Fashion Blog

I’m back to reality after spending a fun-filled weekend in NYC visiting a dear friend. The timing could not have been more perfect. The weather was insanely gorgeous and I was incredibly lucky to have been able to see the Met’s Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations exhibit and MoMA’s Cindy Sherman exhibit. Mix in shopping, good food and drink, and a whole lot of walking to make for an ideal weekend in the city. I even bought a tasty salted pretzel in front of the Met and wondered why I’ve never indulged before.  

Just one example of the Vuitton Neverfull.

One thing I noticed in New York was the ubiquity of the Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM bag. (I’m a bit bag crazy so I always notice these things.) Whether in Damier Ebene or the Monogram canvas, I saw the Neverfull everywhere. Sometimes I saw two on the same corner while waiting for the crosswalk light.

As a workbag, I can see the practicality of the Neverfull since it’s essentially a big tote bag, but it’s not very original. So that got me thinking. If I had to commute by bus, subway, train or any combination of those things, what would be the ideal bag for me?

Want Les Essentiels De La Vie O’Hare bag from Ten Over Six.

What do you think of this? This may technically be a man bag, but the Want Les Essentiels De La Vie O’Hare bag has that streamlined look that works for anyone. I like the option of having top handles and a shoulder strap. There are several inside pockets for easy access to things like your phone or keys which makes it infinitely practical. This olive green color is my favorite. Mr. Porter also carries the O’Hare bag, where you can find it in other colors. 

I’m traveling to NYC this weekend. I AM STOKED! I’m already thinking about what to pack, although I am notoriously last minute about it. This drives my husband crazy, but it helps me remember all the important things.

One thing I will definitely not forget to pack is a scarf. One of my worst airline experiences was flying back from the Dominican Republic at night and feeling like I was stuck in a meat locker. I didn’t have an extra layer – I had just been on a warm weather vacation after all – and there was not one blanket on the flight. Cheap-ass bastards.

So lesson learned. I never forget to bring an extra layer, no matter when or where I am flying. My preferred extra layer is a lightweight wrap that works as a scarf. This silk/cashmere scarf from Nordstrom guarantees warmth and takes up minimal space if I need to pack in my carry-on bag. I’ve used it as a blanket for my four-year old who often falls asleep on flights. Despite being light, it’s plenty warm. It also works as a soft security blanket – for him, not me. Although sometimes I could use a lovey and a glass of champagne. 

You know what I discovered lately? I can’t walk in high heels any more. It’s a bit embarrassing especially since I literally ran around in 4-inch heels in a hectic newsroom. Those were the days. Actually, I don’t miss that at all. But it would be nice to step out in heels again without looking like a wobbly newborn giraffe.

I recently bought these Zara Basic sandals. I rarely buy shoes online, but there’s no Zara in Portland and I love the color combination on this sandal. Besides, the price made it easy to give it a try. Seriously, is it possible to find decent shoes for fifty bucks?

I’m happy to say these are surprisingly well made. It looks like suede but is actually a polyester microfiber, which works out just fine since living in a rainy climate makes suede shoes a bit high maintenance. As for comfort, I can’t say these shoes fit the bill, but that’s only because I’m used to wearing flat boots or sneakers. 

Now I just need to practice walking in them so I don’t look like a fool. Or take a header down a flight of stairs. Wish me luck!

When I read about people who whittle down their closet to just a few key items, I’m inspired by their desire to keep it simple and their ability to actually commit. I’m acquisitional by nature. And while I’m not a shopaholic, I do love finding something that really speaks to me and actually buying it. Yes, handbags speak to me.

For my capsule wardrobe, I’d really love to add a moto-style leather jacket. See how I went from talking about editing down to adding something new? I’m hopeless. Anyway, I do think this Helmut Lang number would go the distance. I’ve always wanted a black jacket, but this greige color would be great for all seasons. And think of the possibilities: dresses, jeans, casual, formal, the choices are endless.

Maybe that whole argument about cost per wear would justify its purchase?

Even though polka dots seem to be everywhere lately, it’s a look that’s timeless and always fashionable. Check out Natalie Portman’s vintage Oscar dress as the perfect example. While I like the look, I’ve never really found anything in polka dots that I’ve wanted to wear. Many spotted looks have a bit of a retro vibe or are super-feminine and that’s just not me. In fact, it’s one of my mom’s favorite looks. I love my mom. She definitely instilled in me an interest in fashion and the desire to always look my best. However, I don’t want to dress like her.

Then I saw this silk top and exclaimed “Hallelujah!” No, I didn’t but I am pretty excited about it. In fact, I’m excited that I found the site Of a Kind. If you are constantly looking for something that feels personal and not mass-produced, this is the place for you. It’s a site filled with limited production items from under-the-radar designers. I could spend all day looking at the goodies and reading about the artists who make them.

So back to this polka dot top… the painterly feel and the mint green color is a fresh take on spots. There are only 29 available to I need to jump on this fast. Seeing spots never looked so good.

Boy, am I a sucker for stars and stripes. I’ve already written about stripes and now here’s where I go on about my love of stars. It all started when I read Carl Sagan’s Cosmos. Just kidding. I actually did read part of that book and saw the PBS series in high school, but I’m not even going to pretend to know anything about stars. I can find a few constellations on a clear night. That about covers my astronomy skills.

What was I talking about? Oh yes, stars. I don’t care if the star motif is a bit twee or gimmicky. When I see stars, I gravitate toward them. Case in point: I love Loeffler Randall’s Starla sandals. I would paint my toes with Chanel Le Vernis nail polish in Peridot for all out metallic glam feet. These shoes are so fun. It’s going to be hard to resist them.

Jewelry is always a tricky thing for me. I am a minimalist when it comes to adornment, preferring under the radar simplicity to over the top flash. Not that there’s anything wrong with a bit of bling. Sparkle always catches my eye and it can be so fun. But when keeping in mind my overall aesthetic – not to mention lifestyle – minimal wins out.

I really like jewelry that’s a bit delicate, but isn’t too sweet. This ring by German designer Saskia Diez fits that description. It’s part of the Paillettes collection and I like the notion of having light-catching shimmer in the form of an understated oval ring. The rest of the collection is perfect for adding a little extra detail to an outfit without trying too hard. That’s the right balance in my book.

Wishing for the perfect sundress for fun in the sun.

Talk about a glorious weekend! We had sunshine like it was going out of style! Okay, that didn’t make any sense at all but I get giddy when it’s this gorgeous. You know what else makes me giddy?  The perfect sundress for warm weather fun. I love this one by Wren. Even the midsection cutout, which would normally make me nervous, seems like the perfect detail.  

Knowing the weather would be amazing, we planned maximum outside time and eating at one of our favorite places in Portland. I was so happy that I took a picture of my lunch at the Cheese Bar. This deli/gourmet food store has a mind-boggling selection of cheeses and cured meats, and it also stocks unique craft beers to wash it all down. My four-year old son loves the cheese board and asks for this place by name. 

My lunch at the cheese bar. That’s sunshine in a bottle right there.

I’ve decided I’m going to wear more dresses this summer. Oh, and eat more cheese. Two things that I will somehow bring together.

It took me a while, but now I have fully embraced the absurd hilarity of Portlandia. The show magnifies the stereotypes about Portland, then twists it into something completely wack-a-doodle.  But we are in on the joke. Please laugh at our quirky stores, love of bicycles, and our very real cast of kooky characters. Besides, Eddie Vedder makes a cameo! 

I did have my own Portlandia moment this week when I was grocery shopping. I usually keep bags in my car, but forgot them at home. So as I’m checking out with a small basket of groceries, the cashier asks me if I had a bag. I meekly say that I forgot my bag. The cashier game me one of those pursed lipped mmm-hmm looks. Oh snap. Why do I shame so easily? I FORGOT! 

I have attempted to carry everything in my hands before. It isn’t pretty. An easy solution would be to just carry a lightweight nylon bag in my purse. There are so many choices and cute designs to ensure you will find something that meets your functional and aesthetic needs. I like the ones by Envirosax because you get so many design options. Baggu also makes colorful bags that pack down to practically nothing. And just because I’m talking about handbags here, I’d love to carry my environmentally friendly reusable bag in this Balenciaga tote.

Balenciaga Papier A4

I love yellow accessories and a colorful tote is a great wardrobe update for spring. I’ve been curious about these Balenciaga Papier bags since they first came out. The calf leather makes the colors appear especially vibrant. How did I make a post about inexpensive reusable bags into one about a Balenciaga bag? Not only am I easily shamed, I’m easily distracted.

If there’s one thing in my wardrobe that gets worn a lot, it’s my denim shirt. It took me a while to find exactly the right one and now it’s like an old, reliable friend. I bought this Etoile Isabel Marant denim shirt two years ago. I like that the fabric is a cotton/linen mix, so it has a bit drape to it even though the design is more structured. It has a western vibe with the pearlescent snap buttons and back yoke, which is not normally a look I go for, but I love this shirt so much I will wear it to pieces. 

At first, I didn’t get the hype about Isabel Marant. I am not a six feet tall Estonian model who can pull off patchwork jeans and a slouchy tank top. I’m also not an insouciantly cool French girl. Somehow though, I have found myself adding a few pieces each season.  

I’ve justified my love of this label because Marant has perfected a way of dressing that looks pitch-perfectly thrown on, yet somehow put together. So even though Isabel Marant sizing can be all over the map (a topic I’m going to cover later) and some items can give even the most devoted follower sticker shock, I’m always excited to see what’s offered each season. Many of the things I’ve bought are pieces I’ll wear for years. Finding a good sale helps too. 

I went from basking in the glow of glorious sunshine while on a ski weekend in Bend, OR to stuffing my frizzy hair inside the hood of my rain jacket this morning. I love you Portland, but I’m officially over this rain.

You know where I’d really like to be right now? The beach. One of my favorite beaches is on Abaco Island, Bahamas. I took this picture on a vacation last year. This area is perfect for those of us wanting a super mellow spot to swim, read, and take an afternoon nap – all things that are a luxury in everyday life. I’m not one to lie on a beach towel all day, but I am down for reading a book while my husband and son look for shells and build sand castles. 

T by Alexander Wang Waffle Knit Top.

So what’s a girl to do on a dreary day? I pulled out a bright color to wear. I recently bought this T by Alexander Wang knit top. The color is called cantaloupe and it’s just the thing to brighten my mood. It’s definitely more vibrant than this picture lets on. I’m trying to experiment with color and it’s a big step to try something outside of gray and black, although I’m giving myself a pass on navy. Still need my navy. Baby steps.

April 12, 2012 

Why oh why do I fall for the same look over and over again? I’m talking to you striped shirt. Yeah, you. I know the Breton top will always be a classic, but there’s no need for one woman to own so many stripes, right? Well… maybe.

When something really works I tend to go balls out. Thin stripes, wide stripes, blue stripes, red stripes. I love stripes because the options are limitless and the results are just right. Plus, it’s a no brainer. With jeans, your favorite shoes, and one piece of simple jewelry you can have a polished look with minimal fuss. I could use more of those.

So now that I’ve justified the over abundance of striped shirts in my closet, I think I need to add just one more. Double stripes! I don’t have something like this one by A.P.C. Simple, but always stylish. I like the sound of that. 

We had such awesome weather over the weekend that I entertained the idea of wearing shorts. Unfortunately, I don’t really own many shorts, at least ones that I should be seen wearing in public. The shorts I have are more for vacations (beat up denim cutoffs for the beach and practical fast-drying nylon shorts for hikes in the tropics). 

What’s really caught my eye are lace or embroidered shorts. I like the blatant girly-ness of them. These Madewell Lyric lace shorts are tempting. What’s holding me back is that I’m having an existential crisis about shorts. Should “fashion” shorts be left to those on the fresher side of 30-years old?  Not be ageist about something as inconsequential as an item of clothing, but this is something I think about more now that I’m closing in on 40. Crap! Who knew it would come so fast?

Obviously there are those who can wear anything, age be damned. But most are glamorous women with jobs in fashion. I am just a fashion nerd (I think this is a real thing!). 

I didn’t mean for this to be some confessional on my shorts dilemma. I do think there are no rules when it comes to dressing for your age because so many women look too good to dress “age appropriately.” Okay, so I draw the line at booty shorts, but in that case pretty much no one should wear those. 

Now back to the lace shorts. Maybe if I wear them with a well-cut slouchy jacket, it would feel perfectly right for a lady of a certain age. Or maybe I just do what I want because I’ve earned it. 

What my closet really needs right now is a fun pair of flat shoes. I already have a couple of ballet flats that are perfectly fine, but right now I’m feeling the pointed toe look. J. Crew Viv flats may satisfy my craving. They come in punchy spring colors so it will be hard to choose. Happy feet are here again!

I’ve said it here before on this blog and I’ll say it again. If there’s one thing I am crazy about, it’s knitwear. I can’t get enough. Seriously. I am a little bit over the top. Besides trying to acquire the dopest sweater collection possible, I am constantly knitting cowls, scarves and hats to further accessorize with knitwear. It doesn’t even matter if it’s 88 degrees in July (don’t laugh if you live in Phoenix and that sounds downright spring-like because in Portland that's about right) I will rub a cashmere sweater against my cheek and look forward to the day when I can wear it again.

Thankfully, knitwear isn’t only about warmth and coziness. In warmer weather, it can be airy, drapey, and bold. To me, lighter knits can be less about the functional – keeping you toasty – and more about the fun. Last year I knit a white drop stitch vest because I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for in a store. Does anyone really need a white knitted vest? Not really, but it was a joy to make and a surprisingly versatile addition to my spring/summer wardrobe.

So this year I’m excited about building up the lighter side of my knitwear collection. I have my eye on this pastel striped Sonia Rykiel sweater. The black shoulder, neckline, and cuff detail keeps it from being too sweet and the metallic stripes give it a 70’s sportswear vibe that I love. I’d wear this fitted sweater with something loose and swingy on the bottom, just like they styled it for the runway. Tres chic!