Ask Magpie: Cool Socks, Baby Bags + More.

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Q: Cool socks. My ancient no shows aren’t Gen Z approved.

A: These Target pairs are fun, and an inexpensive way to test out the proportions/thicknesses! I also bought myself these fun little heart-embellished ones from Sezane. (seen above), and I think they’re the perfect weight and rib to pair with sneakers like my Sambas (these and more cool street sneaks here). Kule also has fun pairs too. If you need more styling inspo from a proper Gen-Z-er, check out Josefien Weyns.

Q: Just found out I’m pregnant with baby #2 — a boy. Diaper bag recs?

A: I would do a Rue de Verneuil! So chic and sporty and kind of masculine but polished? Also very roomy. Use pouches to keep the interior sorted — love these roomy quilted ones from Pehr, or these handsome ones from Minnow. Also think this Proenza Schouler would work well.

Q: Statement cardigan.

A: Love this one from Hunter Bell’s latest collection, or anything striped, like this or this.

Q: My son’s Baptism, tropical weather.

A: I’m obsessed with this cardigan and skirt for a Baptism, and you could pair with a simple leather sandal or slide, but if it’s really hot where you’ll be, you must check out the dresses Doen launches yesterday that are already selling out. Love this and this for a beautiful Baptism. Alternately, if you prefer color, something like this, this, or this would be lovely. More of a splurge, but literally anything Emilia Wickstead — this, this!

Q: Pink tea party dress, not too over the top.

A: This dress fits like a dream. Layer beneath a little cropped sweater or blazer. Or maybe do something different with a blazer and trousers in the perfect pink hue!

Q: Everyday crossbody for post-diaper-bag-life, ideally under $300.

A: FRP Collection Silvia bag! J’adore mine and it holds a lot but packs a fashionable punch.

Q: Hydrating lipstick – or favorite long lasting.

A: Can’t say enough good things about Merit’s signature lipstick. Glides on like balm, hydrating, and stays put. I love the millennial pink color!

Q: Jewelry storage! Are there any cute and well organized boxes anymore?

A: I have and love these little velvet compartmentalized trays. So easy to find what you’re looking for, and they stack! This has greatly simplified my jewelry storage situation. If you want a true jewelry box, Wolf’s are iconic and top of the line. How spectacular is this one!? Gilt carries some styles at a discount. Pottery Barn also has some really great, well-made options. I have one of theirs I bought in my 20s that I still use for pieces I wear less frequently than the ones in my velvet trays. This one looks fantastic, and love these ones, too.

Q: Toddler ski gloves / mittens.

A: I have been so happy with the ones from Northern Classics. I especially appreciate the velcro cinching strap at the wrist — they really keep the gloves on/in place — and the over-long length, so they provide extra coverage / no bare wrists in sight. They’re lined with fleece – my kids love them. More ski/snow picks here.

Q: Work cocktail dress that’s not black / short / low cut.

A: Julia Amory just released this mock-neck, silk dupioni ankle-length dress that looks like a total wardrobe workhorse. Flattering, easy to wear, can be dressed up or down. Pair with a pump and big earrings for a work event. I’m also a forever fan of a black shirtdress. And then, of course, Veronica Beard knows what it’s doing in the work appropriate category. Love this.

Q: Dress for my daughter’s first daddy-daughter dance. Size 6.

A: How sweet?! I love the dresses from La Coqueta. Something like this would be adorable. I also love the styles from Sal E Pimenta. If she’s not into the fancier styles, you might consider Pink Chicken. I have lots of friends who swear by this brand for littles who have outgrown the Peter Pan collars.

Q: Current hair care favorites?

A: Still using and loving Roz Foundations Shampoo and Conditioner (15% off with code MAGPIE15). If my hair needs a good scrub, I love Goop’s G.Tox salt scrub and this scalp scrubber. If my hair feels over-dry, I’m obsessed with this conditioner. I’m growing my hair out and I am finding most products really weigh my hair down more noticeably than they did when my hair was shorter, so I’m finding less is more these days. I use a tiny bit of either Oribe Royal Blowout or Davines All in One Milk (like one spritz in my hands and use only on the ends of my hair) as a protectant / detangler. Currently in my cart: this shampoo that Nicole Cassidy recommended (queen of long hair!), as it seems well-suited to longer hair health.

Q: Dreaming about the Bottega Andiamo but way out of budget. Anything kind of like it for less?

A: Yes!!

Q: Which jeans did you end up keeping? Fellow petite! Loved the try on reel.

A: Thank you so much! I thought it would be easier to see how the jeans fit/move in video format. I kept the SLVRLAKES! I am still unsure if I’m going to hem or not — maybe I kind of like the longer length? — but I felt like the wash and fit made them more versatile for all kinds of affairs.

P.S. Sometimes its fun, and profound, to surprise yourself.

P.P.S. Warm weather getaway finds.

P.P.P.S. My intention for 2024.