winter 2020

Time For A New Start

Happy New Year! I know I’ve been missing for weeks now. I took some time off. Last year really challenged me in so many ways. At the end I needed time to step back and just let myself unwind. And that was harder than I realized it would be.

I can get so worked up that it takes a long time to un-do the stress. I tried to spend some time listening, absorbing and relaxing. As I listened, I heard others discuss what they were learning about themselves from the challenges of 2020. So many it seems were trying to find the silver lining in an otherwise disappointing year.

I’ve always approached life from a place of gratitude. Even in 2020, there were things to be grateful for. But I also struggled with the reality of the challenges I was facing day to day. And that hasn’t really changed. I have hope… and I know there is a light at the end of this long dark tunnel, but I am running low on the patience I need to have to get there.

And I know so many of you are struggling, losing patience, taking a breath and trying again. We can do this. We can. Let’s try to take this new year as a new opportunity to start fresh.

I’ve taken some time to think about what I want for this website and this blog in 2021. I’ve decided to take this blog back towards fashion and style tips that will support your wardrobe and make you feel fantastic each and every day. I think that we can each find a style that flatters our figure and fits our lifestyle. And that will make all the difference in your day.

I’ve also decided to work towards a new website layout that I hope you will love! So, please have a little patience with me as we make this transition into a new space that I am excited to share with you.

As we start this new year…. let’s start thinking about your style goals for 2021! More to come on this but I think now is a great time to start looking at your closet with a more critical eye. Time to filter out items that don’t feel quite right. Trust your gut. I’ll help you to develop your eye on what to look out for. We’re in this together.

There’s lot of tips, tricks, idea and inspiration to come but for now let’s focus on what makes you feel good. It can be the cozy sweatshirt that you wear as part of your uniform or the broken in jeans that fit just right. Maybe what makes you feel good are your black leggings or a boyfriend flannel shirt. Maybe it’s not just one item. For me, it’s my crewneck sweaters. Turns out that I have a number of them. And they are my go to items. And I wear them often.

Let’s build on the feeling you get from that item in your wardrobe that makes you feel good. I am not suggesting that you need to multiply that one item… as in my obvious sweater obsession… bur rather build a wardrobe that gives you that feel. Suddenly we’ve taken some of the stress out of your morning. We’ve improved your mindset and reset your perspective. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

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!