Browsing Tag:

faux fur jacket

  • 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

    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

    Being Present…

    HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

    So here we are at the beginning of another year.

    Up to date this has been the most challenging post and to be honest I am not sure why. It is not like I am announcing any big news, I do not really have anything profound to say and I am not even sure this post has a clear message. I do believe it has been challenging because my mind, emotions and concentration has been elsewhere. Since I started Pish to Posh (just three months ago) I have made it the center of my life. I have committed any spare time to nurturing it, I have spent all my child-free time writing and honing my craft and many many evenings learning the logistics of how to run a blog… but this last week I have spent very little time on any of those things.

    As we embark on a new year and yet another huge transition for our family I have spent the last several days completely and utterly tuned into my family- to Brendan, to Declan. Brendan leaves in three days. He moves back home on Thursday and so I have spent every minute trying to take in all of London with him before he goes. This is it- it is happening.

    Photos: Zoe Griffin Photo

    shop the look: denim // sweater // shoes // jacket <Similar> // tote // necklace <similar>

    This sweater is 100% a staple you need in your closet. It is soft (pajama style)- need I say more?!?  If you follow me on Instagram – which you should- you would have seen that I bought it in two colors!  Are you wondering if I wear anything but gray sweaters???? Well truth be told I do but when I am not I tend to dress up a neutral with a chunky statement necklace.  It adds a visual element and a bit of texture.  This exact one is sold out but I have linked a very <similar> one.  J Crew is literally my go-to for denim this season and these are yet another example. I love the dark color, the fit and the look.  Just get yourself a pair!!  While I tend to stick to booties or boots in London due to being outside all the time I chose flats with this look to really keep it easy and casual.  I love my Tory Burch flats and they have lasted me AGES.  Snag yourself up pair as a late Christmas gift ;-). Unfortunately this faux fur hooded jacket is sold out but I have found an almost identical one (even has the toggles) and it is currently on sale. The gray tote is giant- I literally can fit my whole life in there.  I love an over-sized bag; a good catch all.

    Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have

    Being present and focused in the moment it harder than I had anticipated.  I wanted our last family days to be filled with creating more memories, seeing all our friends before Brendan leaves, re-visiting our favorite places around and just being with our little family.  But at times all we were talking about were the logistics of moving both on the London end and the future Colorado side.  That is not how we want to remember these last days.  But in the end I think it is the W H O L E experience we are trying to preserve and re-live in three short days.  And the reality is that we can not.  We can not go back and do it all again.  We can continue to enjoy the next few days and that is what I plan to do.

    So, my apologies if this post seems less thoughtful, less focused, a bit rambly and a bit short… I am out enjoying my last days in London as a complete family.

    How will you be present in life as this new year begins?

    With Love,

    Stay present with me on this journey by subscribing- just enter your email below!

  • Everyday Fashion

    ‘Tunic’ Wanna be My Friend???

    Isn’t that a loaded question?!? When you move away from the only place you ever called home where the only people you have ever called friends live one is faced with the decision to spend time missing everyone and sulking or to put yourself out there and find some new friends.

    Well, I have done both.  

    Trying to find new friends in your mid-thirties in a foreign country, albeit they speak a similar language, is very challenging, humbling and takes a lot of time.  Essentially I was transported back to kindergarten where I found myself asking ” do you want to be my friend?”

    Photos: Zoe Griffin
    SHop the look: Denim // Tunic // boots // bag // jacket 

    Luckily, I have this fabulous tunic that certainly gives off the “I am so cool please be my friend” vibe!  This blush color is becoming one of my favorites for this time of year and this easy flowy tunic is the best of them. It is super warm, as it is a Merino blend, and the length is perfect for either denim or leggings (faux leather leggings <here> would also be fabulous).   Be prepared to see these denim jeans many times in the coming months as they are the P E R F E C T denim.  I also have them in a darker wash.  They fit perfectly, they do not stretch and they are very comfortable.  While you can not see it, due to the boots, they have a small bit of distressing which adds a nice flare.  You  may recognize these OTK boots from this post where I gushed about how much I love them… well I will just say all the same things in this post!  I love these boots- I wear them constantly and see no reason not to live in them! This season I am loving them with skinnies and sweaters and especially leggings and tunics.  This jacket is 100% my favorite go to- warm, stylish and essential. Unfortunately, this bag is sold out, in this color, but I have linked the same Neverfull in other colors <here> <here>

    Making new friends proved to be much more challenging than I originally expected.  Sure, I knew I would have to put myself out there, I knew I would have to be the one to initiate conversation with complete strangers and I knew I would have to always be on my best behavior. But what I did not know was how tough it would be to crack through that tough British exterior of so many women.  I think coming from Denver where I had a a very very large group of friends created an added layer of disappointment when trying to build a social group here… I had to be reminded that a group of 12-15 best friends is very uncommon… I had to be reminded that having friends for 20+ years is a rarity….

    What I found in return was a few very special, amazing, inspiring friends.  What I found were ladies who organically chose to be my friend- there is no history holding them to me  What I found was a commonality of like mindedness, of similar morals and of zero preconceptions. I have meet some AMAZING women, I have re-connected with acquaintances who have turned into best friends and  I have spent time with ladies who continuously inspire me.

    What draws people to be friends is that they see the same truth.  They share it.

    SHOP THE LOOK: DENIM // TUNIC // BOOTS // BAG // JACKET

    While I miss my friends in Denver and I miss some of the comforts of life long friendships I am so amazed by the woman I call friends here in London.  I am happy to report that not all British women have a cold exterior.  Many of my friends are also expats, like myself, but many are not. But at the end of the day I have built a collection of supportive, hysterical, caring and adventurous friends… Cheers Ladies!

    With Love,

    ajm

    Never Miss a New Post- Subscribe!

    * indicates required


  • Everyday Fashion

    Giving Thanks: A Quick List

    So… I struggled with this post NOT because I am not thankful or that I do not have so many things to be thankful for but because I am not sure simple words can express just how thankful I am this year.

    In a Nutshell:

    I am ever thankful for Brendan.  Declan is the most precious gift I could have and everyday I am thankful I get to raise this little human  My parents- duh! My in-laws (parents and sisters).  My family in Colorado. My friends.  Living in London.  Getting to write a blog and share my life with you.

    Photos: Victoria Metaxas

    shop the look: denim // top // jacket // booties // bag // sunglasses

     

    The lighter side of this post is obviously this adorable outfit… I am also very thankful for comfy, cute clothes! New amazing denim alert… another great find from H & M!  The distressed and patched nature of these add just enough flare but keep them pretty neutral.  I am thankful for J.Crew.  And even more for this tuxedo inspired top. You needed this in your closet yesterday but now you can get it here and use code ‘FESTIVE’ at checkout.  Alright friends, it is winter in London and therefore I have not left the house without this essential faux fur hooded jacket in days.  Seriously, it is not only adorable but it is warm. I have linked several others <here> and <here> so you have options. As the holidays are sneaking up (see my perfect holiday dress here) I can not recommend this tote enough… it is perfect for everyday and it literally accompanies me almost everywhere.  Booties are a season old but I have included several of my other favorites <here> and <here>.

    As I reflect on what I am truly the most thankful for I am left with a list of people.  There are so many people who continuously inspire me, who continue to push me, who love me, who support me, who make me tear up with laughter and who make me forever thankful.  The reality is that I am so incredibly lucky to live the life I do.  To spend my days exploring London, writing and styling Pish to Posh, traveling with my family and connecting with people is truly a gift I cherish everyday.

    The List:

    My husband- without hesitation- is the most influential person in my life and I am absolutely indebted to his love.  Thank you  Brendan.

    My son has thrived in London.  He has developed a British accent and I quickly went from “mama” to “mummy” and I could not be more thankful.  He loves his life here,  he is happy, he is inquisitive, he is curious and he is funny.  Thank you Declan.

    The two who gave me life are simply unbelievable.  The endless support- all the way from Denver- the endless love and the endless humor they provide in my life is un-matchable.  Thank you Mom and Daddy.

    Marriage is about the joining of two families… I am lucky to have the most amazing family gifted to me through marriage.  They are honest, opinionated, trustworthy, loving and humorous.  Thank you Maxwell’s.

    Not only do I have great in-laws but I also have the best family in Denver.  They keep me grounded, they love my dog, they help me with all things computer and they simply adore my son.  Thank you Fry’s.

    A friendship that withstood college, children and a move across the world is almost unheard of but I am lucky enough to have it.  Thank you April.

    one click shopping:

     

    There is certainly no way to express or to include every single person who I am thankful for- that would be the longest post ever as I truly have so many to thank.

    This Thanksgiving I hope you find yourself surrounded by people who inspire you, support you, love you and make you happy.  This year Thanksgiving will be a small affair with one great friend joining us (British do not celebrate… I mean…..).  We will raise a glass in cheers for all that we are thankful for….

    Thank you for stopping by and reading… thank you for indulging me in my endeavor! Forever grateful.

    With Love and Thanks,

    ajm

    Never Miss a New Post- Subscribe!

    * indicates required