I've found a few inexpensive things at TJMaxx to try as experiments in more current styles. The general themes are shorter sweaters, slightly shorter pant hem lengths (I’ve always worn them quite long with a bit of a break), and 1 boot/1 bag. Had my annual derm appt today so no makeup.

Blue/Grey turtleneck. Neck folded down inside for a cleaner look. The dolman sleeves are far deeper than I usually wear, because I’ve always felt it was unflattering when the armpit of the sweater is almost at my waist … but this doesn’t seem to have that problem. Worn with the one pair of mid-wash jeans I own, boyfriend style, for a column of color. Warm brown round toe booties. I think this is a keeper. And this outfit is giving me a tiny taste of how a slightly taller-shaft bootie could work.

Brown sweater. (NO FIND) The length is good but I find the sleeves a little too voluminous. As I look at the photos maybe they are ok. It’s also a cool mauve-y brown which I don’t like with my hair color although it’s not that visible in the photo. They do go with my pointy toe brown boots. The top pick Boden sweater shown here recently might be a better choice although I’m not liking any of the color options. Pretty sure I'm returning this.

The boots are the experimental item here. I already own the sweater (with it’s ruffled shoulder pieces) and the print straight leg jeans (which look very bunchy here, thinking the fit is not so good). I’ve never been interested in combat/stompy boots because they look too tough/rugged for my style, but these are Blondo black waterproof suede and I’m kinda loving them!. I've never seen this brand in TJMaxx before and these were my size. They seem a bit like “snow boots” which softens the style a little. Blondo boots work really well for me and this would be my 4th pair (still have 2 of the older ones). The full sales googles are also in play – a $44 experiment.

Not an experiment, a grey chunky cardigan sweater purchased last year. Brand is Mystree. The cuffs have an inverse pleat which seems a little bit current to me, but overall this outfit is more in classic territory.

And last but definitely not least new black PomPom London City Bag, purchased after reading Angie’s recommendation. I LOVE this bag! It holds more than it looks like it would. And, with a little mix-up caused entirely by me, I ended up with 3 add-on straps! (one is wide black and sold out so no find). I've been using it every day with the leopard print strap. The tassel makes a tiny little jangly noise when I walk, but because the metals are fairly soft it is a very musical sound that I love!

Would love to hear any and all comments, suggestions etc.