Oh, Hello!

This cropped t shirt is from Target. I was drawn to it because I saw a hilarious Broadway show a couple years ago that was called just that; “Oh, Hello!”. The show starred comedians Nick Kroll and Jon Mulaney. My daughter has excellent discerning comedic taste and is a huge Mulaney fan (he’s been a head writer on SNL for years). In the show they played two older men living together on the Upper West Side. I read that they based the characters on actor Alan Alda. That was all I needed to hear. I don’t like most theater but this was wacky and unique. It was a show for New Yorkers. I took my daughters who were a bit young for it, but all cultural experiences have value.

While the shirt reminds me of the play, I’ve gotten some really cool uses out of it. It looks cute with a denim skirt of any length, fitted sweatpants, and even under these tailored black overalls as seen here. The one strap unfastened was the right move since the shirt does have words. It’s all very playful and effortless. My vintage black leather newsboy cap added a dose of unexpected chic. I love dressing up a denim t shirt combo with cool details. This look is so easy to pull off. Three components and you’re out the door: a cute t shirt, denim overalls, and one statement accessory. Adorable Fall fashion transitions; Oh, hello! 🏻

Faux For Fall

Here’s a trend I’m all about as we shift, hopefully slowly, into cooler weather: all things faux. I no longer buy anything made of fur. I’ll wear what I already own, especially since all of my fur pieces have been passed on from my grandmothers. They hold sentimental value for me. I love envisioning them all dressed up and glamorous for a night out on the town, when nights out indeed called for such glamour.

For me, buying fur no longer feels right. We live in modern times where I simply don’t need a dead animal to keep me warm. I don’t eat meat but I do cook it for my family. Strict vegans would disagree with me, and I respect their opinions, but I don’t equate feeding my growing children meat with wearing fur. Every individual has their own views on this subject, and this is where I’m currently holding. Fur always felt a little ridiculous to me. It’s a bit cartoonish Real Mob Wives. I don’t miss it. However, I love leather. This one is tougher for me, mostly in that I forget to not buy it. It requires more of a reminder that it’s no different then buying fur. I really love leather jackets in various styles and colors. How fortunate are we to have so many faux leather options on the market? I researched a bunch for this Fall, and some are truly fab. The biker jackets were my fave. You cannot tell the difference, and I guess who cares really if you can. Ain’t nothing ever wrong with conscious shopping. Try to go for faux; it may be a look you feel great about choosing.

Might I suggest: UO Faux Leather High-Waisted Short from Urban Outfitters

BLANKNYC DenimFaux Leather Skinny Jeans from Nordstrom’s Rack

Still Caught Up

Obsessed with this cover up skirt situation! Such a fresh take on the whole chic poolside outfit concept. While I love my cutoff denim shorts and tank tops just as much as the next gal, it’s lovely to class it up while rocking the bathing suit underneath. Plus, casual coverups don’t cut it for a dressier pool party. This look also goes smoothly from day to night, should your event extend into the evening (hopefully it does!). Just add the right gold statement jewelry and a good wedge or chunky sandal. Nothing too dressy that would throw off the balance. I fell in love with black mesh as a young child of the 80’s who was enthralled by Madonna. Who wasn’t back then, am I right?? I’m sure I spent more than one poor but sweet attempt to dress as her for Purim, the Jewish child’s Halloween. I’ve worn each of these pieces separately , like I have done with the white version I recently posted. Oversized top worn with the skirt to cover up my special area, and almost any bottom with the top. Def break this up for more options. Just choose clean pieces to compliment the bold cleanliness that’s already this vibe. Mesh is a fabulous, edgy material. Hey! Was that the inspiration for “Material Girl”?? I just put two and two together and am mighty pleased with myself at the moment.

❤️❣️❤️❣️

You know how much I love red. The boldness of it, the statement, the strength, the confidence. Red and I weren’t intimately involved for many years. We reconnected as I came into my own personal alignment; reunited and it feels so good️.

Red is among the one stop shop in the color wheel. Meaning, it speaks for itself. You don’t need to overdo or overthink the rest of your outfit or accessories. Red can do the talking for you. This jumpsuit has taken me to a chic pool party, throughout the day with cool sneakers, and to evening with a heel and blazer. Yellow gold and black are my go to friends to compliment this color. This piece is clean and strong, so the accessories need to continue that to keep the look streamlined. I wore this when I DJ’d the WIN Summit in May. It was cool, comfortable, and bold. It def got attention and I was able to do my job looking fabulous without thinking about my clothing, which sums up my general approach to fashion. If you knew I’d say that then you red my mind.

Enmeshed

I so appreciate versatility in my wardrobe choices. When pieces can serve more than one function it also really helps with packing for a trip. I’m not an efficient packer yet but it’s something I’m really working on. These tres’ chic mesh poolside ensembles from Norma Kamali can be used in a few ways. I have worn them as cover ups, as loungewear, and even from day to night with the right shoe and jewelry. Each piece can be used separately. I love how the tops are long sleeves even though they’re meant to be worn in warm weather. Over the right fitted tank or bralette they can def be used as legit tops. The pants look great with almost anything on top. I’ve used the skirt as a real skirt with a top that’s long enough to cover my tush, say an oversized belted t shirt or button down. These pieces are all about how you work them. The mesh fabric provides instant edge. There’s an out the gate cool factor. These pieces pack beautifully. They don’t wrinkle. The black and white allow for multiple uses over a warm weather vacay. The day I can successfully have all I need in a carry on is a day I can die happy🏼.

Jumpin’ Jumpin’

This is one of my fave casual jumpsuits. It’s made of sweatshirt material that has gotten sooo soft over the years. I bought it from a local boutique for a very affordable price. The tank straps and low back allow for just a hint of unassuming sexy with the right strappy lounge bra. Jumpsuits are great because they are a complete outfit with a single item. This is a great piece for lounging at home barefoot, with slides to do errands in, or even with a low heel and fitted denim jacket or boxy blazer to take it from day to night. Jumpsuits are extremely versatile because they have a streamlined feel. They’re inherently neat. They are easily dressed up with the right accessories. It took me quite a few years to nail down the casual look at home that wasn’t shlumpy. I’ve had this piece for six years now. It’s more proof that affordable= adorable. Most of my cheaper purchases have had strong staying power. I don’t discriminate; if I like it and it looks good that’s all that matters.

Winging It

I felt terrible disappointing Victoria’s Secret by choosing to rep a different set of wings. I am beyond in love with this Balinese clothing company I found on Instagram, through this wonderful yogi I follow. Warriors of the Divine makes me feel exactly that when I wear one of their handmade pieces. This black kimono with these amazing giant gold angel wings is mystical and beautiful. I feel just as good in larger scale clothing than I do in fitted dresses. I don’t feel the need to wear something skintight to enjoy feeling lovely. A floaty kimono gives the chance to enjoy our bodies in a different way; you can feel the air on your skin, be more conscious of what’s going on underneath the fabric, and delight in feeling unconstricted. Chances are most chicks in the room will be in a more predictable silhouette; a loose piece takes a certain amount of confidence to feel great without the need to outline your form. I love the combo of black and gold. When I’m in black clothes I love to pour on the yellow gold jewelry. This dress made me feel so ethereal and otherworldly. It has a goddess Stevie Nicks vibe. The wings aren’t just beautiful. They’re symbolic for obvious reasons. I love clothing with a message, and anything that reminds me I can fly is wonderful. It’s also a reminder that I’m protected by my angels at all times. This dress physically covers me but liberated me at the same time.

💕💚💕💚

So into neon! This hot pink denim mini from J Crew is quite a few years old but still so fresh. It hasn’t gotten a ton of use since it was one of those pieces I didn’t always know what to do with. As my style choices continue to unfold and evolve creatively, I’m finding tons of ways to reuse pretty much all the items in my closet. It’s fun being a mixmaster, be it while DJing, cooking, or getting dressed. A Hawaiian shirt is not something I’d have bought several years ago. Such a shame since they’re so much fun! I love this linen tie up version; it defines summer. This outfit was my little nod to old school movies like “Beach Blanket Bingo”, those 50’s films that were both innocent yet pin up. An Annette Funicello vibe (she of the original Mickey Mouse Club). I’m not the biggest floral wearing gal overall, but this top made the cut. I ordered a bunch of inexpensive ankle bracelets on amazon. I haven’t worn anklets in awhile and I’ve been really enjoying revisiting foot jewelry; toe rings, anklets etc. They’re a sexy detail that is speaking to my growing hippie chic roots. I encourage you to work a fabulous neon statement piece this summer; ‘‘tis most def the season. And until I get my tush to Hawaii, this shirt will have to do🏻‍♀️.

Sew What?

No one drops a “so what?” better than Kathy Griffin, after delivering sardonic wit at a blitzkreig pace. I hate that her career suffered after that whole Trump fiasco. As if anyone normal isn’t thinking the same thing, jeez. She’s always been one of my favorite comedians (gender irrelevant) and one of the best guests on Howard. Her book years ago was great too. Not all funny people can write. Speaking and writing are different skill sets. Back to fashion. I love embroidery, in part because I love handmade craftsmanship. While I have no idea if this dress was hand sewn, it looks like it was, which puts me in some yummy kind of zone. It’s amazing what a well placed belt can do to an oversized tee, a tunic (horrendous word), or any other potentially waist cinching piece.

It took me a long time to get the belt thing right. My sister in law Chaya has always been a black belt in belting. Again, it’s a skill set of sorts. She also cuffs a t shirt well, something I’m not good at but should be, like wrapping a gift. I love how versatile this perfect summer mini dress is. The burst of color off the white linen is fun and light. The bright green shoes are the perfect accompaniment. I have dressed this look up with a tailored pinstripe navy blazer. You can pretty much wear any shoe height here, event and time of day depending. This fresh frock just makes me happy. I love wearing it. It summarizes summer; light, airy, playful, colorful, delicious, and fun. I can’t believe how much black I used to wear in the summer. I now like being on the sunny side of the street.

In Da Club

Ok, third and final bar mitzvah look. I chose this five minutes before I left the house, and ran to meet the bus taking my son’s friends to the kids’ party at Marquee in New York. Much to his chagrin I wanted to ride the bus with the kids to ensure no one was left behind. Of course there were bus counselors but I felt I needed to be in mom mode. This entire weekend was so special. I was on such a high for 72 hours. After my son kicked butt reading his Torah portion, and I successfully delivered my speech off the cuff, I was ready to just relax and party. I hadn’t danced my butt off in awhile so it felt so good. I wanted to be cool but super comfortable. These shiny red liquid leggings from Norma Kamali never disappoint. I had just bought this rad new Scotch and Soda silk blazer the week before. The reds matched perfectly. The jacket gave me some breathing room over a navy lace bralette. My white Celine flat loafers with the subtle hardware nailed the entire look home. Seriously, go me for wearing flats to my own event. This ensemble really popped against the black backdrop of the nightclub. That wasn’t my intention but since most people came in black it was indeed nice to stand out as the hostess. It was a killer night. The music was great, the dancers were beyond talented and energetic, and every person there of any age had a blast. Every guest participated with a full heart the whole weekend. And that is what makes a milestone event beautiful. It’s true; you’re never fully dressed without a smile. And my son was beaming and soaking up his special moment, which he so deserved.

Mazal Tov Mama

A while ago I had the concept for how I wanted to look for my son’s big Torah reading performance on the Shabbat day of his bar mitzvah. I am so not a fan of the whole faputzed bar mitzvah mother shtick (this post needs a glossary). The same blowout, the same nose job, the same Roland Mouret fitted dress yada yada yada. Your girl is not a conformist! But putting all that aside, I wanted to feel as natural and stripped down as possible. Feminine, soft, summery, and chilled out.

My son was born on the eve of the holiday of Shavuot, a time that commemorates the important wheat harvest in Israel. The story of the holiday mostly takes place in a wheat field. Not that any 13 year old boy would be caught dead frolicking through a wheat field with his mother, but that’s the look I was aiming for. Soft hippie boho chic. Enter my new favorite designer ever, Love Shack Fancy. I heard about their shop in downtown New York and hightailed it down there. It was love at first sight with me and this dress (and about seven others). Modest for synagogue, cream with tons of tiny buttons and detailing, this dress could not have been more perfect for a daytime summer event. I felt like the hostess with the mostess, mixed in with a dash of Mrs Havisham from Great Expectations. My hair look was a middle part with long, loose beachy waves with tiny little braids woven in. Hippie princess hair.

As the planning for the big day unfolded, the aesthetic and mood we wanted was also natural, gauzy, light, and fresh. Tons of fresh herbs and greenery, muslin, burlap, natural woods, and creamy linens. It was as if there was a bar mitzvah scene in The English Patient (worst movie). I really do not like high heels, but my friends told me if I showed up in my dying gold Birkenstock’s they’d clock me over the head with them. Understood. I found the most perfect kitten heeled rose colored satin slip ons. Diane B on the upper east side literally made me feel like Cinderella. I saw these shoes, put them on, and they were perfection. And go me for not teetering on 7 inch stilettos at my own event. I’m not sure why stilts seem to be a requirement for these affairs. I much prefer to stand out in an understated way. When you are radiating joy everyone will see you and feel you (a life lesson). I will wear this dress over and over, each time recalling how wonderful and beautiful this milestone was for my family.

Lady in Red

So this was my bar mitzvah look numero uno, for a formal Friday night Shabbat dinner that followed prayer services. I love how this was not a new purchase; I’ve had it for two years and wore it only to be photographed for the blog and Instagram. It’s a fabulous, bright red, asymmetrical dress that is both classy and avant- guard. Half of one sleeve is missing, which is a very cool compliment to certain other classic detailing, such as all the tiny buttons running up the front. This is a major statement dress without being revealing. After all, I had to keep it somewhat modest for synagogue. As the hostess it was crucial I stay super elegant. But when this lady does elegant, it’s still bold and true to my taste.

I adore red. It’s such a powerful, confident color. I did a side part with my hair which is more formal than my usual middle. Very Veronica Lake. All my accessories were yellow gold, including the delicate strappy sandals I wore (the pictures here show wedges since I wore those for the blog shoot with this dress originally). This was a perfect Friday night bar mitzvah mommy look. That night started off what was to be a truly magical weekend, full of family, friends, and incredibly joyous vibes and energy. Exactly what my son deserved after he had studied his Torah portion so hard for over a whole year. Red is most certainly a celebratory color. This look began the festivities with a bang️.

Red Rooster 🐓

  I so enjoy collecting things to wear in random, unexpected places. Jewelry sold on the street, a hat at a garage sale, and in this case a t shirt at a restaurant. Not a cheesy, mass produced t shirt about the establishment (though the right one can be ironically cool), but a hand painted t shirt sold by the artist in a corner near the entrance. If you’ve ever been to the Red Rooster in Harlem then perhaps you know what I’m referring to.

I met a friend for drinks there a few months ago and immediately spotted this dope array of hand painted stuff. What caught my eye amongst all the fun visuals to take in, was this rack with these amazing aprons. I actually have an apron collection that I love and use. I hope my girls wear them one day. All of my girlfriends are terrific cooks but none of them really wear aprons. They get a kick out of always seeing me in one. What would I wipe my hands on?? I debated on whether to buy a shirt or apron. My friend correctly stated, “you have enough aprons” so I went with the t shirt. I probably have a thousand more t shirts then aprons at home, but his advice made sense at the time and it was the right move for a couple reasons. The shirt is painted with the image of a rooster, a cool nod to the spot. I also really like the symbolism of a rooster, which is essentially “wake the F up!!”. I’m thinking of cutting off one sleeve, the one without paint. I’ve never tried that before, usually I hack both off since I love the cut of a muscle T. But I think the asymmetry could look very cool. The hat here is 18 years old. I have a good straw fedora collection too. The denim cutoffs are from Target. See? Random is good. Collect, combine, curate, and create.

Oh, Catherine 👗

 Thank the Lord I kept this one! I had a real love affair with anything that said “Catharine Malandrino” on the label many moons ago. I bought this beautiful dress when I still lived in New York, I believe 17 years ago. As my body changed over the years, yo-yoing all over the place due to the craziness of pregnancy and post pregnancy, there were times I just didn’t look good in this. And what do we do when something makes us feel bad about ourselves? We get rid of it. Meaning, instead of facing certain truths we eliminate threats. Often this is necessary and healthy, but I shudder to think of all the amazing clothing I got rid of because I convinced myself I had put on muscle mass from working out . Sex and the City was huge at the time and this definitely reminded me of Carrie. It has a vintage feel because of the colors, satin, and cut. Very 70’s. It’s just a super feminine, lovely frock that hugs in a the right places. I haven’t tried it on in years but I must say this is the best it’s ever looked. Reunited and it feels so good. I love these delicious golden and peachy colors with gold and straw accessories.

Fresh in Ganesh

Ob. Sessed. With this clothing brand in Bali called Warriors of the Divine. I found them on Instagram. Their clothing is handmade, fair trade, such good quality, and arrives quickly in the mail. I’ve received their packages from Bali faster than my friends in my neighborhood received my son’s bar mitzvah invitations. I’m not even kidding, the state of the postal service is depressing.

As many of you know, I have really found comfort and growth in yoga and zen philosophy. Ganesh is a Hindu god and a prime symbol of yogic tenants. He is the elephant god and symbolizes many things, including overcoming obstacles and staying positive and in control. He remains playful and joyful despite obvious physical challenges. I love clothing with meaning which is why a kimono with a message is perfect. This robe is the statement piece. Worn barefoot over classic jeans and a tank top, with only Mala beads as an accessory, this look was my fave from the shoot. This robe is glamorous and could also be worn as an overcoat on top of a cocktail dress. I wore it over a black jumpsuit and huge earrings to meet Diane Von Fürstenberg a couple weeks ago (name drop!). I got a ton of compliments over the originality of the piece. It was gratifying to align fashion with spirituality. I like wearing my heart and soul on my sleeve🕉.

Never Gets Old

Denim and white is this incredible pairing that just never gets old. Always feels fresh. There’s just something that’s ridiculously appealing about it. What better, more classic way to give this new top a whirl than by putting it with a mid length denim skirt? So feminine, Springy, clean, and pretty. I’m obsessed with this new white wrap top with lace detail from Love Shack Fancy (love shack Ba-a-byyyyy). It wraps perfectly, meaning it wraps well and lays right. It’s annoying when a wrap item puckers and then you wind up fussing with it the whole time. Not comfortable or attractive. I dig the combo of the romantic vibe with the solid feel of the denim. Any color denim works with white, but I liked the mid level wash here because it gave enough contrast while still feeling soft (as opposed to a dark rinse). This look can be work day to evening for a dinner on the earlier side. Like I wouldn’t wear this to go out at 10 o’clock at night but it’s perfect to grab the early bird special. Keep the accessories neutral and soft. Jewelry gold or neutral, maybe a little infusion of turquoise depending on the shoe and bag choice. This whole look should read as easy, classic, and fresh. Exactly the mood we want on a Spring day.

Overall It Works

I have always had a thing for overalls. Since I was in middle school. I have them in several forms, my favorite being this ripped light wash pair from Current and Elliot. It immediately puts me in a TLC zone from the 90’s. This skirt version is so cute too but gets less airtime. They seem to be mood and level of bloat depending. I’m a little on the fence about the whole “age appropriate” thing but screw it. I can still get away with this when it’s done tastefully, as is often the case. This cute little Rag and Bone top works so well. I love the classic summer white with the light blue detailing. I slipped on brightly colored Birkenstock’s which is my summer go to. I do have them in white but that’s too obvious. A pop of fun color was needed. After all, this look is all about cute and fun. My whole life feels much more youthful than it did ten years ago. It’s nice to see that reflect in my wardrobe. These overalls would work over a tank, a tee, or even the right button down and heels. What can you think of from the wardrobe of your youth that can be reintroduced today?

Coat Dress

I love when items are multipurpose. It’s always a delightful surprise; “look! This chair is made of edible plant based protein!”. When versatility translates to clothing it’s just as fun. I bought this lightweight jacket in Tel Aviv on my most recent trip to Israel. Tel Aviv has some excellent avant- guard fashion. I love going to Israel and really treasure what I find there, whether it’s an item of religious significance or anything else. I stayed in the artsy area of Neve Tzedek with my daughter in February. While wandering the little side streets I found this great boutique, Juliette. I loved this light as air, color blocked jacket. I loved the contrast of the gray and blush pink, the popped collar, and the drawstring cords. And of course that it wasn’t clear if it was a jacket or dress. Let’s make it both. I love adding to the color blocking with a clean white shoe, be it a sneaker, flat, or bootie. I wore this to synagogue recently and it was a super cool five second look. Effortless, chic, and innovative.

Apres Shabbos

 If you’re an observant Jew, the words “after Shabbos” are part of your vernacular. It’s always been so amusing to me that this day of rest which we all look forward to, gets forgotten about in two seconds as soon as it’s technically over. Even from childhood that transition from quiet and staying put to tv, phone calls, and a maniacal need to make plans has made me anxious. It’s too startling a shift. It still bothers me; “what’s the rush?” I’ll hold onto tranquility as much as I can. It saddens me that my kids, and certainly myself, lunge for our phones as soon as we can. That driving need for technology and distraction. Oh well, such is modern life. At least we do have the gift of those stripped down 25 hours once a week.

I don’t view Shabbos as religious. Personally, I see it as required detox that does indeed force us to sit with ourselves. If done mindfully, we will automatically connect to God. I wish everyone would keep it, not just Jews. I’ve always felt blessed to have been raised with Shabbos in my routine. Having said that, I ordered this custom tank top from my fave Kidd’s boutique, Gigi and Lo. My friend Elisha who owns the store is a hilarious human. I look at her and laugh. Her humor and pizazz shine through in her incredibly curated inventory. Her children’s clothing ranges from classy and understated to “rah rah let’s party!”. There’s something for everyone taste wise. I saw Elisha designing custom “apres pool” children’s wear on her instagram last year. I loved the nod to the whole “apres ski” genre; that category alone is so satirical to me. My crazy Jewess brain naturally went to “apres Shabbos” and Elisha was happy to bring my lil vision to fruition.  This tank cracks me up. I will incorporate humor anywhere I can. I love pairing this silly shirt with a more serious pants suit. This look here was a great transitional move. A light boyfriend blazer that is easily removed when temperatures warm up. A tank and leather pants never need an explanation. These rad shades were found on sale in a random bin in a nutso boutique in Tel Aviv, which leads me to believe they might not actually be Miu Miu (who cares). Peeps, I highly recommend paying Gigi and Lo a visit. It’s located in Teaneck, New Jersey. It’s a magnificent store with a delightful range of children’s clothing and accessories. You’ll have the best dressed kid at the party (not that you care about that, of course not).

Must Have Mala

Another item I do not leave home without are my mala beads. Given to me by my yoga teacher as a gift while doing a 40 hour workshop at my studio, this 108 bead I necklace is always on my person. It reminds me to be preset, stay calm, that peace is always available to me, and to be patient. As in, I’ll count them with a mantra while waiting in line. That’s practical, immediate patience, not just more abstract “trust the process” patience. I once lent them to a woman sobbing on a plane. I counted them on line with my son at a museum. I pray on them during flight turbulence. I wear them on my wrist wrapped as a bracelet or as a necklace. They make me feel safe and aware during uncomfortable encounters. This particular one is a brown wood. It’s neutral and goes with anything, as does yogic philosophy. Essentially the mala beads remind me of how I want to conduct myself. They also remind me that I’m not merely an individual. That I’m part of something so much greater on a cosmic and collective level. I feel connected to anyone else I see wearing them. They evoke warmth in me when I think of my special spiritual community in New Jersey. I left this set at a store a few weeks ago. Not knowing if I’d see them again I took to Amazon and bought a bunch more in a variety of colors. I love layering them or wearing one on each wrist. I’ve wrapped them around an ankle too. They’re truly a comfort to me and hold me to a higher, more conscious standard of living. They represent a natural state of being, which is a healthy antidote to fashion.