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{H&M Beanie, Uniqlo Tunic, Old Navy Vest, Romeo & Juliet Couture Leggings via Hautelook, Elliott Lucca Handbag (similar), Fendi Boots (similar), Marc Jacobs Sunglasses}

It’s finally Friday, and I’m officially looking forward to a looooong break.  Happy President’s Day weekend!

{Club Monaco Jenni Cap, Zara Coat, Asos Sweater Dress, Wolford Tights, Fownes Leather Gloves, H&M Earrings, Dav Rainboots via Gilt Groupe}

Last week, we had one of those rainy/snowy/slushy days that I live for.  Seriously, any excuse to break out a cute pair of rain boots is a-ok in my book!  I stocked up on a few pairs of winter boots back in December, but the weather’s been so mild this season that I’ve hardly had a chance to wear them.  Ah well, c’est la vie!

I was sort of in a rush when I took these pics and forgot to snap a few without my jacket, but you can check out the details of my dress in a previous post.  Speaking of my jacket… isn’t it the cutest? I love how it’s collarless, and it looks great with turtlenecks and tie-neck tops and dresses like the one I’m wearing here.  And best of all, it was only $40 on clearance!

{Military Beret via Cockpit USA (similar), Uniqlo Dress (similar), Michael Kors Boots via Loehmann’s, Second-Hand Belt}

At the risk of leaving myself vulnerable to sideways glances from my readers, I’ve mentioned previously that I sometimes take my outfit cues from Gossip Girl (one of my favorite guilty pleasures).  Last time, it was a Serena-inspired coat that got my wheels turning.  This time around, it was one of Blair’s millinery delights that set my heart aflutter.  In contrast to the floppy, shapeless varieties that I’m used to, I love how this beret has a lot of structure and sturdiness to it.

Speaking of which, did you know that there’s a proper way to shape a beret?  Well, I had no idea either until after I’d worn this cap many, many times.

If you’re interested, here are the required steps:

1. Start with an unlined beret or cut out the lining of the beret to reduce bulk and ease shaping.
2. Wet and shave the beret inside and out to remove the layer of fuzz. That will ensure the wool has a smooth appearance. (Shaving the beret while it’s wet should make the job easier.)
3. Form fit the beret. Soaking the beret before donning it will help stretch the wool and form it to the wearer’s head. Most of the beret’s material should be pulled down so it drapes over the right ear. The cardboard stiffener should be centered over the wearer’s left eye so the headband is about two finger-widths above the eyebrow. Pinch the cardboard stiffener so that the wool dips down behind it. Tie the two laces in the back in a non-slip knot for a snug fit, then cut off the ends of the ties.
4. Dry the beret – by freezing it or just wearing it until it dries.
5. Have the flash centered on the beret’s cardboard stiffener and sewn on. Though some might suggest that it’s best to sew the unit flash on as a first step, you run the risk of the beret color bleeding into the flash when it’s wet.

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