Indian Summer

Growing up in Texas, the term Indian Summer was frequently used. We’d get spells of unseasonably warmer weather throughout the fall and winter, that’s Texas for you! But an Indian Summer in Chicago? Not a regular occurrence, but here we are, getting some of the best weather of the year—in November. As much as I love a cool, crisp fall day, these warm sunny days are pretty wonderful and I’m happy to have them as long as they’ll stay.

Last week I spent some time in Lincoln Park. When I lived a little further north, this was my favorite place to go on walks and I don’t get up there nearly enough. It feels like a little nature retreat in the middle of the bustling city. It’s always full of families and children just wandering around enjoying the weather and the scenery. It’s really quite peaceful and I highly recommend taking a walk through here if you’re in Chicago. The zoo is also right there and completely free!

Now, I normally don’t go on walks in a dress and boots, but I was meeting a friend for dinner later that evening. And, how cute is this boho dress from Nordstrom?! I picked it up last week and it’s been perfect for these warm days we’ve been having. It also comes in this red color which would look amazing throughout fall and winter! I like pairing it with these over the knee boots, that are totally affordable, for a more fall-ish look. On chillier nights, you can simply add a leather or suede jacket to keep you warm. And, once it really gets cold, I’ll layer this dress over a pair of tights and add a warmer coat!

After my stroll I went to the Bourgeois Pig, a cute little coffee shop in Lincoln Park that I used to regularly frequent on days when I needed to get out of the house. It’s such a cute spot and feels more like you’re working in someone’s vintage apartment than a coffee shop. I had about an hour before I met my friend for dinner, so I did a little bit of work before meeting up with her. It was so nice out that we actually got to sit on the patio while enjoying dinner and catching up on each other’s lives.

I’m still shocked by the amazing weather, and it’s been the perfect reminder to slow down and enjoy it, because winter is inevitably coming.

Has your city been having as nice of a fall as Chicago? How do you like to wear dresses when the weather gets cooler?

photos by Jules Kennedy

Thanks to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post!