Summer 2020

Mother Nature's Highs and Lows

 

I’ve been overwhelmed by life for a while and especially lately. I’ve had so many curveballs thrown at me over the last couple of weeks I am surprised I’m still standing. I feel like I can totally relate to mother nature here in New England. Today it was 70 degrees. Over the weekend, the temps dipped in New England… so much so that I had snow in my backyard for Halloween! Clearly this year has proven to be too much.

To say it’s too soon for snow is an understatement. I am far from ready. I am a summer person. So transitioning to Fall is the hardest for me. I am in complete denial. But mother nature got the best of me this year because there was no denying the snow I had to clean off my car.

As soon as I accepted the fact that the cold temps are here… I was hearing there would be a turnaround. I welcome the warmer weather with open arms, but I know it’s also time to start preparing for the cold. Last weekend, I started making the wardrobe transition. I took out my coats and winter accessories to make available when I need them. I took inventory of what I have and what I need. And I started shopping for the items I need to fill the gaps in my current wardrobe.

As I began to look for winter accessories it occurred to me that you might be in the same boat. Below are a few suggestions on much needed items for winter in New England. I know this is probably the least of your concerns as you make plans to enjoy the warmer weather this weekend… but then again, this is your chance to get ahead! And in a year like this… we should take every advantage we can get!

Pick a Pom Robbed Beanie Base (Anthropologie)

Pick a Pom Robbed Beanie Base (Anthropologie)

Hats:

This beanie comes in a few color and pattern choices and can be purchased separate from the pom-pom. This allows for a number of combinations between beanie & pom for the perfect combination that will match you personal style.

Cole Haan Slick Wool Wrap Coat

Cole Haan Slick Wool Wrap Coat

Sam Edelman Faux Fur Teddy Coat (Nordstrom)

Sam Edelman Faux Fur Teddy Coat (Nordstrom)

A&F Wool Blend Dad Coat

A&F Wool Blend Dad Coat

Sam Edelman Puffer Coat (Nordstrom)

Sam Edelman Puffer Coat (Nordstrom)

Coats:

There are so many choices on the style of coat you can purchase this season. Listed here are just a few of the most popular: Wrap Coat, Teddy Coat, Dad Coat & Puffer Coat. Each of these styles offers versatility to your wardrobe and can be purchased from an array of retailers in almost any color or pattern. I personally love the cozy texture of the Teddy Coat and the sophisticated silhouette of the Dad Coat. The Wrap Coat can pull together an outfit as you head out the door. The Puffer Coat is a must have for the freezing temps that winter will bring to New England. This particular Puffer is in a very trendy Fall color that works as a great neutral in your wardrobe!

Tasseled Triangle Scarf

Tasseled Triangle Scarf

A&F Super Soft Fringe Scarf

A&F Super Soft Fringe Scarf

Scarves:

A great scarf can be so versatile in your wardrobe. I love to pair a scarf with my outfit and make it a part of my look. It’s an easy and cozy accessories that that can pair easily with the most casual to the most dressy of outfits. With that said, scarves are functional as well as stylish. Finding the perfect pattern, color, texture that works with your wardrobe is key!

Knit Mittens from New England Knit Co. (Etsy)

Knit Mittens from New England Knit Co. (Etsy)

Cole Haan GrandSeries Leather Glove

Cole Haan GrandSeries Leather Glove

Gloves/Mittens:

As temps drop, it becomes necessary to protect skin exposure. Cold weather brings dry skin and the first place I notice it is my hands. For this reason I make sure I have multiple pairs of gloves and mittens in my closet. I have friends who misplace sunglasses all the time… for me, it’s mittens & gloves. Seeing as I know this about myself, I try to stock up when I can and not spend too much on any one pair. If you’re more responsible with your accessories, feel free to splurge on an investment pair that will you keep your hands warm & cozy!

I have also found that Etsy is a great place to find accessories. I have been buying most of my masks from Esty this year. I think it’s a great way to support small businesses and find unique styles.

Happy Shopping All!

 

Find a time to dress up!

 

We spent a lot of time close to home this summer as I’m sure many of you did. But we also found opportunities to enjoy the summer sun. It’s important especially now to find time to celebrate in our own way. And maybe dressing up will help you feel a little more special… I know it does for me.

One of my favorite summer dresses which I did manage to wear once this summer is now on sale! This dress is easy, flattering, comfortable and lightweight for a hot summer. (See photo.) This is the Joie Krystina B Cotton Dress.

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Joie has been a favorite brand of mine for some time. They are classic but trendy, simple but elegant, and always flattering. Joie is a great go-to for a staple piece. Whether it’s a sweater, top or a dress, Joie will have a piece for the season that will fill your wardrobe hole. And now those pieces are on sale! See a few of my favorites below.

While I know these are incredibly challenging times, I hope you find your opportunity to dress up and celebrate!

Clinging to Summer!

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!

 
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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.

Zuly Lace Tiered Midi Dress

Zuly Lace Tiered Midi Dress

Marya Tiered Maxi Dress

Marya Tiered Maxi Dress

Zenia Mini Dress

Zenia Mini Dress

Feliza Tiered Midi Dress

Feliza Tiered Midi Dress

Geneva Maxi Dress

Geneva Maxi Dress