There is an arresting lyric in the Kacey Musgraves’ song, “Justified”:
“Healing doesn’t happen in a straight line.”
I find this is true of other emotional pursuits, too: grief and growth, for example, are similarly non-linear. I was chasing these thoughts down Bradley Boulevard the other day when I remembered Mr. Magpie once telling me — casually, as if everyone knew this — “There are no straight lines in nature.” And it’s true. There is, occasionally, symmetry, but straight lines do not exist. Grass, branches, coastlines, weather patterns, even the scars on my body — they all squiggle, bend, curve, dimple, flex, retreat, extend. A Mary Oliver-esque reminder, then, to permit those recursions and divots and accelerations in matters of the heart. We cannot wield taut and synthetic expectations in realms where the natural movements of the heart run wild.
A quiet thought for any of us in need of a little grace this morning.
+For me, the triumvirate of literary muses (they would be seated atop of own personal Mount Helicon): Mary Oliver, Joan Didion, and Nora Ephron. Who are the most revered amongst your personal canon?
Shopping Break.
+Loving the earrings from new-to-me label Eliou — j’adore these in particular.
+Two fun mid-winter dresses: this velvet and this plaid organza!
+I’m actually a tiny bit sore that I paid full price for this fantastic jeweled jammie top and bottom set, which I have been wearing out (soo cute and comfortable!), because the entire set is now $34 (both top and bottom…I repeat, $34 for set). I did have my pants hemmed so they hit above the ankle and looked a bit more flattering. I wore these on Friday when my sister came by with dinner and wine for a hang out!
+Another great pear of earrings, these under $40! They would liven up even a basic black sweater!
+I don’t know why it’s never occurred to me until now to buy a box cutter. Would have been very helpful with all the packages that have arrived the last few weeks for the holidays…
+This mockneck sweater arrived last week and I’ve worn it twice in the pretty pink color. I LOVE it. Have been wearing it with my Madewell jeans, this sparkly headband, and metallic Chanel captoes. It’s a perfect lowkey festive look.
+As you know, I love this Etsy vendor for personalized stationery. Just ordered myself a set of these in the block print, and these constantly fetch compliments!
+Gorgeous cane decorative boxes. Similar vibe: these cane hurricanes!
+This modern pedestal is a chic way to showcase a special objet, urn/vase, figural, or plant. Love in the corner of a dining room or tucked behind a chair in a living space.
+I love the idea of cashmere “bed socks.” They’re a thing! Check out these and these.
+This Loretta Caponi is listed as a nightdress but I would 100% wear during the day. Doesn’t it seem that the distinctions are collapsing right and left, between nap dresses and pajamas for evening wear! Did I mention that dress is 60% off?!
+These featherweight long-sleeved tees are currently on sale for $11?!
+Hooded shearling fleece in two great colors. Great for throwing on over athletic wear.
+This cardigan reminds me of Self-Portrait, but costs $62!
+Is it a sign of middle age that I am intrigued by the idea of buying a steam cleaner?! Two children and a dog are destroying everything we own!
+I bought micro this baseball keychain to put on his new backpack. Also contemplating adding a DIY monogram using these stick-ons.
+If you’ve ever been furious at your cling wrap or foil for getting jammed in the box, or for cutting yourself on that exposed jigsaw edge, this is your answer.
*Image above via Lena Hoschek, featuring their gorgeous belted top, now on sale!
Midway through the season, the fastest way to get a little wardrobe boost and make the most of what you have? Sprinkle in a couple of statement tops to pair with your ride-or-die denim or burgeoning trouser collection (how amazing are these?). Below, my favorite current-season tops, organized by qualifier: pick between ultra-feminine and ultra-dramatic.
Feminine Statement Tops.
CECILIE BAHNSEN TOP // VERONICA BEARD RUFFLED TOP // LENA HOSCHEK TOP // PEPLUM KNIT (UNDER $100!) // MARIA DEL ORDEN TOP // HORROR VACUI TOP (ON SALE!) // REBECCA TAYLOR PEPLUM KNIT // ULLA JOHNSON CHAMBRAY TOP (ON SUPER SALE!!)
Dramatic Statement Tops.
J CREW TOP // FEATHER TOP // MARQUES ALMAIDA TOP // EMBELLISHED CARDIGAN // GINGHAM TOP ($120!) // REBECCA TAYLOR PEPLUM KNIT // LORETTA CAPONI TOP // HUNTER BELL HOT PINK TOP // HUNTER BELL IKAT TOP
These and even more options in the boutique below…!
P.P.P.S. Slowing down to appreciate what’s happening now.
By: Jen Shoop
*The above picture makes me miss Manhattan in winter! So special. But also, yuck — slush lagoons.
My Latest Snag:
Meep! Despite the best of intentions, I have found myself needing a few last minute gifts. My go to has been rush ordering Aesop hand wash/lotion sets and these domino trains sets! More ideas here.
You’re Soooo Popular: Gingham + Blush.
The most popular items on le blog this week:
THIS GINGHAM CAFTAN — PERFECT COMING-HOME-FROM-HOSPITAL DRESS FOR MAMA…LOOSE FIT, BUTTONS DOWN FRONT FOR NURSING! WOULD ALSO BE CUTE MATERNITY OR NEWBORN SHOOT OPTION, ESP WITH BABY BOY IN A BLUE OR WHITE FOOTIE (LOTS OF THOSE OPTIONS HERE)…BUT WOULD ALSO WORK SANS BUMP! LOVE THIS IDEA OVER A SWIMSUIT / FOR CASUAL WEEKEND MOMENT
I came across some really stirring words this week:
I think this might be not only true of anger but other unsavory sentiments. A good reminder to live with measure, proportion, forethought…!
Post-Scripts.
+Just discovered this wildly popular Tonies box is still available to arrive by Christmas! I bought one for mini but am saving it for her birthday in March. I have heard so many great things! Screen-free storytelling toy!
+How fun is this button-front tweed dress? Chanel vibes for $100! I would wear over a tissue turtleneck. For some reason I imagine pairing with black opaque tights and these glitzy Wellies??
+In a similar vein: this chic tweed cardi is now on sale for under $100.
+Why I was looking at swimsuits the other day, I do not know, as have no plans for warm weather travel, but I love the new style of this Marysia bikini top! Might buy and pair with some Marysia bottoms I already have to update the look!
+But! This is one of my all-time favorite swim styles — so glam and unexpected! — and I wear it season after season in the black and it is on super sale for only $160!!! Also personally eyeing this pink scalloped one-piece to add to my ever-growing Marysia collection…so pretty!
+New-to-me brand B+AB has some really fun styles out and on sale — love this mini and this knit dress, and this one reminds me of an Alessandra Rich!
+Have merc — I am swooning over everything from Caroline Constas ATM! I predict these dresses will be huge for this upcoming summer season wedding circuit…j’adore this, this, and this!
+Two interesting knits to pair with trousers: this square neck style and this peplum.
+These popular slippers are on sale for like 70% off in the prettiest pink.
+This Horror Vacui dress is 60% off and would be stunning for a family portrait or newborn shoot. I have bought so many high-end pieces on ridiculous sale at Matches, including my small collection from Horror Vacui and Emilia Wickstead! The prices are SO good!
JUST ORDERED SOME MORE OF MY FAVORITE COLLAPSIBLE STORAGE CUBES — I’VE BEEN WORKING ON MINI’S CLOSET AND NEEDED SOME MORE
THIS $90 CUBBY SYSTEM IS SUPER SIMILAR TO OURS, FROM IKEA, AND IS A BRILLIANT AND INEXPENSIVE SOLUTION FOR A PLAYROOM…YOU CAN USE THE CUBES TO STOW BOOKS, GAMES, PUZZLES, LITTLE BINS OF TOYS, ETC, AND EVERYTHING IS ACCESSIBLE TO LITTLE HANDS!…THE AFOREMENTIONED CUBES FIT IN THE CUBBIES SO YOU CAN LINE THE FIRST ROW WITH THESE AND STOW THINGS LIKE DRESS-UP, BARBIES, ETC IN THEM
WHILE WE’RE TALKING PLAYROOM, THROW THESE INEXPENSIVE SHERPA FLOOR PILLOWS ON THE GROUND ALONGSIDE A CADDY OF BOOKS!
ADORABLE QUILTED PULLOVER AND SHERPA FLEECE FOR A LITTLE LADY
$22 SNOW BIBS IN CLASSIC BLACK — GREAT IF YOU DON’T WANT TO INVEST A TON FOR MINIMAL SNOW, BUT CRUCIAL TO HAVE ON HAND! (UPGRADE PICK: POLARN O PYRET, WHICH IS WHAT I’VE PURCHASED FOR MY CHILDREN THE LAST FEW YEARS)
INEXPENSIVE THROW BLANKETS TO KEEP BY THE FIRE PIT!
A GREAT WEEK-AT-A-GLANCE PLANNER I USE IN SUPPLEMENT WITH MY BIG PLANNER…THIS IS MORE FOR WHEN I’M PREPARING FOR A BIG EVENT/DINNER/PARTY AND NEED TO ITEMIZE WHAT NEEDS TO GET DONE EACH DAY IN SERVICE OF THAT EVENT
P.P.P.S. Have been thinking a lot of my friend Elizabeth these last few days. Some days I sw
By: Jen Shoop
In what feels like another lifetime, I used to purchase cocktail party dresses with no specific occasion in mind. I remember dropping by Neiman’s in Chevy Chase Pavilion (RIP) and Intermix in Georgetown and raiding the sale sections on a regular basis in search of cute little numbers from Milly, Shoshanna, and Amanda Uprichard in particular. It was not uncommon for me to buy something too big because it was on sale but not available in my size, and then take it to the excellent tailor on Wisconsin Avenue, just next to Vicky’s Nail Salon. She would often tsk at my decisions — “this is way too big!” — but then work her magic. A good tailor can absolutely transform your wardrobe and you with it. Clothes that used to feel iffy on the attractiveness meter catapult into “this is epic on me” territory. Anyhow, such was my level of commitment to arranging a striking lineup of cocktail party attire options, because — at the time — my social calendar was dominated by semi-formal occasions: date functions while in college and then, in that footloose period in my early 20s, engagement parties, receptions of various kinds, weddings, bachelorettes, birthday parties, and holiday cocktail parties. Opportunities to get dolled up and turned out abounded.
Nowadays, I can hardly remember the last time I needed a new cocktail party dress. I’m not sure whether this is a function of life stage, COVID, or what I perceive to be a slow but steady erosion in formality in general in our generation. (Like, people wear jeans and t-shirts to the Metropolitan Opera and the Kennedy Center, for evening performances!) To be sure, my loved ones and I create our own semi-formal occasions. I will be head to toe in sequins on Christmas Eve, and I have a sequined Saloni waiting for NYE at home with my man, too. Mr. Magpie is accustomed to my plying him to get dressed up, and one of my sisters loves to call me the night before we have dinner plans and say: “OK, but let’s go all out.” And then she will show up at my doorstep — even if we are just eating at home! — wearing head-to-toe Jacquemus or some other designer cooler than I, right down to the four inch heels. We all agree: it feels good to get dressed up. It tells a story. It is a small, semi-frivolous way I respect myself (though there are many modalities for such expressions, to be sure). It elevates the average. It makes me feel as though I am participating in a social history with a long tail, as though somehow my wearing a gold lame cocktail party dress in 2021 is connected to Marilyn Monroe wearing hers in 1953. It is all reference and allusion, and it can evoke something powerful on a given night. I don’t feel I am exaggerating when I say that an unexpected velvet heel can transform the trajectory of an evening.
And can we all agree that there is nothing more attractive than a man in a tuxedo? Ay carumba! I cherish a montage of happy moments Mr. Magpie and I shared while dressed, or getting dressed, to the nines in our 20s. I loved the way his dress clothes smelled and felt, freshly pressed and vaguely of the cedar he keeps in his garment bags, and the way he stood in front of the mirror while tying his bow tie, his hair still a little wet from the shower, his hips always squared off. It was as if just putting on the dress clothes made him stand a little taller, which is saying a lot for him, because he has a distinctive, shoulders-thrown-back stance to begin with, possibly hangover from his years as an athlete or his time in a marching band or his father’s insistence on such markings of the gentleman. I liked flitting around the bathroom readying myself while he’d wait on me, usually drinking a beer. I can still see him, glancing around the room idly, suppressing the desire to remind me “we have two minutes until we need to leave and you’re still in your underwear.” He would be leaning against the bathroom wall, balancing on his shoulder blades, while I’d road runner around in a cloud of perfume and pearls. I swear he spent half of his twenties waiting for me to get ready, draining Heinekens. And then, even though he’d watched me dress and blow-dry my hair and put on my jewelry and apply lipstick and perfume over the course of an excruciating hour, and even if we were running late, he’d stand back and take me in and say: “My beauty wife!” As though seeing me for the first time. He still says this, God bless him, and it takes me right back to those long hours getting ready in our first apartment, his hands around a Heineken, and my feet still bare, and us both giddy with the anticipation of a long night with friends and cocktails and oh my gosh, I can’t remember any of the specifics of those evenings, and it’s all just a blur of satin and girlfriends complaining about their heels and one-too-many G&Ts and our fiances hailing taxi cabs and “should we go to Town Hall for one more drink?” and the way Mr. Magpie would idly rearrange his pocket square — he does this still, but when and how did he learn to care about the countenance of a pocket square? — and me wearing Mr. Magpie’s tuxedo jacket when I was too cold, and I am nearly always too cold, and the swoosh of my shimmery dress against the lean figure he cut in all black, and him unbuttoning his suit jacket before sitting at the dining table (do all men do this? I’ve never cared to notice, but have always found it peculiarly gentlemanly), and — oh my gosh, the details overlap and smear, but it feels right to say: “We were together — I forget the rest.”
And it feels right, too, on re-reading this, to see how I started by thinking about how much I love to get dressed up and ended by thinking about how much I love my husband. Because I am learning that the more I think back on my younger years, the less anything else matters but him. Writing about this time is like melting a glacier: at first construct, there is ice, and danger, and hard and slippery surfaces, and the sense of the substantial. But under pressure and over time, those forms dissolve and give way to just him and me, alone and in love. And often dressed to the nines.
+You can read even more about our relationship here.
Shopping Break.
+If you’re feeling inspired by the sentiment, lots of festive wear here, here, and here.
+May I specifically call out this $69 stunner?! Saucy magic!
+If you are thinking ahead for a spring occasion, Self-Portrait just released a bevy of beauties, and I am particularly obsessed with this lavender scalloped lovely. Otherwise, Caroline Constas FTW!!!
+A glam robe hook and a perfect robe to hang on it. I have been hearing such good things about these robes and am very intrigued. I just retired a waffle robe from Pottery Barn I had for years and years because it was basically in tatters and think I will test this one!
+I am drooling over this traditional, romantic-looking luggage. I want an entire set!!!
+Have we already talked about how much I love eye palettes? I really hate buying individual shadows — it feels like too much pressure to pick the right ones that will layer/go together nicely, and they are so expensive on their own, especially when I don’t go through an eye shadow palette very quickly. This Tilbury set is right up my alley — neutrals that can be dolled up with eyeliner for evening, or made dramatic along the lash line with the darkest color it includes. My one exception to this palette-only rule: Laura Mercier’s Morning Dew, which I will always and forever buy in individual sizes because it is, for me, the perfect everyday shadow. It is brightening but natural. J’adore.
+Speaking of Laura Mercier, there are a bunch of her cosmetics on sale at Nordstrom Rack, including the oil-free version of her fabulous tinted moisturizer (with SPF), for almost 50% off!!!
+BTW, have shared this 1290848 times, but this $8 eye liner is the absolute best. It is identical to Stila, which I swore by for years.
+WOW — these $120 flats are so incredibly chic. They remind me of Prada!
+I like the idea of these knit pants with a pair of pointed to flats to sort of elevate the look.
+As you probably know, I swear by my day planner. I use it to map out in tremendous detail every single thing I aspire to get done, including making doctor’s appointments, writing thank you notes, organizing my drawers, and, of course, blog-related activities. Last year, I bought one of the Day Designers and initially loved it, especially because it has all these fun goal-setting prompts and fill-ins early on. But over time, I found it annoyingly bulky. And because it is so thick (like 2″ thick), it is kind of hard to write on because as you get to the bottom of the page, your hand is dangling off the edge uncomfortably. I liked the detail and space, but not enough to legitimize the heft/inconvenience, and I also found I usually only used about half of each page to document my to-dos. This year, I went with this inexpensive, no-frills style that still has enough space to write down daily goals but you can see everything at a week’s glance. Will report back!
+A bunch of shops are offering last-minute free expedited shipping — Lake is a forever favorite of mine to gift.
+We have gotten into a rhythm of giving mini a wall calendar each year. We find the wall calendar so helpful for easing transitions (i.e., back to school, weekday/weekend, etc) and preparing her for what’s ahead (doctor’s appointments, play dates, etc), and — I can hardly believe it — Hill starts school in just a few weeks (wahhh!) and I think this will be a helpful instrument for him, too. I am going to give them each one in their stockings this year, but they could just as easily be a little surprise on the first day of the year. I got mini this superhero one (she loves Marvel, though I was torn for almost a full day between Marvel and Disney Princess, as she adores both) and this Disney Junior for micro. Last year, mini had a Snoopy one which was great because it comes with these clever little stickers to put on the pages to mark common events — vacations, first day of school, last day of school, doctor’s visit, party, etc. You can also buy sticker sets for this purpose if yours doesn’t come with them.
+If I could wear a high-end, formal dress from any designer, I would pick Markarian. I love their feminine but structured pieces. This would be the perfect mother of the bride dress, and I want to wear this to a wedding myself. And some lucky size 4 lady will find this ridiculously chic top from Markarian at a fabulous price for her winter getaway this year.
+Also: some epic pieces at The Outnet for formal occasions, including this punchy Johanna Ortiz.
+Also: wide-leg wool Max Mara trousers for 50% off. I’d feel like such a boss in these!
+Chic rehearsal dinner / bridal luncheon dress for a bride-to-be. More bridal finds here!
+These marbled ornaments are so gorgeous, and now on sale, too!
+Who doesn’t love a trending book? This or this would be perfect gifts for girlfriends, neighbors, book club friends, etc.
+These little figurine toobs (tons of versions — fairies, sealife, space) or little colored pencil sets ($14 for 6!) are great to have on hand to wrap up for little neighborhood friends!
+Sticker books like these and these are always popular with my children, too — easy to gift!
+This mini rechargable flash light for any man in your life. Like, Mr. Magpie has this and will not stop talking about it. I mean, it is well-designed, but…it’s a guy thing. Trust, he will love this. It is magnetic (strangely comes in handy – have seen Mr. Magpie affix it magnetically to the under-sink area while fixing things), has different light settings, requires no batteries (just recharge), pocket-sized, and insanely bright. I carry this while taking Tilly for her nightly walks!
+Fun $20 feather mules for your trendy mama or sister.
+Glass salt cellar and Maldon salt would be welcome by any cooking enthusiast!
+My favorite sunglasses of all time — own these in three colors. Under $80!
+We have this exact cookbook stand in our kitchen — love the sturdy look and that it can collapse and be put away when not in use. Pair with a trending cookbook, like this baking one!
+Pendleton throw — these are iconic. Great family gift!
+New Balance running gloves — the kind of thing you don’t really know you need until you buy them and wonder how you lived without them. Great for a fellow runner.
+Waterproof, portable speaker — bought this for a friend of mine who loves listening to podcasts so he could listen while getting ready in the morning without using his phone. Also great for beach, pool, picnics, etc! Upgrade pick: bought Mr. Magpie this one for use in garden/while doing yardwork.
+These pillows are truly just the best. The exact ones we use in our bed. Bought these for some friends last year after I’d raved about them in their company!
+These Scout bags really make such great utility gifts — I have a few of these that I use all the time when traveling, especially on road trips, or just needed to schlep some items from home to elsewhere (can even work for groceries!). They are super lightweight on their own and come in tons of prints and sizes. I’ve given these as gifts countless times.
+Mother of pearl caviar spoons. For your fancy friends. Or, bring these and a tin of caviar for a lovely night in front of the fire!
P.S. You might find more great inspiration in my favorite cookbook roundup or assortment of items you MUST have in your kitchen, many available on Prime.
P.P.S. Stocking stuffers/under-$30 gifts — again, many available via Prime.
It is bracingly cold on my nightly walks with Tilly. We live on a cul de sac in the suburbs with scant street lighting, and the first few minutes of my walk are so dark, I carry a pocket flash light with me, though I prefer not to switch it on. Those first paces into the cold black are therapeutically disorienting. It reminds me: when we managed to get a table at the storied and Michelin-starred restaurant Alinea in Chicago, restauranteur and head chef Grant Achatz arranged the entry to the restaurant such that you walked from the manicured, upscale sidewalks of Lincoln Park through a tented, narrow, grass-floored corridor before arriving at the restaurant’s actual door. I read somewhere that the intent was strategic disorientation: you pass through that grassy tunnel and you feel worlds away from tidy brownstones and Restoration Hardware. You are close to the earth, then into the bustling warmth of one of the fanciest restaurants in the United States. It is an experiential palette cleanser. You arrive thrown off your gait, ready for the next new thing. And so I’ve fashioned my own parallel conceptual plunge: I go from the glow of our hearth and the din of life with young children into a shock of silence and chill. I think often of my smallness in these moments: me, a tiny dot shivering in a nap dress, walking down this remote cul de sac, and no one knowing about it but yours truly and possibly my husband, if he is not still putting our daughter to bed. The houses are dotted with lights and I can occasionally make out the silhouettes of neighbors passing plates at dinner tables or settling onto couches, and so though I know we are proximal, I feel alone and anonymous. The street is so dark, a canopy of stars appears, unbidden, above me, and the vista is still new to me after years and years in cities proper, where the stars are much more difficult to make out owing to light pollution. I feel minuscule in their presence, in a pleasant way. I think perhaps going from being the very center of my household — the mother, the wife, the household administrator — and spending an entire day focusing on just the slender contours of our own lives here — to remembering that I am one of uncountable multitudes across the expanse of time and space is pleasantly destabilizing. I feel immediately the insignificance of the matters on my mind. They dissolve into the phenomena in front of me: the prickly cold air in my lungs and the icy pavement beneath my feet and the smoky, woody smell of fires in inglenooks.
The tastes of the day now washed away,
The cold dark an aperitif —
I climb out of my mind and into my body.
Post-Scripts.
+Writing this out made me realize that these nightly walks have become a strategic buffer for me.
+This was an interesting post to revisit recently: “When there is a problem in life, people tend to do one of four things: blame others, blame themselves, sense their needs and feelings, or sense the needs and feelings of others. “The ideal,” she said, “is to hold three and four in either hand and realize that both deserve empathy.”
+Are you going to write new year’s resolutions this year? Here are mine from last year. I think this year my only resolution is to take more time to pray.
+If you like those feathered Sleeper pajamas, but not sure you’d wear the set together, you can buy similar pants here on their own!
+This crochet dress is so unusual and unexpected — but I can’t stop thinking about it. It makes me feel like I’m about to go on a luxury cruise with monogrammed travel trunks.
+50% off and free ship on this easy-to-wear tunic turtleneck situation. These are so heavenly for slow mornings at home where you just can’t be bothered to think about anything but warmth and comfort and a nice, flattering length.
+Terrain is offering 30% off a lot of their holiday decor, including their popular zinc holiday houses (love the lighthouse!) and ornaments (I bought this one, for sentimental reasons) — not too late to buy one for your loved one’s stocking (or simply buy now and enjoy next year).
+More fab ornament ideas here — we’re getting to the time where it’s smart to buy because everything is on sale! Buy now and enjoy next year!
+OMG, this dress brought back some major memories. I had a super similar one from Milly maybe ten or twelve years ago that I wore to several holiday/NYE parties and I feel like that was the dawn of my awareness of my own fashion sense. Like, YES to a big bow. YES to something mildly ridiculous. I remember I felt like a million bucks. Honestly tempted by the sequin reboot, but would wear with these sheer tights that are having a major on-trend moment.
+A handful of the sequin dress I did buy this season available in a pink plaid!
+Fun glitzy heart necklace. And this gold heart by the same brand is on super sale for $113! (More heart necklaces here!)
+Mushrooms are having a moment of some kind — Brent Neale’s necklaces first, now Monse sweaters?! Get the vibe for less with this fun necklace, this cardigan for a little one, and these ornaments.
+OK, how fun are these leggings for a Hungry Caterpillar-obsessed little one?!
+This leaf blower toy is now only $33 and ships overnight in case you are still on the hunt for one final gift…I have seen several happy little boys with these on the instagram accounts of friends!
+This letter template is a super cute digital download — you buy and print yourself, and would make such a sweet last-minute gift for a teacher!
+This sherpa chair for a little one’s room — too cute! Perfect next to a book caddy (also like this inexpensive one) that keeps all books easy to reach.
+A clever way to keep all your papers/magazines/mail organized.
+Similar idea, but this cutting board organizer transformed one of our cabinets and was helpful in NYC when we kept our cutting boards out, on a counter top.
+Had to mention this adorable mini trunk bag again!
By: Jen Shoop
*Photo above of mini a few days old. I can’t even…was she ever so little? She’s wearing a classic Gap stripe onesie they still carry (love the trim detail). Gap is a great source for itty bitty basics that little ones will wear for all of a week or two — the NB or under 7 lb size has been a savior for so many of my mom friends with preemies!
I know I have a lot of expecting and new moms reading along (hi! I see you!), and I thought I’d share a few adorable layette and coming-home outfits. Many of these have earned near-iconic status in my opinion — prints that have been around for a long, long time or styles that will be just as sweet now as they’ll appear in 50 years. If you just can’t make up your mind on a print, or don’t know baby’s gender, go with this timeless white set from Kissy Kissy (the kimono style is really helpful when baby is just-born and still has umbilical cord!) or this crochet-trim Pixie Lily.
Many of these would be excellent gifts, too — to be honest, you just can’t have enough footies and coveralls for babies under six months. It’s not uncommon to go through multiple outfit changes a day!
Layette Finds for Baby Girls.
*Note: if you go with a TBBC footie, today only, they are offering $1 monograms and free ship with code SPRING! So go ahead and splurge on your newborn with initials on the booty!
KISSY KISSY BLUE JACQUARD // TBBC STORK PRINT (FIRST OUTFIT MICRO EVER WORE!) // KYTE SLEEP SACK (THESE WERE MY FAVORITES!) // JELLYCAT ELEPHANT // RIBBED COTTON SET ($12!) // PAPER CAPE COVERALL // PACIFIER // TWO-PACK CARDIGAN SET ($20 FOR BOTH!) // THIS TAKE HOME SET IS DARLING (THIS IS ALSO A CLASSIC) // LOVE TO DREAM SWADDLE // HAT AND BOOTIE SET // THESE LA COQUETA KNIT SETS WERE AMONG MY MOST TREASURED OUTFITS MY BABIES WORE // TINY SOCK SET // GIRAFFE SWEATER // LIVLY BUNNY COVERALL (ONE OF MY FAVORITES ON MICRO) // TARTINE ET CHOCOLAT RATTLE // RALPH LAUREN DOUBLE-BREASTED COVERALL // RACHEL RILEY BUS COVERALL (PERFECT FOR A LONDON BABY — MICRO OWNED THIS SIMILAR SOLDIER ONE) // MATTE PACIFIER SET
Layette Finds for Baby Girls.
TARTINE ET CHOCOLAT SLEEPSACK // HOODED CARDIGAN // DE BUCI TEDDY (BOUGHT ONE OF THESE FOR MICRO) // KISSY KISSY PINK JACQUARD // KNIT BOOTIES // CASHMERE BONNET // DAISY PACIFIERS // STRIPES FROM 1212 (SOMEHOW ON SALE FOR $20!) // CROCHET RATTLE // BOW SWEATER // TBBC BOWS (MINI HAD THIS PAIR!) // MARIE CHANTAL FOOTIE (THE COLLAR MAKES IT FEEL SPECIAL) // CASHMERE POM HAT // LITTLE ENGLISH BOW PLAYSUIT // SHERPA SUIT // PACIFIER CLIP // JACADI FLEECE SET // HERMES BOOTIES
Not seen above but worth mentioning:
+Widgeon fleece coats are such a dream for little ones. These run really big, FYI. I think mini wore a 12 month size for like two years. They are warm and soft, the velcro closure makes it so easy to put on and off, and the hood cinches around the face to keep it in place.
+For solid white basics: I bought multiples of these little Kissy Kissy caps in white because they went with everything, and I think the quality of Kissy Kissy outstrips the price. Most of their footies/onesies/accessories were still in fantastic condition despite tons of laundering and stain treatment and I was able to pass them down to my son and cousins! Their peter pan collar onesies are worth the investment for this reason, work for boys or girls, and are perfect for layering under everything.
+For collarless onesies, my favorite brand was 1212. SO, so soft and stretchy.
+I loved little knit cardigans like this, this, and this for both of my babies. I always thought they looked cold! These are dressy enough to layer over a “fancy” outfit but work just as well layered over a cotton footie.
+As much as I enjoyed splurging on high-end footies/coveralls, I also bought inexpensive basics like these, these, and these. These were great for back-ups and keeping in my diaper bag for blow-outs, spit-up, etc. I never wanted to keep the fancier sets in my diaper bag because they weren’t worn enough! And — trust me — there will be times where you will be at the bottom of your drawer and still in need of a fresh pajama set, so these just don’t go to waste!
+If you’re looking for a super-splurge-y gift, someone gave my girlfriend this set of Bonpoint onesies and every single mom there swooned. I mean, SO over the top, but so special. Heirloom quality.
+I was obsessed with the Love to Dream swaddles for micro (didn’t know they existed when mini was born!), as they enabled him to keep his hands up by his face but prevented him from waking himself with the startle reflex. Genius! When he got a bit older, we transitioned to Kyte. I love this brand because it comes in multiple weights (there is a 0.5 TOG weight one perfect for summer) depending on season/region, they are incredibly soft, and there is a little cover so the zipper tucks inside.
+A few years ago, I shared some thoughts on how many outfits to buy in each size here.
+Not shared above: I just loved these RR hearts jammies on my children!
+I have given this peter pan collar footie in white to so many new moms, with a big old monogram on the rear end!
+For everyday wear, j’adore these fleece booties I’ve mentioned so, so many times. Stay on baby’s foot, super-warm, and can be tossed in wash.
P.S. Still feel weepy remembering micro’s birth — both a blink and an eternity ago.
‘Tis the season to lounge in front of the fire, linger over a puzzle, and play card games all afternoon. The perfect outfit to accompany such leisure, IMO? Something that is just a notch above pajamas. Below, some finds for the ideal afternoon at home. I do want to specifically call out these Theory cashmere joggers, which multiple of my friends absolutely swear by, and are currently 60% off (!!!), and the fact that I found Cire Trudon candles on sale here! My husband bought me one of these luxe candles last year and they are truly gorgeous and burn for a long time. Such an elegant treat for yourself.
I’M NOT A HUGE HOODIE GAL, BUT THIS CABLEKNIT STYLE IS WINNING ME OVER…AND THERE ARE COORDINATING PANTS AVAILABLE
SHERPA SLIPPER — LOTS OF VARIATIONS ON THIS THEME FLOATING AROUND BUT THESE ARE ONLY $60!
I’VE FEATURED THESE SLEEPER PAJAMAS A TON — AND THEY ARE ALL OVER THE INTERNET! — BUT I FOUND THEM FOR $50 OFF HERE…I ASKED SANTA FOR THESE AND HOPE I SPEND CHRISTMAS MORNING LUXURIATING IN THEM
JOHN DERIAN PUZZLE — ALSO LOVE THE ONES FROM POMEGRANATE…THE QUALITY CAN’T BE BEAT AND FUN TO RECREATE CLASSIC ARTWORKS!
P.P.S. Genuine enthusiasm is massively underrated.
P.P.P.S. Experience is a cruel but effective teacher…
By: Jen Shoop
+OK, Net-A-Porter just further reduced the prices on many gorgeous pieces, including some spectacular scores from one of my current favorite labels, La Ligne. Behold:
THIS CARDIGAN IS IN MY CART IN THE RED (SWOON SWOON)
THEIR DRESSES ARE SPECTACULARLY WELL-TAILORED…LOVE THIS POLKA DOT AND THIS FIRE ENGINE RED MIDI
Something about this brand makes me feel immediately cooler. The tailoring/proportions of this dress feel so easy yet sophisticated, i.e., they are the clothes of a well-dressed woman who doesn’t take herself too seriously. J’adore.
+If the new year brings Marie Kondo vibes for you, too: amen to these sophisticated pantry labels at a fabulous price.
+Shopbop just marked down a bunch of items, including this virtually seasonless dress, this checked dress which is pretty much the perfect maternity or newborn shoot dress (also great for coming-home-from hospital) thanks to the shape and nursing-friendly buttons, prettiest mittens and/or hat (look vintage!), and a floaty dress to buy now and enjoy all summer (or throw into your winter getaway suitcase!).
+A fabulous non-maternity dress that would work with bump/post-partum. I feel like I get so many maternity dress questions — this would work for a baby shower, holiday event, Baptism, etc, etc!
+Really tempted to splurge on this sweater dress for myself. Also super love this one, now on sale. And this knit jumpsuit is BANANAS! More sweater dresses to love here.
+Last minute panic-buy for a woman who has it all for under $250: this key case. I want this for myself…
+Just drawing a line beneath these $117 Loeffler Randall flats I mentioned earlier today…!!!! There are some other epic sale steals in Saks’ designer sale section, including this SEA sweater, this tweed mini, this tie-front cardigan, and this feather-trim top (under $100 and v on-trend). Even more spectacular sale scores (seen below) linked here.
P.S. Cute children’s outerwear. This one has been one of the most popular children’s finds I’ve featured all year!
P.P.S. The kind of pullover that makes you feel more pulled together when you are, in fact, just wearing a sweatshirt.
P.P.P.S. If you’re desperate for a holiday dress at the last moment — I just saw a high school classmate of mine wearing this on Instagram and it was SO CUTE. More festive attire here and here.
By: Jen Shoop
Q: Cold weather coming home from the hospital outfit for me, the mom!
A: Congratulations!!! I would go with maternity leggings (you’ll still need them), nursing tank, a gorgeous long cardigan or coatigan like this, this, or this, and some slip-on statement shoes, like these, these, these (currently only $39 with code), or these. I would keep the cardigan/coatigan brand-new so you look forward to wearing it, but the key is comfort and practicality. With micro, I wore a caftan that was not nursing friendly on the day I was coming home because it was super loose-fitting and I thought it’d be comfortable — which it was — but then it can take forever to be discharged, so I had to keep taking the caftan on and off to nurse throughout the morning while we were waiting. Not my smartest move. Also — if you end up needing a c-section, slip-on shoes are SO crucial! You will not be able to bend over to tie a shoelace to save your life!
If it’s not too-too cold where you’ll be, I’d suggest an on-trend smocked dress that can accommodate nursing (pull-down) like this, this, or this, beneath a chunky cardigan paired with Vibi Venezias (basically my current non-pregnancy winter wardrobe).
Q: Black tie wedding guest at end of January — I am post partum but still want to look fab!
A: Yay! Congratulations to you! I just came across this feather-trim dress (more sizes here) and it is SO fabulous and I feel like it would hug you in all the right places (va va voom in the bust area, figure skimming elsewhere). Pair with fab shoes and an updo. This is a timeless, classic style in black that I would size up in for the time being — won’t hurt too much because the price isn’t too high — and I feel that the draping of the skirt would be flattering. Then splurge on some major shoes and earrings and make those be the conversation-starters. Alternately, these Saloni dresses have been all over the place, and for good reason — SO fabulous and comfortably demure thanks to long sleeves and a modest silhouette.
You might also skim this post for my ideas on formal attire!
Q: Casual outfit ideas for my February trip to Montana.
A: Oo! My brother and his family lived out there for many years and it is beautiful but very cold, so I would focus on a great, warm jacket (Moncler, Herno, and Mackage are la creme de la creme, but this J. Crew comes in great colors and I love the Moncler-esque shape) and some chic but warm boots, like these always-popular Marc Fishers, Sperry Saltwaters, these fur-lined J. Crews, or Danner’s highbrow hiking boot (people in the know — like actual hikers — know and wear these, and I love the bright red laces). (And don’t forget the socks poking out the top!). Then I’d go big on the fair isle front and pack some great layering pieces for beneath. Also – Uggs are back, baby, and likely to be your best friend on this trip.
Q: Gift for our former nanny.
A: I tend to go for something cozy she probably wouldn’t buy for herself, to make her life more comfortable: a pair of warm slippers; a cashmere scarf; a Barefoot Dreams throw; some beautiful mittens.
Q: A classic plaid car coat.
A: Chic! I absolutely love this J. Crew style, this Kate Spade (on sale!), and this green one looks like vintage Miu Miu!
Q: Trousers!
A: I love a trouser moment. Veronica Beard makes beautiful styles, including velvet ones perfect for a dinner party, more casual ones (<<I own this exact pair), and on-trend cords (look for less with these). For a more casual moment, these Nili Lotans and these checked Chloes. Alice + Olivia has some fabulous party trousers out now: these hot pinks and these tartan ones are SO good. I’m lusting after a few pairs from Maria Del Orden, though not sure on sizing and it’s a gamble since they are a small Spanish brand — but I love these tweeds and these dashing cords. And for work: Theory. On an adjacent note, I also like the silhouette of high-rise, wide-leg crops, like these, these, or these — I own a pair very similar.
Q: Work-appropriate fashionable tops with jeans/leather leggings.
Q: A beautiful classy every day bag under $2K that goes with all.
A: I absolutely love this Celine-esque APC (timeless!), this trebd little Loewe crossbody — can double as clutch! — and this leather Anya tote.
Q: A leather cardholder wallet — preferably under $200.
A: Mansur Gavriel has a great one in tons of beautiful colors, including a super fun rainbow one that is just the kind of thing a SUPER chic girlfriend of mine would pull out of her bag, dazzling and startling everyone. I also noticed you can find Marni’s card holder on sale for under $200 in some great colors, including this styling burgundy. Finally, Clare Vivier has a happy little style you can personalize and still bring home for under $150, and this straight-forward one can be hand-painted with your initials!
Q: Peter Pan collar top for my 6.5 year old to wear under a Christmas jumper.
A: Getting this in just under the wire – sorry! Why are basics like this so hard to come by?! Bella Bliss and Classic Prep have great styles. They are pricey but very well-made, and I find investing in basics like these that can be layered under anything is worth it.
Q: Quality flats that don’t break the bank.
A: Hunt for Loeffler Randalls on sale. I find these shoes to be the most fantastic quality and very on-trend (even trend-anticipating!), and the starting price is already considerably less than a designer pair. These velvet Mary Janes are so on-trend at the moment, and only $117, and these high-vamp ballets look like a pair by Mansur Gavriel that have been all over the place the last few years. I have LRs from close to a decade ago that are still hanging tough — this is a brand that actually makes beautiful, well-made shoes for the price, especially when found on sale!
At around the $200 mark, I’ve heard such great things about Ann Mashburn’s pieces, including these timeless suede ballets, and I know people swear by Margaux flats (currently 15% off with code STOCKUP).
Q: Secret Santa gift under $30.
A: Fun! I shared lots of fun ideas in this price range here, but yesterday’s post made me realize a few things I would probably fight to get in a White Elephant situation…
During those ten days when Mr. Magpie was self-isolating and I was caring for the children in quarantine, I tried to treat myself to small slivers of self-care in the evenings, once the children were down. One night, this meant opening a nice bottle of wine, putting on a Christmas movie, and eating delivery Shake Shack, re-plated on our good china. Another night, this meant applying my favorite combination of face masks (Origins Rose Clay Mask on forehead/t-zone and Clarins V-Facial from cheeks down to neck), drawing a bubble bath, and doing absolutely nothing. I’d actually brought my Kindle and my devotional to the tub with me, but ended up permitting myself to just lay there and soak, doing nothing but enjoying the quiet and warmth. And still another, this meant re-watching Bridgerton while scrolling through Instagram and shopping on my phone. I usually follow the “One Screen at a Time Rule,” which is a helpful prophylactic measure to prevent myself from distractedly frittering away an evening while not actually consuming anything (how can you absorb anything with so much input?!), so it felt delicious and even slightly wrong to let myself tune in and out and aimlessly fall down Instagram rabbit holes. The point: permitting myself to be a little over-indulgent, relaxing my self-imposed rules, and letting myself sit and do absolutely nothing at all. Why do I feel the constant urge to be doing something, even while bathing? Like, can’t I just let my wind wander?
Nothing novel here, but I will say these tiny stretches of pampering helped me through that time, mainly by slowing the clock and giving me the rare luxury of time not designated for anything at all. I think there are even tinier ways to express self-love, like taking the time to set up your work station or meal prep station or even gift wrap station this holiday season so that it is calm and visually pleasing. This might mean clearing the area of clutter, lighting a candle, pouring a full carafe of water with lemon and cucumber in it, brewing some favorite tea, putting on holiday music, slipping into favorite slippers, dimming or brightening the lights, etc. The same goes for breakfast — why not plate your English muffin on your wedding china, or pour your morning coffee into a treasured mug? Why not launder your sheets in fancy detergent every now and then? Etc.
A few little finds to abet your next slice of pampering…
PORTABLE WATERPROOF SPEAKER — SO YOU CAN PLAY RELAXING MUSIC OR A PODCAST IN THE SHOWER/BATH
BEARABY WEIGHTED BLANKET — MY SISTER + BROTHER-IN-LAW ADORE THIS THING…MUCH CHICER THAN OTHER WEIGHTED BLANKETS I’VE SEEN
HAIR CLAWS I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT — PERFECT WHILE WASHING FACE, APPLYING MAKEUP, OR JUST PULLING HAIR OUT OF EYES!
5-MINUTE JOURNAL — CARVE OUT SOME QUIET TIME FOR GUIDED JOURNALING
T3 SHOWERHEAD — MULTIPLE SETTINGS AND A FILTER TO YIELD THE BEST HAIR WASH AND SHOWER YOU’VE EVER HAD
BILLIE RAZOR — I DON’T THINK THIS IS ANY DIFFERENT THAN GILLETTE, BUT A) IT’S CHEAPER, B) IT’S PRETTIER, AND C) IT’S EASIER BECAUSE THEY SHIP REPLACEMENT BLADES DIRECTLY TO YOUR DOOR
