Buddhish

This is a very personal style post for obvious reasons. I debated whether or not to share what I wear for formal zen practice; It’s so private and sacred, yet my goal (and joy) on this blog is to reveal myself to whomever is interested. I got the Soto zen robe in preparation for receiving the precepts at the end of August, in a ceremony called Jukai. The bib like rakusu I sewed myself (with great difficulty but with much support). The base of the rakusu is called the rice field. The red seals are from my teacher when he wrote my dharma name and the details of the ceremony. I received my rakusu and name in public at the ceremony, and it was one of the most defining moments of my life. I was sobbing. Before putting on my rakusu, I place it on my head with the white side folded up and say this prayer, “Vast is the robe of liberation, a formless field of benefaction. I wear the Thatagatha’s teaching, saving all sentient beings”. It’s a vow to act in a way that’s beneficial to myself and all others. The idea of the never ending possibilities for inner and outer freedom comfort me. Having grown up steeped in Jewish ritual, these kinds of prayers and practices are familiar to me. I love symbolic ritual and I’m grateful it has a positive and joyous association for me. My antique Jewish star necklace is equally a part of this post. I am a Jew and a Buddhist. Both of these spiritual approaches feel right and fulfilling. They provide guidance in ways that are both different and similar. I believe there are many paths to reach the same destination. However we get there we get there. There’s no one fixed route. Both my Judaism and Buddhist practice give my life a shape, comfort, and safety that helps me live a rich life. I didn’t feel as much grounding and connecting without the Buddhist piece, as much as I love being Jewish and take it very seriously. It’s such a gift to be able to merge both of these systems into my daily life. They are equally important and fulfilling to me. Whether it’s a yalmuka, Tallis, or a rakusu; to me there’s no difference. Inclusion, curiosity, learning new things, widening out. I am here to live in a large way, and I recall many years living with a closed, tight heart and a mind that saw things rigidly out of a false sense of safety and control. It did not feel good or natural. Exploration of this one amazing life is natural and essential for me. I’m really proud of the unique spiritual path I have begun to carve out. It took a long time to get here. I feel at home in my body, mind, heart, and soul being guided by my Jewish faith and heritage, as well as my ancient and current Buddhist ancestors. I truly feel blessed and deeply held. My necklace says “am yisrael chai” which means “the nation of Israel lives”. I feel I best honor my Judaism by incorporating Buddhist wisdom and ethics into my life. It better prepares me for the world, and for me, the deepest way I can do Hashem’s work is by softening, grounding, and opening up to the whole world with all joys and sorries, miseries and mysteries. We are innately vast. We can hold endless discoveries and learnings. We are never done.

Warm Tones

Let’s break down this look:
Oversized, chunky turtleneck sweater
Sparkly pants
Off white boots
Statement earrings close to the ear (vs hanging)
Loose bun

I can’t tell you how happy I was in this outfit. I felt seasonally delish, cozy, playful, and warm. Only the boots are new, I’ve had the other pieces for years. I’m loving the the off white “after Labor Day”. I think winter whites and creams are so chic, especially contrasted with darker tones. Note the cream pumpkin:). The fun pants lend contrast to the heavy sweater, and the slight tuck gives shape to my silhouette. Easy looking hair in a bun doesn’t compete with the earrings and large scale turtleneck. This is a great template for the nearing holiday season. Goals: warmth and whimsy mixed with dashes of classic chic (as in the turtleneck and trouser shapes). Putting a pumpkin on your head never hurts either, unless of course you drop it.

OG LBD

The NYC skyline needs no accessorizing, especially as day turns to evening. It’s a magical sight that never gets old for me. It’s amazing; we think we need so much and yet a view or a sunset can be enough to stop time. It’s as if the illuminated skyline puts all the roiling mental activity to bed, even if for a few moments. Such a gift, and we get it every day.
A classic LBD never disappoints, making it the perfect gold standard evening look against the backdrop of an NYC rooftop view. Let’s face it; a little black dress is just that. It’s reliable in its chic sexiness. What can make it more distinguishing are the details. It’s safe to assume that at any event, especially in Manhattan, there will be a bunch of women wearing an LBD, so I look for pops of tailoring that will set mine apart. Even in black I don’t wish to blend into the crowd. The top of this dress is cut on an angle and held up by a single diagonal spaghetti strap. The dress is evening length with a high side slit. It’s satin and bias cut. I mixed up the look with a sheer blue oversized top when I needed some breeze coverage, a nice change from typical toppers. I do love a good blazer, though; cropped, boyfriend, or tuxedo styles all work here. A black dress has built in edge that can carry a look. It, like our aforementioned city skyline, needs nothing else. It’s a whole mood on its own.

Pajama Patterns

I consider a chic, pajama like silk suit as THE perfect integration look. Post pandemic realness. It’s as if covid birthed it’s own genre of fashion. Everything blurred, merging all genres of clothing. Pajamas, loungewear, athleisure, and black tie all rolled into one giant WTF. What’s a girl to do when she actually needs to leave her house and slowly exit the spaceship? She keeps it comfortable and cool with a number like this Scotch and Soda pantsuit. I love how this reads as both fancy pjs and a legit suit. It’s the perfect marriage of unfussy dressy, practicality, and personality. I love whimsical patterns. The bright red seahorses over the navy background gives this outfit bold humor. It’s great when clothes don’t take themselves too seriously without sacrificing quality and tailoring. A navy heel with silver detail gives height and a flattering leg. And how chic is a loose, effortless bun? A key detail for me in fashion is the presence of effortlessness, as I often mention. No one ever has to know your process, whether it takes you an hour and a half to get ready or 20 minutes. Adding the chill factor with hair, makeup, or accessories is a good way to keep it light.

Love On Top

What I love about this look is that it’s made of completely unrelated styles and designers that came together in a cohesive statement. I have had this Marc Jacob’s jacket for at least 20 years. It’s part of a suit, and I haven’t worn it since my oldest was in nursery school (translation: a very long time ago). The shades are Prada from a trip to Vegas (it’s gross there btw) a decade ago, the jumpsuit is Norma Kamali, and the wrap around choker is from the boutique Five Story. I was going for Chanel vibes with the pastel boucle’ short jacket and pearl detail on my neck, proof that we can pay homage to certain styles without breaking the bank, which in my opinion is a totally outdated concept.

There is something magical about a New York City rooftop. It never gets old. The skyline never fails to move me, especially the view of the Freedom Tower. Strength, grace, determination, and resilience; ah, to embody these qualities. There is such joy in rising back up to the top, even in our quietest, most private moments. Feeling on top of the world, when we can touch such genuine elation after having climbed some, is always cause for true celebration.

Student Life

These were taken near NYU, amidst the electric energy of today’s youth out and about on a gorgeous evening. I didn’t have a college life; I was married and a mom before graduation! I am so grateful for my trajectory and have never once felt I lacked a real college experience. It’s interesting how my current phase of curiosity and exploration is happening in my 40’s, proof that learning all kinds of new things is an ageless pursuit. This is what keeps me young, fresh, and alive. Being a student of life has become so important to me.
Here I’m wearing a silk navy shirt dress that I’ve had for at least 14 years. It has served me very well, mostly around this time of year. It’s a great mini dress or layering piece, looking fab with matching tights as temps drop. I always pair this with boots, seen here with my brown riding ones. The chunky cardigan, specs, and long necklace work together to create a cozy, cute, easy look that goes from day to night. This time of year can be varied in temperature, so I love the option of the warm cardigan as needed, while the rest of the outfit can stop traffic on its own.

Navy and Camel in NYC

I have been in love with the color combo of rich navy and caramel camel. They are a beautifully chic compliment to each other, a classy couple of colors. For this certain evening out in downtown NYC, the occasion called for a lil dash of special. I love transitional dressing in between seasons; the challenge taker in me likes to nail the changing weather requirements. I’m crazy about my new navy dress from Laligne. It’s so classically feminine and has such gravity because of the color and mood. The neckline, cap sleeves, and flowy bottom make me feel like the best dressed gal in the village (think Shtetl). My vintage camel leather duster with the perforated detailing was the perfect choice of outerwear. It worked lengthwise, color wise, and allowed pops of the dress to peek through aforementioned open detailing. Neutral Jimmy Choo heels, which I’ve had for at least 15 years, were the perfect choice to round out the look. The warm tones called for gold and neutral accessories, while quietly lending support to the strong star pieces. Downtown NYC is full of amazing spots for a photo op. It’s graffiti is legendary. This night happened to have been a gorgeous and balmy, full of people eating, laughing, and getting together at the many fabulous outdoor spots. If was joyous seeing the world coming back together after so much lockdown. I hope the wonderment of that stays with me…

Fall Picnic Blankets

Autumn picnic season has arrived. Soon the leaves will start to change, pumpkin spice everything is already everywhere, and before we know it temps will drop. What better way to enjoy a crisp, magical Fall weekend then to picnic (solo or not) in a beautiful, jewel toned, leafy spot? Sweater weather, warm thermoses, all that great stuff is even yummier on a lovely picnic blanket. This is definitely on my to do list this season, and here are some of my favorite blanket styles. If covid had taught me anything, it’s to stop and take in change. Some changes are awful, some amazing. But to sit back and witness it all is really a gift. Speaking of which, any of these blankets would make a terrific gift and there are many sources that offer monogram options.

https://thekomorebicollection.com/products/jacquard-picnic-blanket

https://www.libertylondon.com/us/rainbow-stripe-recycled-wool-picnic-blanket-000732614.html

https://us.tartanblanketco.com/products/recycled-wool-waterproof-picnic-blanket-in-mustard-herringbone

https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/88878?page=waterproof-outdoor-blanket-plaid

Pop That Collar

As a kid growing up in the 80’s, I HATED the popped collar thing. I simply did not understand it, and resented feeling confused by… a… shirt. I have clearly crossed over into popped collar territory, and I genuinely now think it’s a chic detail. James Spader of ‘89, I stand corrected! I love this striped Alexander Wang top. It’s cropped so it ain’t for days of bloat. I paired it with my DKNY long pleated skirt, black lacquer cuff you’ve seen a million times, and these super cute shoes. Diane B on the Upper East Side is a great shoe boutique. The lips detail was what grabbed me. I love including pops of personality off a classic color palette. Well used accessories always enhance a look. Scale, balance, and mood are always factors. My fave shot is off course the shoe as phone one; I adore pin up vibes. My kitchen floor lent the perfect black and white geometric backdrop. After 11 years in this house, I still fall in love with this tile every time. It’s so important to love your space.

Pinstripe Update

Leave it to French brand Jaquemus to slay it with this piece. I bought it 6 years ago on a trip to LA. It was not cheap, and it was worth it. I’m glad I own this since I most likely would not spend that much on one thing today. It feels good to splurge on something you love that will last. This sexy, interesting use of the classic navy pinstripe is killer. The strapless top and wide pants legs feel like an evening gown/pants suit hybrid, so I can wear this on a special date or even to a more formal event. This is awesomely linen, so it’s a great warm weather look that incorporates the formal, darker navy pinstripes. I adore the wavy edge of the top as a contrast to the the menswear vibe.
For more formal looks I like to part my hair on the side, and I’m always cognizant of how hair can support the overall styling.

Jewish Baptism

Ain’t no other way to say it:) Who doesn’t love a dreamy, all white ensemble in the summer? And who doesn’t love swimming in their clothes? This outfit did not come together but it works so well. I love making completely separate pieces blend seamlessly. A long white skirt is the epitome of “summer pretty”. The detailed off the shoulder top as well. The little shell in my hair was just the tiniest addition to make this vibe head to toe. This look can absolutely flatter all body types, perhaps my favorite thing about it. Showing shoulders is almost always a good idea. Big points for versatility here. I have worn this both day and night, and to both more casual and dressier settings. It’s a home run on vacation, making it the perfect sexy&pretty golden hour, pre dinner outfit. Both pieces have so many uses which adds to their vacation value. The barrette is from CVS. Pharmacies and supermarkets are great places to find cheap accessories, usually in the cosmetics isle.

Deep Purple

This summer I found myself drawn towards luscious, girly, softer styles. Wearing a two piece monochrome ensemble makes for instant ease and yummy vibes. There’s no guesswork in an outfit like this (it’s from Revolve and it popped up on Instagram); very little accessories are needed since the color and amount of fabric pretty much do the talking. I took this on my recent trip to Barcelona with my daughters. After a long day of touring it was nice to slip this on and go out to dinner feeling put together. I wore no makeup on vacation, and I tied my messy hair up in a cute top knotted scarf. I was dressed in less than ten minutes. The rich eggplant color, along with the flow and cut of the two pieces, created an instant outfit that was so worth packing. Bonus points for both the top and bottom being separately reusable throughout the trip!

Striped Short Suiting

Love this pastel, candy striped shorts suit. This cute number was another Century 21 purchase (sigh, so not over the loss of that store). This is a great look for a summer business lunch. It’s a perfect mix of daytime fun and formal. The heels literally elevate this look, and I wore these ancient neon Marc Jacobs pumps to add height and a serious color pop. The punch of the shoe is a nice finisher after so much skin, and legs are a naturally awesome way to give space and breath to the overall feel of an outfit. My statement shades in a neutral color work off the neutral tone underneath all the colored stripes. Turquoise bracelets to pick up the turquoise striping but not too matchy.
The flamingo and I just signed a major development deal together, so a celebratory lunch truly was in order!

Casual Date Night

There’s something about light rinse denim that screams Summer. Curve hugging bell bottoms always seem to know what to do. I was feeling the 70’s vibe so I chose this breezy knotted scarf top for drinks out in the city. Wedges or platforms, some beads and bangles, a dangly earring, and a light necklace and this look was good to go.

Both the jeans and top are from Free People. Most of my new summer pieces came from there. FP has fantastic items to refresh your closet at great prices. Tip; for booty focused jeans, choose a top that hits at the waist (or a crop) so you can show off that cute little part. Tucking in will achieve that as well. Don’t waste your waist:).

Only thing left to do is enjoy that rooftop cocktail.

Summer Garden Wedding

Such a pretty look for an outdoor summer wedding! The new covid wedding model is hopefully here to stay. Far more intimate guest lists make for a ceremony surrounded only by your nearest and dearest. Plus, these more casual dress codes are definitely more comfortable, while still looking fresh and lovely. A flowing floral dress is light, sweet, and sexy. It’s such a feminine, romantic vibe. This Love Shack Fancy dress is a one and done. All I needed were these yummy pink mules, though clearly I was more than happy being barefoot of the grass. This look is all about romance, perfect for celebrating the happy couple. Fresh makeup in shades of pink added to the seasonal color scheme. Tip; always carry cute flats to an outdoor event. The one sinking into the ground with her heels because she refused to chill about her shoes; don’t be that person.

Boogie Days

Boogie Nights is one of my fave movies evah. The music, the fashion, the insane storylines. The Sister Christian scene alone goes down in cinematic history. That glam pool scene that opens the film instantly sets the mood for something major. Poolside chic in the 70’s was so real. This two piece, rust colored halter, complete with the required 70’s wedge, serves it big time by the pool or at dinner apres key party. Accessories here kept up with the vibe of that period; a smoky sunglasses lens in a retro shaped frame, yellow gold earrings, and one statement wooden bangle. Bonus scene points for having the color of the outfit work perfectly off the rich navy pool furniture. Maybe next week I’ll dress as Roller Girl.

Little Black Shorts

I’ve had this lil shorts one piece for at least 10 years. It’s a very versatile item that easily goes from day to night. Flats for daytime, and a wedge, boyfriend blazer, and one statement accessory to transition to an evening out. These massive earrings were from a female owned, African based, small business. I wish I remembered the name and kept the card! Oh man, they were so nice and sent me a handwritten note, too. I ordered these months ago after seeing an ad on Instagram, and I feel badly not mentioning the name now. I fell in love with the boldness and colors of these earrings, which have to be worn strategically so as to avoid looking like I’m having a nervous breakdown. Certain pieces are just meant to be the showstoppers, and anything remotely competing feels like complicated overkill. Hair up is a must when wearing earnings so huge. A strong accessory is a great way to add color and personality to black in the summer. For those of you who feel comfortable in black/navy all year, try incorporating a fun pop to break up the seriousness of black. Even in darker clothes, there are ways to lighten the mood.

Hammock Time!

Throwback alert: “Hammer Time” reference (I shall explain no further, IYKYK). What’s more synonymous with summer than lazing about in a hammock? Once you work through the six initial attempts at sitting in it without flipping over and face planting (or is that just me?), chilling in a hammock is simply delicious. Here are some cute styles that would perfectly accessorize your trees for this season. If having a hammock hasn’t been on your radar for awhile, perhaps treat yourself to one this year. Just pee before you get on.

https://www.lasiesta.com/us/en/la-siesta-brisa-toucan-weather-resistant-double-classic-hammock-brh16-28

https://www.yellowleafhammocks.com/products/double-hammock-indoor-boho-mendocino

https://www.yellowleafhammocks.com/products/double-hammock-hawaii-kilauea

https://www.wayfair.com/outdoor/pdp/dakota-fields-leonora-classic-hammock-w003108788.html?&experiencetype=2&selectedvertical=3

Let’s Picnic!

Full disclosure; I’ve never actually used one of these but I have seriously always wanted to. Picnic baskets are so beautiful. They represent a lovely, wholesome, intimate time spent with someone/ones you really like. None of us are shlepping anything for folks we are meh about, am I right? As the world starts to reopen, a pretty picnic is a delicious way to step our bare toes back into the world. Last summer we couldn’t do this since the Quar had us all locked up. One of the great blessings of the pandemic has been a return to the simple joys of life, such as packing up a sweet basket and sharing time, space, and food together outside. I plan on investing in one of these this summer, and I know it will help me make lovely memories.

https://www.markandgraham.com/products/picnic-basket-newbury/

https://www.potterybarn.com/products/canvas-picnic-tote/

https://www.amazon.com/riding-Insulated-Waterproof-Blanket-Outdoor/dp/B08LKMHS46

https://www.qvc.com/Picnic-Time-Boardwalk-Picnic-Basket.product.K404418.html

Enamored With Enamel

I’ve always loved enamel kitchenware. It has that 1950’s retro vibe that I adore. Enamel isn’t only cute, but it’s light; perfect for a picnic or glamp out. I have a royal blue speckled set that immediately evokes the freshness of summer eating. Enamel ages really well and looks cool with wear and tear; that well used, vintage maturity that stands the rest of time. Embrace your inner Betty Crocker this summer with some fun, chic enamel ware. Even one signature piece can really add a pop to your outdoor summer meal.

https://www.macys.com/shop/product/golden-rabbit-fish-camp-enamelware-dinner-plates-set-of-4?ID=11023396

https://www.potterybarn.com/products/swirl-enamel-appetizer-plates/

https://darlingspring.com/products/kapka-mind-pop-enamel-serving-plates-set

https://www.columbia.com/p/four-person-enamelware-table-set-GSO0042.html

https://greatjonesgoods.com/products/hot-dish