After traveling with a {now} four-year old all weekend, I need a vacation. We packed up and took D3 to Chicago for a weekend of touristy fun and a visit with my friend Cara. In just one day we hit up the Bean, the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, Portillo’s (for hot dogs and milkshakes) and the holiday L train (it is amazing). I am exhausted but it was one of the most fun trips I’ve taken in a long time (although I haven’t taken many trips lately… so there’s that).

But there’s no rest for at least a couple weeks so I’m back at work trying to make it through to another jam-packed weekend. The holidays can be exhausting in the best possible way.

Unfortunately I’m not quite as put together today as I was last week when I donned this cape for a day of meetings. I love the color mix but wanted to add a little something underneath to toughen it up so I paired it with this faux leather jacket I’ve been wearing non-stop. Did double duty of keeping me warm and giving the outfit that extra touch it needed.

I also mixed it up with these Alex and Ani bracelets borrowed from Gumer Jewelry. I layered up a bunch of them but couldn’t help but love the blue/green stone combo the best. These bracelets make a great gift for those hard-to-buy for gals on your list. Especially since they won’t break the bank so you can snag a couple that fit their style. I’m loving this feather one big time.

Tan Cape with Leather Trim: Ann Taylor (bought it last year but this year’s version is similar AND 40% off); Faux Leather Jacket (underneath): ASOS; White T-Shirt: Forever 21; Necklace: Bauble Bar (old but love this option + save 30% off with code INSTAGLAM); Jeans: True Religion; Heels: Jessica Simpson (so old); Bag: Kate Spade

Photos by Hayley Grant.