Neutral Knits

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My theme for new Spring purchases has revealed itself to be palazzo pants and oversized, cozy tops over a fitted or cropped something. I dig the effortless cuteness of a loose bottom (be it pants or a flowy skirt), a little top, and a relaxed cardigan or kimono. My takeaway from Covid Couture has been that comfort is key but that it doesn’t have to be in the form of stained sweatpants. These peachy nude wide legged pants make me happy. Bonus points for the high elastic waist that covers up bloat and hits me at the smallest part of my waistline. A tank in the same nude color family looks coordinated under this yummy chunky cardigan, and the natural macrame necklace is the one needed accessory. Neutral, natural, peachy, easy, and fresh; all words that evoke how I want to feel as I gently move towards a new phase.

Earth Day

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Spring. Green. Freshness. This season means so many things. As a chaplain intern, this has been a discussion in my senior community when we meet weekly to discuss spiritual themes and connections. This look is my nod to recent Earth Day. It’s a light, gauzy, natural feeling two piece that almost demands bare feet and wild hair. Maybe one wooden accessory if you must. I love that this outfit is transitional; long pants and a long sleeved top yet airy and light. I have worn this on a windier beach day, as loungewear, and to host my friends for those first outdoor evenings of the season. The pants work separately with a range of top options: a tank or tee, white or light washed denim button down, or a cotton sweater. With this being the first non pandemic Spring in a couple years, I’d say there’s much to celebrate in a fresh way. Let all things be new.

Flow State

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Ahhhhh, Spring is here. I feel refreshed just writing that. One of my warm weather staples are long, light, flowy skirts and dresses. That boho look is beautiful and easy, and is a pretty alternative to pants. Almost any type of shoe works with this look; sandals, cowboy boots, sneakers, a kitten heel. As far as outerwear, chunky cardigans, boyfriend blazers, and denim jackets look great. I’d also knot an open button down with rolled up sleeves as an extra layer as the weather transitions. A fitted tank, camisole, or cropped tee is a good counter balance to all that fabric on the bottom. Piling on bangles, rings, and some layered necklaces (but not overkill) completes the look, along with loose hair and natural makeup. I have maxi skirts and dresses in both solids and prints, and I love how versatile, comfortable, and sexy they are. Bonus points for being terrific vacation pieces for the beach, daytime, and dinner and drinks.

https://us.shein.com/High-Waist-Frilled-Layered-Hem-Skirt-p-9402247-cat-1732.html

https://bohobeachhut.com/products/bohemian-rainbow-tiered-maxi-dress

https://www.chicwish.com/timeless-favorite-chiffon-maxi-skirt-in-yellow.html

Espadrilles

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I’ve always had a slightly confused relationship to espadrilles. I can’t entirely decide how I feel about them. I think my occasional dislike lies in that they can feel boring and ubiquitous. Right now, though, I’m liking some of the styles out there for this classic Spanish shoe. I learned more about espadrilles when I made a pair while traveling in Barcelona with my girls. We had a blast at this activity, and thus my renewed appreciation was born. They are definitely comfortable and sturdy, and the typical canvas foot covering is lightweight yet durable. I really dig the black on black pair from Banana Republic. The monochrome is a cool variation on what I used to think were bland mom shoes. That was in 1994. Fast forward to now when I’m a mom (I like to think not a bland one) and I’m re acquainting myself with something I’d written off. Even shoes can be a reminder to be more open minded and flexible.

Trench Jumpsuit

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This navy trench coat style jumpsuit has gotten me so much use. I’ve worn it to dinner dates, the theater, even jazzed up to Fashion Week with fun accessories. A piece like this can stand alone or act as a blank canvas for a more detailed look. The raspberry heels peeking out from the bottom are a fun pop of color. I have a coordinating clutch in the same color, and I love the navy berry combo. The berry lip compliments the look, a simple makeup detail that is clean, pretty, and a sweet contrast to more sophisticated navy. The structure of this jumpsuit makes this a great alternative to the typical pantsuit.

Velvet Underground

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I love a sharp, strong velvet pantsuit. It’s classic structure but with depth and panache. What I won’t do is wear anything stiff and uncomfortable, so the few Norma Kamali velvet suits I have are fluid and easy while being tailored. This blue gray one has a burgundy sister that I have worn on the blog. The pieces can be worn separately and with a variety of shoes: boots, pumps, or a dressy platform sneaker. I recently did wear this with gold sneakers to a fun bat mitzvah. This heart patterned silk button down you’ve seen me wear many times over the years. It’s a favorite from J. Crew. Almost any print button down would work here; a floral, a bold colored solid. A silk camisole, t shirt, tank, lace top, or turtleneck are more great options for under a pantsuit. I enjoy formality (sometimes), and I often like dressing along these tailored lines when I’m DJing. Ranging from a menswear vibe to more feminine cut and feel, there are so many sharp pantsuit options out there. This classic silhouette becomes yours in how you put it together and own it.

Light Lounging

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I have developed an addiction to loungewear. It has definitely become a problem, especially now that I’ve become an expert at shopping off of Instagram. It’s high time to reign it in and seriously pause before I chemically react to whatever cute clothes are automatically dangled in front of me. Convenient and dangerous is how I’d describe this type of consumerism. Damn you, algorithm!!
Pandemic dressing is a beast of its own kind. The last few years (!!) in global quarantine have majorly emphasized what it means to dress for a trip as far as the kitchen. Depending on whom one was on lockdown with, including if that was solo, the many forms of loungewear became like the different floors of a department store. First floor: four day sweatpants and stained t shirts. Second floor: black leggings and functional yoga wear for “special” occasions. Third floor: sexy items that actually match for when you need to feel cute and recall your humanity. You get the picture. It’s pretty fascinating; what it can do to the mind when THERE IS NO REASON TO PUT ON A BRA OR DEODORANT OR WEAR ANYTHING CIVILIZED. Bottom line, staying home and dressing cute feels like a huge achievement. Since home has been the sole stage for so long (I’m a homebody anyway, always have been), it’s been refreshing to stay fashionably intact with beautiful, comfy loungewear like this ensemble. Cream or ivory anything is yummy out the gate. I have worn this outfit on lockdown during a pandemic date, which helped create a romantic mood while at home. Now that the world is finding its footing again, this loungewear set will come along for the ride. “Home” is really special and being there is indeed an occasion as long as I’m chilling with loved ones, again, this includes doing that with just Me. The outfit here is two piece, consisting of the top and pants. I added a cream cardigan in the same shade to complete the look and to cuddle up in. The fuzzy, soft fabric is an instruction to snuggle up, and I’m more than happy to comply.

NYBG Orchid Show

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The interesting thing about “style” is that it has almost nothing to do with beauty. Conversely, “beauty” has nothing to do with style.
This magnificent orchid exhibit at the New York Botanical Gardens is this weeks Style post, but it’s really about beauty.
I learned about this several months long exhibit, which runs until some time in May, from the @secret_nyc account on Instagram. This account features great and cool happenings in the New York area, often on the earlier side of the public knowing about them. I have never been to the NYBG and have always wanted to go. I bought three tickets on the spot, thinking I could get at least 2 of my kids to join me. My oldest and youngest, both avid nature lovers, were excited to come. This special exhibit, by artist Jeff Leatham, features a kaleidoscopic approach to the magical world of orchids. Did you know there are over 300 species of this stunning flower? The exhibit, housed inside the gorgeous and large conservatory seen here, blew us away. Walking through a re-creation of several types of rain forests, we were delighted to have this robust, vibrant brush with nature during the bleaker winter season. Coming in from the cold to enter this magical wonderland of flowers, we felt as if we’d stepped into a portal of beauty.
Nature teaches me innumerable lessons. She comforts me when I need a soothing reminder of the bigger, wiser picture or an invigorating shot of perspective. Being amongst such aliveness and beauty as a war rages on in the Ukraine reinforced the great paradox of life; it will always contain joy and suffering all the time. There is beauty in accepting this because it’s true. In the case of war and times of devastation, a bright, perfect orchid reminds me that things will be stripped away then grow back. My opinion on when and how are irrelevant. Mother Nature answers to no one, and this is how she teaches trust and patience, two of the most beautiful qualities of the heart.

I really suggest taking in this wonderful exhibit if you’re in the New York area. My kids and I had a truly memorable experience, and can’t wait to revisit NYBG again.

Polo Playa

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Hey, Ralph Lipschitz! It’s been decades since I embraced the classic Ralph Lauren Americana vibe. Never did I think I’d be reunited with a suit like this, and it felt good and ladylike to reconnect. This is such a beautifully tailored suit, a head to toe iconic Town and Country statement. Both the skirt and jacket can be worn separately, and I love how the flat riding boots work well for a slightly more casual daytime feel. I find flats to be very chic in that they are less obvious than a go to heel. When flats work in a dressy situation, it’s effortlessly cool. Any sort of riding boot, heel or flat, complements this outfit that surely belongs on a polo field (not that this Jewish girl has ever partook in such a WASPy activity. Would they even let me in??).
Something else I enjoyed about wearing this was that it’s not my most slimming ensemble. I noted this and did not care one iota, which is a newer freedom for me. This is a beautiful outfit, I feel good about my body that I take care of and treat well, and that was entirely enough for me. No lifts or angling tricks to appear slimmer; how liberating is that? It’s time to embrace more of that attitude and not drive ourselves crazy winning imaginary points for whose waist looks the smallest. Ralph Lauren is a strong, consistent, confident brand that has always stood on its own without bells and whistles. Let’s draw from that, shall we?

Be My Galentine

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I’m super into the idea of friends celebrating each other on Valentine’s Day. Women are such natural and loving connectors, most of all to each other. I apologize for being heteronormative, I’m only speaking from my personal perspective; obviously all beings love to love. But, I really dig the whole Galentine thing. No one should ever feel less than for being single, and deep, loving friendships are wonderfully life giving. I adore my close girlfriends and being with them is always a joy. Friends going on a date on Love Day is awesome. This year I have learned to befriend myself in ways I never thought possible. Inner child work, meditation, and my chaplaincy curriculum have taught me incredible ways to reach myself. I talk to myself the way I address my kids and friends; with great tenderness, support, calm, adoration, and unconditional love. It’s taken my whole life to get here. This look represents my friendship with Me. Sweet, soft, cozy, and girly. I’m much yummier with myself lately. I’m learning what it means when I hear “your relationship with yourself is the most important one you’ll ever have”. A granny sweater, shades of pink, and a barrette were just what I needed to be in to show myself a lil love.

Feeling Warm

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What, pray tell, is more perfect during cold season than the classic winter white fisherman sweater? I swear, I look at this piece and am instantly soothed and warmed. Soft, creamy, classic, and functional. Rustling leaves, that amazing crisp cold weather scent, and sitting fireside are some of the feels I have when wearing this. The versatility of this item is vast, and I paired it here with warm toned, terracotta faux leather pants. My accessories add major pops of personality while not being too loud, as well as staying in the warm tones. I like a dose of fun with a more conservative look; that’s what I’m most comfortable with so I don’t dip into anything resembling cookie cutter. The fun horse print on my orange clutch, and leopard print heels lent just enough whimsy. I always love a loose top knot with a cozy sweater. And why not grab a quick street candy fix en route to dinner, am I right?

Backless in Black

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This sweater looks amazing from the back, but it’s actually ridiculous; I can’t wear a bra with it and if I move one centimeter then I will unleash the Girls. I must not have been thinking logically when I bought it, but then again that’s part of what’s entertaining about shopping: the choices we make can have nothing to do with the item itself. Not sorry I have it though, it does look cool as long as I’m not engaging in public nudity. I love a cropped sweater with a full skirt. I wore this skirt a few weeks ago with a cream sweater, as seen on the blog and IG. I have always proudly reused my wardrobe pieces in different ways. A long skirt is a beautiful alternative to a winter pant. Ballgown, full, midi, or knee length over a high boot is a lovely choice for dressing up. A dramatic top that shows some skin breaks up the density of the look and keeps things sexy and exciting. Leaving my hair down adds some effortless, relaxed flavor. As always, the city lights are a perfect backdrop to a special night. Luminosity, wherever it comes from, is a constant reminder of joy, light in the darkness, and shining presence.

Sequined Pants

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The cool thing about sequins, in addition to the obvious, is that they can jazz up classic shapes like a blazer or trouser. Sequins are such a fun way to add sparkle, personality, and joy to a look. Sequins say, “I’m here, the party can now begin”. I wore my gold sequined Norma Kamali pants to a recent DJ gig at the Empire Hotel. When I DJ I must be comfortable, and it’s equally important to me that I look the part as well. Who wants to look at a boring, shlumpy DJ? Dancing, crowd engagement, and bringing energy to the space are crucial components to my performance. It’s never just about the music, it’s how it’s delivered. The Empire Rooftop is in a beautiful, classic New York location, directly across from iconic Lincoln Center. This was the hotel where Gossip Girl was mostly filmed! A classic button down in black rounded out the pants that night. See? Even more toned down, conservative dressers can make sequins work for them. One shiny piece is the statement. And since I’m DJing in a mask these days, I pop my eye makeup with lots of shimmer as well. Fun touches, textures, and details communicate a certain energy that’s contagious.

Downtown Primary

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This look is all about that clean, essential color palette we first learn about as wee ones. Inspired by my new yellow corduroy pants from several posts ago, I wanted to color block with the classics. A navy cashmere sweater, coordinating navy boyfriend coat, winter white boots, and red sunglasses. This color combo never gets old. I rather enjoy the simplicity of a few monochrome pieces all quietly complimenting each other. Though this outfit runs preppier than the backdrop of downtown Lower East Side graffiti, what is life without contrast?


Leather & Lace

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Sometimes it’s just all black. Mixing textures and fabrics breaks up the density of a monochrome outfit, no matter the color, especially with heavier black. Faux leather pants, a lace velvet turtleneck, and a black pea coat was the look for this evening out. Those outdoor restaurant lights were the perfect backdrop. One of the pandemic bright spots has been all this beautiful and creative outdoor seating. I’ve always preferred eating outside, and it’s great that now we can do it comfortably all year round. I love seeing all the amazingly whimsical outdoor eating options all over New York. I booked a special such spot with my besties for my upcoming birthday this month!

Holiday Sparkle

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Sequins, the ultimate in holiday shimmer! Giving a classic tailored suit a sparkly makeover is a fabulous look for that seasonal soirée. With all the winter black, evoking the power of midnight blue is a nice change, especially as the clock strikes midnight on NYE. Wearing a cashmere sweater softens the look of the suit, while this pop of orange felt fun and unexpected. I wanted the outfit to be just as much of a statement as the jacket came off. The sweater was also practical since it kept me warm; I’m so over torturing myself in freezing for fashion. I wore midnight blue and silver heels to compliment the suit and balance out some of the more overtly vibrant elements present. I tiny half tuck of the sweater kept it neat and shapely, a detail that completely makes or breaks the presentation of an outfit. New Year’s resolution? Keep shining.

Quilted & Cozy

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All about the quilting here! I love this look for so many reasons. I’m comfortable and warm, yet feeling chic and seasonally festive. A yummy cream colored sweater (J Crew) paired with an unexpected ball gown style skirt (Norma Kamali), both with different complimentary quilted patterns, create a vibe of style and ease. I genuinely felt great in this combo. I love how the two star pieces gel so well to carry the whole look. The tucking in of the sweater in a couple of strategic places gave a necessary silhouette, so I didn’t drown in fabric. It doesn’t look like I was trying too hard, well, because I wasn’t. The high heeled boots gave much needed height to offset to voluminous skirt and chunky sweater. My fun purse lends a color pop with classic red, which always goes well with black and white (what’s black, white, and red all over?). I did not get my hair done for this event. I left it long and loose, securing it in a half top knot with a sweet pearl detailed pin (CVS). We are so over the era where everything has to be so perfectly coiffed, planned, and manicured; what a joy to dress up and actually show up as ourselves, yes? This look is a terrific concept for outdoor/rooftop winter gatherings, which was where I was heading. With the pandemic still here (sigh), outdoor holiday events are pretty much the thing. That’s ok, we continue to adjust and get creative. The best accessory that night? A delicious hot chocolate.

Mug Shot

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Holiday time=mugs filled with all sorts of yummy, belly warming things. Hot cocoa, warm apple cider, good tea by the fire, and those awesomely fun hot chocolate bombs. One of my absolute favorite cold weather activities is enjoying a mug of something, solo or with my kids. The simplicity and kindness of warm liquids never fails to move me. We love funny, snarky mugs in our house, but I most enjoy my winter beverages in a chic, attractive design. It’s that 5 minute Martha Stewart moment that legit feels like self care. A set of beautiful mugs make a great gift, especially as a hostess present. I’ve both given and received them, and it’s always a hit. If you’re the host, setting out a lovely set of mugs next to a coffee and tea station is such an inviting (and visually appealing) gesture. New cups are also a good excuse to clean out that chipped, stained Garfield mug from 1987!

Corduroy Cool

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It has been AGES since I’ve worn corduroy pants. I’m feeling it’s high time I reintroduce myself. My favorite look ever of NYC style icon Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, may she Rest In Peace, is of her wearing low slung, brown, boot cut corduroy pants with a fitted black turtleneck. There’s something about the cool functionality of corduroy that feels confident to me. It’s a unique fabric that’s quite practical, since it definitely keeps one warmer during cold season. Which is why corduroy is so reminiscent of holiday season for me. There’s a preppy wholesomeness to it, which I can only explain via that crisp winter holiday mood. Often seen in rich jewel tones and steady neutrals, corduroy is a wonderful anchor to a look. Pair it with a denim shirt, soft sweater, classic white button down, turtleneck, or even a worn in white T with a cardigan or tweed blazer. Loosely draped scarf for the win. Rugged boots, white sneakers, or lace up oxfords are my fave footwear for this type of look.

Pretty in Plaid

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I’m super into plaid skirts right now. I haven’t been interested in this style in decades, possibly since high school. I’m wearing them with a chunky, oversized turtleneck, tights, and well worn mini boots. I also love a longer length skirt with a higher boot. This is a style I’d have fully eschewed ( SAT word!) until this season. It’s frustrating to think back on what I’ve given away over the years, only to want to dive into certain fashions again. Oh well, lesson learned; always keep the good stuff no matter what. Here are some well priced brands of cute plaids that are perfect for holiday season.