January Is for...
Looking Ahead
Blame it on January feeling like an entire year in itself or on the fact that I’m unusually content with my winter wardrobe, but my brain has recently been spending a lot of time somewhere warmer. I’ve already started collecting a solid spring wardrobe, but with the current East Coast blizzard and it still being a solid week out from February… I’m realizing it’s bit early to hit send.
For now, here’s how I’ve been distracting myself this month:
I really do try to avoid buying the same item in multiple colors (because it’s usually unnecessary and redundant), but when it comes to ballet flats I fully contradict myself. Worn with or without socks, they’ve become my everyday shoe. Naturally I did not hesitate to start wearing this pair the second they showed up at my door.
Side note: I got a DM asking about the difference between the Round ballerina (above) and the Awar ballerina. The difference is more visible when they’re on, but Awar feels more like a traditional ballerina with an almond toe/classic shape while the Round has a fuller toe and comes up higher on the foot. (Now that I’m thinking of it, leave a comment below if a dedicated letter on ballet flats would be of interest!)
Another pair was admittedly unnecessary, but a long-time tip of mine is keeping an eye on the Nordstrom designer shoe department as they randomly have very good sales. I’m pretty sure this habit started when I lived dangerously close to the Seattle flagship. Either way, they made my typical circuit of errands feel that much more exciting.
Between the tailors and the dry cleaners, I feel like I’m constantly servicing my clothes. I recently learned that unless a “dry clean only” piece actually has a stain, it’s often better to hand wash it at home. It sounds intimidating, but it’s surprisingly easy and this is my favorite detergent for it. Another pastime this month has been shaving the pills off all my cashmere.
In other exciting news:
If you haven’t already weighed in below (please do), I’ve had a bit of a refresh when it comes to handbags and to my earlier point above, continue to feel very content.
A few DMs also came in about the Marcel bag and how it compares to Agnes. Truthfully, I was originally looking for an Agnes and got impatient, which led me to the Marcel—plus the Agnes pouch. I recognize this is extremely unhinged, but I’m very happy with both. Marcel feels a bit more under the radar right now, while the Agnes pouch is satisfying my current urge to always have a clutch within arm’s reach.
I purchased both bags myself but for anyone who prefers to test things out first, Vivrelle is a great option. I’m using it for The Row Park 3 Tote, which has been on my list forever and will be perfect to use during an upcoming trip. (If you’re curious, HELENBYRNE gets you a free first month.)
I love that Marcel tucks neatly under the arm, transitions easily to night (see below), isn’t oversized, and that the pebbled leather on both is very forgiving.
By now, we all know white jeans have no bounds in my book, and obviously I’ll always be pushing sandals—but I know I’m not the only one who feels that way. Also, proof that I’m sticking to my word by wearing (and sharing!!) the same things. I’ve always loved a sweater out to dinner in the colder months, but a sleeveless one feels a bit more elevated.
I’m fully on board with repeating an outfit head to toe, but one thing I like to do when adding something new to my wardrobe (before I even buy it) is think through three or four outfits I could wear it with right away. I’ll either save a quick visual or type it out somewhere. It becomes your own, original reference point instead of panic scrolling when you don’t have the time or headspace to put together something new.
The rest of my time lately has been spent indoors (in a robe), overindulging in self-care. I’m running out of wiggle room before my next smoothing appointment, but this treatment by Fillament is definitely buying me some extra time. My hair is fine and prone to frizz but weighed down by most conditioners, so this feels like a win.
Otherwise the only things motivating me to get out of the house is matcha (both hot and ice, because was there ever a harder decision?) and escaping into a heated workout.
I know a trench is technically out of season for most, but since I can’t imagine not being wrapped up something resembling a robe at all times, I’ve been defaulting to this with cashmere underneath (or one of my heavier wrap coats) when I head out to work out. A turtleneck keeps me warm enough (I’m always reaching for this one), and with stirrups, flats, and leather gloves it feels pretty chic.
On the subject of leggings, this brand is definitely having a moment. They’ve been my go-to for years and if stirrups aren’t your thing, the high-waist airweight is classic. They don’t read overly “athletic,” as in, you can wear them without any intention of sweating and still look put together. (Code: HELEN15)
^Basically sums up my week.
Also tried these on over the weekend and immediately pictured them doing a lot of work come spring.
Loved this, would totally appreciate a ballet flat roundup!