Friday Playdate » Blog Archive » baby it’s cold outside, so layer up (yes, even for your fancy cocktail party)

baby it’s cold outside, so layer up (yes, even for your fancy cocktail party)

Filed Under pretty things on December 16, 2009

Wade and I are going to a fancy-ish party on Saturday night, which means that I’ll be busting out my LBD — and a parka, apparently, because after weeks of warm weather, it’s freezing here, and my dress options are either sleeveless or short sleeved (or long sleeved but with a plunging neckline — either way, brr!).

LOFT dress What’s the strategy for not freezing to death in your holiday finery? Well, you can opt for something sweater-y, but a sweater dress isn’t exactly fancy. Instead, think about pairing your fancy-but-not-warm frock with a more rugged outer layer.

I love the combination here, from LOFT — no, not Ann Taylor Loft, they’re just LOFT now — because it’s both feminine and warm. The dress (which, sadly, is sold out online) is just frilly enough, while the jacket, with it’s bomber shape and faux-fur collar, is both tough and elegant. This is a fun way to warm up an otherwise chilly silhouette.

I also love the idea of pairing a more casual jacket with blingy jewelry – here, a big necklace and dramatic cuff — for after-five events. If you’re opting for warmth, upping the ante with glam add-ons is a simple way to make even the most utilitarian piece party-perfect, and keep yourself toasty at the same time.

LOFT dress Where can you find cool pieces like these? LOFT, of course. The chain formerly known as Ann Taylor Loft is reinventing itself as your go-to spot for cool, affordable clothes. Their look hasn’t changed all that much — or if it has, it’s for the better, with a nice balance of classic and trendy pieces, all at reasonable prices. I’ve always loved LOFT’s collections (and right now, if they would bring back that fabulous cocktail dress, I would pick one up in a heartbeat).

This week, LOFT wants to know: “Where do you get your fashion fix?” They’re looking for the best style blogs, and they want your opinion; go to the LOFT Facebook page and vote for Friday Playdate in their Blog Wars poll. You know you want to. The winning blogger gets a $500 LOFT gift card. Come on, you all — help a girl out.

What’s in it for you? LOFT is also supplying a $100 gift card for one lucky Friday Playdate reader. Winner will be chosen totally at random on Saturday, from the comments on this post. Just tell me what you’d spend your $100 on at LOFT. It’s that easy.

Both contests — the one here and the one on Facebook — end Friday at 4:00 pm EST. Enter now, and please vote for Friday Playdate as your favorite style blog. I would so appreciate it.

Congratulations to Bethany! And thanks to everyone who entered, and who voted for Friday Playdate.

Cold? In Oklahoma? Allow me to giggle a little….up here in Canada. SOUTH Canada…

but. Nice dress!

I’d spend my $100 on lots and lots of blingy jewelry!

Pants. Holy Honkers how I need some new black pants.

Man, I would spend it on that gold dress. You can’t have enough gold clothes, in my opinion. I mean, I’d never dress ENTIRELY in gold — then I’d look like one of those people who stands on the sidewalk in New York with a hat out for donations (what? I’m going to give you money because you’re….wearing all gold?)– but still. Gold clothes are good.

I’ve been hearing good things about their jeans, so I’d look at those. I do love LOFT sweaters, though. It would be a tough call.

I think I’d get some new sweaters, or maybe some accessories.

Dress pants for work. boring but necessary.

I really need a new sweater. My husband even notices that I wear the same sweater every day the temp is this cold. I would love to be able to buy myself something right now and not feel guilty I am not buying a present for someone. Thanks for the opportunity to win. I love the Loft - however I do not get to shop there nearly enough!

I would love a new sweater.

Loft carries the cutest loungewear and really fantastic accessories

I prefer to drink myself a coat at a cocktail party…. who needs a jacket.

What WOULDN’T I buy? I’m a huge LOFT fan, though I haven’t shopped there since I had an office job (going on eight years, holy crap). At a quick look, I see a belted cardigan I really like, and since I’m about to have a baby I think some shapeware would not be a terrible idea.

“Holy Honkers” is the best expletive I’ve heard in years, Busy Mom!!

Pants - need pants NOW. Twill, that really fit well. I have always been a huge AT and LOFT fan, and I am still wearing a pair I bought a four years ago and they still look and fit fabulous. Except for the ink stain…

Hence, need pants.

I’m freezing right now, so I’ll say sweaters.

I couldn’t find the poll on their facebook page. I saw some cute scarves there last night and they always have great tops & dresses.

I want pretty scarves! Lots and lots of scarves to accessorize my dresses and help me work my winter wardrobe into summer.

I love loft! I’d spend it on blouses. They have great tops that can work for my business casual office and are still comfortable.

Probably a coat…..

I would get this: http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=25178&N=1200007&categoryId=211&pCategoryId=3359&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_211&Nty=1&No=14&loc=TN&defaultColor=Black&defaultSizeType=Regular

or this:

http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=20318&N=1200007&categoryId=211&pCategoryId=3359&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_211&Nty=1&No=14&loc=TN&defaultColor=Pebble%20Melange%20Grey&defaultSizeType=Regular

Sweaters! They have the cutest sweaters right now!

I’d spend it on a sweater dress I’ve had my eye on for a while!

I’d buy sweaters! They have such beautiful sweaters. Also some fun jewelery.

Happy Holidays!

I would spend the $100 on tidings of comfort and warmth: the grey heather beret, ribbed wooly tights and button detail turtleneck.

But certainly, I would have to get the Holiday Peds, because I respect the holiday hostesses who set the stage for numerous fêtes. Whether they have hardwood floors or berber, they have the right to implement “No Shoes” within their nests! ~~”

That sounds awesome!

Hmm, I’d probably go nuts in the lounge section with a pullover and comfy pants.

yes i totally have noticed how awesome their site has been lately! i went and looked at their tees and immediately fell in love with them. like this one! http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=21778&N=1200005&pCategoryId=3359&categoryId=204&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_204&loc=TN&defaultColor=Bright%20Plum&defaultSizeType=Regular

SUPER cute with the ruffles. so i’d probably pick up some new tops and well you always need jeans!

LOVE the Chiffon Ruffle Front Dress.

OMG OMG OMG this is so exciting! I’d grab this in a HEARTBEAT:
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=22334&N=1200011&pCategoryId=3359&categoryId=205&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_205&loc=TN&defaultColor=Black&defaultSizeType=Regular

Fantastic!

Jeans! The loft has fabulous Original Boot Cut Jeans that are amazing - and I love them so much I have worn out a pair (literally they are beginning to fall apart from washing and wearing them for 3 years!)

Funny enough, I looked down and realized EVERYTHING I am wearing today is from the LOFT! Jean Jacket, white v-neck t-shirt, Khaki velour pants and a cute necklace & earrings set I bought a couple of years ago. PICK ME, PICK ME!

I love that store, it’s one of the few places where I can find clothes that fit me just right (thanks petite section!)

I’ve been eyeing a number of their sweater dresses for a while now, particularly the one with ‘petals.’ I think that it would be the perfect addition to my wardrobe.

Postage, probably. Do they ship to the UK?

I love their “Julie” pants, which I need more of badly! Plus their new jewelry lines are awesome. Hope I win!

Accessories and a jacket!!! Lucky me!

I would get some new black pants and a couple cute tops…maybe even a “grown up” jacket or accessories now that I don’t have babies pulling earings out of my ears and puking on jackets!

I really wanted the little ruffle dress you posted on here, but it was already gone by the time I got to the store. I would love to buy something fabulous for my Febuary cruise!

I’m only now able to even think about dresses again since the baby is 18 months old and day weaned. I’d have to go with the Pleated Neck Knit Dress and black tights. Ah, to be a lady again.

I need a cute new dress and Loft always has adorable ones!

I love LOFT. If I were to win the $100 I would undoubtedly spend it on sweaters. It’s my weakness. Or perhaps a pair of Julie pants. Those are perfect for my shape.

I would totally splurge on something special for me! I know I could fall in love with a fun dress for the HOlidays or for whenever…I have been lucky to find a treat a year there around the Holidays! Let’s keep it going! Love love love that place!

Oh I need a new pair of black pants.

Oh wait! No! I need a black sweater.

No! No! I need some tights. And mittens.

Oh nevermind, I’ll decide when I get there.

Well I would definitely start with their mini-stripe pj pants (on sale!) and a tee shirt for my favorite sport: sleeping. Then I’d update my jeans, add some thick cozy sweaters…and maybe I’d try some of those black leggings. And I love those “Julie” pants too.

Work pants and fun jewelry!

I would gladly spend $100 on accessories!!

Thanks!!!

I’d spend it on a fabulous piece that I wouldn’t otherwise splurge on. Probably a gorgeous dress that I could dress up or down.

I would treat myself to some shirts…that AREN’T t-shirts…but something cuter! And maybe a little bling..I have never bought bling before

I’d spend that $100 on at least one pair of pants that will actually fit me in the butt.

oh! And I voted for you on the facebook link! I hope you win!

I would get this:
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=22875&N=1200005&pCategoryId=3359&categoryId=204&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_204&Nty=1&No=30&loc=TN&defaultColor=White&defaultSizeType=Regular

because it is oh so pretty!

I would get a new skirt, new top and a necklace or two, because I LOVE EVERYTHING there and I need to just start over with my wardrobe.

Oh and you’re winning the poll so far!

A new sweater and some jewelry. Going to vote for you now!

I’d spend my $100 on maternity wear or possibly accessories!

Since I just cleaned my closet if things I don’t wear or did not fit, I would like some of the classics to build a lasting wardrobe.

I would buy a new suit! I need one really bad!

I would get some new tops to wear to work. My work wear needs an update!

I would spend the money on my son’s girlfriend. She’s working her way through college and deserves to be treated to something nice. I would probably start out buying the chunky sweater coat for her and go from there!

I’d get something fun for New Year’s and then something warm to cover up with!

Sweaters! Cardigans! Oh yes!

Some new and fun tops would be great!

I would give the $100 to my favorite nephew’s size 0 wife.

I would get the fabulous multi-colored necklace and a new top to go with it to pair with my black pants!

Sweaters and some of their awesome jewelry!

I can’t commit to what I’d spend $100 on at LOFT. They’re always changing their displays such that I think everything is NEW! and SHINY! and OMG I NEED THAT! every time I walk in. It would be spent on my, just me - that’s for sure!

I love the tangled silver chain necklace and the lei tee - so cute!

I am in Canada, and it is cold here. Not sure if I’m eligible…

Well, LOFT is only my *FAVORITE* store! I think I’d buy one of everything if funds would permit! But with $100.00, here’s what I would buy…
Ruffle Splitneck Tee in Blueberry($34.50)
Drape Neck Sweater in Vintage Plum(Special - $25.00)
and the Long, Multicolored Bauble Necklace($34.50)

Im in Upstate NY and it is CHILLY here!!

I would completely get pants since I had to go back to work due to the economy.

Love that dress.

I have gotten some fantastic pieces from LOFT “final sale” racks. What would I buy? More “not mom” clothes…most likely shirts or a dress.

I’m (still) an at-home mom, so I’d spend my gift card on a great pair of curvy boot cut jeans, or some lounge pants and that cozy cocoon cardigan. I live in Minnesota, and winter is cold, but I’d love to look cute when I’m cozied up inside with my daughters.

I LOVE Loft. I think I’d get a fun shirt or two and a pair of trouser jeans. Yippee!

I was just thinking I hadn’t been there in awhile! I really need new jeans or a cute skirt. Maybe a fun dress. Thanks!

I’ve definitely noticed some changes (for the better) at Loft. I would probably get a couple of cardigans and a skirt.

Since LOFT clothing does not come in my size, I would buy some tall pants for my 6′ tall mom who has lost 120 lbs in the last 10 months and has barely any clothes that aren’t goodwill or walmart.

Black or grey pants (in long - only sold online) and the fit would be “Julie” Oh Loft how i love you so….

I’d buy fun accessories!

Moving from Sunny California to Indianapolis, I need a whole new wardrobe. I’m thinking sweaters, tights, wool jacket. $100 will definitely get me started.

I’d spend my $100 on a new sweater and a great pair of jeans — self-imposed “No New Clothes” rule since 10/15, and I’m literally wearing my jeans down to mere threads!

I need a new pair of jeans like nobody’s business.

Love all the ruffled tops and graphic tees! Would buy the Refined Knit Ruffle Neck Dress in heartbeat! So much right now I could use/need!

I need nice, new pants for work!

I’d get some of their cute embellished tees–excellent for layering this time of year.

Thanks for hosting the contest–very spiffy!

The dress was sold out this morning. I’m surprised you would use it for this blog entry, knowing it was sold out. You had to know, right?

I love Loft! Right now I have my eye on a couple of dresses - the tweed pleated neck shift dress, and the crepe sheath dress with cowl neck.

I voted. I would look for a new fun wintery skirt, and then some glam accessories.

Loft Jeans are great, or a new coat!!

I would get the black Velveteen blazer.

One of their big cable knit cardigan sweaters. I love the gray ones.
Geesh, now I’m wishing I had bought it….

Oh, a new jacket. Or jeans. Or cute shirt. Apparently I would have a difficult time deciding.

I love that dress! If I had a fancy party to go to, that would be my choice. And I would buy ruffled cardigans, because I’ve already spent quite a few dollars in Loft buying fun pieces for work parties and other fun events.

I LOVE the Loft! I just lost a bunch of weight and have been buying pants there…I could really use the $100!

Anything in the petite department….it’s all perfect for my short stature.

I really need some business casual pants for work - I find myself wearing the same 2-3 pair over and over again!

Sweater Dress - it’s like pajamas but you can wear to work!

Sweaters! It’s freezing in MA!

I adore Loft. I am at that odd age where I have officially moved out of the juniors department (is it just me or does the juniors continue to get more and more scandalous every year?) and finding clothes that are age-appropriate was becoming quite an issue. I love that Loft offers trendy and affordable clothing that are suitable for professional 20-somethings.

Sweaters. My winter wardrobe needs an update and LOFT is one of my go to stores.

i would by my four-kid producing body a new pair of jeans. Mama has different body now & she needs some new coverings!

I would love some sweaters from Loft. It’s cold in California too!

I love the Loft! Maybe a sassy dress or a new sweater or two.

I’d spend my $100 on cute new sweaters for January and teaching!

What a fun contest! I would get a new party top & jewelry. I always end up at LOFT right before the holidays with the premise of buying gifts and end up with something for myself- they have great stuff!

I’m already guilty of buying sweaters from LOFT - I really like some of the dresses they bring in, and of course I’m always an accessories girl.

THis is an amazing giveaway - thank you for the opportunity!

Due to stress and lots of other crazy factors, I don’t fit into most of my pants right now. I’m not proud of that, however I’m also sick of wearing the same 3 pairs each week! I would love the opportunity to go purchase a couple more pairs that fit me properly while I work to lose the weight. Thanks again!

I’m 7 months pregnant right now. I would so love to buy new clothes in a smaller size so I would have something to work towards when this baby gets here.

I’d get some pants not made of denim. My friends would be shocked!

This … http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=21992&N=1200038&pCategoryId=3360&categoryId=220&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_220&loc=TN&defaultColor=Black&defaultSizeType=Petite … I have been dying for a jacket this winter and this one is Petite! Awesome! Running over to vote now…

LOFT is where I get all my grownup I don’t have to be a mom tonight clothes. AND? They’re for the most part always in line with my *ahem* religious modesty.
That and their petites really are.
Okay. $100. I would have get something from their new line with ruffles.
Gah. I love a good ruffle.

def the sparkle sequin top!

I’d get something sequiny - and also some new trouser jeans - which we’re allowed to wear at work. Or, maybe I’d just get 5 pair, so I could ALWAYS be wearing trouser jeans at work.

I would use the gift card to buy some cute blouses and accesories to add some fun to my work wardrobe (mostly suits).

Thanks,
Gracie

I would buy something new to wear to work, so I could stop recycling the same four outfits!!

also, you’re awesome. and I wish I had your fashion sense.

I would buy something I wouldn’t normally buy, something extravagant!

I’d love to spend some time at Loft looking for that something special that would make me look and feel good. I know I’d find it there.

I’d love to splurge on some great LOFT maternity items! My growing-by-the-day belly would appreciate it!

i am petite and i would definitely find something that finally does not require alterations. So far i got my eye on cable knit cashmere sweaters- love the luxurious feel of them

I would prefer a new dress. I am liking the Scoopneck Dress…

i love their cords, but also I am sadly lacking in the cool jewelry dept. Either way, $100 would not last long!

I need more easy dresses…

what WOULDN’T i buy!?!? lol!

jeans. i need jeans BADLY!

I live in sunny FL and all the stores (including LOFT, my favorite store) are full of wintery stuff, so I’d spend my $100 on either light-weight sweaters or cardigans (it’s always better down here to have layers you can remove if the day starts out cool and then warms up) and of course cute pants and skirts (nothing wool though).

Jeans, please!

I desperately need some interview worthy attire since it seems I might be entering the work place again soon.

A pencil skirt? Fabulous fitting pants? A great jacket?

I need all of that!

new jeans, cute top and maybe a barrette. yay! pick me!

I would spend my gift card on new jeans and new pants for work. I work in a legal department and I’m constantly trying to find work appropriate pants!

I’d buy new clothes for work. After working from home for the past three years I’ve re-entered the 9-5 world. I can’t seem to remember what I wore three years ago so my plan is just to buy all new stuff. It’s more fun that way.

I love their sweaters, so I’d probably spend it on those, or their wonderful petite dress pants!

I love LOFT- I would spend it mostly on tops- sweaters, button downs, anything! I have recently noticed that I am only spending on my one-year-old daughter, and I used to be WAY into fashion. Don’t we BOTH need to look cute?!

I love Ann Taylor Loft! I would buy something to update my boring wardrobe.

Umm… sweaters, jeans anything I like

My fashion fix is currently at Gymboree. I have got to lose some of this baby weight before I buy new again! (JCrew is my fave, these days…).

What I want: cashmere, cashmere, cashmere.

the maternity nursing scarf totally caught my eye for some reason. pretty neat concept! and you could totally use it even after babies are completely weaned! lovely.
thanks so much for the chance!

I need a fabulous coat and maybe some new bling!

ooooo… sweaters, a hat and scarf, a sweet little dress…hard to choose!

I so need to update my wardrobe. I went from a business casual environment (black pants and dressy tops)to a pretty causal environment (jeans and whatever) so I need clothes that are casual, yet make me look like I am put together well. I am having a hard time with the happy medium!

I would spend it on cute tops! Now that the weather is cold I am tired of my current selections. Good luck with the FB contest!

At the moment I’m wearing maternity, so I’d definitely spring for a couple pairs of work-appropriate pants from LOFT’s maternity line.

Ladylike cardigans and the ruffle dress!

As a Loft addict, right now I’m totally loving their layering t-s. They are the perfect weight and have just enough scoop to flatter my decollete. Also? The curvy jean. Perfect for my read woman’s figure.

Some fun accessories!

I like the fact that loft has a good selection for petites, because I am short. I’d get two pairs of Petite Corduroy Modern Boot Leg Pants if I win.

Sweaters - because it’s cold out and I need sweaters!

Talc modern bootcut jeans and that cute brown leather belt!

Their sweaters are wonderful and their accessories make my outfits!

I love LOFT’s new style. Not that I didn’t like them before (I have so much clothes from Ann Taylor loft) but their new style is so much more sophisticated and oh so pretty!

Anyway, I’d spend it on their soft cardigans. Love them!

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