juuust right
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With the short days this time of year, it’s a bit challenging trying to photograph outfits. Unless I can get it together on the weekend, I’m limited to trying to squeeze in the occasional 10 minutes of shooting before leaving for work in the morning. All this by way of saying I’m sorry I wasn’t able to get a good complete shot of this outfit. But here’s the best of it.
earrings | scarf | sweater | cuff (similar) | jeans (similar) | bag
I love the pizzazz a leopard scarf adds to an outfit. And the two in my wardrobe I’ve shown before have both been workable. One is cashmere, one wool. But both are just a little on the bulky side, and color-wise one is lighter and the other darker than I’d prefer. So I’ve been on the lookout for a leopard print scarf that’s warm but light and not bulky, and just the right leopard print. And now I’ve found it. This silk-cashmere scarf from Equipment is very lightweight and not at all bulky, but is still warm enough for our chilliest mornings. The color and print are just right: not too dark or light, or too warm or cool. And I love how the scarf looks against my blue sweater! (The scarf is on sale and you can get an extra 25% off with code TAKE25.)
This is also the last By Invitation Only linkup. Marsha at Splenderosa has graciously hosted this monthly linkup for several years now, and though I have not always been the most consistent contributor, I thank her for welcoming me into the group of bloggers who tackle a monthly subject, each with their unique perspective. For this final installment, we’re talking about blogging: the highs and lows, and where how we see the future of blogging and our own blogs.
When I attended Garance Doré’s book signing last week, I had the opportunity to ask her how she thinks style blogging will evolve, and what she sees as the future of this format. Her answer was that she thinks Instagram will become more predominant, and that blogs themselves will become secondary. I think as far as image-driven content goes, she’s probably right, but for those of us who are looking for more dimension, who like to write and read and explore and share thoughts about our stage of life, there will always be a place for blogs. Blogs provide a venue for the exchange of ideas and deeper connection that just doesn’t happen on other more abbreviated platforms. One of the very best things about blogging has been the connections and friendships that have sprung from the words, feelings and thoughts that I’ve thrown out into cyberspace, hoping for a ping of recognition. Some of the people I now consider my very best friends are those whom I have “met” (sometimes in person, sometimes just online) through blogging. So I am not planning to stop anytime soon. I do enjoy Instagram, and will be working on improving my content and presence there too, but it will never take the place of this blog.
What social media platforms do you use most?
Posting will be light for the next week, as I’m sure we’re all busy with the holidays. I’ll be back the last week of December with some “best of 2015” posts, and a look ahead at 2016.
LEOPARD SCARVES AND MORE…
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I like Instagram as much as the next person, but I never buy anything via Instagram. I may see images that appeal to me and buy something later in that style, but the ever changing feed on Instagram makes it harder to go back to things you’ve seen.
A blog with links suits my shopping style much better.
Oh that cuff – what a gorgeous statement piece. The bag – well Santa could put it under my tree, if you know what I mean : >
Patti
http://notdeadyetstyle.com
I don’t do Instagram and I enjoy the blog format. I reference your blog, along with a few others on a continual basis. Nice to go back and re-read different posts. Once again, I thoroughly enjoy your blog!
Normally I would love the clothes and accessories shown, but where I live we are in day 4 of temperatures of 110 F. I am afraid I broke out into a sweat just looking at the scarves. However, I appreciate how you reference where those items can be purchased.
Although I love your OOTD posts, your blog, and others from 40plus bloggers, offer so much more than visuals – reflections on life and living well in mid life. Always thought provoking. So I won’t be switching to Instagram
I joined Instagram only so I could follow my niece. I much prefer blogs which offer so much more than just photos.
I have to disagree about Instagram for the woman of a certain age. I believe our audience likes the interaction, the information, the guidance and encouragement which only blogs provide. I agree that Instagram has grabbed the younger blogger’s audience. But, I do not think it is preferred by women 40+. I also think that is why blogs must remain personal and interactive …rather than predominately link driven.
Love that scarf! I’ve been wanting one like that too. I just ordered it — use TAKE25 for 25% off!
I don’t use Instagram. It was just too overwhelming with too many tweets. I do like Face Book and the blogs. I love your blog! Please continue!
While I look at Instagram from time to time, it is always an afterthought for me. I do love the blog format that includes an interesting topic. I agree that the link driven blog is more likely to evolve into an instagram experience. And, while I understand the desire to make some dollars to compensate for all the time spent writing a blog, I do hope that we don’t lose the sincerity and warmth of blogging to retail selling.
I, too, love to read your thoughts,your take on style, AND your links to items. So much so, I just ordered the scarf! Merry Christmas to me! And, Merry Christmas to you and your family! Thank you for your gift to us–your blog!
You’ve hit the nail on the head, Sue. I don’t think that blogs will disappear. I love flipping through Instagram while I’m pedaling on my exercise bike and listening to a book on my i-pod at the same time. And maybe OOTD posts, and those “quick look” blogs that contain little written content, will lose out to Instagram. But blogs like yours which provide quality content and which encourage thoughtful commentary (beyond “you look fab)” will still provide what their readers are looking for. Just my humble opinion… and possibly my hope. By the way, love that sweater & scarf, Sue. You look fab:)
I appreciate the words on blogs as much as the images, so Instagram doesn’t do it for me. If I just want to scan images, I use Pinterest, but I’m on it maybe once a week. I check out “my” blogs (of which yours is one) nearly every day…enjoy the stories, and the reasons behind the outfit choices, like your rationale for the leopard scarf today. That’s where the value added is for me!
Leopard is DEFINITELY IN………everyone seems to have it but me!I NEED A PILLOW!
ADORE BLOGGING and INSTAGRAM…………….thats all I use.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS……………..XX
I do not really follow Instagram. I like your blog and blogs like yours which are so much more than just images. BTW, another great outfit.
Thank you Suz
Beautiful scarf! I agree with you in regard to blogging. I’ve made some great friends through the blog & I really enjoy the writing aspect of it.
Debbie
http://www.fashionfairydust.com
I’m not an Instagram fan. I do enjoy your blog and watch for it every morning. It’s a great way to start my day. Like you, I’m ” environmentally friendly”, ” vertically challenged” or whatever the current correct term for ” short” is, so seeing how easy it is to look fashionable and trendy on someone my height is terrific!
Hope you have a happy, healthy holiday season . Best wishes for 2016 .
Hi Susan: I’ll throw my two cents in here….I love your blog. It’s one of the few blogs that I actually pay attention to and read every day. I’m interested in your thoughts as well as your ensembles. I love the way you find clothing and post the articles so that we can go right to the virtual store, etc.
I also use Instagram. I like Instagram for the visuals–so I follow other artists or craftspeople on Instagram. I also direct my busy friends to IG to follow my art work because FB is too overwhelming for them and they don’t have time to email.
Please keep your blog–I really love it.
I love your blog and am happy to hear that you plan to continue it. Yes, I like the images of your outfits, but it’s your writing that makes it special and pulls me in. I look forward to reading it every morning (right after The NY Times). That said, you’ve been a big influence on the way I dress and the photos are inspiring. Please keep up the good work!
I always feel we are on the same page with our blogging thoughts.. great post, Susan and lovely scarf.. 🙂 xxv
As an English major, I much prefer blogs which give context and the opportunity for interaction. Instagram can be fun, but seems superficial. It is interesting to me that images have become so important. I joke that it now seems that an event has not happened unless there is a photo of it on FB or Instagram.
Like many of the other commenters, I actually don’t follow anyone on Instagram, but continue to read blogs that express varied interests in life even if the main focus might be on a subject such as fashion or sewing. I appreciate the visual, but I like words.
Yours is one of two blogs I read every single morning, Susan (often before I even check my email!). I love the combination of photos, text, and links. Your commentary is what makes it great! Instagram is eye candy but, to me, easily forgettable. All those images with no “fleshing out”–I just don’t retain much from it. I hope blogs don’t disappear.
Can’t go wrong with Cashmere and Silk! Just ordered the scarf!
I love blogs and don’t use Instagram at all, too many pictures and not enough words and thoughts. I don’t even use Pinterest much for the same reason. FB and blogging are my comfort zone and probably will be for a long time to come.
I am rather sad that our BIO series has come to an end Susan but, things move on I guess.
Personally, I feel that things move far too fast in the technological world and as soon as a new social media tool comes along, there’s another one behind !!!! I’m sticking with blogging and I look forward th continued blogging friendship in 2016. XXXX
I do enjoy Instagram for all sorts of reasons, and specific style blogs that feel applicable to me (given my size, my taste, and yes, my age). But I will always be driven by wanting to read quality writing — for information, for the personal slant, and of course the sort of community that evolves.
Bottom line… I’m a “word” person and I love substance. Blogs can provide this, and those that do will always hold appeal for me.
Have a wonderful holiday – and I love the leopard scarf!
xo
D. A.
Ditto what D.A. has written…and she is another good example of why I read certain blogs, and the comments to them, faithfully.
I find blogs and Instagram so different, not sure why Instagram would replace blogging? You have a great way with scarves – I don’t ever wear one unless it’s very cold. I’m not good with accessories, and start taking things off as soon as I put them on.
Kathy, I think for a lot of the top style bloggers (like Atlantic/Pacific, Maja Wyh), it’s really about images and personal branding rather than words. For those types of blogs, Instagram is probably a natural evolution. And thank you; I really enjoy scarves as another layering element.
Instagram is rather addictive. But for real engagement, nothing beats a blog!
Have a great holiday.
XX Jennifer
Lovely outfit! So glad you raised this topic as I have been thinking a great deal about this recently and reviewing the future of my own blog. I enjoy all social media platforms and am particularly enjoying Instagram. As a busy woman, Instagram is quick and easy but still provides an opportunity for interaction with other women who enjoy style… and I have to confess to loving pretty pictures! There are so many blogs out there, and finding those with substance (like yours) can be quite a time consuming job. The number of blogs also that ‘tell’ us (women of a certain age) how to dress and what to wear has become a source of irritation to me – maybe I am getting grumpier as I get older lol. I so appreciate that you share your style experience as opposed to ‘preaching’ to your readers. I am glad to hear that your blog is here to stay. Time prevents me from commenting often but I do read you regularly. xxx
These blogs have fundamentally replaced magazines for me, because they are so much more oriented to my age group’s interests and needs. So my sincere hope is that they don’t fade away in the glare of Instagram, but continue to expand and succeed.
I used to look forward to getting Vogue magazine–now it just annoys me. I can’t relate to a 19 year old model and superficial information geared toward the aging skin of a 25 year old. At my age, I need solid and honest advice about what works and what doesn’t, and am inspired by women my age who still look fabulous.
So please keep up the great work you do, and thank you!
as I try to stay away from all the social media (am I oldfashioned?) I like to read the blogs and will do so in the next year. Looking
forward to your contributions. Merry Xmas and the best for 2016.
So well-stated, my darling friend. I seriously do not understand the fascination of Instagram. I don’t agree with Garence, except for the very young girls…the one’s who need support and the one’s who like to be like everyone else. I totally “get it” for them…but I’ve passed that phase and know, clearly, what I enjoy and what I want to read about and write about. Seeing photos of people I don’t know is just boring boring boring to me. I live in the world of luxury fashion and absolutely do not know one client who looks at stuff like that. I also think we’re passed the stage of worrying about magazines failing, the great ones will always be there, but I do think digital ones now create a space where both content and visuals can work beautifully…and I just may do that!! Thank you for always being yourself !! Happy Holidays
I love your blog, which I’ve enjoyed for some time, though this is my first comment. You write beautifully, have superb taste with a great eye for colour and shape and just the right tone whatever the subject – never preachy but always informative, kind and sincere. I’ve learnt a great deal from your posts with consequent benefits to my wardrobe. The scarf is gorgeous but cashmere and silk are usually too warm for Sydney so any thoughts on silk leopard print scarves would be gratefully received. I’m so happy that you will continue to write and inspire us. Every best wish for the holidays.
In my opinion Instagram is an ADHD moment with only a photo. You give so much great detailed information. I appreciate your eye for detail and the assortment of photos.
Yes, we have had a good time with this special and unique BIO blog-event, created by Marsha.
Although I’m hardly not in the blogworld since some time, I always enjoyed your posts.
Other social media platforms? No, neither Instagram, nor Twitter, Facebook or Pinterest. Being occupied enough with blogging which is to some extend rather time consuming for me – as much as I like it.
Wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS and all the very Best for 2016!
Warmest greetings from the Périgord,
Karin
I wish you a specially Happy Christmas to you and family and readers. Ps. The equipment scarf is sold out..arghhh
Leopard print with blue is a favorite of mine, so love your photo! Yes to pizzaz!
I’ve been on Instagram for over a year and I enjoy it. I’ve met many milliners and other interesting people across the globe. It doesn’t replace blogging for me, as I enjoy writing. The visuals on Instagram are very appealing to me! So I love both platforms for different reasons.
Indeed that leopard looks terribly good against blue. Never knew that. Thanks… I can steal that idea. Let’s call it inspiration. That way I am not so horrible LOL.
Greetje
So … I ordered that leopard scarf and it arrived, and it is not at all the size it is supposed to be. It is almost a square, and not as large. I just emailed Equipment. Has anyone else had that experience?
Judy, not that I’m aware of. It should be a regular oblong scarf, very light and sheer. Let us know what Equipment says.
It’s so strange. It is definitely not oblong, it’s a square. And yet the name on the label and tags is Kayden. I haven’t heard back from Equipment yet. It is still a nice scarf but not what I expected, and of course the options to style it are not what I expected. And even with the discount it was rather pricy. And final sale. On verra!
Update: I am going to send it back and Equipment is going to refund my money. No real explanation of why it was the wrong size; I am still wondering if anyone else got one like this. I would rather have had the scarf with the correct dimensions, but apparently they are sold out. Susan, keep letting us know about leopard scarves!
Instagram is by far my favourite social media platform and I enjoy the interaction there. I agree with Garance and I am curious where blogs etc. will be in a couple of years. Therefore I think it is important to be open and adjust to changes.
xx
Annette | Lady of Style