I made a mistake yesterday: I ate gluten. It was a moment of weakness—Christmas treats are hard to resist. Nuts and toffee dipped in chocolate? Yes. Cake balls? Of course. A dip full of mystery ingredients? Absolutely. I basically kept eating until I regretted it. Some years I crave those foods, others I don’t, and this year the timing of the holidays worked against me. Afterwards I felt awful — stomachache and all — so I understand why people question why I would eat a regular donut when a gluten-free option exists. It’s just not worth the aftermath, but once a year, when you’re surrounded by family and friends who don’t share your dietary choices, I’ll happily be the non-offensive guest and indulge a little.
Can you believe the holidays are already over? They flew by. I prefer fewer gifts as the years go on—no more random knickknacks that you feel guilty getting rid of. This year we did a name draw to simplify gift giving, and my boyfriend and I agreed not to buy for each other since we’re saving for a house. Of course he surprised me with the Sorel Medina II boots I’ve wanted for ages, and I was thrilled. His sister, who had my name, gave me a turquoise leather jacket and a Michael Kors bracelet—basically the best presents. I gave my boyfriend’s brother a GoPro for spring break; I’m relieved none of my past spring breaks were documented, but I trust he’ll use his camera more wisely.
Now let’s talk outfits. I wore one look to the Botanical Gardens to see the lights with my parents since we missed them on Christmas. Oversized sweaters are the best—comfortable, warm, and stylish. One of my favorite local boutiques, Hailee Grace, is full of oversized sweaters under $100. The Anthropologie Lunan Anorak Jacket is still my top winter purchase; it’s worth every penny in Colorado’s cold.
{ Leggings with leather stripe from Hailee Grace Boutique for $45 – white oversized hi-low sweater from Hailee Grace Boutique for $54 – grey infinity scarf from Target – Anthropologie Lunan Anorak Jacket for $248 – leather studded over-the-knee boots (last season) – Grace and Lace leg warmers for $35 }
This was my favorite outfit of the week because it was the most comfortable, and because my hair was on day five without washing, so a floppy beanie hid the messy area. These floppy beanies are my go-to winter accessory: warm and forgiving when you don’t want to fuss with your hair.
{ Grey Flying Monkey skinny jeans from Hailee Grace Boutique for $54 – Gap terry embossed wave sweatshirt – black leather jacket from Francesca’s – lime beanie – Sorel Medina II boots for $225 – open knit green infinity scarf from Modcloth (last season) }
My new favorite spot in Denver is the renovated Union Station. They transformed the train station into a lively space full of restaurants and bars. A group of friends were doing a gift exchange while the rest of us had dinner at Mercantile. I spent too much on champagne—never trust a server’s recommendation if you’re watching your wallet; they’ll usually suggest the priciest bottle. Still, I tipped well because he said he loves Sons of Anarchy, which I appreciated.
{ Dark turquoise long sleeve blouse from Inspyre Boutique for $30 – skirt from a friend – black leather jacket from Francesca’s for $60 – Come Haute on Top bootie from Modcloth for $50 – infinity scarf from Target (last year) }
Overall, this week was about balancing indulgence and comfort. I enjoyed the treats and the company, even if my stomach protested, and I leaned into cozy, practical fashion to get through cold days and holiday outings. A good oversized sweater, a reliable pair of boots, and a warm beanie can make any winter day feel a little brighter.