Jen Shoop, Author at Magpie by Jen Shoop

By: Jen Shoop

This morning, I am re-publishing an essay I wrote two years ago, when sending my son off to school for the first time. Perhaps you will relate to its pitch as you wind up the school year, prepare to send your child to sleep away camp for the first time, or watch your child graduate. I, too, was reflecting on its sentiments this past week as I placed a few orders for my son’s imminent fifth (!) birthday. I know we carry all the ages of our children inside, but the agony of not having those ages here-and-now, freckle-faced and wide-eyed in my lap, burns like a loss. But! Today I find myself reassured. None of these emotional stabs and twinges are nefarious, or harmful. They are love made manifest.

If you’re rounding the corner or closing a chapter in your motherhood journey, sitting with you today.

*****

On Tuesday night, I tossed and turned. I tried every trick in the book, including those breathing exercises: “Focus on your breath. In, out, in, out. Think about your lungs expanding and filling with air. Every time an errant though arrives, slick it away.” Futile maneuvers, all: my focus rolled away from me like yarn. Instead, I continued to fixate on all the details of my son’s imminent first day of school. Had I packed the extra masks as instructed? I’d need to get the first-day-of-school flag down. Would he sit still for a picture? What backdrop? The sinister lurked just beneath: how had I not spent more of our mornings together soaking him up? Why had I not knelt beside him to run trains over the blue rug in his bedroom that morning last week he patted the ground beside him, commanding me to “play, mama”? Oh, it was agony — to lie awake on the penultimate night of his babyhood and recount all my missteps and oversights as his mother. The entire saga was tinged with the bruiselike tenderness of just having made it through this bumpy patch with the children at home too-long — mini had been out of school for nearly a month and a half! –and my patience worn thin. I have tried, I told myself. I have done my best, I insisted. The pit in my stomach turned its cheek at my remonstrances.

Tuesday night, I still felt mother to a baby. Wednesday morning, I watched a small blonde boy march straight across the icy street, hand in his father’s, and straight into the care of his new teacher, without so much as a glance in my direction. I signed a form, indicating his temperature that morning (COVID protocol) and, in the fluster of exchanging clipboards and sliding my daughter’s backpack over her shoulders and balancing on the crunchy snow of the curb, he was whisked away from me wordlessly. I knew this was for the best, having lived through and observed many more protracted separations on the pavement in front of school. But still — a throb. I insisted Mr. Magpie pull the car up so we could spy on him as he filed into the outdoor play area in front of his Montessori. He waited behind another child for his turn to scoop birdseed into a dish. His head cocked to the side as he lowered the dish in, as if estimating. The gesture seemed jarringly mature. Has he always done this? I could see half his face — determined, curious — and I felt again the divisive pique of motherhood: that these children are mine, but that they also belong to themselves. That tiny shift of his head sent me into a nearly physical distress over the thought that he would soon be entering the classroom, and sitting at his small table, and waiting in line for the toilet, and that I would not bear witness to any of those small happenings. When he is near me, I can envision his thoughts and wants. I can sense mounting frustration, can gauge by gait whether he is tired, recalcitrant, excited, can even anticipate what he might be retrieving as he wanders into a particular room in the house. Now, it feels as though those tethers have been clipped. He is his own.

I returned home, crying the entire way, and texted a girlfriend of mine who went through a similar, emotional transition with her second child starting school last fall. She reassured me in all the right ways. She shared that her son has blossomed while in school, and that she treasures listening to the voices of her two children chatting about teachers and classmates and concepts like “hemispheres” and “alphabet sounds” (they are also a Montessori family) at night. She reminded me that our sons are developmentally ready to be away, and that they need time apart from their moms. And then she said: “But you should let yourself feel all the feels. It just shows how much you love your role as a mom.”

The words came like a hug. I realized that instead of using this transition as an occasion to browbeat over moments I have missed or blindly marched through in my son’s baby years, and instead of mourning his babyhood, I could welcome this moment to just sit with the awareness that I love him so much I don’t want anything about him to change. And to see that there is nothing dark or rueful or terminal afoot: it is all borne by the same love that carried him into this world. He is mine, and he is not mine, and my emotions around these truths are just permutations of love.

So sitting here today with droopy hearts dancing in my eyes.

Until 11:30. When I pick him up, and remember that he is not really gone so long (two hours?) and that he is still the same wee man who will not sit still to let me dress him and loves to roar “IRONMAN!” and pilfers milk from me at 5 p.m. on the dot like a little street urchin. “Milk?” he pleads, his eyes raindrops. He will be that boy until he’s not, and then I will love the next version of him, and then the next, and then the next, and so we will continue on, improvising through every shade of love.

Post-Scripts.

+”…Do all parents feel this way as their babies grow? This toggling between togetherness and separation? The merging and submerging of the self? I will occasionally see in her the expression of her nanny, or the learnings from a class. “Elmo,” she insists when she sees the bright red cartoon character on a juice box or advertisement, though I have never shown her Elmo. Where did she learn that? And I cock my head and think, “My little shadow has ventured away from me and learned something new.” Settling into parenthood, I think, is a gradual drawing and redrawing of the lines around the self. This is me, this is not me. You are an extension of me, you are your own self. I carry you in my heart, you are my heart outside my body.” More of these thoughts (not far from the ones above, but written two years ago!), here.

+In case you caught the reference, big old hearts dancing in our eyes is a lyric from a John Prine song Mr. Magpie loves.

+Another musing born of a great John Prine song.

+My thoughts here reminded me of the Shel Silverstein quote: “I can be someone’s and still be my own.”

+Things I love about my daughter.

+Transitions are tough.

Shopping Break.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation. Image via.

+Cute, well-priced cover up. Also love this rainbow striped one, which could also be worn as a day dress. I did end up ordering this rainbow striped pareo from Cesta I’d been eyeing for awhile!

+While we’re talking swim, a few standout suits: this lavender eyelet Solid & Striped, this Zimmermann, this dramatic Maygel Coronel, this striped Staud, and this botanical Agua Bendita.

+Amazing Amazon steal — such fun patterns!

+A great summer dress for something like a graduation, end of year school event, etc.

+Seashell earrings are trending right now — love these TBs. Look for less with these or these.

+Love this strapless mint green dress from hip label Posse.

+Chappywrap just launched a lightweight version of its popular blanket for summer. Such great prints!

+Hanna Andersson has some cute kids separates for summer – love this striped skort, this red white and blue tee for FOJ, and this cheerful dress.

+Don’t miss FRP Collection’s new summer collection. WOW! You know how much I love my mint green petite Sylvie bag. I might need this pink crochet, too.

+I think this romper is adorable! I might cinch with a belt.

+If you are sending a little one off to camp, how cute are these jammies and this camp stationery?

+Drooling over these Prada mini bags.

+Freda Salvador restocked its popular woven flats in some fab summer colors.

+This sailor-style dress for a little lady…!

+$30 striped dumpling bag.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

I spend a lot of time alone. I work for myself, in my own home, and our children are out of the house at school and then extra curriculars between 8 and either 3:30 or 5:30 most days. I do eat lunch with Mr. Magpie around noon, but beyond that, I’m solo for much of the week. I was made for this eremitic life — or perhaps I unknowingly sought it out. I enjoy my own company and feel most myself when alone, or in the sparing company of a few close friends and family members. As I get older, I find myself more in tune with my own physical and emotional limits, and I can tell you that I require a lot of solitary time in order to function at my best. If I run on less, I’m all awkward angles and grinding gears.

Since starting my new fitness regimen a few weeks ago, it’s felt like I’ve been spending even more time than usual by myself. But when I looked closer, I realized I’m still netting the same number of solo hours each week — it’s just that working out, especially running, gives me more “quality time” with myself than usual. When I run, I am unpacking, I am planning, I am revising, I am self-criticizing, I am reminding myself to go easy. I am sometimes circling a drain, fretting over things I did or didn’t do, and sometimes swinging through a near-euphoric stratosphere (thank you, runner’s high) as I tick through all the things I have to be grateful for. All of this unexpected “me time” has led me to reflect intensively on this past year in which I have learned so much about myself. I have been working, yeomen-like, through my instinct to smooth things over, appease, please all parties — an instinct that led to a situation that boiled over last year. I have been staring it straight in the face, and plundering its pockets. What is this continuous urge to reassure others “it’s OK,” and “no problem” and to hush my own perceptions in order to make space for others? I think some of it is shaped by my birth order (oldest daughter), some of it is my innate personality, and some of it was forged by a few experiences in my childhood that led me to believe that following the rules, not causing any trouble, and taking up as little room as possible was the safest and most virtuous way to move through the world. Recent experiences suggest otherwise. But it is difficult to unlearn something so deeply wired. It has felt like slowly taking myself apart, brick by brick. (I’m not at the foundation yet, either.) I have asked myself, “Do I need to do this? Do I need to unlearn this?” I think the answer is yes. Arthur E. Smith wrote: “Metamorphosis is the naturally occurring consequence of paying attention.” So, yes — I am looking closely at myself and rearrangement seems to follow. After all, I want to be able to stand still in my center rather than waving away, dismissing, diverting attention from something that’s not fair, right, kind–or that’s just not something I want to do. Last summer, one of my girlfriends observed me contorting myself to accommodate the wishes of others, and she shook me gently on the shoulder and said: “But, Jen, this isn’t your job.” A seismic shift in the space of six words. I had not even conceived of the fact that there might have been a path in which I was not pretzeling around the needs of others.

I think what I’m after, here and in so many other areas of my life as I turn 40, is an internal, equipoised quiet. A place of buoying equilibrium in which I balance the various inputs around me without over-compensating in any one direction. You know how when you first start a workout routine, it is difficult to maintain balance while lifting one leg, or one arm, or lunging on one foot? Over time, you develop the core muscles necessary to make these movements without windmilling through the air. Slowly it becomes easier to stabilize. That’s where I want to be — strong at the core.

So, a lot of wood-chopping on these morning runs. Maybe God put me on this fitness journey because I needed a quiet place to meet myself, and take a look at what’s been going on beneath the hood.

Onward, as we say —

And, a few little snapshots from the week, too —

When the good ice cream is on sale at Whole Foods (don’t mind if I do), plus the epitome of #fashun: Birks with socks and leggings. (But really, you do need these leggings — the best colors, a perfect fit, and a soft-but-slightly-compressive brushed cotton material.)

Holding hands with Mr. Magpie on the way back from an impromptu Monday night dinner out with the kids. We were listening to Rhye’s “Stay Open” with the windows down and the spring air in our hair, and our children sleepy in the backseat, and it was one of those golden moments I won’t soon forget.

Glass of red wine in a juice glass in my favorite chair — so relaxing. Spoiler alert: I did not look at all like Cindy Crawford.

Running through the Little Falls park trail that leads to the Crescent Trail. It is lush and overgrown — exactly what I think of when I try to describe D.C. — at least the Northwest quadrant of it in which I grew up — to someone who’s never visited. I wrote about this elsewhere: “D.C. has always seemed, to me, small and slack — like a mildly overgrown thicket or a tumbler of water that’s been sitting, sweating, in the heat, a ring of water pooled around its basin. There is a languor to it — especially in the summer — underscored by the heavy shade of trees you’ll find most anywhere in Northwest D.C. in particular, and the torpid buzz of cicadas, and the canopy of humidity. The lush green spaces are unmanicured; street signs are often partially obscured by vines or branches; medians will occasionally boast knee-high grass. There is a thickness, a drawl to things, that has always made me think of the city as part wild — but not wild in the awe-inspiring sense of the Rocky Mountains; wild in the sense of the wood playhouse my father built with birch planks from Hechingers and installed at the top of a small hill in our backyard, beneath a shady pine tree. We played in it for the better part of two weeks and then found spider webs and raccoon droppings in its interior, and purple splotches of bird poop on its roof. From then on, the playhouse was the answer to many rounds of truth or dare that typically ended with one of us screaming as we’d jet down the hill, swiping phantom creepy crawlies off our shoulders. “There was a rabid squirrel in there!” my sister once told me, eyes wide. Like this playhouse, D.C. felt wild in a parochial sense, in a backyard animal sense.”

Celebrating my father-in-law’s birthday (which spurred the writing of this post!). The kids living their best terry cloth lives in Minnow (outfits linked here). I loved catching this snap of my boy with his hand on my in laws’ dog, McDuff. A mini Tilly, and he looks like he’s pilfering for crumbs here.

Our friends has a Derby party with the cutest details. I asked, and my girlfriend got the Derby cups from When It Rains Paper (lots of other designs available). I brought them a few little gifts including this Fishwife x Fly by Jing Smoked Salmon. Amazing what a little ribbon and some crinkle paper do for presentation! The gift beneath is wrapped in one of these handy Gwrap bags from Joy Creative Shop. No tissue paper, no ribbon, no box needed! You seal with one of their provided sticker labels.

Elizabeth’s roses in bloom on the side of our house. I watched them accommodating the breeze for a few minutes one morning and then had to play John Prine’s “I Remember Everything” a few times and have a good cry. (More on that song here.)

We made an excursion to the nursery to buy some more herbs and plants this past week, too. My son wore this tennis racquet sweatshirt every chance he had this week. I’m sure all mothers feel this way about their children, but I could stare at them all day long and never stop thinking how beautiful they are.

Hope you have a good week, Magpies. Go easy!

P.S. A few fun orders I made while writing this post: this lemon-lime lightweight sweatshirt; these novelty shades in the blue; these jelly Eleftherias in the fun blue; this dress; and these mesh flats (I’d been eyeing a pair of mesh flats forever).

P.P.S. My summer reading list.

P.P.P.S. Updated my Shop, my Shopbop hearts, and my Amazon shop!

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation. Image via.

What Inspired Me This Week…

+BRUNA MARQUEZINE AT THE MET BALL: Wearing Tory Burch. Geez, she looked incredible! My jaw dropped when I saw these photos! If I were getting married tomorrow, this would be the inspo. Can you even?! Seriously spectacular.

+ON MAINTAINING WONDER: This little reminder from Instagram account Orfayo made me pause. It always moves me to think about all the things I have now that I once dreamt about.

+SUMMER SKIN: Hanni is offering 20% off sitewide with code BDAY. I’ve raved about these “lazy girl’s approach to hydration” products many times, but can’t rec the splash salve more. You apply it in the shower, out of the direct flow of water, and then walk out of the shower with deeply moisturized skin. I love it, and usually follow up with the spray-on lotion. Both work wonders and are a good pricepoint — especially with the 20% off sale! I also just received a new razor from Athena Club (gifted), along with the handy razor cover for travel. In summer, I like to layer on an oil on my shoulders, legs, decolletage for a glow — I love Osea’s Undaria Oil (a divine, light citrus-y scent and very quick-absorbing — 10% off with MAGPIE10), Hanni’s Aura Oil (virtually invisible and scentless), and the oils from Olio E Osso, a small female-founded business out on the West Coast. The latter are the heaviest, FYI. I’m feeling ready for baring summer legs!

+REAL PREPPY: Did you know “preppy” has a new meaning among the younger generation? My teenage next door neighbor described it as “Lululemon and bright colors” — not the madras, popped collars, and boat shoes of my youth! The outfit below, captured by Kennedy Magazine, is the essence of “true prep” to me. This outfit is iconic. The ever-sharp and observant penned an entire post on this exact outfit, why it works so well, and how to recreate it last week. I totally agree — it’s an incredibly well-worn, well-styled look! The sharp lines of the sunglasses makes the entire vibe work. Also, the chic pea’s boat shoes made me want to buy these fab ones from Sebago’s collab with Sessun.

+WHAT WE NEED TO LEARN: Every week or two, I listen to a bit more of Pema Chodron’s audiobook, When Things Fall Apart. It’s a lot to listen to in one go, but absorbed in small bursts when you need a boost, it’s pure gold. This week, she said: “Nothing goes away until it has taught us what we need to learn.” Wow (!) Words as unsettling as they are reassuring. We can’t hide from what we need to learn — it will find a way. I’m keeping this in mind the next time I’m struggling to “get over” or “move on” from something. There’s probably a reason why it’s clinging to me — I need to lean forward and figure out why.

+FISHERMAN SANDALS: I’ve been wearing these $125 raffia fisherman sandals the last several days straight. They are so comfortable and add interesting texture/dimension to any look — sort of like the “wrong shoe theory,” but applied lightly. They are currently 20% off with code MAGPIE20 (as are any orders at Anthro over $100 for full-priced clothing and shoes). The code is only active through tomorrow. I’m so impressed with Anthro’s shoe assortment right now — loads of on-trend, and even north-of-trend (e.g., early adopter trend status) styles for under $150, plus my code saves us a little extra. Here are a few of my top picks.

(ALL MY TOP ANTHRO SHOE PICKS)

+I’M A SHORTS PERSON? I’ve avoided shorts for a long time — I think because I always feel like they make me look like a child? (I’m petite / 5’0.) I’ve been sharing thoughts on styling my Agolde white shorts in posts here and here, and have been surprised by how often I wear them. I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks? Very comfortable and I am finding lots of new ways to style. This has led me to wonder if I shouldn’t consider other shorts. All of these would look perfect with a simple white tee, tank, or button down (all my favs here).

ALEMAIS SHORTS // ZIMMERMANN SHORTS // MARYSIA SHORTS // SANDRO SHORTS // SNDYS X REVOLVE SHORTS // OLD NAVY SHORTS

Like, how cute are those Old Navy ones worn as a set with matching shirt for a beach day?

Imagine with a bold bag from Miu Miu or Loewe?

What Inspired You This Week.

+Thank you for all the love on this vulnerable post — it was tough, raw etchwork, its own kind of absolution, and I appreciated all the notes, DMs, emails about it. Sometimes I take screen shots of the lovely notes you send me to flip back to when I need a little cheerleading or creative encouragement. One that went into my “Go Jen!” bank this week read: “Had me tearing up in the first paragraph, weeping openly in my office by the end. Thank you for sharing. Needed this today.” Whenever I question whether something I’m writing is too vulnerable, I think about a quote that runs something like: “You never know when your writing/art/offering is the exact shape of the hole in someone’s heart.” The language is overblown, but I do feel the general shape of the sentiment to be true. I can’t tell you how often I’ve found refuge or direction in the words of another. Just being seen, heard, felt, reassured! Anyhow. Wishing you all the gentler seas you deserve.

+My favorite comment this week, from a fellow fine-hair-suffering woman: “I also have superfine straight hair. I swear it has never done an interesting thing in its life.” Solidarity in our determined-to-be-Tuesday-in-February hair. But also! Your comments on hair care were interesting. A little groundswell of support for the silk pillowcase as a gamechanger. (Quince has a 100% silk one for about half the price, FYI.) You all enumerated its benefits: gentler on hair (less hair shedding), prolongs blowouts, prevents wrinkles, runs cooler than cotton. Think I’ll give this a try.

+Bestsellers this week: wow, so many of us bought this summer wedding guest dress! (20% off with YOUROCK).

01. BEST SUMMER WEDDING GUEST DRESS // 02. MY NEW FAV SUMMER BLAZER (I OWN IN WHITE) // 03. GINGHAM TOP // 04. SWEETEST WHITE DRESS // 05. STRIPED KNIT PANTS // 06. MY RAFFIA DAD SANDALS (SURPRISINGLY COMFORTABLE) // 07. A FAB WHITE TEE (THINNER / MORE TUCKABLE THAN LESET MARGO) // 08. HAPPY FEET // 09. STRIPED HUNZA G // 10. CUTEST EVERYDAY DRESS* // 11. MY FITNESS RESISTANCE BANDS // 12. TRUFFLE POPCORN // 13. DAISY NAGHEDI // 14. STACKABLE STANLEY CUPS

*20% off through 5/12 with code MAGPIE20.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

WORK DAY: AGOLDE PARKER LONG SHORTS (MORE STYLING IDEAS HERE — I WENT UP A SIZE IN THESE FOR A LOOSER FIT) // ALEX MILL CARDIGAN // SEZANE BLOUSE // K. JACQUES X DOEN SANDALS // APC BAG // DORSEY NECKLACE

HAPPY HOUR AT MY IN-LAWS: SOLD OUT NYC TEE // ALTUZARRA BAG // J. CREW JACKET // MOTHER JEANS // MAGICAL PLATFORMS // MODAFLEUR EARRINGS

MY FAVORITE EXERCISE OUTFIT THIS WEEK: LULULEMON BIKE SHORTS // LULULEMON TANK (OLD, SIMILAR HERE) // BEYOND YOGA BRA // NIKE SNEAKS // LEFT ON FRIDAY SWEATSHIRT // DORSEY CLEMENCE NECKLACE

WORK DAY + ERRANDS: VELVET BY GRAHAM & SPENCER BRYLIE PANTS (GREAT FIT FOR PETITES – RUN TTS) // SOLD OUT NYC TEE // ALEX MILL PARIS JACKET // FREDA SALVADOR FLATS (15% OFF WITH MAGPIE15) // MIGNONNE GAVIGAN NECKLACE (20% OFF WITH JEN20) // DORSEY CLEMENCE NECKLACE

FIRST COMMUNION FOR MY GODSON, HOME CHORES, + DERBY PARTY: LAKE PAJAMAS BRUNCH DRESS // MIGNONNE GAVIGAN EARRINGS // LOEFFLER RANDALL LEONIE FLATS // DANS LA MAIN BAG

WORK DAY INTO FRIDAY NIGHT: PRINTFRESH X HOUSE THAT LARS BUILT DRESS

WORKDAY FOLLOWED BY DINNER WITH MY PARENTS: JULIA AMORY SHIRT + PAREO // DOLCE VITA SANDALS

WORKDAY + LUNCH DATE: ANTHRO SOMERSET DRESS // ANTHRO FISHERMAN SANDALS

P.S. What does your job say about you?

P.P.S. The first thing we do in the morning.

P.P.P.S. Cute children’s finds.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

Good morning! Email subscribers received a special edition Summer Kit this morning with printable intention cards, recipe cards, a summer playlist, shopping roundups, summer finds, and more. I had so much fun compiling this digest, and it left me feeling more prepared and excited for what lays ahead. Subscribe here to receive it in your email.

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This year, I’ve organically fallen into a habit of identifying a single-word intention every month or two. I’m not precious or calendared about it, but I’ve found myself intuitively seeking a mantra to repeat in moments of tension or tenebrosity. This year, I’ve focused on words like yutori, flow, space, ease. Between the density of funerals, the loss of our Tilly girl, and recovering from the situation I wrote about earlier this week (not trying to be elliptical, just observing privacy here), I suppose I’ve needed the yardage. I love the visual of “easing my way through things” versus “making my way to the other side” — in the former, I’m gliding through clement waters; in the latter, I’m hurdle-jumping onto pitiless pavement.

The other day, Mr. Magpie and I were walking out of the wine shop together, and the salesclerk called out: “Alright, folks — take it easy.” I thought: amen, sir. That’s just what I’m going to do. Take it easy. You know I can’t resist an easily-forged connection to HRH Mary Oliver, so let me again share her fabulous couplets from the second half of “When I Am Among the Trees”:

Around me the trees stir in their leaves

and call out, “Stay awhile.”

The light flows from their branches.

And they call again, “It’s simple,” they say,

“and you too have come into the world to do this,

to go easy, to be filled with light, and to shine.”

A bit longer than my standard one-word formula, but I’d like this summer be about “going easy, and being filled with light.” Looser schedules, lots of outdoor dining, less makeup, more movement.

What about you?

A pretty little summer mood board below…

A few beautiful summer finds…

SERENA & LILY COUCH // POSSE LINEN DRESS // LILY OF THE VALLEY HAIR CLIP // RATTAN LAMP SHADE COVER // HILDON WATER // SEERSUCKER NIGHTGOWN // KATIE CORLEY CUPS // MARYSIA SWIMSUIT // WEEKEND SKIN // JOIE BOOK // RATTAN CHAMPAGNE BUCKET // ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS // JULIET DUNN DRESS // CELINE SUNGLASSES // SARAH BRAY SUNHAT

Some great summer recipes to try…

Summer Couscous Salad

An Easy Summer Icebox Dessert

Linguine and Clams

Mai Tais

A Cocktail for Mezcal Skeptics

Buttermilk Biscuits

Magpie Margaritas

P.S. Imprints of a new lifestyle. (On trading New York’s charms for suburban bliss.)

P.P.S. The sun still rises.

P.P.PS. Getting ready for sunny days ahead.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

You may have noticed that I’ve been focused on my hair in 2024. I’ve always felt meh about my hair — it’s ultra-fine and resistant to any and all attempts at volume, and it doesn’t hold a curl but somehow easily bends in weird ways. I’ve been trying to grow it out and take good care of it this year, because I do believe that a good outfit day starts with great hair. Below, a few of my favorite products I’ve discovered (or returned to, as they case may be):

+Mielle Rosemary Scalp Oil. I blend this with Anablue’s hair treatment oil and work into my scalp a few times a week, adding a little dropper-ful to massage into my ends, too. I think this has made the biggest difference in giving me healthy-looking hair while I try to grow it out. My hair is shinier and stronger, and the ends don’t look shaggy and sad, as they have in years past when I’ve grown my hair out. I like to tie my hair back in these terry scrunchies when I apply these oils.

+In the shower, I love Roz’s Foundation Shampoo and Conditioner (very similar in smell, lather, and experience to Oribe, but less expensive, and you can refill the aluminum bottles with these pouches) or Davines Oi Shampoo and Conditioner. My one gripe with Davines is that they put their products in unhelpful bottles. I prefer a pump style bottle for both! But that Davines scent is beyond heavenly. I can’t stop smelling my hair when I’ve washed with this! I find the conditioner is great when my hair is on the drier side (in the winter) — it’s heavier than the Roz.

+When I want a good, deep cleanse, I use Goop’s Gtox Salt Hair Scrub. It is incredible and somehow leaves hair voluminous and springy — as if you’ve really, deeply cleansed your scalp and your hair is just happy and bouncy as can be because of it. (All of my favorite Goop products here — there are a lot! I’m a Goop fangirl.) If I need an extra deep cleanse, I use this little scalp scrubber tool. Awhile ago, I used a shampoo that had protein in it and I just could not get the residue out until I used the salt scrub and this tool — I’m so grateful for this combo!

+When my hair is looking the opposite — dry, frizzled — I use this Crown Affair Mask. It literally changes the texture of my hair into a soft pillow!

+I am constantly playing around with the priming / detangling products. There are so many good ones! Right now, I usually use the hair milks from either Roz or Davines first, before detangling. I’ll spritz on towel-dried hair and find this helps with the detangling and priming process. I am sparing with the amount — like half a pump of each, applied mainly to the ends, as my hair is fine and can be easily weighed down by too much product.

+I always use this detangling brush to get the knots out of my wet hair. I’ve used it for years, since my mother tucked it into my Christmas stocking. A must have. The palm style brush gives you a lot of control. Once it’s detangled, I use the Mason Pearson (<<on sale at Gilt). They are pricey but they last forever and ever and are a truly fantastic product. I read somewhere that it’s about the way they distribute oil through your hair? I have no idea, but they work wonders. And for a round brush — I have used this Spornette for years and years now.

+Just before blow-drying, I apply another product. Lately, I’ve been loving this “glass hair” product from L’Ange, applied after my hair is about 2/3 of the way dry and once I’ve sectioned it for blow drying. The mist is ultra-fine, which I appreciate — I hate when a product applies in dense concentrations, especially given the fineness of my hair. I don’t know that it gives me “glass hair” but it does yield a very smooth blow out, with a great finish/polish. I use this when I want a sleeker look. If I’m going for more volume/texture/bounciness, I’ll use a combo of Roz’s AIR Thickening Spray and Root Lift Spray. All of the products I’ve mentioned here are good for folks with finer hair, but you must still use sparingly.

+For hot tools, I have been loving my T3 Airebrush (also available at Sephora). It’s like a more powerful version of my Revlon 1-Step. It has a cool air setting that apparently “seals” the blow out — I really think this is true, and I also think the T3 is better able to achieve tension with my hair strands, which yields a sleeker result. Sometimes I do a rough dry with my ancient ConAir blow dryer first. I’ve been planning to upgrade to a Dyson AirWrap for a few months now — I’ve been lording it over my own head as a reward for achieving a personal goal — and will eventually bite the bullet. I know so many of you worship this tool! I do have to mention that I’ve been having my hair blown out professionally quite a bit (more on that below) and a lot of the stylists rave about the Dyson for personal use but say they’d never take it on a professional outing, as they aren’t reliable! Several have said theirs have died / been on the fritz while mid-session. Take that for what you will! Interestingly, almost half of the stylists that have come to do my hair in my home have used this DryBar blowdryer! Some of them have said this is because they also work at DryBar and are simply used to the tool (and/or maybe the company gives them one for free?), but several have insisted it’s the most powerful and reliable dryer on the market.

+Speaking of DryBar, for sectioning hair, I have a pack of these hair-sectioning clips that have lasted an actual eternity. I think I bought them over a decade ago and they’re still going strong. They don’t snag as much as the cheaper Amazon ones.

+For extending a blow out, I can’t speak highly enough about my new Mane thermal brush. It heats up in seconds and then I use it to curl my ends back under and give my hair body and life after it’s been slept in. I am honestly astounded at how well it works, and it only takes a minute or two to run through my hair. In love. When my hair starts to look a tad greasy, I cannot implore you enough to try this dry shampoo from Vegamour. I really like the Living Proof stuff, but eventually I found I could not stand the smell. Vegamour is even better, without the smell.

+I also did buy this splurgey hair perfume from Byredo. I love the clean, crisp Blanche scent! I find this is fantastic for refreshing hair when it’s a day or two old, or (I hope this doesn’t weird anyone out) if I’ve done my morning exercise and not washed my hair afterward. I’ll rinse my body, but I can’t imagine having to wash and blow dry my hair every single day! How do you all handle this?! (Right now, I’m doing the Heather Robertson 12-Week Program so am exercising almost every day of the week, but on the days I tack on a run, I’ll also wash and dry my hair; the days I just do HR at home, I’ll just rinse my body.)

+I keep this tiny brush in my purse most days. It is SO good. Sometimes, if I’m really short on space when traveling, I’ll only bring this!

+For tying my hair back, I’m in love with Slip hair ties — they hold hair in place without snagging. Quince has a really good “look for less” product, too! I gave a few to my sister and she freaked out — we both love these things but can’t stand spending money on them. Ha!

+Last but not least, I have been indulging in more regular professional blowouts, usually at home with Glamsquad. I always feel like a million bucks afterward. I find the stylists more consistent than the ones at DryBar and it’s so much more convenient! (Also, if you use the codes they offered us — $20 off for new users with code JenniferS and $15 off for repeat users with code JenniferS15 — they aren’t that much more expensive than going to a salon. I think a blowout via Glamsquad is around $80 in the DC area, including tip, whereas the last time I went to DryBar, I paid $68 or so, including tip. All my promo codes are here.)

+A few products/ideas I’m intrigued by at the moment: 1) I somehow stumbled upon a hair stylist’s account and she insisted that the secret to great hair days is a double shampoo first. She said the first shampoo preps and the second actually cleans. I don’t know what you think of that, but I’ve been doing this the past few weeks and I do notice that the second shampoo lathers really beautifully. I do worry I might be over-using/wasting product and possibly drying out my hair though. 2) My friend Stephanie mentioned on Instagram that the key to great hair is a silk pillow case. How many of you use one? Slip has an iconic one I’m eyeing, but I hate the way it will mess up my beautiful bed vignette! 3) People have been going wild about Crown Affair’s Dry Shampoo. Hard to imagine it could top my now-beloved Vegamour, but it’s on my radar to try when I’m next out.

What other hair tools and products do you love?

P.S. What goes into your “everything shower“?

P.P.S. Great beauty products under $20.

P.P.P.S. Bringing focus to everything we do — one of my top mantras.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

First: had to mention Doen is running a Mother’s Day sale! It includes several of my favorite dresses: this mini, this smocked maxi, and this fab everyday striped dress. I ordered this top — now under $100.

Now onto the questions!

Q: Melamine plates.

A: We use these constantly, year-round, usually for breakfast or the children’s meals. I also love these patterned ones from Rhode, and the classic Juliska set (more of a splurge, but you’ll never get bored of them, and white shows food best). This inexpensive set in white has a Juliska-adjacent vibe — you get service for four place settings for under $80! Last but not least, I have consistent good luck with finding great seasonal melamine plates at Target — love these bold green striped ones, and I have and own these square snack plates in a different pattern and we again use them ALL the time. They’re great for children’s snacks / side plates of fruit at dinner / etc.

Q: Recently moved to DC. Any tips for dealing with hair and humidity?

A: I do not have this issue with my hair (the ONE charm of having very fine, straight hair) but have heard amazing things (specifically from Sydney) about this anti-humidity spray.

Q: Makeup setting spray that lasts.

A: This Charlotte Tilbury. Purchased on the rec of Katie. Wow wow wow. I’ve tried several sprays before this and always thought “smeh, did it do anything?” This really makes the makeup stay. I’m blown away. I usually need to “refresh” my makeup by afternoon, but not so with this bad boy. I also recently had my makeup done by an artist who I loved — the best makeup application I’ve ever had — and paid close attention to what she used: Nars radiant concealer, Armani foundation, Two-Faced mascara. At the end, she raved about this makeup setting spray. I have it on my list to buy when my CT is out!

Q: Hot mom summer – chic stuff to lunch with girlfriends AND chase our destructive toddlers.

A: I’m seriously digging the white Agolde shorts with a simple, but high-end tee and great sandals like these or fun ones like these. I also think all of these breezy, bold dresses from Mille are easy to wear and so chic.

Q: Would love to nail the “set” look of matching shorts and shirt.

A: Old Navy has a really cute striped set out (top, bottoms) in great colors. So easy to wear and inexpensive for a trendy look. If you want more of an investment, I love this Zimmermann set (top, shorts) and this Alemais one (top, shorts). Farm Rio has some sets that are midway between the two price points — I love this top, these shorts.

Q: Summer jammies!

A: Of course my top rec is Lake (I’ve been getting a lot of use out of this set — comes with both shorts and long pants depending on temp!), but if that’s not your style, you might consider the washable silk sets or ribbed cotton sets (<<own and absolutely love this dreamy set) from Lunya or this pretty pink set from Negative. I like the way Negative’s pieces are both supremely comfortable and sexy. Three other options: this ultra-soft Eberjey, the vintage-style nightgowns from If Only If, and this sweet nightgown from The Great.

Q: Eye mask for sleeping.

A: Full-disclosure: I rarely sleep with an eye mask as I prefer not to, but when I have been in situations that have warranted it, this Slip is a dream and feels like wearing nothing. My four year old son occasionally asks to sleep with an eye mask (!!) and has stolen two of these from me! If you’re a serious eye mask sleeper who needs black-out conditions to sleep, you must buy a Manta. I’ve seen this talked about and upvoted in countless Reddit forums. The people love it!

Q: “Run out to grab dinner” this summer — easy but nice-enough outfits.

A: I live in my lineup of Julia Amory caftans! I feel like they look polished when paired with Eleftherias and Dans La Main straw tote, sometimes with a statement necklace layered in.

Other dresses I love that play in a similar space (easy to wear all day, but still look polished): this Zara, this Loretta Caponi, basically anything from Juliet Dunn, Marea, and SZ Blockprints, this H&M, this Ciao Lucia, and Hill House’s Cosima dress.

Q: Summer work/play shoes.

A: I love these Freda Salvadors and these woven flats (upgrade pick: LR) — feel summery but still polished — for a low-key work environment (e.g., probably wouldn’t work in a law firm, but for most of us, perfect). Pair with shirt-dresses. For “play,” where to begin?! I mean, I am already dipping heavily into my sandals this season and have been consistently reaching for my Eleftherias, Gucci dad sandals, raffia DVs, and these Anthros.

Q: Summer shorts.

A: You must get these Agoldes. I am so late to the game but have been wearing constantly.

Q: Business professional summer for the office.

A: A summer weight suit from VB like this navy blazer and these pants. Pair with a crisp button-down like this in a contrasting color. Look for less on the suit with this J. Crew blazer (I own and can attest to quality – excellent) and pants. Also love the idea of this vest (look for less with this) with these pants (so, so good — I actually wore a twist on this outfit to two funerals recently, but swapped out the light colored vest for this and paired with black suede pumps like these). If you’re a dress girlie, I love this, this, this, this.

Q: On the hunt for a pink MOH dress for a July art museum wedding. Under $300 ideally.

A: My top rec is this Amanda Uprichard. Sexy, sophisticated, polished. If the vibe is less dressy, I’m obsessed with this linen Posse. Hot pink: this Anthro (20% off with MAGPIE20). If patterns are permissible: this Ref. Slip dress style: Rails.

Q: Easy midi/maxi casual day dresses for petites.

A: Hi fellow petite! This Anthro, this HHH (fits a petite figure well — I can take either an XXS or XS), this Doen.

Q: A shopping request for a wedding weekend in the Hamptons this June 14-15. It’s my boyfriend’s good friend’s wedding, my boyfriend is a groomsman, and I’d really like to impress, as this is our first wedding we’ll be attending as a couple. I would love if the dresses were a nod to the beach and summer yet appropriate for the dress codes (rehearsal dinner: cocktail attire and wedding: black tie optional). Budget for rehearsal dinner dress: $200; budget for wedding guest dress: $500.

A: For the wedding: you’d absolutely turn heads in this La Ligne. It’s perfect for the Hamptons — their founders are out there all the time and they really get the vibe. If that silhouette isn’t your favorite, I’d consider this Simkhai. Pair with strappy heels and big gold earrings. For the rehearsal dinner: this Mango, this Faithfull (a little over budget), this Sancia (also a little over budget, but if you get the La Ligne, you save $50 on budget there).

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

01. This new mens skincare line caught my attention (the founder started it after surviving cancer and looking for cleaner options for himself!). I’m always looking for new men-focused skincare options. Recently, Mr. Magpie has been using this face mask. We both apply at night before bed and think we wake up with the brightest, happiest skin. Historically, he’s been a wash-face-brush-teeth-and-get-into-bed guy, but I’ve got him hooked on this new routine.

02. I’m ordering Mr. Magpie a few new pairs of his favorite Rhone golf shorts — they’re marketed as “lifestyle shorts” but these are a performance-y material, and he prefers them for golf. I like the 7″ length. While we’re talking golf: a half-zip in a great color and my favorite brand of golf polo on Mr. Magpie (really nice material and good, lean fit — plus sophisticated stripes/patterns). I’m eyeing this red/blue/white stripe for him. We’ve also been adding to his head cover collection. He has a few from Stitch and Smathers & Branson.

03. Mr. Magpie recently bought us this collapsible Thule trunk organizer. Per usual, he did lots of research on options and even measured standard shopping bags to make sure his pick would accommodate our needs. Surprisingly, some of the cheaper options are not well-designed — have weird dividers or dimensions that do not work well with a standard Whole Foods style paper bag. Anyway, we’re both obsessed with the organizer. It’s sturdy and keeps everything in place. I literally sent him this text this week. Are we losers or what?! Haha!

04. I mentioned this over the weekend, but picked up a few things for Mr. Magpie from Sezane, seen above! My exact order here.

05. Mr. Magpie loves these terry cloth polos in the summer. He owns in navy and white and they’re perfect for throwing on with swim trunks when going to/from pool. Love the striped option, too.

06. For weeked wear, he also really likes the Weekend Short from Todd Snyder. He has a few pairs, including one in a lightweight cord material that he likes. If those are a bit too leggy for your man, you might consider these from Faherty (6.5″).

07. A very handsome loafer. Love the logo-less-ness and clean lines.

08. If your gent is into cocktails, I found this cool company that sells fancy ice. Ice really does make a difference — the shape, the quality — if you’re serious about cocktailing! TBH, if anyone served juleps for the Derby, you know how annoying it is to hand-crush ice (we use a Viski Lewis bag, but it’s hard work if you’re doing more than two cocktails), and very few of us have pebble ice machines (#goals)…but that ice is kind of essential to the outcome of a good julep. You can buy bags of pebble ice, too. Filing that idea away for any future Derby or Tiki-centric parties.

09. Mr. Magpie absolutely swears by this deodorant. He speaks in exclamation points about it. A tube lasts a very long time, and it does not have that overpowering drug store scent. It can be weirdly hard to find, going in and out of stock, so he always buys in multiples.

10. Mr. Magpie bought himself and his father these crab-emblazoned “grandpa hats” from Duck Camp. Both are blue crab enthusiasts! I also like the lived-in, outdoorsy vibe of this Tom Beckbe hat, and I recently had custom hats ordered from here for Lan and I that read MAGPIE BIRDING CLUB on the front. You can have this company embroider anything you want on a hat! One of my friends recently had something sweet embroidered on a hat for her dad — I think it was “John’s Home Improvement Crew, Est. 1985” — as she and her Dad do a lot of home repair projects together. Cute idea for father’s day.

11. Topo Chico in glass bottles. Mr. Magpie loses his mind over this. Everyone loves the big fizziness of Topo Chico, but it’s extra dynamic and delicious out of a long-neck glass bottle.

12. Mr. Magpie keeps Supergoop sunscreen in his golf bag, and he constantly raves about it — it goes on so smoothly and invisibly, and it really provides coverage in spite of these qualities.

P.S. That time he handed me an envelope containing the universe.

P.P.S. Falling in love with Mr. Magpie at UVA.

P.P.P.S. A recent love note to Mr. Magpie: “I love the way you echo through my daily chores and counterspaces.”

By: Jen Shoop

Image via.

I experienced a heartbreak last year.

And now, seasons later, emerging from the cowl of its happening,

I stand in the cool of my spent emotions.

I see the way it shaded my world, tinting everything blue,

and look down, now, to see my feet, planted where I live, in the backyard of my Bethesda home, and color-corrected. I feel the spring sun on them, and I salute the Tilly bird in the arbor vitae, a red-breasted cardinal where a dog once panted, and think of loves lost.

Half of me wants to say that time heals all wounds, but this winter of pizzicato anguish deserves more than short-shrift.

“These are the days that must happen to you,” wrote Whitman, reminding me that I would emerge where I was destined to go, but not without the acute pain of passing through the present. There’s no way out but through, unless you want the subterranean soul to crawl out sideways, and always at inopportune moments, like at the grocery till, when a stranger in the queue asks you something that strikes just the right (wrong) chord.

What I’m saying is that you will find calmer seas, and that you will survive by its luminary, but first you will spend a string of heavy-hooded nights in the storm, topsail straining.

Only then will you stand still and sure in the morning, making a sacrament of its atoned-for rays.

Post-Scripts.

+Forget your perfect offering — an essay on setting expectations aside and being grateful for the present.

+Out with the lanterns — a musing on those life-clarifying moments in which “the volume of life thins out to a pin-prick-thin tone.”

+Jarred, in a good way — on being bad at prayer.

Shopping Break.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

+This hydrangea-print top is so chic! It reminds me of the silhouette of my dress from Damaris Bailey.

+Love these woven Mary Janes from Madewell. Remind me of the pricier ones from LR.

+I’ve been circling around the mesh flat trend for close to a year now. First popularized by Khaite, and now there are tons of looks for less on offer. I might get a sample of the trend for $50 with these — an inexpensive way to get in on the trend as I know it will peter out! (Options in between the two price extremes: Le Monde Beryl and Anthro. Reminder that MAGPIE20 gets you 20% off a full-priced purchase over $100 at Anthro!)

+Yet another great find from J. Crew’s latest collection! I’ve ordered so many items from this launch! I love a striped button-down, and this one has a great fit and fab red stripe. (My other top picks from this latest launch: these fashion-forward espadrilles and this blazer. The blazer has a Veronica Beard vibe – great lines, great material, good amount of stretch, fab gold buttons.)

+OMG. These under-$20 floral bathing suits for little ladies are precious. They remind me of the spendy ones from Sal E Pimenta.

+CUTE striped shorts. I’d pair with a white top or tee (my favorites here).

+This coffee table book is in my cart. Looks like a lovely flip-through-while-drinking-coffee book when I need to take a pause.

+Well-priced, practical dining chairs in non-boring colors if you have children (pls avoid upholstery).

+Love these wavy-edged sunglasses. Anthro has a similar pair here.

+Aquazzura recently released a seriously fun collection of beaded, destination-emblazoned slides and bags.

+A gorgeous, tailored linen midi dress for under $80.

+A few of you asked for a look-for-less version of the uber-trendy, now-sold-out The Row Jelly sandals: check out this pair from Ancient Greek. Another Magpie suggested these from Jeffrey Campbell — the caginess/coverage of those shoes feels more similar to the pair from The Row!

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

Through tomorrow only, Shopbop has discounted a ton of current-season pieces up to 40% off, including the Altuzurra tote you’ve been seeing me wear constantly, and a slew of Hunza Gs in great colors. The tote is beyond fab – roomy, well-structured (stands up on its own), with high-end details (I love the roping/weaving on the straps). It introduces such fun color to any outfit and looks at home with jeans and a tee or a beautiful sundress. Also on sale in classic white in a smaller size.

On the Hunza G front: this striped Pamela is 40% off! I’ve never seen Hunza G so low. You might recall this style is my preferred Hunza G style (fit / styling notes here), but I do also have the classic squareneck and enjoy that one too. I find it’s a tad cheekier than the Pamela on me. It’s on sale in a fun orange color, as is their Xandra bikini, in either red or pink.

A few other absolute gems from the sale:

AGOLDE PARKER LONGS (YOU CAN SEE ME STYLING THE WHITE ONES HERE)

THIS HAPPY STRIPED DRESS (UNDER $160)

AN ABSOLUTELY SPECTACULAR AGUA BENDITA FOR A SUMMER WEDDING

THIS ALEX MILL CASHMERE POLO (JUST THE PRETTIEST COLOR)

THIS ITTY BITTY MARNI

THESE APLS — BEEN BUYING LOTS OF FITNESS WEAR LATELY AND WOULD LOVE A PAIR OF THESE

P.S. Shop all my Shopbop hearts here — just updated!

P.P.S. How do you stay on top of household chores?

P.P.P.S. Our favorite household products and repeat buys.

By: Jen Shoop

We compiled all Magpie recipes into beautiful cards for your kitchen! Get the recipe card collection in your inbox here.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

When we visit Mr. Magpie’s aunt at her lake house, she serves a proper happy hour every night — wine or cocktail plus something delicious to nibble on. Sometimes she’ll serve something involved, like a homemade spread with crackers, or a flatbread-type offering; other times, a simple but elegant offering like charcuterie and cheese. Mr. Magpie talks fondly about several happy hour dishes she made in the summers of his youth, especially something called “Kristi Yamaguchi Dip” (ranch dip, whose recipe probably came from an interview with the skater?) and bacon-wrapped pretzel rods. (My mother served something similar at many cocktail parties when I was younger: a club cracker wrapped with bacon. They were always the first to go!). This past weekend, we brought a happy hour spread to celebrate my father-in-law’s birthday: a few dozen oysters, some sparkling wine, fancy chips (Torres’ Iberico Ham flavored ones), and BjornQorn truffle popcorn. (My MIL transferred the oysters to several of her impressive oyster plates, seen above. She’s been collecting for years — these are beautiful mounted on a wall, by the way! — and Etsy’s a great spot to start hunting for gems. Search for Majolica as a starting point! You can find really fabulous vintage ones, too.)

I was reminded, as we pulled this together, of how much I love the nightly tradition at Mr. Magpie’s aunt’s lakehouse: a deliberate time to slow down and chat, without the formality or fanfare of a full meal. A highly recommend “bringing by happy hour” in lieu of treating someone to lunch or dinner at some point. It feels festive, and can often be just as impressive, and it permits the conversation to be the centerpiece. What are some of your favorite happy hour snacks? A few of our go-tos below.

Kielbasi (pan-toasted and sliced into coins) with mustard or Spanish chorizo (pan-toasted)

Bread cheese (you can find this at Whole Foods — also known as Swedish kaffeost or brödost) toasted in a skillet and served with slices of baguette and whatever spread or condiment you have on hand (fig spread, Bonne Maman jam, chili crisp)

BBQ shrimp (a bit more ambitious, but not difficult and can be made well in advance — be sure to serve with paper towels) or cocktail shrimp

Mini toasts with slices of manchego and a smear of membrillo (quince paste)

Gildas (the original pintxo)

Spiral ham with Hawaiian rolls and mustard

Smoked salmon or tuna spread (we buy locally at Black Salt, but Fishwife has a spicy version from their recent collab with Fly by Jing you can buy online) with baguette slices

Little Sesame Hummus with Crudite and Pita Chips or Toasted Pita Bread — I always “dress up” the hummus by drizzling with good olive oil and sometimes fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika

Pimento Cheese Spread (I love the one at Bread Furst) with club crackers

Ina Garten’s Turkey Tea Sandwiches (follow all instructions to a tee — especially important to get a good quality raisin-nut loaf from a bakery)

Trader Joe’s Pastry Pups (I brush with egg wash and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning) with mustard

Whipped Ricotta (literally just place ricotta and a bit of olive oil in a Cuisinart and season with salt and pepper) with Trader Joe’s Fig + Olive Crisps (they often have a few similar varieties), drizzled with Red Clay Peach Hot Honey

Gỏi cuốn (Vietnamese rice paper spring rolls) with peanut sauce — we buy from favorite Vietnamese restaurants and slice in half (Eden Center has tons of great Vietnamese restaurants if you’re local)

Dozen oysters with mignonette sauce

Trader Joe’s Vegetable Bird’s Nests (must be cooked to a crisp or they are unappealingly soggy, FYI)

Breadsticks (thin, crispy kind) wrapped with prosciutto

Slices of cantaloupe wrapped in prosciutto and drizzled with anise liquor and fennel seeds

Alexia oven fries served with three dipping sauces: mayo, malt vinegar, and ketchup

For even smaller nibbles: Regalis truffle popcorn, Virginia peanuts, Torres chips, Trader Joe’s Patio Chips (I loveeee these), Ranch crackers, Mitica Teralli crackers (different flavors available), cheese straws, bar mixes like this or this, Flufa cheese pastry sticks, good olives (dressed up with extra olive oil at home), shrimp chips, Mitica spanish cocktail mix.

Share your recipes, ideas, brands in the comments, too!

Post-Scripts.

+My Grub Street Style food diary.

+How to make really good cocktails at home.

+Lessons from entertaining.

Let’s Go Shopping.

+Three very pretty white/off-white dresses for summer in varying styles: this crochet, this Reformation, and this eyelet Natalie Martin.

+Speaking of Natalie Martin: they’re running a sample sale with lots of goodies. How great is this $75 eyelet cover up?

+The Target dumbbells I just featured over the weekend are 20% off. I keep adding new weights as I try to figure out what my true “light,” “medium,” and “heavy” range are — it’s shifting as I continue to train, too. I also bought a yoga block for various exercises while 20% off. Why do these colors bring such joy?

+With all my new fitness gear, eyeing an organization system like this for our fitness room.

+But back to Target: the Stanley pint cups are buy one, get one 25% off.

+A fabulous statement necklace. Love everything from this costume jewelry brand. Like how great are these oversized red stars for FOJ?

+My fav round brush – have had it for over a decade. Bought after I read this is the brand Gisele uses. If it’s good enough for her…

+Cute slouchy stripe sweatshirt.

+Love the color, silhouette, and pique material of this Boden swimsuit!

+A new razor is essential for swim season.

+This Juliet Dunn…!!!

+FUN, colorful designer tote.

+A clever way to attach your carry-on to your roll-a-board if it doesn’t have that sleeve to slip over the handle!

+Sezane’s newest collection is GOOD. I love this unexpected moody floral, this shirtdress, this top and shorts set.

+This brown floral dress is so up my alley. Love the neckline.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

Seen above: H&M dress.

01. I think we all need this Montauk sailing club sweatshirt from Target.

02. So many Magpies have been raving about Uniqlo’s AIRism line of underwear — I’m officially intrigued! Going to order a few styles and will report back. (All our favorite undergarments here.)

03. I know so many of you are haunted by that crochet Zara jacket I’ve been wearing this season (sold out, but there are a handful at the moment available here, likely owing to returns!) — H&M just released a similar style here!

04. Agua Bendita vibes for under $100. I know many of you already ordered this!

05. FUN statement jewelry from Zara: this starfish necklace (imagine paired with a simple white tee and a blazer) and these fish earrings.

06. My little pink woven circle bag!

07. Easy embroidered caftan.

08. Printed pants! The motif is FAB.

09. I ordered this top in black and promptly ordered it in white — it’s sexy and sweet, and the perfect option with shorts / skirt for slightly dressier occasions.

10. Asymmetrical striped dress.

11. Striped shorts.

12. Cheeriest cover-up / dress.

13. These pants, in the blue and white stripe!

14. Own and love this fun bag in the stripe!

P.S. More spring fashion on a budget.

P.P.S. If you’re new here, come say hi!

P.P.P.S. What do you eat when your fridge is bare?