Which has reminded me how much I don’t believe in owning a lot of swimwear.

It is quite possibly the most miserable category to shop for, and once you find something that works, the goal is to wear it often. A few thoughtfully chosen suits that each serve a different purpose are all you need.

THE SPECIAL SUIT

This suit is genius. The twisted detailing feels glamorous, but not in an obvious way. Like a white tee with sleeves rolled—a small styling detail that makes it interesting. So understated and cool.

THE WORKHORSE SUIT

One top. Two bottoms to suit your mood.

Specific criteria:

• Fixed shoulder straps. A proper strap feels more polished than a halter tie.

• Fixed-side bottoms. No ties. This lets you hike the suit slightly higher on the hips, which creates a longer line.

***I scoured the internet for this style, and you would be surprised how difficult it is to find a simple string bikini without ties. What I like about this Australian brand is their approach: “because simple done well is hard to find.” The product really delivers here. Simple, no frills. Really good basics across many cuts. They have a bit of a tricky returns policy - either full store credit or refund with restock fee. Read the fine print!

Matteau also has a great version of this formula: one top, a string bottom, and a full-coverage bottom.

THE SPORTY ONE-PIECE

This summer I decided I wanted to start swimming laps, so in my new hobby fervor, I ordered a Speedo. (I’m a serious swimmer now)

Only to realize I am still a fashion girl. I wanted something functional, but design-forward. This suit is the best of both worlds. Perfect for sport and leisure.

BONUS: COVER UPS

An effortless wardrobe isn't about dressing differently for every occasion. It's about looking like yourself wherever you are. I don't really want a beach persona. I want to wear the same outfit all day, then jump into the ocean. That’s vacation heaven.

Two cover-ups that work on and off the beach:

Happy Summering! x

Practical gets a bad rap.

It can be cool. Dare I say, it can even be sexy. I’m interested in clothing that fits into a real life and is meant to be worn often.

Packing for New York in the middle of a heat wave is the ultimate test.

Here are three outfits, all built around great white tops.

TRAVEL DAY

Monochromatic dressing is the easiest way to look intentional when traveling.

This hemp tee has the texture of a linen blend that pairs perfectly with linen pants. If you’re in Europe this summer, a pair like these will cost you €30 at a street market. Otherwise, these pants work beautifully too. Fold the waistband over for a more relaxed fit. Canvas Bensimon sneakers can be thrown in the wash after every trip, making them the ideal travel shoe.

COFFEE MEETINGS

This Banana Republic tee is my most-clicked link, and for good reason. Soft, loose, boxy (and always on sale, ha). Worn with two-season-old Dôen Bermudas cuffed into a subtle bloomer shape. Consider this inspiration to style old shorts into something new.

I adore these Proenza cage sandals (a few sizes left!), but my feet did look like striped sausages when I took them off. Maybe not the right shoe for 95-degree weather.

DINNER WITH FRIENDS

A silk tunic for summer nights. This one is from TheRealReal by Loulou de Saison. Worn with a pair of dark wash straight-leg APC jeans—size up two from your regular size.

Evening tops are one category I almost always shop secondhand. It allows me to buy the best quality and fabrics within my budget. A beautiful top has the power to transform a pair of jeans—which is exactly what you want when traveling.

A delightful TRR selection below!

Okay, this St. John top is arguably cream or butter yellow. Either way, if you don't buy it, I will. It has all the makings of the perfect bra-less summer moment. One less layer in the heat. ;)

Which leads me to Loft Vintage. I’ll set the scene: 30-something lesbians walking the streets of Florence, alternating between slinky 90s silk and tomboyish low slung trousers. This sentence feels very niche, no?

I love the world they exist in. And this is where you uncover taste.

If something makes you feel alive, take a moment and ask why? It’s a feeling worth paying attention to. It's about being connected to the world around you and what it tells you about yourself.

Join me in a quick Tuesday morning exercise—will you?

STEP 1

If you see something you connect with, practice writing a very granular sentence describing it. Study and unpack it.

For me, 3 things are clearly articulated:

1. Androgyny. The balance between masculine and feminine.

2. Sophisticated sensuality. I’ve touched on this across my writing (example here). Skin, without feeling overt.

3. European sensibilities. Old-world, lived-in, the antithesis of sterile!

Some pieces from the latest silk drop below. Check dress highlights to shop available pieces. I would swap out heels for my favorite black lace up flat sandals.

STEP 2

How does this fit into the rest of your world?

Connect the dots between what inspires you. Choose 3 other references across categories (film, fashion, art, design etc.) Here are mine.

And there you have it, a deep dive into the universe of my brain. It’s fun to discover what makes your point of view yours.

Until the next! x

I recently read this book and can’t stop thinking about it. The entire premise is about identifying your values and aptitudes to build a life and career that meet at the intersection of what is important to you and what you are actually good at.

So, you might ask, why is this relevant here?

Because I want my newsletters to bring value to your inbox. That means I’m here to share what I’m good at, and I’ve found that I have an uncanny ability to look at something and envision its potential, especially when it comes to getting dressed.

Until reading this book, I didn’t know there was a term for this kind of aptitude: spatial visualization. I’m good at seeing alterations in my head before they happen.

That said, here are three very practical tips for having vision when you shop.

I hope this inspires you to look at a piece of clothing and see what it could become. The end result of this being, a wardrobe that looks better, fits better, and feels totally your own.

1. BUTTONS ARE VERY IMPORTANT

Buttons are the make or break of an outfit. They have the same exact transformative power as switching out knobs on a chest of drawers.

The white buttons of these shorts made them feel too boxer-like. Swapping in black buttons immediately made them more polished and less like loungewear.

AND on the topic of buttons, my Abuelita had a saying… “only the angels should shine.” Everything looks more elegant with a monochromatic button swap—in particular, removing shiny/gold/silver buttons is my trick to making a fast fashion blazer look more expensive. Try it!

2. REMOVE EXCESS FABRIC

One of the easiest ways to improve how clothes look on you is to identify where there’s too much fabric. And I don’t just mean something fitting slightly too big. I mean asking yourself whether there are design elements you can remove to expose the bones of the piece.

The original design of this dress included a cape detail that overwhelmed my frame. I’m on the shorter side, and too much coverage does not work.

I asked my tailor to remove the cape entirely to expose the backless cut, then slim down the collar in the front just enough to cover the sheer bodice.

The final version suits me so much more—a bit of skin now balances the feminine print and shape.

3. SHIRT → DRESS

Sized up shirts and tunics can make perfect summer minis.

I found this set on The RealReal and loved the design of this top, but someone beat me to checkout.

Later, I found the top on its own a few sizes up. I had my tailor shorten it and take it in slightly to create a less flared, more A-line shape. Now it’s a perfect little black dress.

Getting to the best pieces in your wardrobe requires a little bit of imagination, but that’s the fun part. ;)

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).