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Everyday Fashion

  • Everyday Fashion

    Donuts on Saturday Morning: Easy Joggers

    This past weekend I was able to catch up with one of my most favorite people- it had been many months since I talked to her and even more since I had seen her. We chatted about her new favorite songs (I haven’t had a radio for 17 months so this was important for both of us), she filled me in on her new  hobbies, she updated me on some of her friends and we ate donuts- her chocolate and me blueberry.

    She,  yet again, reminded me just how important the power of organic connections are- sometimes there are people with whom you just “click” with and you share an unexplained special bond with- she is this girl for me. She reminded me that the innocence of youth is not lost and that spending time talking and listening to one another are two of the most important aspects of humanity that are so often overlooked. Oh, did I mention she is 6 years old. That’s right- I spent my Sat morning with an intelligent, emotional, insightful 6 year old girl whom I have loved since she was born. There are some people who bring out the very best in you and this little lady always dose (if that isn’t a testament to how wonderful her mama is- not sure what is).

    Photos: Victoria Metaxas 

    ** Side Note- I am living in Colorado but these pictures were taken in London**

    shop the look: joggers <similar>  // top // booties // bag // earrings <similar>

    J O G G E R S.... love them.  Wear them all the time.  The exact pair is from Zara but I have linked <similar> ones.  The comfort factor of these babies are through the roof yet they still look more classy than sweatpants. I love to pair them with flowy tops like this baby and really re-create the pajama feeling that is acceptable to wear outside.  I love the elastic bottom on these and I love the side detail- helps to really make sure people know I am not, in fact, wearing pajamas. These joggers are perfect with a cute utility jacket or even a chunky sweater on those colder days.  I have been pairing this drapey top with just about everything and it is prefect for everyday.  It comes in a variety of colors but you know me- I love my grays and neutrals.  Since I have been back in Colorado I have paired this top with both a puffy vest and an oversized cardigan and I have only been back 9 days. Seriously, the possibilities and versatility of both the joggers and the top are endless!!!

    The  bag is a given as it is perfectly paired with anything and is the best color for all seasons. I keep my life in it as it is fairy large and I simply love the structured aspect.   I have been on a new bag hunt so any suggestions are welcomed!!! Not sure exactly what I want so anything you guys are loving let me know! When I got home I went through some tubs we had in storage and I have found a few oldies I may bring into the rotation- that could be a fun post- how to reuse your favorite items for last season… what do you think?!?

    My Donut Date:

    This little lady asked me about my life abroad- she was very curious if I had seen any Princesses while living in London and I had to, unfortunately, tell that I had not.   Despite the let down of no Princess spotting she was genuinely interested in my life- what sorts of things I did, what Declan liked there, how things were different… she was as selfless as a 6 year old can be and this enduring quality is something I continue to strive for in my own life.  This sweet gal and I have had a special bond since she was born as I was immediately drawn to her innate emotional abilities- she is sweet, caring, inquisitive and passionate- essentially she is all the things I continue to strive to master in my own emotional life.

    Seeking out and surrounding myself with people who have qualities that I hope to posses myself is one of the many ways I am learning to make new friends. People who challenge me to become a better person, to consider living life a bit more fuller and to find the positive in all is my main goal upon moving back (well, other than getting settled and going to Target!).  And while my Saturday morning donut date was not with a new friend it was a breath of fresh air in my ever growing quest to work on myself- it was a reminder that a little empathy and compassion can go a long way.  Thanks Bizzy, for putting me back in check.

    With Love,

     

  • Everyday Fashion

    Wunderlusting about Athleisure

    So the last post was a bit heavy and I appreciate all the support and love!  Big changes often times bring BIG emotions- and sorting those all out takes time!

    But now,

    Lets chat about something a bit more fun!  My wunderlust.  I mean, seriously, I have this itch to travel, to explore, to see the world.  I am not sure when it started or really what triggered it but it is real now!  I am constantly googling place to travel, looking at pictures and I follow some amazing photographers on Instagram that are a huge inspiration. That desire had obviously been feed very well living in London but now I am ready to explore the country of my origin.  So, I am putting together a quick list of the places I want to see before the end of 2017- all within the United States.  Any additional suggestions are welcomed!!

     

    Photos: Zoe Griffin Photo

    shop the look: leggings // sweatshirt // tee // trainers // bag // sunnies

    If there was ever an outfit to get me inspired to travel this is it!!!  I wore this last Saturday for the 18 hours journey home.  Just because you feel terrible traveling does not mean you have to look it.  I am obsessed with these faux leather leggings and I purchased them in London I have linked several <similar> <similar> that will be just as perfect.  I wear these all the time!!!  Perfect for travel as they are elastic waist, comfortable and sleek.  I know, I look a bit like a Nike spokesperson but I am not.  But when I find a sweatshirt that is long enough to be worn with leggings and still hold some semblances of style I pounce!!  This baby fit the bill.  The metallic logo on this sweatshirt adds a bit of grilynes that I love.  I threw on a long light weight tunic for some added layering and warmth (I get cold on airplanes).  Perfect tee for everyday.  These trainers have been around the block a few times and I am uber happy I purchased them last fall.  They are comfortable and so incredibly light weight it feels like I am not even wearing shoes.  The bag– enough said.  While it is rare to wear sunnies in London (where these photos were taken) I plan to go to a lot sunny places to cure my wunderlusting.  The essential Ray-Bans.

    ON to the list:
    • Boston, MA
    • Washington D.C.- while I have been there I would like to return now that I am older.
    • Memphis, TN
    • Charleston, SC
    • Jackson Hole, WY- preferably in the winter to ski.

    I told it was short!  Plus I have a toddler and while he loves to travel this mama likes to travel without him so my list needed to be realistic.  It would be next to impossible to take a trip every single month.  I have also been working on being intentional and therefore I wanted to create a list that included place I can learn something new (Memphis and the roots of music), places where I might feel like I am experiencing a different culture (Charleston), places where I can revisit my past (Washington D.C.), places where I can do something I love (Jackson Hole) and a place that just looks cool (Boston) !  I think Boston and Washington DC will be family trips so Declan will continue to be a traveling toddler!!  I hope he grows up with the same wunderlust I have.

    The world is your Oyster…. I intent to find my pearl!

    With Love,

     

  • Everyday Fashion

    Saying Goodbye

     

    How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard

    Winnie the Pooh

    I have dreaded writing this post.  I have put it off and delayed it as long as possible.  But it is time to say Goodbye.

    Like writing this post I have been dragging my feet in accepting the fact I am leaving.  I keep thinking M A Y B E, just maybe, I will wake up and it will all be a dream and then I see the moving truck pull up outside our flat– B A M- reality hits me right in the face.  To say I am attached to London and to our life here is an understatement.  To say I am in love with London and the happiness I feel here does not do it justice.  This has been the best experience of my life and even as I sit and write today words escape me and my eyes fill with tears.

    Photos: Victoria Metaxas 

    shop the look: denim // sweater // shoes // clutch <similar> // jacket

    It was not my intention to perfectly match my guy Big Ben but it turned out to be a magical shoot and I am so glad I choose this outfit.  This sweater is so light weight and pretty over-sized that I wanted to ensure I was not drowning in it and turns out I can not stop wearing it ( FYI it comes in a couple other colors including pink).  It is a great weave but is a bit breezy without a tank underneath.  Truth be told I was absolutely freezing during this shoot but it was all worth it!!  These jeans are currently on sale and I love the small subtle kick flare at the bottom.  Paired with these sleek nude heels the jeans can really be worn day to night!  Speaking of these heels they are really becoming a staple for me and you can expect to see them styled a couple times coming soon!!! Because the outfit was pretty neutral in color I added a bright blue clutch for a pop of color <similar>.  This bag also has a shoulder strap to be worn as a cross-body which makes it very very versatile.  The coat is a tried and true classic and as I have said in the past I wear it EVERY SINGLE DAY.  I am such big fan of jackets with hoods and i just love this faux fur one.

    The goodbye…

    For many months I have tried to fully grasp what it is about living here that has made this departure so hard?  What are the attributes about life in London that are causing such anxiety and sadness upon leaving? And while there are small little things I believe it is because for the first time in my 34 years I can honestly and truly say I am H A P P Y and C O N T E N T.

    I am not seeking something unattainable anymore, I am not wandering through life without a purpose, I am no longer comparing myself to others, I am not seeking constant change and I a not waiting for the next big thing.  I am living life.  London gave me the landscape and drive to LIVE my life.  To find that happiness everyone craves… I have it, here in London.

    Now, I know the critics will say happiness should not be defined by a location… and that is true; it should not be… so I am ready to say goodbye to this place.  I need to make space in my heart and my mind for the next chapter- I am ready to be happy in Denver.

    Goodbye from London,

    P.S. Because of the move and getting settled in Denver I plan to only have a blog post once a week for a couple weeks.  Stay tuned on Instagram as I will continue my journey there.  Make sure to subscribe below so you get the next live post to you inbox!!

  • Everyday Fashion

    London Lessons Learned Part 1

    Its THURSDAY— that means the weekend starts today… well officially tomorrow…. okay actually in two days!

    Either way I hope you have had a great week.  Anything fantastic happen????

    As the title would suggest I wanted to share some of the lessons learned while living abroad and this edition will be those silly daily things that took some getting used to.  I mean, I have a whole list of deep and meaningful lessons learned but for today lets keep it light!  Recently, I spoke a bit about some of the fashion difference between London and Denver in this post and so much of that applies to the lessons learned.

    I learned lessons in fashion habits, in grocery shopping, in social norms, in trash collection, in restaurant services, in ordering wine, doing laundry and how to transport myself around the city.

     

    Photos: Victoria Metaxas 

    shop the look:  Denim // top // booties // clutch // bracelet <similar> // jacket <similar>

    Gingham…. a new favorite… and ever popular! I stumbled upon this top, a bit by accident, but thrilled I did.  It is a dream to wear and I love the pattern. I have bee known to love stripes but I think gingham is taking over! The three-quarter sleeves guarantee its transition into the spring.  It runs a bit large so order down from your typical size (especially for the smaller busted ladies).  I paired it with the classic British black denim.  These new jeans are great as they are long enough to be worn with heels but can be rolled for a cute bootie and are much softer than some of my  others.  There is a bit of stretch in them making them perfect for work where you sit a lot! The bracelet was a gift many years ago but I have linked several others <similar> <similar>.  This long pendant should look familiar from this post <here> but I obviously have it on repeat.  I love how long it hangs!  Every fashion forward close needs a classic black leather jacket and this one, while several years old, has been an absolute staple!  I have linked several <similar> <similar>.  Snag one up ASAP.

    Now to quick of list of learnings!

    • Grocery shopping is done online- otherwise I have to carry everything home in a bag or on my back- online!
    • Wine comes in different sizes here- I can get 125ml, 250ml or a bottle -always order the 250ml (why not??).
    • Hunter Boots are worn on the commons/park for walking your dog- not as a fashionable boot.  They are for mucking.
    • There are very few dryers around London- most people have a washer only- and if you have a dryer like we do it take 6.5 hours to complete a wash and dry cycle and I do not transfer the clothes- it is one machine- a washer/dryer combo.
    • You do not tip at a restaurant or a bar and if you choose to it is only 12.5%.  It is certainly not expected.
    • Neighbors are not your friends- it is weird to smile at people walking down the street – not because everyone is grumpy but because everyone is on their own agenda and that is just social norm.
    • On trash collection day all the trash must be inside a large black plastic bag and must be placed on the sidewalk by 6am… there is no machine dumping trash cans- it is all done by hand.
    • Getting around the city without a car is really easy in London- there are plenty of options- bus, train, tube, light-rail- and some days I may find myself on all them…. until there is a strike and NOTHING is running- no public transport.  I stay home those days.  Ha.

    While the lesson are wide and varied I am ever thankful that I had the opportunity to experience an entirely new culture and lifestyle!

    Thank you for continuing along this journey with me-

    With Love,

  • Everyday Fashion

    Indecisive V-Necks. Or not??

    Decisions. They are what make up our each and every day.

    Some are voluntary and conscious.
    Some are involuntary and  routine.
    Some are easy.
    Some are hard.

    The problem I am having is the decisions that should be involuntary and easy are all of a sudden really hard and take a lot of conscious thought.  And the opposite is true.  Decisions I used to spend a lot of time on and required a bit more voluntary action have become routine and easy.

    For example- I used to wake right up, never hit the snooze button and was ready to start my day- wide eyed and excited.  Now, I snooze for like 35 minutes sometimes, find any excuse to stay in bed and then drag myself into the kitchen to start my day…. so what has changed??  I still sleep the same number of hours, I still sleep as soundly as I did and I still follow all the same bed time routines… honestly, it is a puzzle.

    But the problem is not just getting up. There has been a switch across my whole life.  I thrive at making huge  life decisions and am challenged at making daily decisions.  Oh, gheez!

     

    Photos: Zoe Griffin Photo 

    SHOP THE LOOK: DENIM // SWEATER // BOOTS // NECKLACE <SIMILAR> // BAG 

    Friends! Run run run to get this sweater.  It is the best sweater I have bought or styled this whole season- honestly.  I love the fit, the color (it comes in many other options) and the material.  It is perfect for under a light jacket as it is super warm.  It is easily worn with a longer layering tee underneath and leggings or with denim as seen here.  These boots are becoming a favorite as I wear them more and I am loving them with skirts!  These are my ever popular J.Crew toothpick jeans and as you can see I wear them all time  The dark color makes them perfect for daytime or evening.  This exact necklace is a few seasons old but J.Crew always has the best statement pieces so I have linked several others <here> <here> <here>.  The bag was a Christmas present and I am simply in love with it- perfect color for winter and will transition so well into spring/summer.  A nice bag can really take an outfit up a few notches- this baby sure makes me feel sophisticated!

    These photos were taken in Clapham Common which is at the end of my street- I literally walk down this path almost everyday.  I was so lucky to have my photographer make the journey to South London for this shoot- these photos will be the prefect reminder of just how beautiful my neighborhood was! But you can be rest assured it took me many many days o decide exactly where I would shoot.

    D E C I S I O N S— T H E    B R E A K D O W N

    Let’s start with life decisions… like moving; we made the decision and then we continued on with life.  Decision over.  Decision done.
    Let’s talk about my breakfast decisions…. do I want coffee or tea? Coffee, so I made coffee and then wanted tea.  Cereal or eggs, well cereal is easier but eggs are better for you- but eggs I have to wash the pan after, cereal is just one bowl…. so I had toast.

    My life just runs this way and I am starting to wonder what is wrong with me?!?  Ha.  I think maybe I am so worn out from making such challenging large impact decisions that I use up my ‘decision making quota’. And so I have toast.  Either way I am working on being better at determining the appropriate amount of thoughts and effort of decisions… should I spent 45 minutes deciding whether to wear burgundy or wine colored lip stick?  Should I spend 3 to 4 days deciding whether to get extra soft tissues or just regular soft tissues?  I guess I will get back to you when I decided… or do not decide…   Just don’t hold your breath waiting!

    With Love,


  • Everyday Fashion

    My Best British in Black Tights

    Happy Thursday Ladies!!  (and gentlemen if there are any ;-))

    Hope you have had great week- any big plans for this weekend??  Declan and I are going to continue exploring this beautiful place we are calling home for two more weeks.  Maybe take the train somewhere – a quick day trip.  I deiced to make this post a bit more light as the last several have been so heavy and emotional. I really try to be honest and transparent and given my life has been pretty heavy and emotional I guess it only fitting that the posts have matched that.

    BUT

    Let’s instead talk about some difference in the fashion habits of Londoners and Denverits ( I made that word up).  To start I want to say that I have learned a lot about fashion while living here, I have been challenged to think outside the box, I have been inspired to elevate my wardrobe a bit but I have also found I am missing some comforts of home.  In London it is just not common to see people out and about in anything other than street clothes and typically nice ones at that!  I love that. I love the fact that London women take so much pride in their appearances and style that they show it off everyday. However, I love my casual workout looks so I am ready to be a bit more comfortable in Denver!

    BLACK.  Londoners love black.  Black denim, black jackets, black boots, black tights, black sweaters, black bags, black skirts.  Black. I have never owned or worn so much black in my life. In the past I would typically reserve a full black outfit for either a funeral or a dressy night out… not here.  At least 3-4 times a week I am out and about in black denim, black booties and a black sweater.  Maybe it is to match the gloomy winter days or maybe it is because black looks good on everyone!!!  Either way, I love it  BUT am ready to get home and wear some color- you can look forward to more colorful looks in the next few months.

    But until then enjoy the British influence in my wardrobe!

    Photos: Zoe Griffin

    shop the look: dress // tights // booties // jacket // bag <similar> //Necklace <similar>

    This look has London written all over it- black tights, black booties, black jacket and then a dark neutral gray sweater dress.  I snagged this sweater dress from recent sale at Gap and I am loving it.  It is so comfortable, easy to wear and looks great both day and night. These polka dot black tights are the prefect mix of the Londoner and Denver in me- black but not too dark and still a fun side of flare.  The women in London typically own anywhere from 5-15 pairs of black tights- they L O V E black tights.  I think it is because they love to wear dresses/skirts.  Add a pair of black tights and you have yourself the quintessential British outfit!  These babies are the perfect addition to your black tight collection- even if you are just starting yours.  The jacket is fabulous and should look familiar from several other post including this one here.  I wear it daily.  Literally, everyday I wear this jacket.  Over casual denim and sweaters, over dresses and I have even been known to throw it over my athleisure outfit; on those rare days. Speaking of do you all want to see some athleisure looks styled and featured on the blog????

    The necklace in this look is old and actually broke just after we took these pictures! So I have linked several <similar> <similar> and will be getting a few for myself now that I am back in the market.  With all the black and neutrals I still like to add some color or texture with a statement necklace- kind of my go to.  In fact, I have a friend over here who calls statements necklaces “Amanda necklaces”… such a sweet compliment.

    One of the last major differences between Londoners and Denverits is the hair… now here is where Denver wins!  So, in London there is always a chance for rain and if there is no rain the air is very wet and humid so the idea of spending any amount of time doing your hair is pointless.  Curl falls out immediately.  Straight hair becomes super frizzy.  I get it now- it took me a long time to come to terms with this but as I am on the verge of my departure I understand why London women do not really do their hair!

    Have a great weekend!!! Thanks for stopping by.

    With Love,

     


    P.S. Do not forget to subscribe so you never miss a post! Just enter your email below.

  • Everyday Fashion

    Ready or Not

    This post was originally going to be about something totally different but then life happened.

    Isn’t that just the thing– we have plans and then life happens and spins us way of course.  As I am sure you are aware- and really tired of hearing about- Brendan moved back to Colorado last week.  Declan and I are staying to finish out the month.  We made this decision based on a lot of pieces of information – including emotional ones.  We thought a lot about the emotional toll of separating our family but in the end really felt it was the best thing (for just a short time) in order for Declan to have a better chance of having a smooth transition back to Colorado.

    Well…. despite all the planning, preparing and processing the emotions I felt last week were like NOTHING I could have prepared for.  I was blindsided by how intensely I felt a sense of loss once Brendan was gone.

    But first- in the interest of all things London this look is one of my favorites given the backdrop!

    Photos: Victoria Metaxas 

    shop the look: denim // sweatshirt // long sleeve tee // boots // necklace // tote

    This is a super casual outfit but still a good look for everyday.  I am loving these new boots one because they are super comfortable and two because I love the color.  I mean they are gray… and if you haven’t noticed I love gray.  It is such a great neutral color and easy to wear with anything.  Lets talk about the layering going on here… a perfectly colored short sleeve sweatshirt with a cute white tunic tee is like the perfect outfit for everyday.   You can lunch in this, run errands, grab a coffee, pick up the kiddos from school or even work from home!  So do yourself a favor and snag up this sweatshirt!  These jeans are worn so frequently that I am considering purchasing another pair.  I was on a hunt for a long pendent necklace and found this fabulous one from & Other Stories– which is one of my most favorite stores and will miss it a lot when we leave (they do have online).  There is that tote again- the one I like to rave about.  I will just link it and remind you what a great investment it is.

    Now, let me do some clarifying as to why I was overwhelmed with emotion.  It is two fold.

    1. Naturally I miss Brendan, he is my husband after all.  Despite spending most of days either alone or with Declan only the fact that Brendan is now thousands of miles away and seven time zones makes a hug difference.
    2. Guilt.  This was what I was blind-sided by… the overpowering guilt I feel for being able to stay in London.  My life and adventure here in this amazing city gets to continue but his does not and with each passing moment it is becoming clear that we are moving.

    Yes, I have talked about it for over a month now and it is constantly on my mind but there was something very F I N A L and P E R M A N E N T  about his departure.  It become even more clear that our life here is ending and this move is happening- ready or not.

    With Love,

    I have linked several identical items and several similar items in the shopping widget- this is for two reasons.  I want to give you options to create a similar look and because sometime I can not find the exact item to be linked via the widget (it is the exact in the text above).

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