It’s a funny thing how even as an adult, a new friendship can sneak up on you and before you know it, it’s as if that person has always been a part of your life…
THE STORY
…And like most relationships, the best kind of friendships happen organically. When it occurs organically, a friendship has the opportunity to grow and flourish and deepen over time; it becomes a definite keeper. Some friendships aren’t necessarily friendships in the truest sense of the word. They are perhaps situational or born from circumstance. They burn hot, fast and intense and then inevitably flame out. Not that that’s a bad thing; temporary friendships more often than not serve a purpose. They are something that one or both parties involved needed at that time, and once that need is fulfilled the relationship runs it’s course.
The keepers though, the friendships that grow from the knowledge that you have found someone who really gets you, they are a true rarity. And when you are fortunate enough to discover one then you need to truly appreciate it. I have been blessed during the last two years to find not just one, but two such rarities. The first began as a situational friendship, but it grew into the real deal. We didn’t know one another, but through luck of the draw we were thrown together in an entirely new environment and had to rely on one another to find our way. But it took all of a hot second for both of us to realize we had found a kindred spirit. My world would definitely be lacking if she weren’t in it.
The other? Totally different story; we’ve known one another for years, but never really had more then the occasional surface interaction. At first glance one might think, “Those two are entirely different…there’s no way they could be friends.” Truth be told, if you had told me five or ten years ago that she would one day be one of my favorite people on the planet, I would’ve thought that perhaps you had downed one shot of tequila too many. And I’m pretty sure she would’ve thought the same thing. Funny thing about life though, sometimes fate decides that the unexpected just might be what you need. A few years ago we both started out on new paths from where we had been and that’s when fate intervened. The paths converged and now I can’t imagine not having her in my life.
Long story short, no matter what your age, always be open to new friendships. Just like there is no age cutoff for wearing ripped denim and leather moto jackets, there’s also no cutoff for finding good people to add to your life. And seriously, couldn’t we all use a few more good people in our worlds?
THE OUTFIT
This coat. Do I really need to say more? How about this damn fine vintage red leather coat? Does that cover it? And it may be true that one of my aforementioned friends gave me this coat. Noooo….I’m not that shallow. I loved her before she gave me the coat. Did I love her more after? Hmmm…maybe. Seriously, wouldn’t you? Although I wasn’t sure if I loved her more or if I should have her committed because who would not want this coat?? And trust me, it would be beautiful on her. I do have morals and whatnot; I tried to convince her to keep it, but to no avail so here I am, rockin’ the hell out of it.
It’s vintage, circa 1970’s-ish, but it absolutely translates to the present and lucky me, it fits perfectly. No alterations required. I wish you guys could see it in real life. The quality and craftsmanship is sublime; the leather is soft and the color is stunning. I’ve had it since the end of summer, and I have been eagerly awaiting the first day for it to be cold enough to take it out for a spin.
Here’s the thing though…it was Western Day (theme days for Red Ribbon Week) and I happen to be sporting my also super fine cowboy boots. The problem? The two paired together was giving me a vaguely Marlboro Man-esque vibe. I kind of feel like my horse should be tied to the hitchin’ post in front of the local saloon. Guess what? #sorrynotsorry. It was cold and I was wearing the coat come hell or high water. So I owned my Marlboro (Wo)man look like I planned it that way.
In another somewhat bold move, I’m doing the whole dress over jeans thing which I haven’t done for a long while. The buffalo plaid is actually a duster, but it can pull double duty as a dress too. Since it’s sleeveless and it was cold, I layered the long cardigan over top, belted it and called it a day.
THE TIP
One of the very best ways to guarantee a unique look or piece is to go vintage. Yes, I realize that I rarely feature vintage or thrifted items, but that is a result of where I live, not because of choice. There are simply no vintage or thrift shops within a reasonable driving distance. Believe me, if I had the opportunity to vintage/thrift shop I would. My two favorite coats, including the one I’m wearing today are vintage. The other is a truly original and beautiful bright pink winter coat that (oddly enough now that I think about it) my lifelong bestie gave me when her neighbor gave it to her and she didn’t want it.
THE LINK UPS
Check out the weekly link ups I participate in for even more fashion and style ideas…
Coat: Vintage (Similar); Duster: Nasty Gal (Similar); Boots: Similar
