Every now and then, I get some requests to update my “how to look older in casual attire” post from years back. And while I don’t have enough material for a sequel, this basic outfit employs many of those tips using my wardrobe staples. Per the points in that post, a striped blouse + fitted dark jeans are just as comfy as a graphic tee + lighter flared jeans, but look a little more grown up. Rather than a poofy windbreaker, a tailored trench instantly makes outfits look more pulled-together while still keeping you dry (and warm, through a thick cashmere cardigan I have hidden as an extra layer). I finished with functional accessories that also add texture and dimension to the outfit – a warm camel scarf and oversized leather tote.
This tote is from Given Goods, which I recently learned about through a reader. I chose this Lori tote because it’s a useful everyday piece, which would also make it a great gift. It’s handmade by leather artisans in Peru and each product sold through GG has its own story. 
This bag measures 13″ across the bottom, 18″ across the top, 6.5″ wide base and approx 9″ handle drop. The leather is a heavier weight with “weathered” markings, and is pliable but stands upright when sitting on its own. The inside is unlined with one small pocket and a seam across the base.
I also wanted to share a tip for working with unlined leather. Genuine leather is malleable and can be shaped over time by the contents or how you treat it (which is why I now use base shapers for all my large bags, including this one). Since this tote had a wider top, I folded in the upper side panels and secured them with large binder clips. I removed the clips after a few days and the sides now stay folded naturally, visually reducing the top width from 18″ to 13″ across.
the website is still up and running: http://nisolo.com/products/lori-tote-oak
But I cannot find the cognac color in this post.
You lucky girl! You managed to snatch a beautiful bag! I rushed to the site after reading this post, and sadly the company is closing! Love your blog by the way, classic and timeless!
Classy and stylish 🙂
http://www.outofstandards.blogspot.fr
I am loving this look and the bag is just great!
http://missbagaholic.blogspot.com
love the look and the bag! what size base shaper did you use with this?
What a small world. Yes, we just had snow several days ago and now it's all slush due to the recent rain. I love your other shoe posts–so in love with the Manolo bows! I'd love to wear pumps again, but yes as a teacher, anything but flats get to be painful! 🙁 Thanks for the recommendations, Jean! Just got a nice gift card to Zappos for Christmas– yay! Off to check out some nice winter shoes 🙂
thanks jean, your so right… I look amazing.
Hi Cheska! Thank you for your sweet comment. I saw in your profile you're a teacher in the Albany area, which is actually where I used to live! On to winter boots … I used to think leather boots could not withstand harsh winter conditions, but I most recently got a pair of Aquatalia boots from Nordstrom (previously reviewed) which are supposed to be fully weatherproof. I've been wearing them in the rain/snow/slush and they've held up amazingly. They were a splurge though even at 50% off. Another option are these leather boots that look fairly classic but are from Sorel, a trusted brand in 'weatherproof boots' – http://www.sorel.com/womens-scotia-tall-boot-NL2004.html They are a little pricey as well, but I've heard their shoes last forever. For non-leather, I like the idea of snowboots like these http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/khombu-flurry-cold-weather-wedge-boots?ID=1010818&CategoryID;=25122&LinkType;=#fn=BOOT_HEIGHT%3DTall%26BOOTS_TYPE%3DWinter%26sp%3D1%26spc%3D15 – it's puffy and nylon-esque but they are still basic tall black boots and not un-stylish. They have great reviews at Macy's and also avail at Zappos. Good luck in your search!
Hi Ellen – thanks so much for taking the time to say hello, and for your kind words! I'm so glad you've been able to apply some of the content here to your own shopping.
PS – I noticed your profile is linked to TCP – do you write for them?
Took these a day before the snowstorm- now it's Aquatalia weatherproof boots for commuting every day : ) Stay warm!
Sounds perfect – a silk button up blouse is a classic in its own!
Hi Jackie – I'll get on it!
^hi ladies! I will take some photos as soon as possible – it's super easy : )
Hi Jean,
Love your blog, I get the feed daily on my iPad's feedly. I've come across many other petite fashion bloggers, but I do have to say that your classic style is my favorite! Can you please do a post on winter boots? Or at least give me some helpful advice? I live in the Northeast and while I love ankle booties and leather boots, they're pretty much useless once the winter snowstorms come in. I hate the winters because I'm pretty much restricted to big puffy jackets and clunky snow shoes. How can I be practical in the slush AND still be fashionable? Help!
xo
Cheska
Longtime reader, first time commenter.
Just wanted to say how much I love your blog (I'm not petite – I actually have the opposite problem, and constantly need to look for tall sizes/alter things to fit a taller person) – but your tips are so helpful! Plus your style is just perfect!
really cool bag and love the shoes, awesome outfit as usual! xx. gigi. http://www.gigikkitchen.com
that bag is just gorgeous!!
xo,
Sandy
Sandy a la Mode
Great outfit. I love everything about it from the trench to the pumps. So casual and chic.
Hi Jean, you must have taken these pics weeks ago haha. Boston is covered by snow now! Cant't wait to see your outfit in the real winter here!
like the outfit, but wearing a silk legacy blouse from ann taylor underneath, what do you think?
I love this look on you. Very stylish!
http://www.petitestyleonline.com
I love this outfit, Jean. ♥ That scarf looks so cozy! So jealous at how you can still wear heels! It's already snowing here in Toronto, so I've busted out my winter boots. Can't wait to see more of your winter fashion.
jessydust.com
I absolutely love how you tied the scarf 🙂
xo
Maggie A
LOVEMAVIN.COM // GIVEAWAY
Very chic and classy! You looks are always so wearable!
LOVE it.
NEW POST:: Home for the Holidays
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xoxo
Where do I begin? You even make cas dressing look chic and put-together! And that tote is gorge! And those pumps – suddenly I am in need of yet another pair of leopard print pumps …
Love this outfit! So elegant and chique. That scarf has such a great shade of camel, it really compliments with your hair and the combination with the beige trench, very pretty.
A Burberry trench has been a wishlist item for years, I hope I will be able to buy one in the upcoming years.
X Sara
Lovely outfit!!! Really like how you paired everything!!!
Completely in love with your leo shoes!!!
xoxo
Jul du monde des petites
I'm thirding the other comments here. I'd love to see a tutorial on how you tied your scarf. I'm always looking for cool new ways to wear mine!
xoxo Jackie
Something About That
That's an awesome idea with the binder clips! Love the color/shape of that bag.
Do you think the exterior is easily scratched? I'm horrible with delicate care items.
Thank you!
x atelier zozo
Yes, please share how you tied that scarf!
Gorgeous classics. How on earth did you tie/style that gorgeous scarf? Perfection!