Time to get comfy

So now that we are practicing “social distancing” will you be living in your PJ’s? I know my kids LOVE to stay in their PJ’s as long as possible. And on the weekends when we don’t have plans, I’m happy to let them. But even though we’ll be home over the next several weeks, the kids are still expected to e-learn. And I’m expected to work from home. Like many of you, I have no idea how this is going to work. I’m fairly certain there will be a large amount of wine and coffee involved.

But one thing I do think we’ll need to figure out how to do is place some structure in our day. This might be my best chance at getting in a few working hours. One thing I notice with my kids is that they’re less likely to stick to a schedule if they are lounging around all day in PJ’s. But if I get them to brush their teeth, put on clothes, and comb their hair, they seem to be more mentally ready for the day ahead. I think this makes sense. It’s a way for them to pull themselves together and get in a mindset. This works for adults too!

Just because they’re getting out of PJ’s doesn’t mean they can’t be comfortable. My kids insist on being comfortable. Sweatpants, track pants, under armor t-shirts… my boys live in this stuff. I also have my share of sweatpants, track pants, leggings and jeans that I find to fit the definition of “comfy”. And when I work from home, I put on an outfit. Even if that’s just leggings and a tunic sweater, it’s still an outfit that I purposefully put on to go about my day in. Like my kids, I find I’m most productive when I’m dressed for my day.

So even though we’ll be at home for the foreseeable future, we’ll still be getting out of those PJ’s and into something purposeful. After all, we still have things to accomplish and we’ll do our best to get them done. And doing them in a cute comfy outfit couldn’t hurt.

J. Crew Cropped Hoodie

J. Crew Relaxed Jogger Pant

Anthropologie Varley Manning Pullover

Spanx Faux Leather Camo Leggings

Lou & Grey Signature Softblend Drawstring Pant

Athelta Breezy Tank

Athleta Mindset Sweatshirt

Thanksgiving Dressing

It’s Thanksgiving Week! This week is always a whirlwind of food, family and holiday spirit. For those of you who have found a way to keep Christmas at bay, that will be over this week. There’s no tuning it out once we get past Thanksgiving. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

As we prepare for the week ahead, one of the last things you’re probably thinking about is what you’ll wear on Thursday. So consider this your reminder to think ahead and plan that outfit. Need a little help? That’s what I’m here for.

What you wear for the Thanksgiving holiday will completely depend on how you are planning to celebrate. You might be the chef and hosting dinner. You might be a guest in your in-laws home. You might be headed to a casual family get together. There are a variety of situations in which you might find yourself. Let’s breakdown the options.

For those who are hosting, I recommend a print blouse and jeans or a pair of dark pants (depending on whether your event is more casual or more dressy). If you’re hosting you’ll be in and out of the kitchen, finishing up cooking and serving dinner. Darker print tops are more likely to hide spills or splatters. A machine washable option will set your mind at ease should a spill take place.

For those who are attending a more formal Thanksgiving dinner as a guest, you can also go with a print top and pants or better yet, a print dress that is on trend for fall. A floral or animal print is popular this season and easy to find. There are also plenty of fall colors on display to complement your complexion. Find what suits you best.

For those who are looking for something more casual, go with a simple jeans and sweater combination. To stay on trend for fall, find a sweater in a gorgeous jewel tone that will bring life to your outfit. Dress it up or down with accessories as you feel appropriate.

Thanksgiving offers a wide variety of options for what to wear. If you need inspiration see the items I have highlighted below. You want to be comfortable and confident. Then turn your attention to your family and friends and the meal you have the pleasure of sharing together. Happy Thanksgiving!!

J. Crew Factory Long Sleeve Leopard Drapey Tie-Neck Top

Joie Maizie V-Neck Satin Top

J. Crew Tippi Sweater

Maggy London Floral A-Line Dress

Banana Republic Fit and Flare Dress

Banana Republic Print Midi Shirt Dress

Commuter Style

I had to commute into Boston last week for training. I used to work downtown so I am use to taking the commuter rail into Boston from the suburbs. But I have to admit that it’s been several years, and over time I have forgotten what it’s like to be a commuter. Being on the train last week brought back a bunch of memories... both things that I missed (time to read) and things that I did not miss (standing the whole ride to work when no seats are available!). 

Commuters taking public transit have a different set of elements to keep in mind when getting dressed for work. As a commuter, I missed my high heel pumps and flowing skirts. They just weren’t practical. I had to be more efficient and smart about my wardrobe choices.

These days I drive to work. I can throw all kinds of stuff in my car to have at my disposal. I keep an umbrella in my car so I don’t have to worry about remembering one. I even bring two jackets with me sometimes because it’s a lot colder the morning and heats up in the afternoon! This is clearly not efficient!

So here are a few tips for the commuter ladies on how to best dress for both comfort and style A public transit commute to work is not an excuse for poor wardrobe choices! You can be both cute and practical. I promise!

Shoes: Clearly my 4 inch pumps are not going to cut it for a commute that requires walking, trains, shuttles ect. There are plenty of cute flat options out there but don’t discount the wedge heel. The wedge can give you the added height you might be looking for, elongate your leg and make your calves look fabulous… all while being comfortable for your feet. Whether it’s a sandal or a bootie, the wedge heel can be just the right option for your commute!

Banana Republic Angela Pointed Toe Flat

Sole Society Laurie Wedge

Skirts: There is nothing worse than having your adorable full skirt rise up over your head when a big gust of wind comes your way! Commuters know that gust of wind can come at any moment. It’s best to expect and be prepared for it. This doesn’t mean you have to stick to a pants only wardrobe. Bring on the skirts but keep them close-fitting. Styles that fit closer to your body including A-line and Pencil will work best for your commute. Stay away from full skirts, pleats or a gathered waist as these styles can be easily swept away.

Banana Republic Gerber Daisy Pencil Skirt

J. Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Bi-Stretch Cotton

White: It’s really hard to stay clean on the way to work when taking public transit. You come in contact with so many things (smoke, dirt, unknown substances) that could potentially leave a mark, that it’s really hard to justify wearing white. This is particularly hard for me as I love white in the summer… white jeans, white shirts, white blazer, white dress, you name it, I love it. But I hate the idea of having a smudge on my beautiful white. So for purposes of the commute, I advise against. Any white that you can protect with a jacket is a go but the rest is better saved for the weekend.

Jacket/Layers: New England weather can be downright crazy. It can be overcast, rainy and cold on the way to work and bright, sunny and hot on the way home. How are you supposed to dress for this?!  The answer lies in jackets and layers. Before I started commuting into Boston I invested in a new rain jacket. This wasn’t just any rain jacket. It is a little longer waterproof jacket (covering my butt) which has a detachable hood and a detachable inner quilted lining. I knew I need one versatile piece that could cover multiple weather scenarios. It also helps to dress in layers. Wear a blazer over a lighter blouse or shell. Wear a scarf that can add warmth when needed and easily be discarded when it gets too warm. Putting a little thought into your wardrobe can make it a lot easier for you to be prepared for all the changes New England weather has to offer!

Banana Republic Raw Edge Tweed Moto Jacket

Eddie Bauer Women's Girl On the Go Insulated Trench Coat

Bags: Having the right commuter bag is an absolute must! You want something that’s large enough to hold all your stuff (phone, wallet, shoes, lunch, ect) but also comfortable to carry and can easily fit on your lap. Tote bags are my personal favorite. If you can find one with a zip closure, that’s the best option to easily getting what you need while keeping things from falling out. Look for one with interior pockets or compartments to keep things organized. Try to find a bag that will make a great all in one. Also, try to take only the things you need for that day. The last thing you want to have to do is carry an extra heavy bag or for that matter, multiple bags!

Street Level Reversible Faux Leather Tote

Kate Spade New York Cedar Street Medium Harmony