Clinging to Summer!

Joan King

August 23, 2020

I will admit that I am desperately clinging to what remains of summer. This is my absolute favorite season and I have been enjoying the outdoors as much as I can. Here in New England, we have had our share of heat waves this season. We haven’t had enough rain but lots of warmth, sun and high temps.

I have found myself checking the weather before I get dressed in the morning. When the temps are in the 90s or close to, it’s hard to put on anything more than a sundress. I also love the look and feel of a long loose sundress. So warmer temps are my excuse to put them to good use.

Fortunately, summer styles are still in stock at most retailers (even if you’re starting to see fall styles included in new arrivals). With less people shopping in person, inventory is still available and there are plenty of sales to be had, especially with the upcoming Labor Day Holiday. This is a great opportunity to pick up timeless summer styles.

I’ve personally always had luck finding great summer styles at Anthropologie. They always curate a stylish selection of summer dresses that are flattering and versatile. Below I’ve included pictures of two of Anthropologie dresses which I have purchased over the last few years. I have found timeless pieces in their collections which I can wear from one summer to the next!

The first image below is a versatile maxi dress that I can dress up or down for almost ANY occasion. The second image is a slightly more formal style with a high low hem line. Both items are incredibly comfortable and lightweight. These dresses are exactly what the summer heat calls for!

Below I have included a few more highlights from the current Anthropologie collection. Whatever retailer you choose, look for lightweight fabrics in styles that flatter your body type. Keep silhouettes simple in colors that complement your skin tone. You’ll always be most comfortable in clothes that are fit for YOU.

Joan King

May 23, 2020

A Little Summer Warmth

Joan King

May 23, 2020

Well, it has been awhile! I’ve missed you all. I needed some time to get use to my new reality. It hasn’t been easy. I have a full time job, I now home school my kids, and I’ve taken on a lot of other responsibilities I usually outsource (such as cleaning my house). The amount of laundry has somehow multiplied. I also spend way too much time in my own kitchen. Overall, I’ve been through a range of emotions and I still struggle but I have also made peace with my current situation. I know this is temporary and I am also doing my best to “self-care”. I do yoga, take walks, and force my kids to play soccer with me outside as much as possible. I color… at this point, maybe more than my kids.

I know that you have also had to find your own way around this new reality. We are all meeting new challenges in unique ways. But I think we can all agree that one of the things getting us through this is each other. My family and friends have remained close… through email, phone calls, texts and social media. Those connections have meant everything to me. I hope you have also found a similar outlet.

When we get back to our '“new normal”, what will it look like? I have so many questions. But one thing I’m certain of is that retail will be changed. We have already heard about retailers filing for bankruptcy. We have seen brands dropping prices. We have gotten a little more comfortable with “online” shopping. Even when retail re-opens we are likely to shop differently.

Our retail needs have changed. I will most likely not be heading back into my home office for quite some time. I suspect that there are others in a similar position. As such, “work clothes” are no longer on my radar. I’m much more interested in purchasing “lougewear” or “activewear” for my work from home situation. I wonder how may of you feel the same way and how that might impact the retail landscape.

It’s finally memorial day weekend and the weather here in New England is improving. Being outside is lifting my spirits and I hope it does the same for you! Let’s try to see the upside as much as we can. And let’s focus on things that will help us to feel better if not our best.

Now for those of you who have pressed pause on shopping but are thinking of adding some additional pieces to your wardrobe, there are still Memorial Day sales to be had. Here are a few of my favorites to inspire you this holiday weekend.

jcrew 2.jpg — J. Crew Eyelet Flutter-Sleeve Top

Vineyard Vines Island Eyelet Tiered Swing Dress

Joan King

August 29, 2019

Fall ... At First Glance

Joan King

August 29, 2019

You already know how much I love summer. And I hate the idea that fall is around the corner. But whether I like it or not, fall is hitting me hard this week as I deal with temps dipping in the Northeast and preparing to send my kids back to school! YIKES!

So with fall on my mind, I’ll take this time to touch on the trends that I’ve seen so far and give you a head’s up on what to expect. First off, the sweater blazer is everywhere! It gained popularity last season and continues to build off that this season. It’s a versatile piece most likely available at your favorite retailer so definitely worth the consideration of a purchase. The midi pleat skirt is also popping up all over. This skirt works as a day to night option (perfect for the office or date night).

Also trending this season are prints varying from leopard print and floral to gingham and paisley. Whether you are pairing prints or wearing one print as a standout, there are options in how you wear this trend. Same goes for texture which is trending this season. From faux fur to leather, lace and silk, there are plenty of options that will provide the added texture to complement your style. Finally, sequins are hot this season and appearing in a variety of items from casual to formal!

There’s a lot to unpack here but I have all season to share the details with you! The most important thing to remember is to have fun. What you wear should make you smile when you look in a mirror. Love your clothes and it will make all the difference. Buy what you love, no matter what the trends say!