Follow Suit

Via Garance Dore

“ ‘Allure’ is a word very few people use nowadays,” she said recently, “but it’s something that exists. Allure holds you, doesn’t it? Whether it’s a gaze or a glance in the street or a face in the crowd or someone sitting opposite you at lunch… you are held.” – Diane Vreeland from Allure 

There are a few things that I believe in doing solely for myself. Quiet time alone with my thoughts, a good book, uninterrupted gym time, beautiful underthings, indulgent manicures and pedicures at my favorite spa are a few of my small luxuries. While catching up with childhood friends by the pool, I realized that comfortable, well-made, elegant swimwear is one of my, just because items. There’s something utterly luxurious about a swimsuit with a streamlined silhouette that molds carefully to the body just so. 

The maillot is perfect for a late summer afternoon spent leaping and plunging into the pool just like this. The Eres maillot with its perfect shape, straps, cuts and seams does simplicity at its very best. There’s something timeless sophisticated and alluring about the maillot. It just feels right in every instance. It always reminds me of Charlotte Rampling, Romy Schneider or that photo of Liz Taylor. Glamour over the overt. There’s something subversive about wearing precisely the opposite of the expected.

Over the years, I’ve invested in a few great swimsuits (both maillots and elegantly cut two pieces) that combine form and function. In no way am I suggesting that Eres is the end all of swimwear, but I adore the fabric technology that dries swiftly, holds up to the elements and lasts. As you all know, when I find something I love, there’s no going back. 

Have you had any pool or beach time lately? I would love to hear what you’re wearing. 

Simple, Chic & Functional

Courtesy of L.L. Bean

Hope you all are having a good week. If you are in the US, I hope you had a nice long Memorial Day Weekend. I had an extended weekend that began last Wednesday. I spent the weekend in Cambridge and Boston with my family attending and celebrating my brother’s graduation from HBS- we’re all so proud of him. It was a lovely weekend indeed.

In my mind, nothing signifies the return of Summer Hours and quick weekend getaways like the classic L.L. Bean Boat and Tote. Originally designed to haul ice “from the car to the ice chest” when block ice was used to keep food fresh in an icebox. There’s comfort in knowing that after more than sixty-five years; the design, construction and notion of functionality remain. 

The heavy-duty cotton canvas just gets better with wear. The reinforced bottom allows me to haul clothes (and more importantly shoes), pétanque sets, picnic supplies and mounds of library books. The extra-large tote is larger than I am, but the long handles make it easy to manage. After years of use, there’s a worn in perfection. 

I unearthed one of my totes this past weekend. I love travel and all of its’ accoutrements- functional and chic luggage, trunks and train cases. Yet, my favorite summer getaways to Sag Harbor, Oak Bluffs and Charlottesville, Virginia call for the ease of a simple but elegant tote. Precious luggage just won’t do when you’re hoping on the jitney or a ferry. The classic monogram is essential to insure that there are no bag mix-ups.

The classic tote is a reminder of just how fleeting summer is with its Kinfolk-like gatherings and days spent by the sea. There’s not much spontaneity to my life at the moment, but hopefully we’ll get there one day.

PS- Here’s a short little video on the handcrafted tote.

The Lightweight Scarf

My Personal Photo

West African Scarf, Allude by Andrea Karg silk and cotton scarf, Cotton scarves from Paris

One of my favorite things to bring back from my travels is a scarf. Perhaps it stems from my love of fabrics and textiles. It's hard to resist exquisite fabrics and artisan craftsmanship. I have been relying on these lightweight scarves to get me through the end of summer. I'm never without a wrap or scarf to ward off the chill. A wrapped neck always makes me feel warm and cozy.

These scarves are relaxed, but easily add a bit of polish to any outfit. All summer I have been wearing my purple scarf with navy; the flecks of metallic gold thread are subtle, but add a special touch. The beige check and striped scarves pair well with crisp white. Lightweight scarves in breathable natural fabrics are key transition pieces as the weather grows cooler. 

I always enjoy tying my scarves in new ways and perfecting my knots. I like my scarf tied with a nonchalant ease that still looks neat. A scarf is one of those small details that completes a look. I'm looking forward to wearing these as much as possible over the next few weeks. 

A Little Reminder

My Personal Photo

Just a little reminder to enjoy the present. Over the weekend I was doing just that when I came across these sunflowers. I have a weakness for gardens and landscapes. I couldn't help but think that summer is not over yet. I'm intent on enjoying the carefree season. Don't get me wrong, September and October are absolutely breathtaking in New York. Early autumn when you can still linger outside is one of my favorite times of year. 

While I love early autumn, I've had fall on my mind since February. It all starts with the collections and quickly intensifies into a life of its' own. For better or worse the seasons are rushed. We barely reached summer and Pre-Fall hit stores. It's all very cyclical, but that's all the more reason why it's import to savour the now. The last few weeks have been busy, but it's always important to take time out to enjoy the little things. 

Kicking Off My Heels

The Coveteur

Last week was exhausting. The good kind of exhausting. A long awaited professional goal was finally realized and lots of new opportunities are on the horizon. Hopefully, I'll be able to talk about it all soon. In the midst of such a busy week I couldn't help but look forward to the weekend. Early Saturday morning I packed up a little canvas tote and headed up the Hudson on Metro-North to volunteer with one of my favorite organizations. 

It was all about kicking off my heels and putting on my favorite oxford shirt and ballet flats. A Breton sweater and sunscreen were tucked into my bag. A day at summer camp calls for pared down elegance. Who wants to be restricted by attire when you could be boating or helping a child decorate a T-shirt? There's nothing more inelegant than being inappropriately dressed for the occasion. The children I tutor and mentor during the school year were amazed by my relaxed attire. 

It's always rewarding to visit camp. I feel very fortunate to be able to be involved  with an organization that provides children with such an amazing experience. It's easy to take the little things that define summer for granted, but these kids never cease to amaze me. They are open to exploring and trying new things in the way children naturally are. In times when it feels like the world is falling apart, it's important to remember that you can make a difference in someones' life. To me giving back is truly one of the chicest things you can do.

Lace Embrace

My Personal Photos

Necklace: Tiffany & Co, Shirt: Banana Republic, Skirt: Proenza Schouler, Shoes: Kate Spade

If there is one trend from the Spring/Summer 2011 collections that I can't get enough of it's lace. Lace is one of my all time favorite looks for warmer weather. The inherent femininity gets me every time. What impressed me most about the use of lace in the Spring/Summer 2011 collections is the multitude of ways in which designers worked with it. 

At Dolce and Gabbana the inspiration was a bride's trousseau. Whereas Balenciaga combined a multitude of materials with plasticized lace. Lace is one of those fabrics that truly shows off a designer's craftsmanship and precision. It requires restraint on the part of the wearer. Too much lace can easily become overkill. It's about finding the perfect balance. 

For the past few years, I have acquired at least one lace item before summer's end. I generally gravitate toward a neutral color palate, but when I saw this skirt I couldn't resist. In typical Proenza Schouler style, this skirt combines a beautiful silhouette with a strong and unexpected color pattern. The word powerful comes to mind. The color combination prevents the skirt from appearing too precious. 

As soon as I saw this skirt I instantly gravitated to it. To put it simply- I was charmed. While this skirt is inexplicably different from the items in my closet, I firmly believe that every well-edited closet needs a few special pieces.

Heat Wave

My Personal Photo

Heat wave doesn't come close to describing the intensity of this week's heat and humidity. The heat index in Central Park reached 113 degrees. It's hard to maintain a chic and professional appearance in such extreme heat. I rely on natural fabrics, light layers, easy pulled back hair and little makeup to keep cool. It also helps that I leave for work before temperatures soar and work in freezing cold air conditioning. 

I have always done better in heat than cold. I have had more than a few instances of hypothermia setting in, but no issues with heat. I didn't give the heat advisory a second thought when I headed out to an event I was hosting on the rooftop of Ink48. I quickly walked a few blocks up and over to the hotel. Upon arriving at the event I was preoccupied with greeting guests, making sure everyone had everything they could possibly need and educating people about the scholarship fund. After an hour and a half I knew it was time for water, but felt fine.

In a matter of minutes, I began to feel dizzy. I was in the middle of a wonderful conversation about education in the Mississippi Delta when I had to sit down. I started to feel nauseous and disorientated. The entire rooftop including the inside area looked pitch black. When I got up to grab a glass of water, I collapsed and fainted. Thanks to a fast acting doctor I was quickly diagnosed with HEAT EXHAUSTION and dangerously close to descending into HEATSTROKE. My core body temperature was 104 degrees. It was truly a scary experience.

I'm happy to say that I'm feeling better. I spent the weekend taking full advantage of my air conditioning, relaxing and sadly neglecting the blog a bit. Here's to happier summer thoughts:

Via Maya Villiger 

The fishtail braid is a relaxed and chic summer look. This lady looks fresh faced and crisp. Hot weather calls for letting your skin breathe. 

Via This is Glamorous

Cool, crisp, clothing from the always luxurious Celine.

My Personal Photo

As a strict vegetarian I welcome the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables

My Personal Photo

At long last there's an Amorino in New York City. I can't have ice cream or Gelato, but I'm always up for grabbing sorbet with friends. So good.

The One That Almost Got Away

 My Personal Photos 

Miu Miu dress, Chanel necklace, Miu Miu shoes

At the end of this little outing we found ourselves at Bergdorfs. After leaving Lincoln Center we strolled around, but ultimately ended up here. My feet always scurry to the same familiar places. There's something about a well curated department store that gets me every time. A holiday weekend and an empty city provided the perfect browsing opportunity. 

As I browsed the racks, I instantly spotted this little dress. As much as I deliberate over purchases, I always know fairly quickly if I like an item. It's a matter of looking at the way a garment is constructed, the fit and feel of the fabric. This dress is exquisitely well tailored and nipped at the waist, which is a flattering silhouette for me. Cotton poplin is the perfect fabric to battle the intense New York heat and humidity. Not to mention the gorgeous navy color. I'm always on the lookout for dresses, because they can easily transition from a long workday (with a jacket of course), to a board meeting or after work event.  

Until recently, Miu Miu has always seemed to lurk in Prada's shadow, but over the past few seasons it has really come into its own. At long last, the brand has a unique identity. I tried on this dress and it fit perfectly, with the exception of a tiny alteration that needs to be made to the shoulders. The gentleman instantly exclaimed "you should buy that dress." The sales consultant conquered. The Summer sales were in full swing, but sale or no sale, this dress was perfection. 

I knew they were right. Yet, for a very ridiculous reason I left the dress (the very last one in the entire store) behind, knowing I would regret not purchasing it. Sure enough, I got home and knew I had to go back. It happens to the best of us. Further complicating the situation was the store's closure for the 4th of July holiday. So the next day, I made a point of heading to Bergdorfs during lunch and prowled around the third floor. Just when I was ready to throw in the towel, I spotted the dress. Sold. 

Do you have a favorite purchase from the Summer sales?

Cool

Via Modern Hepburn

"You always look so cool." 

- The Great Gatsby 

Perhaps Daisy Buchanan said it best in The Great Gatsby. Cool is indescribable. It's the art of understanding the details. It's the little things you can't put your finger on. You know it when you see it.

This look is the very essence of cool. The loosely tousled hair, dewy sun-kissed skin and natural fabrics all look effortless. There is a quiet confidence. She owns this look. I don't own a single pair of  shorts. Every time I come close to purchasing a pair, I remind myself that there are few occasions where they are appropriate for my lifestyle.

Just when I had written off shorts as one of those items I happily admire from afar- I find an image that makes me re-access my reasoning. A crepe de Chine pair could be the perfect compromise. For now I'm keeping this photograph as inspiration. Shorts can be equal parts casual and poised. I can't help but think that this is an elegant way to combat the heat. 

Effortless

Cotélac Sweater and Shirt, J Crew Matchstick Cropped Jeans, Ferragamo Shoes

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."  Leonardo di Vinci 

This is my version of effortless weekend style. White denim and a stripy sweater are at once simple and sophisticated. Nothing symbolizes summer quite like white denim for me. Arguably it's a tricky look that I've only recently become comfortable with. I now consider it a summer stable. Even though I have a consistent style, it's constantly emerging. 

This look was perfect as I ran errands for Sunday's reception for the scholarship board I'm on. I largely admire jeans from afar. My slight stature makes me acutely aware of fit. I have a long inseam for my height, which makes tailored pants and denim all the more difficult to shop for. Having a few of my favorite tailored pants copied in Hong Kong was a godsend. Upon finding these jeans I promptly purchased two pairs for the season. White denim is a little gamine. There's a distinct air of insouciance, which I naturally gravitate toward. Summer calls for keeping things light, easy and carefree on the weekends. Effortless is not to be confused with boring. I like that the sweater has rolled sleeves, a subtle detail at the shoulder and two small exes sewn with pink thread at the back.

Hope you all had a lovely weekend. 

Summer Love

Via Sun Kissed Love

Summer may only be a couple days in, but I can tell it's going to be a good one. Warm weather makes me feel better. There's something hopeful about the possibility of  being able to leave work with a little daylight left. (I'll be honest, I'm a work in progress when it comes to leaving work at a reasonable hour.) Yesterday my colleague and I took a fifteen minute break to enjoy a beautiful day and we both felt energized. 

Via All Things Elegant

Via All Things Elegant

My Personal Photo

Summer is all about enjoying every precious moment of being outside. It's about lightness and taking it easy. Summer is...

* Crisp blouses in natural fabrics

* Ladylike dresses and skirts

* Fabrics that move with the breeze

* White denim 

* Sunnies 

* Cool nights that call for a Breton shirt (Truth be told I wear stripy shirts year round.)

* Impromptu trips to Cooper's Beach and Surf Lodge (I love being near the sea.)

My list could go on and on. I take pleasure in little luxuries like sun and in season produce. My only complaint is air conditioning. I'm perpetually cold and don't do well with air conditioning. I find myself doing the fashion thing of wearing my jackets and blazers draped over my shoulders. 

What are your favorite things about Summer?

Scenes From The Weekend

My Personal Photo 

Happy Unofficial Start to Summer!

I hope you all had lovely weekends. Memorial day aside, for me summer unofficially commences when I can finally show off a cheery pedicure (I'm currently loving OPI Red). Once I find something that works I'm extremely loyal. A pedicure, white denim, nautical stripes, loosely tousled hair and dewy makeup are a few of my favorite summer weekend looks. 

My weekend included a trip to the spa, reading, working on my photography, shopping for lacy things in mauve and aubergine, elaborate picnics and rowing along in a little rowboat in Central Park. I love that park and there's nothing like the first few warm days to get me out in the fresh air. I happily threw on a summery  Temperley dress and we made our way to the lake. Little did I know that balancing two in a rowboat while trying to take a few outfit shots would be a challenge to say the least. I'm happy to report that the boat did not overturn and we were not marooned along the banks.

Via This Is Glamorous

My Personal Photo

My Personal Photo

If there is one thing I've learned it's to stay true to my aesthetic. Even if that means rowing in a Temperley dress. I simply wouldn't be me if I didn't pull myself together for even the most relaxed summer afternoons. How did you spend the weekend? 

PS- How wonderful is that Loewe picnic hamper? Loewe is one of those luxury brands that has been on my mind lately. There's a consistency to their vision that is simply divine.