I’ve always loved the combination of grey denim and burgundy—it’s a timeless pairing that never goes out of style. Today, I’m giving an old favorite outfit a modern update. This look features my new MOTHER Weekenders in the Wanted! wash, which feel so much more current compared to my original grey skinny jeans.
THEN (2017): Caslon tunic (S) // grey skinny jeans // rag & bone booties (39) // Rebecca Minkoff satchel // Stella & Dot bracelet // similar Maui Jim sunnies
NOW (2025): Talbots Cashmere Cable Knit Flare Cuff Sweater (S) // MOTHER Weekender in Wanted! (29) (budget option) // Franco Sarto Vianca (8) // Quince box bag // bold hoop earrings // YSL sunnies
One big difference between the old 2017 look and the new is the proportions. The tunic with the skinny jeans cuts me in half vertically, making my overall silhouette look shorter and less balanced. Additionally, the exaggerated cowl with the drop sleeve, along with the booties featuring a dipped front, were on-trend at the time but now give the outfit a dated feel.
I still like it, but I wouldn’t wear it today. I also doubt it would be as flattering on me now, as I’ve experienced some weight gain and redistribution over the past seven years, not to mention my breast reduction surgery.
For this updated look, I chose a burgundy cable knit sweater with on-trend flared sleeves and a more subtle cowl neck.
This sweater is a rare Talbots find! The quality is excellent, the cable knit pattern is beautiful, and the flared sleeves with wide ribbed cuffs add a modern twist. Plus, the cashmere knit is incredibly soft and plush, making it a cozy yet stylish choice.
The 23″ length paired with full-length flare jeans creates that pleasing 1/3 to 2/3 proportion. The grey flares are not only stylish but also incredibly flattering and leg-lengthening. I kept black boots with this updated outfit, and I love how they work with my dark hair to ‘bookend’ the look.
My Franco Sarto Chelsea boots feature a slender square toe and a sculpted 2″ block heel that’s both stylish and practical, while the Quince box bag adds a sleek, polished touch. Together, they’re more modern alternatives to the boots and satchel in the original look.
I hope you like this outfit update! It’s always fun to revisit old favorite looks and give them a fresh, modern twist. I have a few other “Then & Now” posts, but they are old. I’ll try to do some more of these as we transition from winter to spring!
