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Good Ol’ Americana Denim

May 24, 2018

AYR The Styx JeansWhat Jenn Wore Seattle Style BloggerSea Long Sleeve Malaya BlouseAYR Vintage Style Jeans StyxLet’s face it, a great fitting pair of jeans can be transformative.  Truly.  Whether they’re a day-to-day staple or reserved for weekend wear only, an excellent pair of jeans is a wardrobe workhorse.  I may sound like a broken record here, but that’s because I live my life in denim.  Therefore, I believe myself to be an expert.  Is there such a thing? Well, everybody has got to have something!

I get a lot of questions about denim trends.  Remember when ‘the skinny’ jean first came around?  Well, wasn’t that intimidating at first (and second and third)?!  But eventually mainstream fashion got on board…like all on board.  It’s now hard to imagine our lives without the magic of the lycra-blended into cotton denim; a requirement for the painted-on jean look.  How did we even wear tall boots before skinny jeans?  Do you remember pegging your pants (am I dating myself)?  Or how, previous to skinnies, your bootcut jeans would drag on the ground?  Getting soggy in the Seattle rain?

Well, a couple of years ago now, the fashion pendulum swung away from skinnies.  Don’t panic, they’re not dead.  No need to trash your collection.  The slim silhouette of the skinny is here to stay.  Phew.

However, a nostalgic Americana brand has returned to the forefront of denim culture (ahem, Levi’s), and premium denim brands have taken note.  100% cotton, “vintage” denim fit and styling as returned to popularity.  And, are we all so happy that it’s back that it seems refreshing rather than annoying to have to squat, plié, and tug our way into our favorite jeans?  (The lay on the bed to button situation is no joke). The other day I had a sales person tell me that they only allowed their 100% cotton jeans to dry to about 95% (hanging of course, you know better than to dry!) and then they put them on still damp so that they can form to her body.  She felt like this was an earth shattering revelation…I was reminded of my teenage years.  AYR 100% Cotton Denim JeanJenn Lovin Seattle Style BloggerSeattle Stylist What Jenn WoreI like to consider myself an early adopter…or shall we say, re-adopter?  Therefore, I was all in and began my quest in ernest last fall.  Now, I’ve been loving the cropped flare and bootcut for awhile (are any of my jeans full length these days?!).  But I began to look for the perfectly 90’s, lighter wash and straight cut I was lusting after.  As you can imagine, this was an effort.  Some jeans were too tight or square, meaning that the legs were too fitted or tight in the thigh yet big in the waist.  Doesn’t this sound familiar?  This is how we all used to shop for denim 20 years ago!

I searched flea markets and vintage shops for Levi’s, had try-on sessions at retailers such as Nordstrom and Aritzia (both stores being my go-to for denim).  I discovered a pair of Levi’s “Wedgie” fit at Aritzia that were just what I was looking for (I found them in a Canadian store, no less!).  But then I found that all Levi’s Wedgies were not created equal when I tried to replicate or refer people.  Finding a perfect pair of true Levi’s is a commitment to the search!  And I’m not even talking about a vintage pair!

Then I stumbled upon these AYR jeans that I’m wearing in these photos.  I’ve been a fan of this brand for awhile (see my previous post) and was eager to try their denim, especially since their social media boasts the perfect fit to flatter customer’s derrières.  Again, I believe that I know my way around a pair of jeans, yet even I had to be talked through the break-in of these jeans.  When I first received them they were tiiiiiiiight.  I could get them on (a button-front of course!), but stairs were a challenge and sitting was out of the question!  I was convinced that I needed to go up a size.  After trading messages with the AYR team via Instagram (what did we do before Insta?), I was coached through the break-in phase.  I was told to “hang tight” (oh, the irony!), and that if I could get them on, they were the correct size.  I wore them for 48 hours straight; admittedly cringing every time I was required to bend over.  And now, here they are…one of my favorite pairs of jeans.  I’ve only washed them once (I know, sounds weird but it’s actually a thing…you shouldn’t wash your denim too often), and I went through the break-in process again.  Now I gingerly avoid my kids’ “jam hands” and pass on questionable seating because they are just riiiiight.
AYR The Styx Jean Missing PocketWhat Jenn Wore Seattle Style Blogger{outfit details} denim: AYR (c/o) | blouse: Sea (similar with less pattern) | slides: Zara (oldies but goodies) | sunnies: Chloé

Sea Ruffled Navy and Red BlouseWhat denim brands are you loving?  Are you excited about the return of 100% cotton, vintage styling in jeans?  Be sure to leave a comment.

Thanks for reading! ~Jenn

photos by Sarah Wolfe

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Introductions, AYR Let’s Be Friends

March 16, 2018

AYR Styx JeansStyling Vintage DenimAYR Distressed Styx JeansI found the perfect winter coat last year and it has been in constant rotation for two seasons now.  A standout red color, the contrasting brown pattern and cocoon shape seemingly go with everything in my wardrobe all while elevating every outfit.  I was unfamiliar with the brand – AYR.  Was it A-Y-R or “air”…I didn’t know, but I loved my coat.

Then this winter, I stumbled upon the quintessential striped sweater.  Navy and white (of course), with stripes across the chest, complete with ribbing details at the shoulder and a cropped length perfect for pairing with all of my high-waisted denim.  Yet again, AYR.

Now I knew that I must learn more about my new-found fave brand.  As I began my research, which I must admit started with Instagram stalking, I was so pleased to learn the meaning of AYR (indeed pronounced “air”): All Year Round.  A brand name symbolic of the quest for perfectly simple, yet beautifully made pieces that should reside in your wardrobe (you guessed it), the entire year.

AYR Denim Seattle BloggerAYR Styx Jeans

Better yet?  Aside from lovely staples such as classic, button-down blouses and beautiful dresses (all in a neutral pallet including navy, white and black), they made jeans!  As you know, denim is the key to my heart.  And these jeans…well, they’re awesome.  With a style for everyone, there is sculpting skinnies, bootcuts with interesting detailing on the cuffs and, my favorite, vintage-inspired, 100% cotton denim like the ones I’m wearing in this post.  What could be better than this classic, back-to-basics style?  A perfectly-distressed light wash (which I’m V picky about – not too yellow or too much whiskering), an undone cuff in a cropped length, annnnnd a missing back pocket.  Done.

AYR Denim Seattle Style BloggerAYR Denim Seattle Style Blogger

AYR 100% Cotton DenimStyling Vintage Denim

outfit details:
jeans: AYR (c/o)
tee: Topshop (similar, love this one)
denim jacket: Vintage Levi’s (new)
booties: Louise et Cie (major sale!)
bag: Nordstrom Halogen
sunnies: Zara (last year)
earrings: Baleen (found at Queen Anne Frame)

Before you press “purchase” (which, no doubt, you will want to do!), a word to the wise on sizing.  Get your normal size.  In the description it even says that these jeans will be tight…and they are not kidding!  Breaking these bad boys in was a full-time job.  For two days, I wore these around the house all the meanwhile trading texts with a patient AYR gal with me asking if they should be this tight??  But wouldn’t you know it?  She was right.  After a couple days of some serious squats, they fit oh-so-right.  And don’t you remember getting to the perfect fit as being part of the charm of old-school, 100% denim?  Heaven forbid that once they’re finally there, just-so, there’s no washing?!  Although, I plan to enroll the old put them on while damp technique – remember that one??  However, you will not regret the commitment breaking these jeans in require.  I receive numerous compliments every time I wear them.  Stopped-on-the-street-by-strangers kind of compliments.  You’re welcome – I’m happy to introduce you to AYR.

AYR Denim Seattle Style Blogger

Thanks for reading!  Happy Friday.  ~Jenn

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Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted t Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted the new year feeling inspired with a renewed intention for my account; to share with you the goodies I love, wear, try. Unfiltered and honest. That’s what I’m here for. But then...2021 arrived feeling much like her older sister, 2020. Instead, I’ve avoided a lot of social media; choosing to tune into various news outlets and into my family. So, HERE WE ARE. A post proving that I got dressed yesterday, wearing some of my new favorites (these @flamingosshoes white boots!) and steady stand-bys (year 2 wearing this @notmondaymercantile beanie on repeat). I took the kids out after school to run a couple of errands and connect with a business I love to support; we made plans for a spring share. Man, it felt good to get out! And now, I’m posting early before I’ve read the morning news. So, it’s happened. 
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Please stay safe, remain respectful, and true to yourself. Social media is a beautiful way to connect, create, and inspire...but can also be a dangerous rabbit hole of misinformation and an opportunity for people to behave in a way they ordinarily wouldn’t in person. Off my soap box. Have a lovely Friday!#wordsfrommyheart #realoutfitgram #flamingosshoes #whiteboots #notmondaymoments
Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you all but enjoyed a nice long break. Heading back home after some snow time and I’m feeling re-energized (for now). Isn’t it funny how a change in the calendar can make you feel different? Are you a “new year, new you” kinda gal or more indifferent? I do like a good reset. Even though we’ll be doing more of the same early this year, I’m feeling more optimistic. For now. Cheers to 2021!
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Also, posted in stories a nearly identical photo of us from last January at the top of @schweitzer_mountain. While the photos look the same, it’s fun to think that we now are Sandpoint homeowners! A positive outcome of 2020. #newyearonthemountain #snowbest #schweitzermountain #skifamily
Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all the boxes this year. Thinking of everyone not able to spend time with loved ones this year. I’m so grateful for our little family but really missing my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews, my in-laws.  Over a year seems far too long to be apart; but we all need to continue to be safe. It matters. #christmassweater #christmas2020 #staysafestayhome #vintagesweater
Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions ma Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions may look different this year; we have an opportunity to get creative and share in new experiences. Like the new-to-me homemade marshmallow recipe, @thekirstyfiles and I have the pleasure of bringing to you in partnership with @pacific_place. We encourage you to invite a few pals to a zoom date, pop a bottle of bubbly, and create these delicious confections together. I promise they’re relatively fool proof (I pulled them off!) AND a sugar-high afternoon spent with friends (even virtually) will be sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Tune in to Pacific Place’s IGTV or YouTube to see the full tutorial, including my gaff when my marshmallow began moving into the “hard ball” territory (note: this recipe does require a candy thermometer and the ability to read it!). Cheers to making the most out of holiday 2020! #homemademarshmallows #pacificplaceseattle #craftingtogether
Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a frie Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a friend. The belly laughs, chit chat, and groans (as we tried on a number of jeans) provided the escape from reality that I needed. Sometimes you don’t realize just how much you miss something until you get to enjoy it again!
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Other things I love? Soft luxury cashmere, designer denim that fits like a glove, and packable hats (yes, packable!). All can be found @willaseattle; a small, women-owned boutique located in the heart of the Queen Anne neighborhood in Seattle. Be sure to check out our stories as @thekirstyfiles and I share holiday-perfect gifts for your sister, mother, girlfriends...yourself! Lucky for Kirsty and I, our husbands also know the lovely owner, Liz (and she has our wishlists on file)! 
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Also very near and dear to my heart, Willa is the epitome of shopping local. The shelves are stocked with unique, small business designs; including many Seattle businesses. When you shop local, you not only support your community but also curate a look all your own!
#shoplocalseattle #seattleboutique #seattlestyle #happytoshare
Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for you Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for yourself, aka #stayathomestyle. Sure, 2020 may be the year of the sweatpant (combined with a sleeping bag-like coat, as seen here). And yes, a mask chain is this year’s hottest accessory. BUT I still take care to actually get dressed each day. And while lipstick may no longer be a part of my daily routine (I mean, was it ever??), it’s still important to be pulled together..if only for my own mental health. And even if no one else sees it but the grocery clerk. #whatmamaworemonday #sweatpantsseason 
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PS. Did you know I usually tag everything that I’m wearing? It may not all be current, but DM me if you want more details.
A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spe A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spent a lot of quality time as a party of five, braved a few big changes, and (mostly) survived 2020. #dontjinxit #partyoffive #practicegratitude #seattlefamily 
photo: @chelseamacorphotography
On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope t On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope to inspire, remind, urge, and even beg you to ignore all of the crazy cyber sales that have been creeping into your inbox for the past week and instead SHOP SMALL this holiday season. Yes, perhaps it’s less convenient and even less of a “deal” but this pandemic is putting an even greater strain on the small and local businesses that are the absolute life blood of our communities. And, in addition to supporting an entrepreneur and neighbor, you’ll likely find more creative, individual, and unique gifts for your loved ones by shopping a small business.
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Are you in the Seattle area?  Hit me up with questions about my favorite local haunts and finds. I’ve got so many ideas to share; together we can help blow your holiday giving out of the water this year! #shopsmallthischristmas #supportsmallbusiness #shopsmallseattle #seattlestylist
This sweater is at the top of my wishlist! Come ch This sweater is at the top of my wishlist! Come check out @sskein.co knitwear for yourself and visit with designer @e_for_elisa tomorrow during a private trunk show at Emry Boutique in Madison Valley. Simply dm @shop.emry to schedule your visit (attendees are being staggered for safety). Not in Seattle? Check out Elisa’s amazingly cozy, baby alpaca designs online. These knits are the perfect gifts for your mom, sister, boyfriend...self. Because 2020. They deserve to be snuggled in luxury! (And so do you). #sskein #smallbatch #ethicalfashion #shopsmallseattle

welcome to my blog

Thanks for reading! I began this blog in early 2014 as an outlet to share my styling tips and tricks, and disseminate shopping wisdom. I am honored when readers make a connection; whether it’s learning how to make the latest fashion trend your own or finding the perfect new addition to your wardrobe. Thank you for stopping by and spending a few minutes of your day sharing in my passion for fashion and style! ~Jenn

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