not monday cashmere | What Jenn Wore

…and how I really feel about the holidays. It’s a working title (also a work in progress).

I love dressing up. It’s so fun to mix and match my favorite items in my wardrobe and I look forward to an occasion when I get to wear all of my good stuff! Sadly, however; my heels, dry-clean only pieces, and dresses seem to collect dust these days.

On a daily basis you will most likely find me working from home, running errands, followed by the school pick-up and carpooling grind, as my kids and I move through our after-school activities. In an effort to maximize my day (and because I’m an early riser), I most often exercise before the kids wake-up. Then, as soon as they’re out the door, I shower and get myself ready for the day. Getting myself ready mentally prepares me to face the day. And, on the rare occasion that I remain in my workout clothes all morning, I find myself lacking focus and motivation (not to mention, it can be a blow to my self esteem).

While I make an effort to get dressed everyday, it usually means minimal make-up and wearing my comfortable staples including denim, sneakers, and a sweater (this time of year). This casual outfit trifecta is put together enough to run errands and even meet friends for a cup of coffee yet comfortable enough to get my chores done and work from home. This season, I’m crushing on high-tops (which in my book are the equivilant of booties) and an oversized cardigan layered over a tee.

In the spirit of “realness” I must confess that everything is not neatly wrapped up at home this time of year (pun intended). I’m trying to let go of a lot of anxiety and resentment that I inevitably feel each year. Holiday decorating, entertaining, festivities, and gifting are my responsibility and I find them to be overwhelming. Yet this is my family’s favorite time of year (including my husband’s). And I understand the spirit of the season, especially as I witness just how quickly my children seem to be growing year after year.

To alleviate some stress this year, I have tried to prepare in advance. A born procrastinator, this was a particularly impressive feat! Although I think the extra week between Thanksgiving and Christmas has worked in my favor as well. I’ve also made an effort to scale back this year. We always end up with so many presents under the tree – we honestly tire of gift opening mid-way through Christmas morning (at least I do!). In addition to fewer things, we’re also making fewer commitments. We have two holiday activities planned and are being much more casual about any other plans. In essence, it means that we’ve been spending more time at home in front of the fire these December weekends. Oh, and taking deep breaths in an effort to not nag my husband about shopping and crank at my children about the spreading mess!

{outfit details} cardigan: Not Monday (c/o) | top: Anthropologie | jeans: Levi’s | sneakers: Zadig & Voltaire (similar) | bag: TAH (c/o) | beret: Zara | necklace: Missoma | earrings: Baleen (found at Queen Anne Frame)

Thank you for reading. Good luck with maintaining your sanity during this busy time of year. And, may your outfits be comfy and chic too! ~Jenn

photos thanks to Sarah

I get asked a lot of questions about what I do. Specifically, what does it mean to write a blog? And people often wonder about the mechanics of this business; how it started, what I’ve created, what was my motivation. Oh, and the big one: how do I earn money?

So be prepared, I’m going to offer full transparency here.

I first started writing this blog nearly 5 years ago now (wow?!) hoping to use it as a tool to market myself as I began my styling business. However, I quickly learned that potential styling clients weren’t likely to read a fashion blog. First, many of my clients hire me because they don’t have the time to shop and pull together their wardrobes (nor do they have time to read a blog). And second, most of my clients don’t enjoy shopping or fashion and, therefore, they aren’t scrolling through style blogs either.

As I started to focus more time on my blog, I struggled to find my voice. I wasn’t sure of my audience, who was reading this anyway? Was anyone reading this? I also didn’t understand how this investment in my time was going to pay off. Earning pennies on a click or a small percentage of sales through affiliate programs seemed like a meager monetary reward for my efforts.

I’m also often challenged by finding creative content. And sometimes I still feel like I am saying the same thing over and over again. “Be mindful of proportions,” “mix unexpected pieces,” “wear what brings you joy.” I truly mean all of these sentiments…it sometimes just seems repetitive.

And then, something finally clicked. I began to understand more about who I was talking to. I met several readers through events and have been stopped by school friends and acquaintances who ask me follow-up questions. Finally I realized that it wasn’t just my mom following my blog, but fellow moms who, like me, prioritize their family and relationships yet still want to feel and look good.

I began to feel inspired. And my focus has changed.* I’m not going to get rich writing this blog (truth-be-told, I barely get a paycheck). As I’ve begun to work with smaller businesses (many local, and mostly women-owned), my own shopping habits have started to change. I’m shopping more local. I’m buying more from small businesses because 1) I’m finding more unique pieces and 2) it feels good to support someone who is working really hard to create and curate something special. Like me. Now, don’t get me wrong, you will find me still wearing and frequenting big box chains (there is a time and a place), but I’m jazzed to share my local finds with all of you!

*I started to change my business strategy earlier this year – you can read more of my thoughts in my previous post.

I’m finding fulfillment with this creative outlet and, hopefully, I’m enriching my readers lives. Ok, maybe that’s lofty. But perhaps I’m inspiring readers to try something new. Additionally, I do get a meager wage from this blog. When you buy something through my site, I occasionally get a small percentage via an affiliate program that I use (case in point: if you click on a link listed below and end up purchasing something, I may get a small percentage of that sale). I also work with businesses via trade in exchange for providing my honest opinion of their product or service (I usually note this with a “c/o” or “care of”). This has been a true learning experience and I continue to grow as I negotiate for the value that I bring in marketing their products and decline offers that are not in keeping with my brand. Truly, this could be an entire blog post in and of itself…I’ll save it for another time.

In closing, you’re not going to find a listing of Black Friday sales here this week. I know, I love those too. And, while I may still share a couple of good purchases or wishlist items, you’ll likely find more local recommendations. Also, perhaps some more content aimed on sharing styling tips and life hacks, and also entertaining ideas, that will allow to spend more time doing things and being with the people you love.

{outfit details} sweater: Not Monday (c/o) | denim: Rag & Bone | coat: Halogen x Atlantic Pacific | shoes: Schutz (similar) | belt bag: TAH (c/o) | necklaces: Gorjana & Missoma | sunnies: Barton Perreira (c/o Eye Eye)

Special note: my cashmere sweater and convertible belt bag are both made by local Pacific Northwest women who are making really special pieces for your wardrobe. I am completely obsessed with both of these items and am honored to represent their brands. I encourage you to check out Not Monday and TAH!

Thank you for reading this blog. Thank you for encouraging me and participating in this journey. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and the opportunity to encourage and, perhaps, inspire you. Happy Thanksgiving! ~Jenn

Thanks to Sarah Wolfe for these photos.

What Jenn {Really} Wore

If You Build It, Will They Come?