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Hi, nice to meet you.

I'm Hallie, a Midwest native, New York City transplant and the mind behind corals + cognacs. If you're looking for an online destination for stylish inspiration and musings on Manhattan living, you've come to the right place.

Here's a bit more about me (and if you'd like to keep in touch, you can find me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook).

I hope you enjoy reading corals + cognacs as much as I enjoy writing it.

FAQ // LOCATION: New York, New York • BY WAY OF: The Midwest (Cleveland/Chicago) • HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? Attainable, trendy and fun. I’m constantly wearing unexpected pairings – like statement pumps and a graphic tee. • FAVORITE ITEM IN YOUR CLOSET? The vintage Gucci clutch I thrifted for $40. • ANY OBSESSIONS? I like my coffee black, my heels high and my martinis dirty. • GUILTY PLEASURES? Complex carbohydrates and shoe shopping -- both in excess. (And SoulCycle, as a result.)

ARE YOU A FULL-TIME BLOGGER? No, I work as a Development Manager and Contributing Editor at Glam.com. • WHY DID YOU START YOUR BLOG? I've spent nearly seven years on the corporate grind, where sartorial humor and an expertly crafted color-block can get lost in the boardroom. As a result, I decided to create a blog -- a space where I’d hoped my writing, styling and excessive shoe collection would be better comprehended. • WHAT’S IT ABOUT? Living stylish and spontaneously in New York City – and beyond. I aim to inspire others to have fun with fashion and to live lightheartedly • HOW’D YOU THINK OF THE NAME? To be honest, the name just came to me. I’m a big color-blocker and a sucker for alliteration in writing. It just fit. • WHAT’S THE CORRECT WAY TO WRITE IT? corals + cognacs.

HOW DO YOU PRONOUNCE IT? corals and cone-yaks. • WHAT KIND OF CAMERA DO YOU USE? A Canon T3i with a 50mm f/1.4 lens. • DON’T YOU FEEL WEIRD TAKING PHOTOS OF YOURSELF? Absolutely. Everyone looks at me like I’m insane – especially when it’s cold. Wouldn’t you? • DO YOU WORK WITH ADVERTISERS/SPONSORS? Yep! Shoot me an e-mail and let’s talk. • HOW ELSE CAN WE KEEP IN TOUCH? On Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

October 6, 2023

Chunky Knits & Distressed Denim

While fall is usually synonymous with a preppy array of plaids, my autumn uniform is anything but.

This weekend was all about those late New York nights… That turn into early mornings.

There is a serious difference between partying in your early- and late-20’s, my friends.

While I love a spontaneous Saturday night out, that next-day struggle is real — and pulling together a fashion-forward ensemble is typically not a priority on the day that follows. (Which is why an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink bag is necessary!)

Alas, chunky knits and laid-back denim to the rescue. So simple, so cozy — yet undeniably chic.

Aside from the obvious comfort-factor, my favorite fall sweater works with literally everything in my closet. Most recently, I’ve been wearing it with my summer maxi dresses to create the perfect seasonal transition pairing.

Suffice it to say, I think I’ve found my official fall uniform — and honorary Sunday ensemble.

*Wearing: 525 America crop sweater (also love this version) / One Teaspoon distressed denim / Street Level reversible tote (I LOVE this bag!) / Zara sandals (similar) / Sequin NYC cuff (similar)

*Click to shop: Distressed denim | chunky sweaters | this post:

///

Lydia Hudgens Photography

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31 comments

Annie Reeves on October 6, 2023 at 7:47 am

I’m obsessed with the jeans!!! Hope you have the best week, Hallie!

Reply
teddi on October 6, 2023 at 7:53 am

You look fab!

Reply
ppfgirl on October 6, 2023 at 8:02 am

This is basically the perfect outfit from head to toe - love!!

http://www.pennypincherfashion.com

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Cathy, your Poor Little It Girl on October 6, 2023 at 8:46 am

Love this distressed jeans! Such a great fall look!

xoxo
Cathy, your Poor Little It Girl
http://poorlittleitgirl.com

Reply
Alyssa on October 6, 2023 at 9:10 am

These jeans are so perfect. I need a pair!

Reply
Baubles to Bubbles on October 6, 2023 at 9:16 am

This is the perfect comfy fall outfit! When it’s cold out, I always opt for comfort over everything. Those jeans are everything!

Reply
Caroline St. Francis on October 6, 2023 at 9:41 am

Such a perfect weekend look. I’ve been all about my distressed semiBF jeans recently (why where skinny jeans when you can wear a loose pair?) and I love your sweater! Plus, the gold clutch is beautiful!

Caroline
http://www.peachykeencaroline.com

Reply
Leah on October 6, 2023 at 10:04 am

Love this cute casual look, but your hair looks phenom!

EatPrayWearLove

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- corals + cognacs on October 6, 2023 at 11:49 am
  
  Thank you! This is what I like to call “Last Night’s Look.” Made possible by a series of styling products from Joico and Living Proof… : )
  
  Reply
  - Leah on October 6, 2023 at 3:03 pm
    
    I hear that! What’s funny is that I actually get the most compliments on my “next day” hair. “What’s your secret?” “Umm…I didn’t have time to wash it this morning.” Have a fab week! Enjoy Pari!
    
    Reply
    - corals + cognacs on October 7, 2023 at 11:05 pm
      
      Haha yes, that and Oscar Blandi dry shampoo!
      
      Reply
Meagan on October 6, 2023 at 10:54 am

Love that bag!
-Meg
http://www.smalltownsisters.blogspot.com

Reply
Jess Zimlich on October 6, 2023 at 11:17 am

I couldn’t agree more. Partying in your late 20’s is hardddd. I’m blaming the Kansas City Royals for this weekend’s debauchery p/s you look way better than I did!

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CompassionateLee on October 6, 2023 at 11:55 am

I’m wearing my white chunky knit sweater right now-it’s bright & perfect for the current east coast weather. My favorite item from this post is the Zara sandals. Happy Monday, Hallie

Love, CompassionateLee

http://lovecompassionatelee.squarespace.com/

Reply
Liz @ Shopping My Closet on October 6, 2023 at 1:16 pm

Love your sweater!

Liz @ ShoppingMyCloset.com

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Missy On Madison on October 6, 2023 at 1:18 pm

Cute look girl! Those jeans are great for fall!
XO,
MELISSA
MISSYONMADISON.COM

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dana mannarino on October 6, 2023 at 3:07 pm

Everything is FAB! Those jeans are so slimming too. This whole look just works, you would have never guessed you had a late night;)

Pink Champagne Problems

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Freckles on October 6, 2023 at 3:58 pm

Love that entire outfit! Perfect for a Sunday recovery day [ Lord knows I’ve had countless numbers of those ]

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Rebecca {at} Preppy Panache on October 6, 2023 at 8:39 pm

At least you’re in heels! Post late nights out I can barely walk in flats.

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julia jean on October 6, 2023 at 10:14 pm

OBSESSED with this look! basically my uniform no matter what. a great pair of jeans and a black sweater. the heels … i’m working on.

Reply
- corals + cognacs on October 7, 2023 at 11:03 pm
  
  You and me both, girlfriend! Wedges - start there. : )
  
  Reply
Nikki on October 6, 2023 at 10:17 pm

Those boyfriend jeans are perfectly distressed and I love them. And that cuff is seriously gorgeous.

Nikki
thefashionablewife.com

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Katie on October 6, 2023 at 11:01 pm

Loving this look Hallie. Nailin it as always!

xo, katie // a touch of teal

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Eboni on October 7, 2023 at 12:54 am

Eeek! I think I need those jeans. So freaking cute!

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Kasia on October 7, 2023 at 10:52 pm

Love it, I live in outfits just like this. Curious what size you took in that sweater? If I wanted a slightly looser fit? I usually do Medium or Large and wondering which one to get.. thanks so much!

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- corals + cognacs on October 7, 2023 at 11:00 pm
  
  Great question - this is a medium. The sweater itself has a slightly relaxed fit, so you should be fine ordering your true size!
  
  Reply
  - Kasia on October 9, 2023 at 11:11 pm
    
    Thanks so much!
    
    Reply
Meghan on October 8, 2023 at 10:51 am

Adore this look on you!

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KatyRose on October 8, 2023 at 10:13 pm

Love these jeans and I am totally with you on this being the perfect Sunday uniform! - Katy

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Deanna on October 9, 2023 at 3:49 pm

Well don’t you look amaze! I love those jeans!

xx
Because I’m Obsessed

Reply
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