Detail of the Week: Madewell Sloane Satchel

Some people collect bags and some people collect shoes, but I don't feel like I have a particular affinity for either. I've developed a much more utilitarian approach to my accessories and after a series of impulse purchases, I've learned the importance of investing in quality materials. This makes the most sense when it comes to bags and shoes. I use my purse every single day, and I'm especially hard on my shoes (for some reason). 

This is my second Madewell bag and I'm absolutely smitten. Last year I treated myself to the Lovelock Satchel, which is a bit larger with one more pocket. I spotted this bag in the Madewell store on Walnut St. on Black Friday, and after I checked online and saw that it was sold out I convinced my mother to let me buy it and put it away until the holidays. I secretly pulled it out of its wrapping and preemptively used it for an interview, but as soon as I got home I tucked it away until Christmas and pretended to be surprised when I opened it.

I find that I don't use the front pocket, because it's rather inconvenient to open, but it's large enough to fit a wallet, phone, keys, headphones, lip balm, pen and a small planner with room to spare. That extra room is often taken up by a packet of almonds. Just in case you were wondering.

Detail of the Week: Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots $10 - H&M

I had given up hope of finding a pair of reasonably priced Chelsea boots before the end of the winter season, when lo and behold, my eyes land on a single lonely pair of size 38 ankle boots tucked into the back of H&M's sale section. When I took them to the register I even found that they were part of a Buy 1,Get 1 50% Off promotion. I've just so happened to have worn them every day for the past two weeks, and so the scuffs that have already appeared on the toes of these boots are less of a testament to their quality than they are an example of how tough I am on my footwear.

Detail of the Week: Black Patent Oxfords

Black Patent Oxfords - ALDO

When it's not too cold out (and it hasn't been this past week) I like to wear these patent brogues in lieu of my everyday winter boots. I had a pair of cutout oxfords that I wore to pieces (most literally) and I had to send them on their way this past spring. It took me quite some time before I found a pair that looked sturdy enough to last more than one season on my feet, as I tend to be rather tough on my shoes. I like them best paired with tights and a patterned skirt or dress to contrast their traditional masculinity, and their heels tend to make a satisfying clicking sound as I walk down the sidewalk.

Detail of the Week: Chunky Knit Scarf

Chunky Knit Infinity Scarf - Gap