousers, hence the wrapping and pinning: it stayed put all day, which was nice, and reminded me of ballerinas, which is always a plus in my book! I added one of my very favourite necklaces (I think I say that about all of my jewelry, lol, I suppose everything's a favourite!): it's a globe done in semiprecious stones and my two matching gold rings, which I finally remembered to photograph. Normally I wear one on each hand but that was too tricky for self photos. I wasn't up for a walk, so no outerwear version.

Alaska Girl started a very interesting conversation yesterday that touched a bit on my and my style. I replied over there, but since then I've been mulling it over more: why did I end up gravitating towards this kind of urchin-y, fairy tale feeling, whimsical look? And this morning I realised with surprise it's a kind of psychological armour (and here yesterday I was saying I thought my clothes looked more vulnerable than my personality! talk about a 180!). The wider world is full of so many troubles. As someone passionate about social justice and environmental issues, as well as with a background in international relations, I read a lot of books and articles about what's wrong with the world. It can be exhausting and demoralising, although I think it's important which is why I do it. But at the same time, the world is full of art and love and humour and everyday people who become heroic when circumstances require it and all of that is captured in stories. I read a lot of those too for balance! When I dress in a way that evokes my beloved comfort stories, whether they be books or tv shows or movies, it's as if I'm wearing a visible reminder of all the best people are capable of. And of course in my own life I'm faced with challenges as well as joys. Dressing the way I do keeps me more optimistic and cheerful and ready to meet those challenges. I hope that doesn't sound too ridiculous.

Back to the outfit, comments and suggestions always welcome! Wraps are not super flattering on my small bust, but I think the cardigan version is less unflattering than a dress or blouse. Plus, sometimes the subjective associations clothing has are more important to me than objective figure flattery.

ETA: Whoops! I forgot to crop the outfit pics! Don't mind the messy bed, lol. I keep an electric blanket on top of it for my dog in case she gets cold.