Finish the look with the white tee pictured above. Soft, boxy, and slightly oversized in the best way.

Consider this permission to extend the life of your cold-weather suede. x

My criteria: it must exude,“oh this? I just threw it on to survive the heat!” in the best kind of way. Do you get it? Feels very Penelope Cruz in Jamón Jamón circa 1992.

Studio Delauer first caught my attention with this backless column gown. The high neckline has a subtle turtleneck shape that makes the entire silhouette feel longer. Someone wear this to a wedding, please!

(Also, can you tell, I love an open back)

Take your cues from Penelope and pull your hair up. Don’t be fussy about it.

One styling note: I would have a tailor turn the tie into a clasp at the neck. Less fabric, more focus on clean lines and shape. Little edits go a long way.

I would wear any of the above with my favorite sandals from Ciao Lucia and the Ysé straw bag from my latest travels.

A perfect summer outfit. Enjoy. x

Let’s be a little aspirational. Summer is my season—we all have one. Let me help you get dressed for mine. This is a new series focused on one seasonal styling idea at a time.

Screenshot and look for this detail when you shop, or browse the options below. Let’s build a summer wardrobe that feels both cool and classic.

To begin, here’s a chic way to show some skin without baring it all.

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THE LOW RACER BACK

A racer back dress that dips low to the bottom of the rib cage is sexy in an unexpected way.

Take the plunge! x

My first-ever investment purchase was a pair of classic black Chanel flats. To this day, they’re one of the most worn shoes in my closet. I love these black BallereTTe flats because they offer something entirely different: softer, more casual. The high-coverage silhouette looks like a true ballet slipper. Made from suede that molds to your feet, with a slightly padded sole—which explains my five-day streak. They are just so comfortable. Take your typical shoe size.

Aside from being a beautifully constructed shoe, this was a delightful retail experience: floor to ceiling rows of ballet flats in every color.

A must visit in Rome, with more locations across Italy. And if you can’t wait, shop them online now. x

BallereTTe Piazza Cola di Rienzo, 91, 00192 Roma RM, Italy

In Paris, if you are like me (a shopper lol) it is tempting to spend the moment you walk out the door. I try to strike a balance. A little intention, a little impulse. Most importantly, I don’t make large purchases without a long period of deliberation. If I did not go into this trip wanting a certain high-ticket item, I am not buying it.

Besides, this is Paris! There are plenty of chic things to shop at an easy price.

Bensimon sneakers. Classics for a reason. Super slim, comfortable, and easy to pack. Ideal for traveling.

Store location: 54 Rue de Seine, 75006 Paris, France

Or buy them at the local Monoprix i.e. French Targét.

Ysé straw purse. I wrote a note about this that resonated, and I’ll repeat it here: I love straw bags and only buy them when I travel. This keeps me from bringing home souvenirs that don’t fit into my actual life. Build a collection around your travels. There’s always a story you get to tell when someone says, “I love your [XYZ].”

Store location: 30 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris, France

Vintage slip dress in image 1. I can’t link the dress, but I can tell you about where it's from: Marché noir Lomé Paris. This place is so special. Aside from an assortment of vintage, they sell screen-printed logo work coats that typically range from 100-150 euros. It’s the kind of souvenir that doesn’t feel obvious. I picked one up last time I was here.

Store location: 18 Rue Commines, 75003 Paris, France

Nuxe Prodigieux le parfum. The same scent as the iconic body oil. It smells like warm sunshine! Sadly, it is not on their website, but buy this at any French Pharmacy.

Cognac brown Longchamp weekender to carry everything home. The nylon and leather are nearly the same shade, which feels very sleek.

Store location: 21 Rue du Vieux Colombier, 75006 Paris, France

Ok! That is all. I hope you enjoy these finds as much as I do. Shop them now or save this for your next trip. x

K. Jacques x Ciao Lucia Wrap Sandals

I’ve worn these sandals since last spring and without fail, someone always asks where they’re from. What can I say? The design is just so good—about as close as you can get to a naked sandal. They’re the conversation piece of every outfit, but also so versatile. I attribute it to their simplicity—no hardware, just an interesting and thoughtfully placed strap.

Most importantly, they make me feel like girl on eternal vacation. That’s a good energy to move through life with.

One note: would I walk miles in these? Unlikely. It is quite literally a piece of leather attached to my toe. Would I sit on a patio, have a drink with friends, and look great doing it? Absolutely. Take the Uber!

Have a beautiful Sunday. Heading to Paris this week and excited to report back.

Sandals last Paris trip x

For those of us who enjoy the creative practice of getting dressed, it’s really about problem solving. When I received Ari’s message, I was 14 tabs deep, shopping for my partner for an upcoming wedding. My partner is tomboyish. She doesn’t care to wear a dress, but isn’t interested in a suit either. It’s a dilemma—how do you feel feminine without defaulting to traditional formalwear?

Wear this open-back top with a train, paired with silk trousers. The train brings the right amount of gravitas, the plunging back is feminine without being overt, and wide leg silk pants add volume and movement. It cuts such a beautiful silhouette when tied back and cinched.

If you need further proof: trend spotting at Kallmeyer. A train and trouser is always an elegant choice.

There is something so elegant about diamonds and androgynous style.

Sizing: For reference, I wear a women’s size 25 and am 5 foot 5. In men’s sizing, I wear a 30 waist and 30 length.

These pants sit low slung on the waist and have the right amount of bagginess in the leg without looking sloppy.

To figure out my men’s sizing, my friend Claude was very helpful. :-)

If you have upcoming travel plans, might I suggest this suitcase? Because it is perfect.

For my 30th birthday, I decided to gift myself a beautiful travel set. I travel a lot!

Before I continue, many of you found me through this post about dressing for work and the creative uniform. Hi and welcome! I’m so happy you’re here.

There’s a growing discourse in fashion right now that taste is the one thing AI can’t replicate. Given that I lead a marketing team, I spend a lot of time thinking about this.

Here’s my perspective: take the vacation. Your taste and point of view are cultivated by creating an interesting life. This has become increasingly important now that AI exists. For me, it’s travel. For you, it might be something else – but what I mean is, pursue what makes you feel zesty for life. Interested people are interesting. If you work in marketing or creative fields today, focus on what makes your point of view distinct.

Ok – back to this suitcase!

The Carry-on from Carl Friedrik: Why I’m Obsessed

The design of this suitcase is slick. The aluminum frame and hardshell construction holds its shape and stands up to wear and tear – I’m nearly two years in and can attest to this. The “click shut” clasp feels so elevated. The wheels roll so smoothly. The monochromatic black-on-black… This carry-on makes me feel chiiiiic. It’s an investment, but at a very approachable price point for something that looks and feels this luxurious.

Overpackers, beware – since this suitcase style is a hardshell with clasp closure, there isn’t any give like with a zipper style. Consider the larger size The Carry-on X.

I purchased the matching Large-Check-in style too. If I’m checking luggage, I want it to be extra roomy. Otherwise, I’d rather travel from a carry-on. Here’s the set!

The extras…my go-to travel tote is this classic L.L. Bean Boat Tote. Exact specs:

Style: Zip top // Color: Natural // Size: Large // Monogram Color: Natural // Font: Block

While I have you – the L.L. Bean Japan Edition Collection is live today. You can read more about the brand’s history with Japanese design here. Classic Americana interpreted through a non-American lens. Now that’s an interesting point of view.

It’s selling quickly – this jacket is so good! x

I can’t stop thinking about this Calvin Klein collection look: the evening gown with flats.

And I have decided, I am not a kitten heel girl. I really tried. And it’s good to know what you are not. It’s either flats or a high heel for me – no in between. Accepting this truth has led me on my latest search for well-priced flat sandals that dress up nicely.

Yesterday I bought these Proenza Schouler cage sandals on The Outnet. I can’t wait to style them – if you are a 35.5 or 42 you are still in luck. Or, try the heeled version – more sizes are available. Equally as beautiful!

But back to flats – I’ve found so many gorgeous (deeply discounted) pieces on The Outnet. Here are the ones that caught my eye.

A few more pieces I can’t stop thinking about. I feel this post is turning into a vacation edit. It’s time to book a trip.

This dress. The neckline! It’s so sexy in a breezy, 70s kind of way.

Last thing, I‘m browsing for bloomer shorts. Suzie Kondi makes the perfect pair – a slightly voluminous shape that is extremely wearable.

There’s a great selection of them in neutrals on TheRealReal right now. I’ve curated my favorites below.

Imagine wearing the terrycloth ones on a beach – tiny black bikini, sandals, and a spritz. You get it.

Have a beautiful weekend!

THE RIVIERA RUN SNEAKER: WHY I’M OBSESSED

If New Balance and Loewe had a baby this sneaker would be it. A little retro, a little sophisticated. I’d argue that this is the entire ethos of the brand.

It’s details like elegant colorways and extra fine shoelaces that make them feel less technical, more elevated.

And did I mention they’re light as air?

Fit: I took my true American size (7) and they fit just right.

They sell out quickly – but my sneaker is still available in a few sizes. They take almost two weeks to arrive, so don’t order if you’re in a rush. But as they say, good (stylish?) things come to those who wait.

IN STOCK AND READY TO SHOP

JOIN THE WAITLIST

I would sign up for the back in stock notification for these colors too :-) x

When I read this, it clicked. It’s exactly the term I was searching for when I was drafting up the first version of this post, trying to put into words how the below images make me feel. I’ve found that studying men’s fashion is my favorite way to hone in on my own style. I love womenswear, but I’ve always been most inspired by the way men wear clothes.

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Let’s scroll through some saves, shall we?

There’s such a clear through-line here: a little rumpled, at times rugged, imperfect and lived-in. He looks undone, but not unrefined. He’s still a gentleman. His polish *seems effortless.

And so, I offer you a few thoughtful styling choices and a topical anecdote: I’ve had friends look at the destroyed heels of my shoes and laugh, asking why I don’t just buy a slip-on mule. I could, but, *not to be dramatic, the entire communication of my personal style would be lost in doing so – I care, even when it looks like I don’t. Ha.

Happy Sunday. Leave a comment if you’re looking for a link! x

Anyways, back to fashion. I have been buying this T-shirt for the last five years. When I’m loyal, oh, I’m loyal.

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Jungmaven Ojai Tee: Why I’m Obsessed

Available in cropped or regular length.

There’s a time and place for a heavyweight T-shirt in our closets, but I reach for this relaxed, lightweight tee most often.

The scooped neckline and capped sleeves are details that feel soft and feminine instead of boxy and boyish.

The T-shirt is priced really well (I cannot bring myself to buy a white T-shirt over 60 dollars). You can buy it in bundles too!

Sizing: I buy one size up because I prefer a looser, slightly less cropped fit.

Undergarments: This nude triangle bralette is my favorite under T-shirts.

On keeping your whites white: I swear by Salt & Stone Bergamot and Hinoki Natural Deodorant and OxiClean White Revive.

Officine Générale Boyfriend Fit Denim: Bonus Obsession

I own these in Raw Blue and White.

I was on a shoot this week and our photographer asked where my jeans were from – she said they reminded her of old APC. They’re crisp and dress up nicely. Officine Générale always makes me feel so pulled together. And they’re on sale.

Sizing: I sized up one size in white for a slightly more relaxed fit, and took my true size in the raw blue for a sleeker straight-leg fit.

Ok! Enjoy your long weekend. x

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First, let’s decode the images in question.

1. Braided silk cord closures and trimmings are on my mind. I find myself so inspired by a slightly more bohemian, YSL Rive Gauche kind of elegance – textured, lived-in, a bit eclectic!

2. In the second photo, the jacket is the piece. I appreciate restraint – building an outfit around one focal point.

3. No gold buttons and detailing. Embellished, Napoleon-inspired jackets so often have gold metallic accents. Done right, I look like I’m living in a Ralph Lauren campaign. Done wrong, I might be an extra in a period film. These tonal embellishments feel easier and more versatile.

3 jackets to shop right now.

Veronica Beard Jacket. 60% off!

Coach Jacket via TRR.

Temperley London Jacket via TRR.

Lastly - a lot of questions about this outfit last week! These shorts are really good and on sale. Linking everything below in case you missed it.

T-shirt. Shorts. The heavy weight of this t-shirt compliments the poplin shorts so nicely. Loafers: I write about how much I love these loafers here.

I bought the shorts in black too. I’m going to replace the white buttons with black for a more monochromatic look.

Until next time! x

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Also an afternoon matcha ring. Worn with Dorsey pinky ring.

Originating in the late Edwardian era and popular during the Art Deco period, the dinner ring was designed for formal evening wear and considered the refined choice of “polite society,” compared to the bold cocktail rings worn at prohibition-era parties. It’s defined by smaller gemstones, geometric shapes, filigree metalwork and an elongated “north-south” orientation.

You can find a lot of rings in this style at an excellent price point in diamonds and solid gold or platinum. Because it is filigree (also called “metal lace”), it’s quite light and it’s use of illusion settings make stones appear larger. Long story short, you can get a lot of look while using finer metalwork and lighter carat weight gemstones.

I’ve been asked about how I would build a jewelry collection (I should and will write more about this) and my very first piece of advice would be to use jewelry as the fantasy piece in your wardrobe. Buy pieces because they feel special and wear them unapologetically. There is nothing more elegant than a spectacular piece of jewelry worn in a pared back and casual way.

6 good dinner rings and some styling thoughts below. x

HOW TO FIND YOURS.

KEY WEBSITES: For this kind of piece, amazing selections will be found with independent antique dealers. Jewels by Grace and Lang Antiques (featured below) are a few. Both offer a return policy, as I know it can be daunting to shop antiques online! 1st Dibs has a return policy specific by vendor - be sure to check before you purchase.

KEY SEARCH TERMS: Antique, Vintage, Edwardian, Art Deco, Dinner Ring, Navette Ring

SIZING: If a ring has a plain band (like these do) they can typically be sized up or down by 1 full size. Ask the vendor!

1 CARAT AND UNDER

Left: This ring is the closest match to mine. Size 4.75.

Right: Love the slightly longer proportions and mixed diamond shapes on this one. Size 6.5.

OVER 1 CARAT

This one is a beauty - watch the product video! Size 6.

A ring for those who love rubies.

PINKY RINGS

Particularly obsessed with dinner rings worn on the pinky. So good.

Left Pinky Ring Size 4 | Right Pinky Ring Size 3.25

WORTH KNOWING: If you find an antique white gold ring that has a bit of wear to it, a cleaning and fresh rhodium plating from the jeweler will restore it to its bright white shine.

I know vintage styles might seem intimidatingly formal, but you can absolutely style them down. Worn the other day with a vintage Hanes sweatshirt, Isabel Marant trouser, straw bag, and Ciao Lucia sandals. As it turns out, this ring is not just for dinner.

I’ve been drooling over the Rubirosa’s slipper loafers since it’s opening. The Parisian concept store offers an exquisite assortment of loungewear-inspired pieces and with no online presence, it’s bookmarked until my next trip. Welllll, now I’ve become fixated on finding a leather slipper loafer. I love this shape over a structured style because it feels more relaxed (essential to how I get dressed – read more here).

After much searching, I’ve found the perfect pair.

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Dear Frances Gio Loafers: Why I’m Obsessed

Buttery-soft leather with no break-in required (ideal for no-sock wear).

Minimalist design and slightly pointed toe create a sleek silhouette.

The fold-down heel speaks to my lazy shoe-wearing heart.

You know they’re good when you wear them for days in a row. These loafers are 10/10.

I own them in black and have my eyes on espresso too.

Left | Easy and polished: vintage Levis, Hanes sweatshirt, Comme Si socks, and a gold pinky ring. Right | Just as good with a relaxed trouser.

Quickly becoming my favorite travel shoe.

I can’t stop thinking about… this outfit from Viviana Volpicella.

The look: windbreaker, loose trouser and sweater, slipper loafers, utilitarian travel bag, wayfarers. It’s androgynous and sophisticated and sporty. I’m feeling inspired (and ready for spring).

WHY I LOVE IT: The unfussy shape, neutral color, heritage print with slight wear to it… It’s just so good. It feels polished, but never precious. I throw it in tote bags like a giant wallet or wear it in hand when I want an outfit to feel more elevated. It wears well day and night.

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HOW TO FIND YOURS.

KEY SITES: The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective

KEY SEARCH TERMS: Clutch, Portfolio, Toiletry Bag, Cosmetic Bag
This ensures you find a bag shape that leans less feminine.

KEY BRANDS: Celine (Macadam), Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Cartier

6 GREAT BAGS :

Left Celine Macadam Bag $225 | Right Celine Macadam Bag $225

My tried and true Macadam print!

Left Gucci Monogram Bag $356 | Right Gucci Graphic Logo Bag $340

Obsessed with the logo design on the right – super chic 70s.

Left Louis Vuitton Monogram Bag $498 | Right Etro Paisley Print Bag $108

I love that the Etro paisley print is a bit unexpected but still muted enough to be a neutral.

BRAIN FOOD
What I’ve been reading, watching, or listening to.

The documentary Ethel, about the powerhouse woman behind Robert F. Kennedy. A unique perspective for history lovers (and a lot of 50s and 60s fashion). I’m fascinated by the partners of public figures and the influence they wield.

My style leans classic, but that does not! mean! boring! I love embellishment, embroidery – details that make pieces feel exquisite and special. And I love wearing them in a very relaxed way. This tension scratches my brain just right.

From the screenshots folder via Aaron Levine ~

The Formula: Classic, Never Boring

1. BLACK, WHITE, NAVY, GREY. This helps me build a wardrobe that feels timeless and versatile. It lets me bring in personality through texture. For me, I prefer texture over color.

2. Textured and intricate pieces are always offset by an element of chill.

3. A signature piece across all outfits. I’ve worn 2 bags almost exclusively over the last 4 years – a straw tote and Celine Macadam portfolio clutch.

When I get dressed I ask myself, does this outfit feel… timeless, one-of-a-kind, and easy?

Ok this was fun! Until next time.

So I’m starting here, on a rainy Sunday afternoon with outerwear on my mind. Many moons ago, I was studying in Milan when I walked into a sporting goods store and purchased a pair of rubber equestrian boots for 25 EUROS (!!!). 11 years later, they’ve proved to be timeless, practical, and sturdy.

A great rubber riding boot option here. Worn with Banana Republic cotton v neck sweater and linen pants – ready to romp in the countryside or run to Whole Foods.

An inspired moment from the screenshot folder.

Ok! Here’s to getting started. That’s all for now.

xLiv

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