Archives for February 2017

My Spring Shopping List

February 22, 2017

It’s almost here…spring is beginning to tease us here in the Pacific Northwest. And, I’m already formulating my spring shopping list. Alright, maybe I’ve already made a couple of purchases in preparation for spring (you can find my embellished pumps already in heavy rotation). Below are just a few things on the list (simply click on the image to shop):

Embellished Details

Retro-Inspired Denim

Blush

What’s inspiring you for spring? Next up, open-toe shoes and breezy dresses…just not quite yet!

Thanks for reading! ~Jenn

Secrets for Scoring Deals on Designer Duds

February 15, 2017

Ever curious how mere mortals can afford designer labels? As a savvy online shopper, I am willing to share my secrets. And it’s all in the hunt!

This Isabel Marant Etoille jacket is an excellent example of the search required to pay less for the designer duds you may desire. I initially saw a jacket in this stripe design while on vacation this summer; it was in the cutest little boutique in Laguna Beach. I took a picture on my phone and then began my search in ernest. Given that it was a fall item, I had to wait…patiently. I was reminded of this gem around the holidays and time was finally on my side! Having another Isabel Marant jacket, I knew my size (which can be tricky with differing European sizing). Especially when hunting sales and deal sites, there may be limited sizes available and you always want to check the return policy (you most definitely do not want to be stuck with a “deal” that you cannot return!)

A few of my favorite “go-to” sites for scoring major deals on designer pieces include the following:

The trick is to know what you are looking for before searching. Especially when shopping online, the selection can be overwhelming. Or, if combing the racks, know the brands that you are interested in. I scored this Isabel Marant Etoile top at Nordstrom Rack and tried on these Rachel Comey booties in store but waited until they were finally greatly reduced before pulling the trigger.

{outfit details}
jacket: Isabel Marant Etoile (for reference, mine is a size 38 – ordinarily a size 4/6)
top: Isabel Marant Etoile
denim: Rag & Bone
booties: Rachel Comey
bag: Zara (last year)

Have shopping questions? I can answer them! Please leave a comment.

Thanks for reading and happy Wednesday! ~Jenn

Galentine’s Denim Styling

February 13, 2017

Yesterday I had the pleasure of participating in a style segment on New Day Northwest; “Stylish At Any Age: The Denim Edit” hosted by one of my most stylish friends, Lisa Cole. Lisa is the style editor for Vanguard Seattle magazine and writes her own style blog, West Fulton Street. I didn’t do any of the heavy lifting; I simply showed up for a mid-morning call time and did one pivot in front of the camera (and smiled a lot!). Aside from the fabulous outfits that Lisa styled (all courtesy of a Seattle boutique, Canopy Blue), it was terrific to participate with and support a group of creative and stylish women (all of whom are small business owners).
In Lisa’s segment, she highlights 5 denim trends for spring. As seen here, I’m wearing a distressed skinny jean. Lisa encouraged viewers (as I often do my readers), to think outside the box with their denim styling. Rather than reach for the tried-and-true pair of sneakers, dress-up distressed jeans for a stylish, work-appropriate outfit by pairing them with a classic blazer and pumps. The embellishments on the pumps and sparkly earrings add an extra level of glam, even elevating this ensemble to date-night.

Lisa shared more trends including winter whites, staggered hems, and custom-made, painted jeans (which I am now obsessing over!). See all of her picks, including my “modeling debut” here: New Day Northwest

{outfit details}
all found at Canopy Blue
blazer: Rachel Zoe (55% off!)
sweater: Susanne Karlsson
t-shirt: Susanne Karlsson
denim: Mother
earrings: Juliet Roger

heels: Sam Edelman (seriously, these are a favorite!)
sunnies: Smith Optics

Wishing you a day filled with love (self-love, friendship, romance…whatever it may be). Thank you for spending a small part of your day with me. ~Jenn

Valentine’s Day Self Love

February 8, 2017

I have to say that February is probably the month when I have the lowest self-esteem. By this time, the novelty of winter has completely worn off and my skin is at it’s palest (and scaliest), my hair at it’s darkest (and seemingly frizziest), and, if summer bodies are truly made in the winter, then I am in trouble!

As I’ve grown older and started raising children (2 girls, I might add), I have been aware that I need to be kinder to myself. Aside from trying to banish negative self talk (particularly any commentary that may be said out loud), I am also trying to take some time to practice self love. And, as February is also the month of love, I’m sharing some my self care practices:

Dry Brushing
I posted about this last year and it’s just so good, it’s worth a reminder. I use an all-natural bristle brush and brush gently on dry skin prior to getting in the shower. I begin with my feet and brush upwards towards my lymph nodes. Around my upper thighs and seat, I begin to make a circular motion because, aside from exfoliation and improved circulation, dry brushing can also break-up cellulite. Yep, grab those brushes, swimsuit season only seems like a long way off.

{brush}

A couple of tricks and tips: 1) allow extra time to dry brush in the mornings, because it is stimulating and wakes up your senses (read: not to be done before bed). 2) I follow with an oil before getting into the shower, I then feel moisturized without the oily residue. I use a coconut oil or this spray serum (which smells dreamy)

{One Love serum}

See my previous post (it includes a useful YouTube video)

Drinking Vinegars
Yes, really, drinking apple cider vinegar has a number of health benefits including improved gut health and increased immunity and energy; however, I would not recommend taking a straight shot of this elixir. Now you no longer need to mix a lemon, cayenne, vinegar concoction in your own kitchen, because Suja Cold Pressed Juice will do it for you in 4 delicious flavors. Read more about the benefits of apple cider vinegar here.

{Suja juice} (lemon cayenne is my favorite)

Treat yo’self
Get your hair colored (a mid-winter must!), get your toes done (even if only for yourself), or get a facial. While I usually reserve such decadence for upcoming events such as parties or vacation prep, nothing can make you feel more like a queen than taking care of yourself…for yourself.

And while we’re talking about a treat, I have been loving my monthly subscription to the beauty brand Julep. As a Julep “Maven,” each month you receive 3 beauty products of your choosing. Prefer a surprise? They have the month lined-up for you but give you a 4-day window to swap out for items of your choosing. And, aside from their fantastic products, I love their inspirational messages in each box and in all of their marketing (for example: “If You Can Put It On, You Can Pul It Off” and #bravepretty). In particular, I am loving their facial oil and they’re beautiful and long-lasting polish colors have been in rotation all winter long.

{Julep Boost Your Radiance}

Brighten-Up
I am the first person to get stuck in the grey and black sweater doldrums of winter. And I love all of the dark and moody lipsticks that pairs so perfectly. But there comes a point when dark and moody becomes just that. And, as the days grow longer and the sunlight a little stronger, why not add a pop of unexpected color? Start small, and soon you’ll be adding spring’s brightest florals into the mix!

I just discovered the Milk Cosmetics brand and I am impressed! The salve has been a lifesaver this winter and this moisturizing yet matte orangey-red is the perfect antidote to the bleakness of my winter wardrobe.

{Milk “Name Drop”}

What steps are you taking to practice self-love. I’m always looking for motivation and inspiration.

Thanks for reading and Happy (early) Valentine’s Day! ~Jenn

Julep Maven photo courtesy: My Subscription Addication

Sneaker Diaries: 4-Way Friday

February 2, 2017

Back by popular demand, it’s a “4-Way Friday” post featuring none other than our new favorite “dress sneaker” from the Brooks Academia Heritage Collection. As we’ve been sharing all week, dressed-up, dressed-down, and worn all around; these classic sneakers are anything but casual and far from ordinary.

For the Fashion Set

Sleek in black on black, with subtle texture detailing and a retro design; these sneakers can be a chic addition to the most interesting of outfits. While a heel or a bootie would have been a more expected shoe choice for these fashion-forward looks, a sneaker adds a cool street vibe. And although many street style shots are found in New York or Milan, look no further than the crosswalks of Kirkland, Washington for these fur-clad fashionistas!

See previous posts (Kirsty, Jenn) for outfit details.

For the Weekday Grind

Who says that looking professional and staying comfortable can’t be synonymous? Kirsty’s look is business on the top and confidently comfortable on the bottom. And who can think straight, let alone make tough decisions, when their feet hurt? A classic black sneaker can be dressy when paired with an A-line skirt and a simple button-down/sweater combo, just be sure to keep the rest of the look simple and professional.

See Kirsty’s previous post for outfit details.

For the Mom On-the-Go

“Mom Style” is on fleek with a pair of cool kicks. Swap out those yoga pants for a pair of black skinnies and an oversized cardi can disguise a myriad of sins (stains, lack of bras, jammy tops included!). Throw on a pair of oversized sunnies and with a few liberal sprays of dry shampoo, you’re at school pick-up with minutes to spare!

See my previous post for outfit details.

Yep, we’re professionals…just take our word for it! At least it’s Friday. Don’t take yourself too seriously.

Thanks for reading! ~Jenn (and Kirsty too)

photos courtesy of our pal Angie Anderson

While this post was sponsored by Brooks, all opinions and silly antics are entirely our own (always)!

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