nubby cardy + springy boots

Lots of considerations when dressing today... This weekend my madre and I did some decently hardcore 3 Day training and some of my little piggies were quite squealy from all that trotting about.  Luckily, they don't really hurt today, but I'm afraid my bandaging skills makes it quite difficult to slip my feet into anything that isn't a running shoe or a flip-flop... {Case-in-Point: last night, I wore one fabulous plum patent pointe-toed flat and one $2.99 Old Navy rubber flip-flop to Mary Poppins.  I looked like a gimp, but at least I was trying.}  Anyhoo, the weather gods smiled upon me this morning and I awoke to temperatures well into the 50s.  Not the prettiest day but hot damn if it isn't time for boots!  I'm a bit of a boot whore but if it came down to forced monogamy, this pair would be an easy choice - Cole Haan (last season's) suede zip-ups with an almond toe and Nike Air technology.  Purchased them during Partner's Card Week last year and they have been 110% worth the price tag.  If someone told me "today you are going to be chased by a murderer {or a scary clown or giant vat of mayo} but you get to choose your own shoes so long as they are not athletic shoes," these would be the kicks I would don.  And yes, this is actually a scenario I've considered at great length (often at 3 a.m. when I can't sleep and I've lost interest in the Magic Bullet infomercial).

(poor calf - quite the unflattering angle there, little buddy - apologies)

Another one of my winter office staples, this cardigan almost looks like a jacket but makes me feel as if I could be curled up at home with a good book, a cuddly blanket, and a big glass of red.

I must admit, I'm slightly conflicted on the length of this dress + the boots.  I've worn this dress bunches to work - always with tights, pumps, and a jacket or cardigan - and I never felt as if it was too short before.  But the boots paired with it are giving me pause... Let's hope I don't give off a Pretty Woman vibe as I have to emerge from my office for a luncheon at noon today!

Peacock Dress - Banana Republic

Nubby Black Cardigan - Banana Republic

Grey Tights - J. Crew*

Black Suede Boots - Cole Haan via Nordstrom

Gold & Amethyst Feather Earrings - Kendra Scott via Gilt Fuse

Gold Flower Cocktail Ring - J. Crew

*not impressed at all, btw - opting for BR or Hue when these rip... which will be soon (this is their 2nd wear).