not monday | 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

Just this week I was asked what is most rewarding about writing this blog. I’m so grateful that people read what I’m posting and I am humbled when readers are inspired by my recommendations. It truly means so much when someone leaves a comment or stops me on the street to compliment a look or gives me feedback on a recent post.

Another result of blogging, is the rewarding opportunities I have to meet and partner with small business owners. Many of these small businesses have roots here in the Pacific Northwest and the majority are led by inspiring female entrepreneurs. This is an amazing benefit of dispensing style advice, and I am honored when a brand I have fallen in love with trusts me to partner in marketing their product or service.

One of these extraordinary brands, is TAH handbags. TAH was dreamed up by Angelina Marie, as she worked her retail “day job” in Portland, Oregon, toting her high heels in her handbag to and from work. As with most small businesses, TAH, which stands for “Tote a Heel,” was a leap of faith and a personal risk. However, with a focus on classic, quality design and a strong knowledge of her customer, Angelina has created a stand-out product and a brand that is quickly gaining notoriety for it’s simple, chic aesthetic.

I’m wearing the convertible belt bag here, of which I have already shared it’s merits in my post earlier this week. I am equally smitten with the circle bag (I have my eye on the red…John, are you reading?). And I think that the “Doctor Bag” is a beautifully structured tote, perfect for the working professional (or busy, multi-tasking mom). When you check out Angelina’s site, there is a TAH bag for every kind of woman. Fittingly, the brand’s social media handle is @TAHlife!

If you read my previous post, you know that Kirsty and I are happily resurrecting our “4-Way Friday.” We thought that sharing multiple ways of styling a classic handbag, and one that can be converted into various forms, was fitting for a 4-way post. And while the belt bag makes hands-free so stylish, I must admit that a crossbody style is my easy go-to. As are the vintage-style sneakers, dark skinny jeans, and menswear-inspired blazer I’ve paired it with. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the softest cashmere sweater in my collection, created by another female entrepreneur, Not Monday.

This outfit reflects my daily style, which you may get more of a glimpse of if you follow along on Instagram. I’m often running around in sneakers and jeans (#momlife), with my hair generally messy. Winter in Seattle necessitates cozy layers, so a sweater and jacket pairing completes my uniform. Therefore, a classic, hands-free bag (that seemingly goest with everything) is a perfect addition to my everyday outfits.

{outfit details} bag: TAH (c/o) | blazer: Isabel Marant (similar style) | sweater: Not Monday (c/o) | denim: Mother (similar) | sneakers: Nike

Don’t forget to read Kirsty’s post and check out her second look. And, of course, we’ll both be back tomorrow with the culmination of our 4-way post…on a Friday.

As always, thank you for reading! And a special thanks to TAH for partnering with us on this post. I’m absolutely in love with your bags and in awe of your tenacity. ~Jenn

photos thanks to Sarah Wolfe

What Jenn {Really} Wore

Tote A Heel (Or Sneaker)