Prelude to Post: My friend (the talented journalist Atara Arbesfeld) and I recently published an article in The Jewish Press. We wrote a review on Jew in the City's spectacular Chanukah party and her Jewish Orthodox "All-Stars" Video. Please click on http://www.jewishpress.com/sections/features/jew-in-the-city-all-stars-party-lights-up-with-chanukah-inspiration/2012/12/21/to read all about it! If you haven't yet heard of the fabulous Jew in the City, then you must check out her site ASAP (at www.jewinthecity.com).

 

WINTER LAYERING PART 1: THE DENIM JACKET

 

        The advantage to being a nifty, thrifty college graduate without a full-time job (yet!) is that you have no choice but to become innovative and economical. You transform into a quasi-Sherlock Holmes and compel yourself to think out-of-the-box. Let's see now--sugar cubes can sweeten my tea and exfoliate lips, while a hairdryer can style my locks and dry the icing on cakes. Clever, huh? From ramen noodles to hairpins, and from rubber bands to lipstick, everything in your house must now serve double-duty. If that's not possible, then we've got a problem here Watson...

        This "double duty" mantra extends itself to a (currently) applicable aspect of our lives: Winter layering! In an alternate universe (where I am Warren Buffet's granddaughter of course) I would now be purchasing a dizzying array of Ski sweaters, a pair of Hermes gloves, and Hunter Wellies. Alas, my dear readers, that is not so! So, what's a frugal way to keep snug AND stylish this winter? Allow me to introduce our good friend the Denim Jacket...
 

A denim jacket IS a closet staple. There are no ifs, ands, or buts to this! A denim jacket is classic and ridiculously versatile (remember how Jenna Lyons wore it to the Met Gala?). Frankly, the denim jacket transcends all times and seasons.
Below, Mary Kate Steinmiller (Fashion Market Editor at Teen Vogue) showcases the adaptability of a denim jacket like none other.
Don't be hesitant to wear a D.J. with a polished coat, skirt, or dress. The "clash" of casualness with formality is actually fashion-forward and chic. 
 

OVER AND UNDER:
Mary Kate wears a D.J. throughout the year! Layering it OVER a dress is perfect for spring, while wearing it UNDER a fur vest is beautifully appropriate for fall.

J.CREW and the DENIM JACKET

Nobody comprehends the power of a D.J. quite like J.Crew. The Creative Director of this brand, Jenna Lyons (left), wears one under her tailored coat to obtain maximum style points AND maximum toastiness.

 

 

OVER AND UNDER:

J.Crew seems to love pairing Denim Jackets with Herringbone. Can I confess my love for this marriage as well? Here are J.Crew's layering tips to ensure winter warmth: Wear a D.J. OVER a hoodie (right) OR wear a D.J. UNDER a vest (left). 

The Denim Jacket's little sister, the Denim Vest, is a fresh alternative to classic layering staples. The con: It's are not as warm as a jacket. The pro: It's less bulky than a jacket and therefore easier to toss on! A denim vest can either be worn with chunky knits and turtlenecks on weekends or with a button-down and pencil skirt on Casual Friday. Either way, a denim vest is the trademark of nonchalant coolness.



 That’s all for now dear readers. Make sure to combat frigid temperatures and revitalize a dull winter wardrobe with Mr. D.J. He’s your friend through thick and thin and will always have your fashionable back!

 

UNTIL NEXT TIME!

 

PHOTO CREDITS:

www.TheSartorialist.com

www.Vanessajackman.blogspot.com

www.J.Crew.com

www.Anthropologie.com