Why I Love Wearing Color In The Winter (a new ethical handbag company)

Alpaca Sweater: c/o Everlane (My favorite sweater of the season for sure! It’s SO cozy, runs TTS, and the color makes me so happy! I’ve worn it so much, I’m considering buying it in another color before they run out of stock…) | Leather Skirt: c/o Cupcakes & Cashmere (This leather skirt is so gorgeous! It runs a little bit though – I have a 2 and there’s room in waist. Definitely could have gone down to a 0!) | Tights: Gap (affordable and reliable!) | Booties: Steve Madden (old, but similar here!) | Sunglasses: Loft | Bag: c/o Abbey Alley (Keep scrolling to read more about this ethical brand. It was founded by a Chicago gal, too!)

It’s no secret that I love color. Most of the outfits you see on the blog has some sort of pop of color – and my closet represents pretty much the entire rainbow ?  And while I know pink isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, I do think embracing color can be a powerful thing, especially in the winter.

If you also live somewhere that has a long winter, you understand the monotony that comes with gloomy day after gloomy day. My wardrobe becomes an endless cycle of jeans, neutral coats, black boots, and winter accessories. Needless to say, it gets BORING. So when I need to create my own sunshine, I reach for some color… like this perfectly pink alpaca sweater from Everlane!

Turns out there are actually a lot of studies out there about the psychology of colors. Obviously, how each of us view red or blue or yellow is extremely subjective, but it is certainly interesting to me that pink has been found to be not only feminine, but also calming.  No wonder I turn to this sweater whenever I’m feeling down or overwhelmed. It instantly lifts my mood!

If pink isn’t your thing…

Now I’m not saying you have to wear all color all the time. This outfit is the perfect of example of how black basics are extremely useful to have in your closet – especially in the winter. This classic leather skirt is the perfect upgrade to jeans this time of year. Plus, it’s sleek, adds some fun texture, and will honestly never ever go out of style.

And speaking of black leather, this purse by Abby Alley is my new FAVORITE. The designer, Abby, is a local Chicago gal who launched this brand in November. Her handcrafted, luxury handbags are inspired by her visits to the Serengeti. The artisans she works with are based in Kenya and Tanzania, and everything from the brass hardware to the leather they use are locally and ethically sourced.

Also, no animals were harmed or killed in order to make these bags! They only use Maasai leather from previously deceased cows. How incredible is that? She also feels strongly about partnering with local tanneries in Nairobi who pay their workers fairly. Literally every part of this bag was made with thoughtful and careful consideration.

And as if that wasn’t enough, this all started when she taught in Arusha, Tanzania. As a former educator, she has seen both ethnic and gender inequality in education. Because of that, her brand is dedicated to partnering with organizations that are working to provide education and other basic needs in the regions of Kenya and Tanzania that they work with.

Needless to say, if you’ve been looking for a new bag, I highly recommend this one. The leather is sturdy and gorgeous, plus you can wear it as a shoulder bag or a crossbody! Versatility for the win! I also like that it fits a lot, but it also looks cute and slouchy when it’s not filled to the brim.

When it comes to handbags, I prefer quality over quantity any day. Why? Because I like to rely on my favorites and wear them for years. That’s why you see the same ones over and over here on the blog!! I had been in the market for one a size between my small crossbody and big gym bag, and this one totally fits the bill.

What pieces of clothing make you happy in the winter?

Also, do any of you have this alpaca sweater? I know most of us are trying not to shop this month, but I won’t blame you for breaking that oath for this. It’s so cozy!!!

Shop my alpaca sweater + leather skirt:

PS. You might also like How To Style A Tweed Jacket (it’s on sale, too!), Steps to Snowball, and The Best Jumpsuit For Any Occassion!