Do you ever try something on, smile at yourself in the mirror, and then immediately start talking yourself out of it?

“Where would I wear this?”
“Is that color too bright?”
“Am I too old for that?”

We can be quite a committee when we’re alone in a dressing room.

This week, I’m in Mexico celebrating Día de Muertos, taking in the colors, traditions, and loving remembrances that make this time so meaningful. The photographs and personal treasures on the ofrendas have me thinking about our individual stories—the details people know and love about us. And while getting dressed is one small part of life, it’s another place where we get to express a little of who we are.

Back in Seattle, November calls for layers, and this week’s pieces at Meadow offer plenty of ways to make those layers your own this week with the help of LOVE TREE.

Start with a color that makes you happy. The burgundy and deep green mock-neck sweaters are beautiful examples of how a simple shape can let the color do the work. With their relaxed silhouettes and ribbed edges, they’re easy to picture with favorite jeans or a dressier pair of trousers. Burgundy with cream feels especially lovely for fall, while deep green looks striking alongside black.

Then there’s that light green cardigan, with its delicate openwork across the shoulders and down the sleeves. What a cheerful little surprise among the deeper autumn shades! Wear it over a simple camisole with denim, or pair it with darker trousers to carry that fresh color into November. There’s no reason your favorite shade has to wait for Spring.

If you gravitate toward quieter colors, the cream and dark brown button-front cardigans have their own appeal. The round necklines, generous buttons, and shorter lengths give them a neat, simple finish. Wear one buttoned as a sweater or open over a favorite top. These are the kinds of pieces that invite you to play with what’s already in your closet.

And can we talk about the plaid coats? There’s a burgundy version with cream and dark lines, and a black, gray, and cream version for those who love a neutral palette. Both have long lines, lapels, and pockets, bringing an outfit together with very little effort. Put one over a plain sweater and jeans, add boots, and you’ve given your everyday combination a fresh personality.

The hardest part may be deciding which plaid feels most like you.

For a little more attitude, the black leather-look jacket brings a stand collar, roomy sleeves, and flap-pocket details. Try it over the cream cardigan for a mix of textures, or let it give your familiar jeans-and-sweater outfit a different mood. You don’t need a motorcycle—or a whole new personality—to enjoy a jacket with some presence.

The black leather-look midi skirt, with its front slit, offers another way to change things up. I love the idea of pairing that smooth finish with the texture of a knit. The deep green mock-neck would make a beautiful partner, while the cream cardigan could take it in a softer direction. Add ankle boots and see how it feels.

Finally, the dark zip-front knit with its fluffy collar trim brings a playful touch to the collection. Between the ring zipper pull, front pockets, and dramatic collar, it has enough detail to make even a simple pair of dark jeans feel like an outfit.

That’s what I enjoy about this week’s selection: there’s room for different moods. Some days you want a quiet cardigan. Other days, you want the burgundy plaid coat or a collar with a little drama. You get to be the same person and enjoy all of them.

Personal style doesn’t require a complete wardrobe overhaul. Sometimes it starts with trying on one thing you would normally walk past—and giving yourself a moment to enjoy it before the dressing-room committee gets involved.

As October turns into November, I hope you’ll find something that feels good, works with your life, and makes you smile. Wear it for coffee. Wear it to meet a friend. Wear it on an ordinary afternoon because you’re happy to have it.

Thank you for continuing to support Meadow and the care Shelley puts into choosing these pieces. From here in Mexico, I’m sending a little color and warm wishes your way.

Stay cozy, trust your own taste, and leave room for a little fun. xoxoxoxo

Meadow Sidewalk Saturday AND Sunday Markets | Saturdays • 11–4 | Sundays • 12-4 | October 31, November 1, 11/17-18, 11/21-22 (Weather permitting)
Corner of 6th & Crockett

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