Giving Old Things New Life
Do you have that one item hanging in your closet that you just never seem to reach for? There’s nothing wrong with it, it fills a gap in your wardrobe…and yet…
That’s what this grey cardigan is for me. I’ve had it for about three years and it’s been a stop-gap until I find the PERFECT grey cardigan. And I can’t really pinpoint why I’m not more fond of it – well, it has no pockets for one thing…and I’m not a big fan of the cocoon shape on me…and it’s a lighter shade than I’d really like. So I keep letting it just hang around even though I really show it no love.
UNTIL this fabulous red plaid top arrived from Gwynnie Bee! As soon as I saw the top I was like The Grey Cardigan!!! I could have worn it with my black cardi or even my heathery blue one…but nope, I wanted the grey. I like the fact that while there is no grey in the top, every color in it goes nicely with grey – the winey red, the black, the blue. That’s my favorite kind of pairing – where the things complement one another while not necessarily matching.
Are there things in your closet that you think could use a new friend?
Here’s a look at where I was shooting this day. I had some time to explore a bit on vacation and visited a near-by beach. Not like a “going to the beach” beach, but a good spot less than ten minutes from the apartment to go with my chair and a book and a beverage and sit and watch the sunset. I didn’t do that much as usual last year cuz I was missing my companion Caleb.
What I Wore:
- Seven7 Jeans Plus Pintucked Top, size 3x via Gwynnie Bee
- Charlotte Russe Grey Cocoon Cardigan, size 3x. Old – comparable here and here.
- Black Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda jeans, size 22W short.
- The I Can’t Believe I’m Still Wearing These Sneakers Adidas Cloudfoam Sneakers. These exact ones (from like 1877) are no longer available. These are some options I’m going to try on to see if they’re as magical as mine: here and here.
This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission if you click on them and/or buy something as a result of clicking that link.
Iris
One thing – unfortunately I have a multitude of things. I don’t shop a lot and then many times after I get something home and in the closet it’s like, “why?”.
Anyway, I love your cardigan – it looks warm and soft (2 items of importance to me). Looks great with the cute plaid top.
Your location looks inviting too.
Grace & Peace,Iris
http://www.IrisOriginalsRamblings.com
bettyewp
It *is* warm and soft. I really need to show it more love. I lost 7 pounds with the stomach bug I had, I may not be able to wear it much longer HA HA HA HA HA HA.
Iris
WOW, that’s a lot to lose when you’re sick and definitely not the prescribed weight loss program.
Grace & Peace,Iris
http://www.IrisOriginalsRamblings.com
bettyewp
I’m actually down 12 pounds total since the beginning of the year, not through any intentional dieting, just between finding a new place to live, packing, moving, unpacking, being sick, etc…I haven’t been doing my usual chip eating or even eating my normal amount of food. Just haven’t had “the call.” Not complaining. I’m sure it will come back eventually.
jodie filogomo
Yes!!! This cardigan is totally perfect with the blouse.
I do have some pieces like that. Lately I’ve been taking those pieces and actually putting together outfits with them to make them seem more friendly in my closet. I know that sounds silly, but it’s really been working. Like once I figure out how they go with other pieces, then they get more love….(shows how crazy I am, and I don’t let everyone see this side of me…ha ha)
Now I can’t wait to see that view with greenery on the trees!!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
bettyewp
I see the discussion sometime about “are you living your life just for your blog?” And it sort of reminds me of this situation. Yes, there are some things I do or wear because I think they’ll be fun to share on the blog. But what’s wrong with that? Anything that gets me out of the house…or trying a new color combination in my outfits…is a win in my book! The more I TRY…and SEE, the more comfortable I am with DOING, and look at me (and you! And all of us!) – Old Dog, New Tricks!
julia
I do have a couple of items like that and usually it’s because it needs something “just right” to go with it to make it work. Honestly, there are probably only about 10 things I could wear over and over in my closet and sometimes I do just wear things for the blog. It’s all about the ‘gram right? Ugh! I can’t even force myself to sign onto that app just now. Too much Mueller news and congressional hearings this week! I’m obsessed!
bettyewp
La La La La La I Can’t Hear You! I have an uncanny ability to block out annoying “outside world” stuff. So I have NO idea what you’re referring to – and why yes, I DO live under a rock. Ha.
CiM
Caleb – oh, Caleb.
You should know, I’ve read many posts about dogs. But not like Caleb.
That dog! The most soulful eyes, the sweetest face, so intelligent, so warm. It was like he was coming out of the pictures, walking toward you from the screen.
I know not a day goes by that you don’t miss him. I wanted to tell you – other people have not forgotten him, either. My missing doesn’t come close to yours, but I miss him, too.
That was no ordinary dog. He was a true friend, a light in this world. It showed. How I wish he was still here by your side.
bettyewp
Ohhh…..Thank you for all that. I’ve been thinking about him so much here at the new place. He would have loved it here, with the carpeted floors and the patio. He would have gotten me out walking and exploring more. He would just be here with me 🙁 Janey’s here, but…it’s just not the same.
I know they can’t be with us forever.
xoxo
CiM
Since I don’t blog, I don’t know how much of a hassle this is – I wondered what you might think about linking to your wonderful tribute to Caleb when you mention his name? Is that “done” in blog world? I don’t know the rules, if there are any.
For some reason, I had this image of a newer reader coming across a mention of Caleb, perhaps not knowing who he was. What a shame if they never got to “meet”him. I never get tired of seeing his sweet little face.
Just a thought, and you know best. It might be too painful to do the link, and I would certainly understand that, too.
He was such an important part of your life. He became important to all of us, too.
bettyewp
That’s actually an excellent idea, CiM. I will do that. And seeing his face is never painful for me. Well, it makes me cry…in a longing way…but I’d still rather see his handsome face and soulful eyes than not.
Thanks for the suggestion xoxo
Ruth Josey
I’m so sorry you’re missing your buddy 🙁 I have 2 girls (one is fairly new to me but is quickly working herself into the family and the other is the definition of a best friend) and I can’t even imagine what it’s going to be like when they aren’t around any more.
I love the pairing of the gray cardigan (it’s just so plain, so I can see why you haven’t done anything with it – you needed something that would pop out from it) with the plaid red. It’s a great combo. I have SO many things in my closet like that. I’ve even not worn some over a few years and put them into the giveaway pile, only to return them to the closet with a new inspiration for them :/
Ruth
http://www.voguefauxreal.com
bettyewp
“I love the pairing of the gray cardigan (it’s just so plain, so I can see why you haven’t done anything with it – you needed something that would pop out from it) with the plaid red.” Exactly!
Give your furry friends a hug for me 🙂
Clover
You have such a great smile! And that red looks really good on you!
Caleb was such a special guy. I know you would love to have him there with you and Janey.
You live in a beautiful place! 🙂
bettyewp
Thanks for the compliments, Clover! Oh my Caleb, yes, he was a special guy.
Daenel T.
I have a sweater like that too – I’ve recently started using it for keeping warm around the house. Like you, I’m not sure what it is that I don’t like about the sweater but I can’t get rid of it.