Bundle Up!
I’ve been one busy writer all morning – I’m feeling productive! I’m currently writing the “Food” chapter of the Operation Beautiful book, which is interesting and challenging. The subsections of the chapter include discussion on our love affair with diets (and why they don’t work), mindful eating (basically the food philosophy you see on this blog), and eating disorders.
Thinking about food is making me hungry! 
I had a snack around 10:30:
I drank about 1/2 a serving of POM Wonderful Blueberry juice and snacked on some melon. Although POM Wonderful is pricey, I’ve found that the Husband and I get 4 servings out of a regular 2 serving bottle.
Lunch was inspired by the Husband’s breakfast, which I smelled him cooking a few hours before:
I had two eggs with mushrooms and cheese:
I stacked the egg mix on a whole wheat bagel. Yum!
And broccoli:
Winter Clothes!
We’re going to leave to go shopping in an hour or so. I desperately need some cute winter digs for our trip to London. As I live in Florida, my winter wardrobe is lacking. Even by American standards, I don’t think I can pull together 10 decent winter outfits for our trip.
I know that a lot of my European readers will claim they aren’t “stylish,” but every time I’ve gone to Europe, I felt severely underdressed. In Paris, I felt like I woke up, rolled out of bed, and found myself on a runway at Fashion Week in my pajamas (I rocked a hoodie to Versailles). You should really come to America and walk around a Wal-mart to see what I mean. 
I do have four stylish items to bring with me: my favorite coat, my hot pink scarf, my favorite boots (which are super dirty!), and a cute white felt hat.
The coat (which is from United Colors of Benetton) is the best (only?) “investment” piece of clothing I own. I bought it four years ago when I lived in Pittsburgh, and it has definitely stood the test of time! It was worth every penny. I feel pretty when I wear it, too. Do you have an outfit that makes you feel super-special?
Neither the Husband or myself are big shoppers. I’d rather spend my money on experiences. But I cannot wear sweatpants + tank tops in the streets of London!
Posted by: Caitlin 53 comments
Posted in: All Posts
on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
My current favorite article of clothing is my pair of dark blue skinny jeans. I love how they fit, look, and feel, especially when paired up with some cute skimmers and a concert tee. I’m a hipster at heart
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:26 pm
If it makes you feel better the average Parisian doesn’t own a ton of clothing. But they do own investment pieces that can be mixed and matched to create wonderful looks.
Oh and knowing how to tie a scarf is a MUST in Paris!
As for London – I don’t know but I’m guessing it may be similar!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:35 pm
Haha, I think as a blogger food is on my mind 24/7! You really have to figure out how to know when you’re hungry and when you’re just being a foodie.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:37 pm
Scarves scarves scarves my friend!
p.s. H&M and Target have the best selection.
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Shelly Reply:
November 23rd, 2009 at 10:50 am
Target is a good place for non-expensive, non-leather, very cute boots too!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:37 pm
I would love to see your purchases in your dinner post!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Do you have Burlington Coat factory near you? When I went to college on the east coast I went there for winter gear and they had some good deals…also outlet malls and Nordtrom’s Rack are good places. You might find some really good deals since compaines know they won’t sell a ton of winter clothes where you live…at least, that was my experience in So Cal. Oh and I know what you mean about Europe and not feeling stylish…I felt horribly underdressed the entire 4 months I was studying abroad in Spain…now those ladies know how to DRESS
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:52 pm
I live in england and from personal experience you can literally wear ANYTHING in london!
but yeah for this time of year i’d just bring layers and coats and more layers!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:57 pm
have fun shopping
jenna
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:57 pm
What a pretty cloche hat! I think that you’re right in a way about Europe – I don’t think that they necessarily spend more on clothing, but rather that European women just shop differently than we do – fewer clothes, higher quality, timeless pieces. Your breakfast looks *delicious* by the way – I just had a huge brunch and now I’m totally craving eggs on bagels.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:59 pm
H&M has a lot of good coats for not too expensive (last week they had 30% off outerwear. not sure if that’s still going on).
A coat with lots of layers, a scarf and gloves/mittens should be able to get you through pretty rough weather.
Also might be worth waiting til the day after thanksgiving since there are some good deals around then.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 1:59 pm
I love to shop, and will totally spend money on a quality piece of clothing or an accessory. I have a few pieces of clothing that I feel “special” in. And my Louis Vuitton purse always does the trick!!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:12 pm
i would definitely get a pair of dark skinny jeans. very versatile- tucked into boots, with heels, with flats- so many looks from one pair of jeans paired with different tops. sweater dresses pack super well (you can roll them and they won’t wrinkle) and are warm. i had so much fun in london, but sensible shoes are a must- i walked miles and miles.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:15 pm
I love shopping for winter clothes, it’s my favorite season to shop for because everything is so cozy and warm. You should check out H&M for some cheaper duds, and then splurge on the good stuff that will last you a long time – like that adorable coat!
Scarves are definitely a must, and I love wearing dresses with warm tights.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:21 pm
Adorable outfits. Love the hat, so cute.
A lot of my dresses I buy to as “investment items” so I feel pretty when I wear a lot of my nice dresses
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:29 pm
I am in desperate need of a new winter wardrobe as well. Good luck today!
That coat is adorable. It looks like it is one of those pieces of clothing that will always be timeless.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Lovin’ the clothes!
Good job on the book, Caitlin, I am so excited for you!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:42 pm
I recently bought a couple blazers (including a velvet one from J.Crew) that make me feel really special.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Europeans are big time into investment pieces. I’ve been lucky enough to live in several places overseas, and you’ll often see Europeans wearing the same things over and over again, but man, do they look good doing it! For me it is all about a great pair of jeans, boots (I have a minor Frye addiction), a great blazer, and a truly amazing pair of sunglasses.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:50 pm
I love your coat and hat especially, so cute! You will be way more stylish than your average Londoner, we are not quite up to Paris standards
The only reason you can’t wear sweatpants and tank tops here in London right now is because would FREEZE! Like, actually freeze to actual death. Not very festive.
You must be getting excited planning your trip – you will have to check out some of the great vegetarian eating spots here in London , I’m definitely looking forward to finding out what you think of them. For one, there is a vegan restaurant called Rootmaster on a converted red London bus, you surely have to check it out!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:55 pm
Don’t forget gloves! We haven’t had a cold snap over here yet, but in the last few days its turned quite chilly- and windy- AND rainy- don’t forget an umbrella! It can get cold and frosty around Christmas time. If you want to see whats in the shops in the U.K. at the moment, you could have a look at these-
http://www.warehouse.co.uk/
http://www.oasis-stores.com/
http://www.topshop.com/
but it really depends who you are, where you are as to what you wear- I think also, because the weather isn’t very nice pretty much most of the year, people don’t wear Sweaty Betty type clothes all the time because they just aren’t warm enough. I’ve discovered that if it gets really cold, wearing leggings under my jeans works sooo well at keeping me warmer. just don’t wear tank tops, you’ll get frostbite, and make sure you bring some warmer things to run in!
Happy shopping…
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:56 pm
nice to hear you are writing about eating disorders. i hope it helps girls out there realize eating disorders like anorexia,ednos and bulimia aren’t the answer. too bad i didn’t get something that to prevent me from going down the wrong path.
LOVE the jacket. hahah i feel you on not spending $$ on clothes…i live in my gym clothes…
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
darling coat, caitlin! i was in london last march and felt the same way about not being dressed up enough. and i was in heeled boots and a long coat! i think a lot of it is your confidence in europe. and you have a lot of confidence, as do many bloggers. i felt the best when i wore black, long boots or a dress with tights and boots (for the nightlife). just grab a cup of tea and you’ll fit right in.
your trip to london would make a neat chapter in your book! to see how being abroad affects your body image and/or what european readers would think of operation beautiful. have fun shopping!
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caitlin Reply:
November 22nd, 2009 at 7:37 pm
i plan to post notes everyyyyyyyyyyyywhere!!!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 2:58 pm
I second what people have said about H&M and scarves! If you find a really great pair of dark jeans or black jeans, you can dress those up with the boots, heels, and any sort of top. Scarves are pretty cheap at TJ Maxx or Marshalls or any store like that. Kohls too. I like wearing blazers or pretty cardigans and layering pieces underneath that, plus scarves on top. Living in New England, we’re wicked good at layering for the chilly weather
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 3:02 pm
I totally agree! You will definitely need a pashmina! Everyone wears them here. If you are not wearing one, you are not cool! lol, but really, I’m serious!! EVERYONE wears cute boots here even if they are out grocery shopping. Yes, it is totally different from the states!!! When I first moved here, I was like, “Where are the hoodies??”
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 3:21 pm
I love the coat, and I love it even more that you bought it in Pittsburgh.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 3:38 pm
I more of an experience spender than shopper myself, but I LOVE that coat.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 3:42 pm
That coat is gorgeous! I love shopping for winter clothes. Sweaters and boots are so cozy! But I also live in a cold weather climate, so these clothes are essentials!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
That coat and hat are gorgeous. Seriously.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 3:52 pm
omg I LOVE your clothes!!!! That coat is very me- same with the hat…love it =) Im going to raid your closet some day haha. Investment pieces are fun, esp. when you realize you’ve had them for 5-10 years and they are good as new!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 3:59 pm
Gorgeous London clothes. That coat I desperately want! I used to buy clothes that looked cute now if I can’t run them I hate to buy them and usually won’t unless they are on sale? How far I have come
Glad to hear the book is going well! I hope it continues to be a relatively easy and painless process!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 4:03 pm
Bahaha, love the link to People of Walmart
I totally agree that everyone in Europe is super stylish without even realize. Plus, they’re on to trends a good 6 months before they make their way to North America. So I not only feel unstylish, but outdated when I’m over there!
Investment pieces. I’m only JUST getting the importance of those (after throwing out cheap boots after every winter for the past several years)
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 4:23 pm
I have a really great coat that I got from the JCrew outlet a few years ago. It is camel colored and knee length … I wasn’t sure how much I would use it when I got it in college, but I wear it pretty much every day in the winters now!!
For London (and dressing well in cold weather in general) I would suggest just a few items – a cute pair of ballet flats, a good pair of boots, dark skinny jeans, black leggings, some scarves/pashminas and a few long cardigans. I just love to layer and look put-together and chic!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 4:38 pm
Caitlin, my hubby and I were in London in September and the mornings were COLD! Everyone was exquisitely dressed. Very trendy! Have fun!!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 5:25 pm
Exercise, eating right and presentation plays large roles in feeling good about yourself. Why not walk out the door looking how you feel inside?
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caitlin Reply:
November 22nd, 2009 at 7:36 pm
i do – that doesn’t mean i don’t care about putting on nice clothing, too.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 6:16 pm
I have been told the tell tails signs of an American in Europe are: white socks, baseball caps, and do-rags (hankerchiefs on the head).
I would recommend a couple scarves. They can dress up any outfit and can change the look completely. I also think a pair of nice slacks (my fall back pair are charcole) would be hugely useful – think stove pipe style. I also love a couple nice button up or zip up fitted sweaters and a blazer. They go over dresses, jeans, dress clothes or casual. And get rid of anything with a logo.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Those bagels look DELISH! And oh man I LOVE Pom Juice. That’s a good idea portioning it. Not only is it expensive but it’s calorie dense so I realy love that!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 7:01 pm
OH MY GOD people at walmart… I cant believe it’s all real! I’m perturbed!!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 7:31 pm
OMG love it- People of Walmart… out of control! I really don’t want to believe that it’s true, but then again, you NEVER know what you’re gonna get in that ridiculous store!
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caitlin Reply:
November 22nd, 2009 at 7:37 pm
hahah i know i feel like its half fake!
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 8:43 pm
I had one really nice pair of brown crocodile heels that I loved prior to my back injury. Now I can’t wear them or my hips get sore too quick. So sad.
I also have a pair of MEXX pants I bought on 5th avenue in NYC because What Not to Wear always went to that store. I love them and wear them alot.
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on Nov 22nd, 2009 at 10:03 pm
I have that coat too, and I love it!
And that lunch looks delish…
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on Nov 23rd, 2009 at 12:39 am
very cute coat! and the mushroom, cheese, and egg combo look yummy!
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on Nov 23rd, 2009 at 1:52 am
Hey Caitlin! As an American who just moved to London, I know what you mean about feeling underdressed! Just get a pair of comfy boots and some skinny jeans and you’ll fit right in. The comfiness is key! I’m a runner and still had trouble adjusting to all of the walking when I came over.
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on Nov 23rd, 2009 at 8:38 am
Ha ha, I live in Kentucky where it gets pretty cold sometimes, but I still have no real winter wardrobe. One of these days I’m going to invest in some better stuff but I get by just layering and looking like a hobo sometimes
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on Nov 23rd, 2009 at 8:51 am
People of Walmart = YIKES!
You’ll be fine here in London. You have standards and style (love that coat!) so you’ll fit right in. Just layer up so you can peel off when you are indoors.
Maybe I’ll leave an OB note or two around town and see if you find them
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on Nov 23rd, 2009 at 9:45 am
I was in Paris a month ago. Most of the items I packed were clothes I’d wear to work – black stretch pants, black leather sneaks and a basic jacket. Europeans love their scarves too! I took a couple of pashminas (black and purple) and fit right in. Enjoy your trip (jealous).
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on Nov 23rd, 2009 at 10:56 am
When I go to Europe I generally wear lots of black because it goes with everything and doesn’t get dirty very quickly.
I generally wear (b/c my trips to Europe have all been to Switzerland in the winter- brrrr!) a big grey wool coat (that I love), jeans or grey or khaki corduroys tucked into black winter boots, a black sweater and a colorful long sleeve knit top. Accessorized of course with a cute hat, gloves, and a pretty scarf. I try to pack as lightly as possible b/c carrying a heavy bag is such a pain!!
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on Nov 23rd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Caitlin, I love your blog and your positive attitude. I come by frequently, but especially when I’m in the mood for some can-do attitude! I was so disappointed to see you link to the People of Walmart site. There is nothing positive or inspiring or kind about that site. Instead, most of the pictures are of people who are just trying to get their groceries, go on about their lives, etc. They did not ask to be featured on some website humiliating their clothing choices and appearance. I am sorry that this cruel website has gotten such traction in the blog world. It’s one of the most mean-spirited things that has become “normal” for nice people to laugh and joke about in a long time.
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on Nov 23rd, 2009 at 7:21 pm
When I lived in Rome, I felt like I was in the middle of a fashion magazine, as the “what not to wear.” I always read those fashion mags and saw the ridiculous clothing spreads and wondered if anyone wears them – yep, the women in Rome!
I love your jacket! I have a few pieces I love to wear too
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on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:45 am
Hi Caitlin! I didn’t know you lived in Pittsburgh… I used to live there too! Whereabouts did you live, and for how long? I lived there almost my whole life, and moved to California about 3 1/2 years ago.
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