When it comes to buying new things versatility is key in my book. If I’m going to drop money on something, you better believe there are a variety of different ways I can wear it and unlimited places where I can prance around in it. I’d much rather get rid of my debt or buy things for my girls than dump money on something with a limited shelf life.

That said, I decided to start a new series called Versatile Files which focuses on versatile pieces that can work for just about anyone just about anywhere. I enlisted the help of my super-talented sister, Michele Frechette, to come up with ideas and sketch out the looks for me.

Today we’re taking a look at the versatility of faux leather shorts.

It’s been a while since we’ve done one of these posts (since October actually!). But my sister, Michele Frechette, and I finally got it together and are teaming up again to show off a trend that is surprisingly versatile.

As I said in the first Versatile Files post, I’m way too cheap to spend my money on pieces that have incredibly specific uses. If it can’t be dressed up and dressed down, I generally can’t be bothered–especially when it comes to trendy pieces that could end up looking dated by next season. Versatility is key and it’s our mission to show you pieces that will work for you no matter where you need to go.

This time it’s the peplum top.

I don’t want to complain, but… uh, I’m gonna anyway. It is freezing in New York this week. Samantha’s breath actually froze on the mirror in the car while we were waiting for the bus this morning.

I don’t want to step foot out of my house. And I definitely don’t care about wearing anything that doesn’t involve four layers and completely covered skin. Hot, right?

In an effort to feel marginally warmer, I decided to sip some blueberry tea while my kale and veggie soup heats up and search the internet for all things warm and cozy…

1 Kate Spade mittens / 2 Free People hooded poncho / 3 ASOS heart hat / 4 Isotoner sherpa knit mitten via Target / 5 Anthropologie beanie / 6 Lauren Ralph Lauren chevron infinity scarf / 7 Kate Spade scarf

There’s nothing like cozy winter knits to make you feel like making a cup of hot cocoa and getting comfy, right?

My go-tos lately have been a chunky infinity scarf, thick convertible mittens and an over-sized beanie (plus lots and lots of layers).

What’s your secret weapon when it’s cold out?

Yesterday’s handmade heart post fueled my current obsession with hearts a teeensy bit more. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, it’s kind of the perfect time, right? Inspired by the shoe clips I featured yesterday and ban.do’s awesome heart headband, I decided to get a little crafty and put together a DIY glitter heart headband of my own!

The best part of this is how easy it is. You could totally use it as a craft and party favor at a kid’s birthday party. Let the little ones glitter away and the adults can take care of the hot gluing while they’re on to the next activity!

So, this should surprise no one, but… I’m kind of a geek. And as a geek, I’m attracted to geeky fashion. If there’s anything whimsical or any kind of typography involved (oh hey, Kate Spade!) I am so in. And I’ll probably do a whole lot of squealing.

I also happen to love the combination of something casual and ranking kind of high on the nerd scale with something more feminine, like an a-line skirt. I like to call this combination geek chic (mostly because my inner word nerd loves the way it sounds).

Take this look, for example…