The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Boots. Tall ones, short ones, fuzzy ones, leather ones, rubber ones, tucked into or over shoes, every color of the rainbow, stomping in puddles, climbing over snow, looking chic in last minute shopping.

Scarves. Sheer, knitted, woolen, fuzzy, soft, wrapped, loose, rainbow, monochromatic.

Sweaters. Fitted, bulky, belted, loose, cabled, knit, hand-wash, snuggly, cowl-necked, turtle-necked, crew-necked, v-necked. And certainly no reindeer.

Hats. Elegant, sloppy, fun, cute, felt, wool, fleece, matching, deliberately not matching, over your ears, letting your ears peek out, brimmed, rolled.

Gloves. Elbow-length, cropped, fingerless, mittened, wool, leather, fur-trimmed (thanks, H!), cashmere-lined.

Take that, you summer dress lovers.

Shop in Style: Deals on Mass Produced Basics

So I rant about mass-production and how I don't want to look like anyone else.

Then I go shop at the Box Stores and places like Ann Taylor & Banana.

Well?

Whatchu lookin' at, Willis?

What: Banana Republic Final Sale - up to 70% on tons of items, searchable by size (but not by price - that would be helpful). Stock up on basics and cute items you'd never buy unless they were on sale. Be sure and check out their accessories. I've found some of my favorite costume jewelry pieces in their sale bins. My favorites?

$19.99 - Modern boot-cut corduroy pant - perfect for those wintry Washington days we still have left. And corduroy is always in style in some form. Chocolate would be my pick.

$29.99 - Contoured lightweight wool trouser - unfortunately only in a 12, but this cut is exceedingly forgiving and flattering on Real Women. Cut a little higher, a little fuller, but still classic and lovely lines. A girl always needs a pair of black slacks.

$19.99 - Long sleeve merino-blend crewneck. Classic cut, two classic colors. And merino really is a 4-season wool.

$39.99 - Wool textured swing jacket. I swear it's universally flattering, pretty, and easy to pair with tailored bottoms - a skirt or slacks. A pretty green, and you can treat yourself to a pair of long gloves to harken back to the Time When Ladies Were Ladies.

$16.99 - Long cashmere gloves.Granted, these not are the Cashmere of Cashmeres, but still, soft, supple, in cool colors, and long, long, long. So elegant. Pair with the swing coat and trouser jeans, a little pair of flats or ladylike pumps, and you're set for any weekend. There's also a leather version (a little more dear at $44.99, but will likely last longer).