Hooray for multi-season clothing!
When I selected MATTER’s summer releases for review in July, I did so with the specific objective of acquiring items that:
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were built for a slightly more professional setting without sacrificing style
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would work for cooler weather, not just the heat of summer
In July, I was about a week away from moving to Connecticut in order to make a significant life change, one that requires more interviews, conferences, and internships. And, in fact, I’ve already worn this blazer to an interview (I got the job!).
The Blazer
I have never, ever enjoyed a blazer as much as this one. Normally they’re made with a heavy fabric that constricts in the shoulders and makes me feel like I’m a character in someone else’s life. This one – because it’s made with a lightweight woven cotton with an easy, slightly oversized fit – is practically as comfortable as a cardigan. I can wear it all day without feeling antsy.
The Skirt
I feel like it’s pretty common for bloggers to gush about how versatile a piece of clothing is, but I really mean it when I say this skirt is versatile. If you compare this outfit to the one I initially styled, you can see how easy it is to dress way down or way up depending on the occasion.
Life Updates
I’ve gotta level with you: dealing with the triple threat of bureaucracies – state, university, and the Episcopal church – simultaneously has really taken it out of me. Somehow I managed to lose both my marriage license and my car title, which has made my attempts to get my driver’s license and registration updated very tedious. I’ve been working on a mountain of documents and forms for my upcoming interview with my denomination, which will culminate in a trip back to Virginia next month. And I’m missing a form that proves I’m allowed to work, so the school is withholding my paycheck.
These are the sorts of things that don’t “matter” in terms of identity or purpose, but they can feel like they matter the most, because if you don’t follow procedure, everything can grind to a halt.
These things, and general adjusting, have culminated in an emotionally complex week, but I’ve been thankful for sermons, discussions, and weather that have reminded me how beautiful and rich my life is, even if the story my planner tells is rather different.
Speaking of weather, it is legit turning to fall now and I will need to spend some time this weekend pulling all my sweaters out of storage. I think I’ll enjoy getting reacquainted with my fall and winter wardrobe, but I hope the afternoons will remain warm for a little longer.
