By: Jen Shoop

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

This week, I had my first session with a personal trainer. I arrived in a mildly apprehensive state — despite prostrating myself to the writing gods on a daily basis (and, accordingly, enduring routine failures in my efforts), I generally avoid things I know I will be bad (or beginner-level) at, especially where an audience is involved. I find I push myself too hard in order to meet the expectations of others in these types of settings. In general, I think I push myself too hard — overhang from my Type A teen years in a high school environment that prized high achievement. I specifically remember a classmate of mine (whom I adore and still keep in touch with — E, if you’re reading, I see you) who would walk around with a clipboard, highlight and color-code her planner in intriguing and hyper-organized ways to keep tabs on assignments and exams, and keep a thick stack of index cards on hand to drill herself on material between classes. This was high school. I considered the discipline normal, even therapeutic, and desirable. Perhaps all the structure compensated (in ways healthy and not) for the wilderness of my inside world as a teen. Even now, I find I have to consciously coach myself out of a “must get this done at all costs” headspace on a semi-routine basis. It’s a virtue in some situations (I can be a self-directed spartan — a requirement if you are going to write for a living, and work for yourself), but it can be injurious in others. For example, I had a bad head cold earlier this week, and I had to force myself to lay down for 60 minutes even though my body desperately needed it. And when I say Force myself, I mean it. I kept looking at the clock and saying, “In ten minutes, I will lay down…” and then punting the deadline back, despite the fact that I was sweaty and feverish. And I felt guilt (!) about missing a day of exercise owing to the cold since I’ve been so on the ball about it this year. (C’mon, Jen! Let’s create a life baggy enough to live in!). I was able to propel myself through by insisting “you’re where you need to be” once I got into bed. I knew immediately that my body needed the rest and leaned into it.

Anyhow, as I went into my first session, I anticipated scary drills that would exceed my capacity, but was pleasantly surprised by three things: first, the non-judgmental professionalism of my trainer, second, the relief of having someone else do the decision-making for you, and third, the fact that I am stronger than I think. On the first point: I found it easy to take feedback on my form because of the trainer’s straight-forward tone. It almost felt like a neutral force pushing me into the right position. No judgement, no embarrassment, just — “scoop your belly” or “pull this arm in closer” or “flex your foot.” On the second point, I enjoyed the feeling of being shepherded through a range of drills and reps. It was almost like working out on auto-pilot? Like, the moves were challenging, and I am sitting here with aching arms and legs, but at the time, I just went from Point A to Point B because I was told to do so, and an hour of rigorous work evaporated into thin air. Perhaps my people-pleasing ways were, for once, an asset. “You want another crunch? Sure.” “45 second plank? Mhm.” “Move my leg this way? Yes ma’am.” I think this might have been amplified by the sensation of decision fatigue in my personal life. We are responsible for so many decisions every single day! Parenting multiplies the decision points by a trillion. Should I push her to hurry up and finish her breakfast because we’re running behind, or will that agitate her unhelpfully? Maybe she needs the extra fuel today? We’re out of apples, should we do kiwis or bananas for breakfast ? What did I pack in their lunches again — don’t want to be too redundant on the fruit offered. (These exact thoughts actually took place in the span of 1.1 seconds this morning. Just one second, casually packed with thirty five prompts and related decisions. Oy!) Anyhow, what a treasure to be in a situation in which I was the raw material being passed through someone else’s decision-making process. My body was working, but my mind was at rest. Finally, I enjoyed a major ego boost because the trainer conducted some initial strength/stability/agility assessments and told me “for someone who thinks she’s not very strong and only occasionally works out, you’ve got great core strength, balance, and body awareness.” (!!!) I felt like a million bucks! I share this not to self-aggrandize but to say — the same is probably true of you. I had discounted the benefit of having tried lots of workouts over the years (yoga, pilates, barre, cycling); because I haven’t stuck with any of them, and I had always heard that “you lose muscle tone / memory within a week if you don’t keep at it,” I considered those temporary practices fossils from the past, with no bearing on my present wellness or strength. But in fact — ! I did carry a lot from those former experiences, especially in the realm of balance and body awareness, into the fitness room this week. I know how to isolate muscles and best practices for stabilizing (bend knee, focus on core muscles, lock eyes somewhere a few feet in front of you) and am overall familiar with the feeling of powering through when your muscles are shaking. So for anyone feeling like you’re starting at square one because you haven’t taken a fitness class in years, you’re not. You’re already better primed than you think, and probably stronger than you think, too! As we say: onward…!

Another random insight from the week: do you ever find yourself absolutely sprinting through tasks because they feel like they’re “getting in the way” of your real work (as a mom, as an employee, as an entrepreneur)? Things like filling out forms, ordering Valentines for your child to hand out in class, responding to emails, following up on insurance claims, completing performance reviews? Here’s something I’ve been telling myself a lot lately: “This is the job.” Not to say that we shouldn’t work at a rigorous pace, and not to Pollyanna it (no one ever wants to call an insurance company), but just to dispel that grating voice telling me “hurry up so you can get your real job started.” I’m doing my real job. This is the job. Identifying the tasks that occasionally feel like interruptions as “the real work” immediately changes my outlook.

Other things this week…

+Mr. Magpie rolled out fresh pasta for pasta bolognese this week. I was reminded, while he was doing this on a week night, how many different types of love there are. Cooking is one such. I made a little video of him making the pasta here with some of those words transposed over top, and a few of you noticed that he’s wearing the Yellowstone shirt we all bought our husbands for Christmas.

Mr. Magpie always compares and blends multiple recipes, and he primarily consults with these two cookbooks for all things pasta: Missy Robbins and Oretta Zanini de Vita. We use an old-fashioned, creaky hand-crank pasta roller from Imperia, and he achieved the zig-zag trim on the noodles using these beautiful handmade wooden and brass pasta cutters I found on Etsy a few years ago. I love that they’re called “nonna’s cutters.” By the way, the bundle of these items (along with Typo 00 flour — the type most pasta makers use) would make a great gift for a cook!

+These handmade “ripple bowls” (seen above) from Haand still spark such joy. They have a funky organic shape but are the perfect size and depth for pasta, rice bowls, anything with a little sauce. In the background, we plated a roasted squash that Mr. Magpie topped with sage, hot honey, and parm on these salad plates from the same brand.

+I was deeply moved by the comments, emails, DMs about this post on worrying. So many words of encouragement and tonic that I needed to hear. One Magpie shared this quote: “God gives grace for the situation, not the imagination.” She added: “That is to say, it’s easy to get worried thinking about the future, and we can forget that God will be with each at each step, giving us the grace we need. I often repeat this to myself.” Thank you, friends.

+Nike (!! true pinch me moment!!) reached out and offered to send me a few things to help with my fitness journey and I cannot wait for them to arrive so I can work out in pieces that are highly functional and also stylish. One thing I absolutely needed was a pair of non-running / more general gym/training shoes! I have multiple pairs of these running shoes that I love but my trainer pointed out that these are designed for forward motion and that my ankle was often near-rolling when I was doing side-steps / side-lunges / etc. I picked these out, along with these leggings, this sports bra, this tee, and some more socks. A mood-elevating pink moment for the training sessions. I also picked up this cropped tee specifically for stationery bike days in my home and this thermal half-zip for cold weather running. (Thank you, Nike — you could have knocked me over with a feather when they reached out.)

+On related front: I did a review of all of my favorite leggings here earlier this week, and I’m now moving on to find the perfect pair of sweats. The Vuoris (sweatshirt / sweatpants) arrived and I don’t think they’re it for me. I’ll do a full review and comparison but I don’t love the clinginess of the fabric and I feel like the length of the sweatshirt paired with the joggers looks frumpy rather than chic? At the same time, I’m thinking I’ll keep the hoodie to wear on its own because it’s got a nice, light, layerable weight and I’m for some reason in love with the strings from the hoodie? I will say these joggers did work on me despite the fact that I’m short (5’0) because of the “anklet” cinching bottom. I don’t know, now that I’m reviewing the photos, I’m like, “maybe these do have a place in my closet?” What are your thoughts?


+A little reminder that Danrie is running an amazing sale at the moment, and they’re offering an extra 20% off sale prices this weekend. I shared all my favorites here; the extra discount means you can get this beautiful winter parka from one of my favorite children’s brands (Northern Classics) for a scoch over $65. They generously sent me a few pieces from the sale, and I’m especially excited about the jacket for mini and this Bobo Choses elephant set for my boy. I mentioned this earlier this week, but I have a few items from that brand — spendy, but I always feel like my kids look like fancy French kids whose parents work cool jobs in the music industry when they wear them. Ha!

+In the background above, the sweetest Petite Plume sheets. I have to say, my daughter was ecstatic when she came home and the bed was made up with them. She threw her arms around me and said “thank you so much mommy!” (!!!) and was upset when I told her I’d need to launder them this weekend. “Will they still be as soft after?!” So, we’re big Petite Plume bedding fans in these parts.

+You can also see a little cuff from my new La Ligne sweater. I’m so into an exaggerated cuff these days! Also love the ones on this sweater I wore earlier this week, from G. Label, and the Toteme one I wore last week. (Speaking of, the turtleneck version of the Toteme sweater would be one of my top picks from this roundup of wardrobe basics. Have heard a few expecting Magpie mamas treated themselves to it and wore it heavily throughout pregnancy with leggings. Obviously can be worn PP too!)

+Speaking of laundry: just your quarterly reminder to clean the washing tub with one of these packets. I just used up my last one and re-ordered. Absolute magic. I can usually smell when I need to use one — the tub of the washing machine will smell slightly mildewy or just off. This takes care of business in an hour.

+Do you ever have one of those moments where your kids leave the house and you’re busy tidying up and you think, “oh wait, I have two little kids? I’m a mom? How did this happen?” I sort of snap out of my quotidian routine and can’t believe I’m here. I blinked and I have a six and four year old! I had that moment today when I looked down at the pile of pajamas at my feet after I’d shepherded them out the door. May I add that four is the absolute sweetest age? My son was joyful when he realized we had matching pajamas. I know this sweetness cannot persist; soon it will be deeply uncool to match with mom.

+Above, wearing the new mint heart Lake Pajamas. I had hoped to save the kids’ pairs as a surprise for Valentine’s Day, but they saw them and begged, and I acquiesced. Wearing mine with my beloved Weezie robe. Truly one of my most treasured possessions.

P.S. Notes on making really good cocktails at home.

P.P.S. How do you make a big life decision?

P.P.P.S. The story of us. (And also, the summer I fell in love, and the summer of malcontent.)

By: Jen Shoop

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

Image above via. I love (!) that little brass floor lamp in the back. It’s super similar to this RL one I’ve had in a “home” Pinterest board forever.

My Latest Snags.

As you’ll see in the bestsellers list below, a lot of us purchased denim this week! I’m also in the market — facing some major winter doldrums and need new jeans to make my fleet of sweaters feel new again. I ordered four pairs to try last week and will do a try-on next week. My buys were these SLVRLAKES, these Citizens, these Agoldes, and these Sezanes. Will report back on all!

This Week’s Bestsellers.

01. J. CREW ROLLNECK // 02. KHAITE VIVIANS // 03. VIRAL TIKTOK MAKEUP BRUSH ($8! AND REALLY GOOD!) // 04. TWEED BLAZER ($129 AND VERY VERONICA BEARD-INSPIRED) // 05. SOLDOUT.NYC WHITE TEE // 06. SLVRLAKE LONDON CROPS // 07. TARGET WAVY BOWL // 08. HANNI SPLASH SALVE // 09. LULULEMON RIBBED TEE // 10. LAUNDRESS LAUNDRY BRUSH (I SWEAR THIS IS MAGIC — USE WITH A LITTLE STAIN REMOVER AND LIQUID DETERGENT AND GET RID OF ANY MANNER OF SINS) // 11. OUAI DETERGENT // 12. J. CREW JEANS // 13. VALENTINES* // 14. TARGET SPORTS BRA // 15. MY BELOVED AMAZON HALF-ZIP

*These are selling really quickly. Several of the designs I shared earlier this week are now gone! These are so appealing because they come packaged with the little treat so you aren’t, like, stringing 30 friendship bracelets together. I got the dino-egg hatching ones for my son. I presented my daughter with a few options and she chose these Taylor Swift themed ones, which we’ll bundle with these little disco ball keychains.

Weekend Musing.

I know I’m not the only Magpie who loves Harry Styles; perhaps I’m not alone in humming this lyric to myself:

I’m on the roof, you’re in your airplane seat
I was nose-bleeding, looking for life out there

I’m extrapolating here (and I may have written about this lyric before), but every time I hear the words, I think about the notion of sitting in the nose-bleeds section for your own life, and something stirs inside.

I think —

You are the main character in your story.

Let’s live life, not visit with it. (To paraphrase Mary Oliver.)

I don’t want to sleepwalk through my own life. (To borrow from a notion Leslie wrote about recently.)

And also —

Dave Chappelle released a new Netflix stand-up special a few weeks ago, and one of the points he makes is that maturity means recognizing when you are in someone else’s narrative, and, with care, situating yourself accordingly. He positioned this while talking about pursuing his aspirations as a comedian, and how intense and blessed it has been to chase and live out that dream in his lifetime. He added that sometimes, though, he realizes he’s walked into someone else’s dream, and that the moment, or day, or production has nothing to do with him. He’s “just regular Dave,” and that’s OK, too. There is something powerfully philistine about his admission in the context of contemporary cultural mores, and it has something to do with knowing that you are not always at the nucleus. This in essence gets to some of my musings earlier this week on what it means to be a woman of substance:

“A woman of substance can listen without interjecting her own story; she can marvel without battling jealousy; she can endure unkindnesses without questioning herself. She does not need the last word, the biggest laugh, the adulation, the apology: she is full without the feedback. She stands still in her center.”

Ooh, Magpies: how difficult I have found these guidelines. How sometimes, still, even after many life lessons have pointed me in the opposite direction, I crave the last word, the apology. How sometimes I want to bubble over with news of my own world, and yet I know the right thing is to stop and listen instead. Knowing when, and how, to cede the narrative, or to weave together multiple narratives, or to otherwise toggle between frames, requires humility and perspective that I hope to continue to cultivate with age.

I recently read somewhere that “most of the wisdom that comes with age has to do with forgiveness.” Here I see the silhouettes of the same principle.

Onward, Magpies!

Shopping Break.

+You all loved this Target sports bra; have you seen Target’s sock game?! SO GOOD. I have all three sets in my cart!

+Still my favorite cleanser I’ve used the past year.

+Swooning over this new Zimmermann.

+A great ribbed knit top to tuck into high-waisted pants/skirts. Lots of fab colors!

+I’m such a big fan of Madewell’s Perfect Vintage denim line. I find it’s helpful to go down one size in most of the styles in this lane. This pair is on sale for $60. Because I know a lot of us are shopping denim, I also wanted to mention I’ve seen a few people rave about these jeans, too.

+All Alice Walk sweaters are 20% off this weekend!

+Now this is a timeless boot.

+This cardigan (more sizes here) with the matching skirt (more sizes here) is BEYOND good. Perfect for a baby shower, bridal shower, high tea, Baptism, etc…!

+A week or two ago, someone was asking for a wide leg satin pants similar to La Ligne’s Colby, which continue to sell out / are hard to find. I came up with this pair from Reformation, but this $40 pair is worth a look, too! Pair with a striped La Ligne sweater (10% off with code MAGPIE10) to achieve le contemporary look.

+People are still losing their minds over this lip oil. Has anyone tried it?!

+Lululemon’s popular swiftly tech tee also comes in a relaxed fit!

+This embellished tweed dress is fab!

+A pretty box of French hand soaps.

+I’ve been drooling over these denim Chanel ballet flats — these afford the look for less. Very tempted. I feel like denim reimagines the ballet flat, makes it less formal!

By: Jen Shoop

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

Are we done with winter yet?! I’m so tired of the same old, same old! Can’t wait for our trip in a few weeks to mix things up. (My full warm weather getaway packing list here.)

CITIZENS CHARLOTTE JEANS // LE LUXE LINEN TEE // HERMES SCARF (THE REAL REAL IS A GOLD MINE FOR VINTAGE ONES) // BRINKER AND ELIZA EARRINGS

ADIDAS SAMBAS (MORE SIZES HERE) // CITIZENS CHARLOTTE JEANS // BARBOUR BEDALE // GOYARD ST. LOUIS TOTE

GAP KICK FITS // GOYARD ST. LOUIS TOTE // VINTAGE DEVOLD SWEATER* // NO. 6 CLOG BOOTS

*My sister-in-law, who lives in Norway, sent me one of these for Christmas! These are iconic Norwegian sweaters from an iconic Norwegian brand (established in 1853!). I love the way it weaves a little bit of her everydaylife into my very American world. Our lives do indeed become mosaics of the people we love.

J. CREW STRIPED TISSUE TURTLENECKS* // LA LIGNE MINI MARINA SWEATER**

*10% off with code MAGPIE10.

**These turtlenecks are currently on sale for $11 with code…no brainer.

More generally, for some reason, stripes have been sparking extra joy for me this drab January. Any time I feel blah in the morning, I put on a stripe and feel just a little bit more with it.

toteme striped cardigan

TOTEME CARDIGAN (SHARED ALTERNATIVES/SIMILAR HERE) // LE LUXE LINEN TEE // BRINKER AND ELIZA EARRINGS

AMAZON SWEATSHIRT*

*A really good quality — heavy-duty, thick, plush, with a nice-looking gold zipper. You would not guess this is Amazon.

P.S. Where do you find meaningful stuff? Loved the comments!

P.P.S. Cold weather self-care.

P.P.P.S. Long sleeved tops for winter.

By: Jen Shoop

*image via.

A week ago, I turned onto Bradley Boulevard, and something about the lay of the winter twilight on my windshield and the spare stick figure trees on my left reminded me of Painesville, Ohio, and my grandparents’ squat home there. I thought then of my tall, blithe Finnish grandfather, and I reflexively instructed Siri: “Play ‘I’m in the mood for love.'”

My grandfather’s last name was Nurmi (my maiden name, too) and he used to sing that song:

“I’m in the mood for love // whenever you’re ‘Nurmi,'” replacing Julie London’s breathy “near me” with our surname.

My father considered the transposition corny, especially when my grandfather performed it at my cousin’s wedding, yet it has been a hardwearing tentpole of my grandfather’s legacy: one of a handful of anecdotes that continues to circulate on a yearly basis, in the way of all grandparent lore, offered up almost at random, to lukewarm reception, just because it needs to be shared.

But a narrow detail can exemplify a spirit almost better than a thousand-word history. In this case, my grandfather’s version of the song vibrates with personality as though a 2×2″ slide projected on a classroom wall, in 2000 lumens of color.

As I drove down Bradley, I thought how it reflected his chipper buoyancy in a life of hard work. The Finnish sisu, but with a jaunty flare. I, living a blessed life of comparative ease, could benefit from better channeling his outlook. Desiderata.

A few days later, Mr. Magpie put on a playlist that included, against all odds, the same song.

I was struck by the repetition: my grandfather, here, and again.

I don’t know what these visitations mean, but they point me, and clearly, toward my roots. And I have needed that grounding. I have been too in my head, or too much of this world, and I was chastised to remember the generations that came before me, the ones who planted trees under whose shade I now sit.

What I mean to say is —

Tell the story, and again. Sing the song, even when your children roll their eyes. Write about the deceased. Commit the finest-tipped details about your grandparents to paper.

Because one day, these particles of personality will either be blown away and forgotten, dust in the wind,

or regolith,

fine and rare and luminous.

Post-Scripts.

+Another way of saying: “I choose to find echoes where I could see randomness. I want to draw the lines that make this life make sense, to chart the belt between the component stars of Orion. At the end of the day, I’d rather wander starstruck, identifying asterisms, than feel my way blindly through a shapeless and inconsonant dark.”

+Memories of my maternal grandfather, for good measure.

+It is good to remember the deceased.

Shopping Break.

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

+URGENT: the world’s greatest inexpensive sheets are on sale for 25% off at the moment. SUCH a bargain. We have multiple sets we use in our primary bedroom! They’re amazing.

+Kule launched a fab sale today! The first stop must always be their iconic modern long tee — I own four of these in different colors, and some are as inexpensive as $36 right now! They are SO fun and well-made. Run TTS, slightly boxy/loose fit. I also love this half-zip sweater, this pink and white striped tee (so cute with white jeans, but also kind of dig worn as a set, with these shorts, and some trendy sandals), this tote, this terry cloth sweatshirt ($60!), and for your mini: this tiny cherry tee.

+Prada vibes for $17. I own this in the blue! Oversized and packs flat. Good for throwing into a suitcase if beach bound!

+I already own several pairs of kick flares (ahem, these Gaps are still my most-worn), but I keep hearing rave reviews about VB’s Carson jeans…do I need to try them as well?! Come in lots of cute washes…

+Speaking of VB, my denim blazer I wore all fall has been further reduced to under $200. I had a few Magpies write to me asking for sizing details — runs TTS, and I don’t think the shoulders look as dramatic in IRL. I took an 00 but it’s snug — I probably should have taken an 0 if I want to layer over anything with any amount of bulk. You can see me in it here!

+I’ve been on a t-shirt buying bender so far this year, but in the winter, what else do you have to switch up? I’ve got lots of sweaters to layer! Anyhow, my favorite higher end white tee is the Leset Margo, but now I’m contemplating this $10 style, which looks fairly similar (maybe a bit more cropped).

+My friend Lauren was wearing this $30 sweatshirt and looked SO cute in it. She ordered two sizes up for an oversized/boxy fit. Ordered immediately.

+I’ve been looking for a great everyday concealer that is less expensive than Cle de Peau and a little lighter-weight than Kevyn Aucoin (but I do LOVE both of those products), and I’ve been hearing all of the sudden a lot of murmurs about the one from the brand Make. Has anyone tried? Intrigued.

+Minnow’s new collection is so tempting for my upcoming trip! I’m loving this for me…and also love this striped set for mini and these striped trunks for micro.

+Chic “dad” sandal.

+Fun, flashy sandals. It’s a lot of logo, but you could pair these with jeans and a tee or a simple white dress and feel completely on-trend in the easiest way.

+Another “fancy” sweatpant that’s been getting some buzz. I ordered the ones from Vuori and The Great but if neither pass muster, I’ll move onto these! (Any other recs, I’m all ears!)

By: Jen Shoop

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

On Instagram today, I partnered with Net-A-Porter to share some of my top picks for wardrobe essentials — sharing below in collage format, too. These are the kinds of pieces you will reach for week in and week out, and that you can style in countless ways.

01. TOTEME SWEATER // 02. ADIDAS SAMBAS // 03. LESET MARGO TEE // 04. GOOD AMERICAN BODYSUIT // 05. AGOLDE 90S PINCH WAISTS // 06. LULULEMON HALF-ZIP // 07. LULULEMON ALIGN LEGGINGS // 08. TOTEME SOCKS // 09. ANDERSON’S CROC BELT // 10. TOTEME T-LOCK SHOULDER BAG // 11. SKIMS BRA // 12. VARLEY FLEECE/QUILTED JACKET // 13. SPANX PANTS // 14. TOTEME BOOTS

I also created a “shelf” on my ShopMy page with more wardrobe basics along these lines.

I also wanted to mention that Shopbop is offering an extra 25% off most sale items. I am sharing a few of my favorite sale pieces below, and some are included in this promotion!:

CUTEST CARDI TO LAYER OVER EVERYTHING

HANKY PANKY SET

AXEL ARIGATO SNEAKERS

AGOLDE LANA JEANS

All my Shopbop hearts saved here!

P.S. Remembering myself in motherhood.

P.P.S. Special (almost divine) visitations.

P.P.P.S. Kitchen gizmos we love.

By: Jen Shoop

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

Q: Jean that are not cropped.

A: Agolde, SLVRLAKE, and Mother have lots of great (chic, full-length) options — you might consider these, these, or these for everyday wear, or, if you’re on the trendier side, these wildly popular cuffed “Dame” jeans. I’m linking to most of these jeans at Net-A-Porter because I’ve been finding they offer a lot more consistent size runs and more washes than other sites! If you’re a wide-leg jean girlie, these jeans are under $100 and amazing. I own in black. They run a tad shy of TTS, so if in question, size up.

Q: An outfit for private school interviews.

ED NOTE: A Magpie commented that wearing jeans to an interview at the private schools in her area would not be appropriate. I would wear jeans without a second thought (dark wash, no holes, a nice blazer) in my area, but maybe best to exercise caution! Just a heads up!

A: A polished blazer like this or this (vibe for less with this), button-down (look for less), dark-wash jeans, and ballet flats with simple everyday jewelry. Recently, Mally K. Goldman wrote that (paraphrasing) a good blowout makes your clothes look better. I can’t unhear this and it’s so true. Any time you are attending an important meeting, it’s a big help to get a good blowout (at home, or out!)

Q: Matching father-daughter somethings for my toddler and her dad. He’s mildly jealous of the mother/daughter lavender Shit that I Knit hats. We run slightly preppy and live in Boston. Could be warm or cold weather appropriate. Budget $150 total for both.

A: The baseball hats from Harding Lane! My children and my husband own a few of their designs. So cute!

Q: Engagement picture outfits for my fiance and I – Central Park/Nantucket in late spring.

A: Congratulations!! I would look at Agua Bendita. They make the most beautiful dresses (insane detail / tailoring – you can tell the quality of the pieces when they arrive) that are sweet, polished, festive and just whimsical enough. One of their blue and white ones would be perfection. Also love this embroidered Loretta Caponi. A few others that turned my head: this ALC (on super sale), this Karen Millen, and this G. Label.

Q: Work bag under $350.

A: I’m really into these Proenza Schouler totes at the moment (somehow on sale for 65% off!). (Also available in a blue pinstripe.) They seem polished but roomy enough for laptop, etc. I also love these Rue de Verneuils. If those are too informal for your work environment, these Cuyanas are beautiful and specifically made for workerbees! These minimalist-chic Quince ones ($149!) are also chic.

Q: Parkas!

A: I love these Aritzias (best colors!), basically anything Herno but especially this or this, and the fun (more performance-oriented) ones from Halfdays, like this or this.

Q: A navy handbag.

A: If we’re talking splurge/designer, this Bottega or this Celine. More reasonably price: my Grace bag in the navy color (on sale for almost 60% off! — she is SO gorgeous and looks very expensive, almost Celine-like, IRL), this woven Clare V., this Naghedi, or this Madewell (I own and adore in brown!).

Q: Burnt orange (aka rust, terracotta, etc) items to wear to University of Texas football game.

A: This sweater or this sweatshirt with great jeans and interesting dressy sneakers; this top tucked into high-waisted, wide-leg jeans.

Q: A bag suitable for work that isn’t too precious to carry pumps and bottles in?

A: I would say Rue de Verneuil or Naghedi!

Q: Amazon purses! Like lady gray one you have. Something you don’t have to be too careful with.

A: This one reminds me of Naghedi; this one reminds of Bottega (best colors!); these are Rue de Verneuil-inspired; and I wear this sherpa belt bag constantly. Also like these colorful neoprene ones — would make great sport / mom life bag.

Q: Bride to be; comfy heels that can be reworn (so not white, lol).

A: Congrats! These Aquazzuras, these Amina Muaddis, Loeffler Randalls, Manolos. These tweedies could also be good depending on how formal you’re going!

Q: White long sleeved shirt, no “slim” or fitted, but nice to wear under a cardigan or alone.

A: These Ayrs, these Everlanes, these Lesets.

Q: Guest at a casual winter baby shower (baby is a girl!)

A: Hm – if it’s really casual, I would do nice jeans and a tweed sweater/blazer or fun blouse. If it’s a step above, I’d wear a dress from Doen like this or this, or from Parterre — they don’t feel too fussy/formal, are really comfortable, and still feel “pretty” / “feminine.” If Doen/Parterre is not your speed, I always come back to striped shirtdresses — this one is a fun twist.

Q: First communion dress for my daughter.

A: I like the one from Bellabliss! Have this bookmarked for my girl.

Q: Pants! Not jeans and not casual. Something to wear to Church that’s not a dress.

A: Have you tried the Spanx perfect fit pant? Polished, flattering, comfortable — great for pairing with a blazer or chunky knit. They remind me of the much more expensive HighSport pants that have been getting lots of praise lately. SPRWMN has some great, polished-looking styles, too — these cords would look amazing with a fair isle sweater. And people love Anthro’s Colette pants — dress them up with a striped button-down/blazer, or a patterned blouse.

Q: Dress for gala – Margaritaville themed.

A: Fun! Designers perfect for this theme are Borgo De Nor, Johanna Ortiz, Agua Bendita, and Farm Rio. They do lots of FUN, tropical, palm-motif dresses that are on the dressier end. My top pick: this Agua! She’s PERFECT.

Q: Classic black turtleneck sweater – similar to Alex Mill “Betty.”

A: I assume you’re asking because she’s sold out at Alex Mill? (Versus because you’re looking for something less $?). If it’s the former, this Everlane will be right up your alley. If the latter, you might look at this $63 style from Gap!

P.S. How do you meal plan?

P.P.S. A clarifying exercise for the new year.

P.P.P.S. Creating buffers when moving between modes — e.g., mom mode, work mode, etc.

By: Jen Shoop

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

I rotate between five pairs of leggings when working out — each with their own virtues and benefits. Sharing details below.

Beyond Yoga SpaceDye Leggings.

Shop my current favorite color here. I love to pair with the matching tanks. I’m wearing above with this lightweight running jacket from Tracksmith.

+More compressive than Lululemon Aligns, but still very comfortable — you could wear these all day long with no complaints.

+On the heavier weight side — good for fall/winter.

+Well-suited to mat-work and stationery bike.

+Shows sweat the most clearly of all the styles here — probably not great for hot yoga.

+Tag says “meant to be washed and dried” — the lowest-maintenance of any performance sportswear I’ve ever owned! Deeply appreciate that they took into account cleaning. I don’t feel bad tossing these in the laundry/dryer.

+I take an XS, and find they run TTS even accounting for compression.

Lululemon Align Leggings.

Old faithful for a reason. (Also available in a cropped length.)

+Soft, brushed handfeel.

+The most stretchy and comfortable — not compressive. Have heard many Magpies wore these throughout pregnancy.

+Great for lounge, low-impact sports. I also run in these — I know some of you gasp at that idea but they stay up great, don’t dig in / compress, launder well, and have lasted for years and years. In general, though, I like these as “chore pants” when I’m cleaning the house, organizing, taking care of outdoor things, etc.

+I size up to a 4 in Lululemon. (Usually I’m a size 0.)

+Great for petites, as they come in a 25″ cropped length that I typically go for.

Splits 59 Airweight 7/8 Leggings.

Shop here — available in two lengths and lots of colors.

+The most compressive/restrictive.

+The thinnest fabric — almost feel like tights when pulling them on.

+Read as “daytime appropriate” — not just for fitness. You could absolutely pair with a sweater.

+I took an XS, and find they run a tad snug.

+I wear these the least of the lot, but they still fill a void.

ColorfulKoala Leggings.

Shop here.

+Least expensive ($22) and therefore my preferred legging when conditions are muddy/wet/rainy/etc.

+Have most “performance-like” look — a definite sheen that reads as fitness wear.

+I find these as comfortable as Lululemon Aligns — stretchy and non-restrictive.

+A little long for us shorties (I’m 5’0); I find myself fiddling with them so they don’t bunch at knees or folding hem at ankle to tuck into socks.

+I took an XS and find they run the tiniest bit big — in a pleasant way. The waist does not feel like it’s cutting into me at all.

+Because they’re less expensive, I don’t mind tossing them in the laundry more frequently. I still do separate performance/fitness/sportswear loads from cotton/regular laundry — I’ve heard this makes the biggest difference on the longevity of your performance-wear.

Tracksmith Turnover Tights.

Shop here.

+The ultimate for long, cold-weather runs. The best quality and wonderfully insulated.

+Run very small – I size up to a S in these (I’m typically an XS) and they still feel a tiny bit snug. These are cut for long, lean, wiry runner bodies, and are not as kind to hips!

+Definitely read as performance/fitness wear owing to the tag and the sheen of the leggings.

+Most high maintenance to launder — you are not supposed to launder often, so I usually hang dry between a few runs and then launder on delicate cycle and hang dry.

+Super long for us shorties — I have to fold up the hems and tuck into socks when running. Not a huge deal because I wear these only in the winter when ankles are already covered by socks.

Other Fitness Favorites.

+My favorite sports bras. I reach for these first thing when they come out of the wash. Super stretchy but supportive bralettes that don’t dig in / compress at all. I take an XS/S in these.

+My favorite running socks. A Magpie introduced me to this brand years ago and I’ve never looked back. They are thicker / more cushioned than many fitness socks, which I personally love.

+My favorite running sneakers. I’m able to run the most naturally in these. Featherweight but still offer ankle support.

+My favorite water bottle. I love the screw top model — won’t leak when toting around in bag, but you can still rest it in the stationery bike / elliptical with cap undone for quick swigs.

+Running gloves. In cold weather, I find it imperative to keep exposed skin to a minimum. This means full-height socks (I like these), gloves, hat, earwarmers, a neckline that comes up to chin. I just added two buffs to my running closet for this reason — this lightweight one and this heavier weight one. Will report back with thoughts!

+They do such limited releases of performance wear, but I have had excellent luck with the quality and functionality of New Balance’s jackets and vests. I find these pieces hold up really well over time and keep me very warm.

+Tracksmith long-sleeved merino tees for cold weather runs — my absolute favorite. I have a few of the Harriers and the Brightons and they’re all I wear from October-March/April.

I want to write a review of a few different “fancy” sweats I’m testing out. I’ve been on the hunt for a new pair and ordered Vuori’s Boyfriend Joggers (their performance joggers are more popular but I prefer the fit/look of the boyfriend style) and Halo Hoodie as well as The Great’s cropped sweatpants and tiny tee. I’d been eyeing the sets from Mate the Label but my neighbor (who is much taller than I am) ordered and said they were frumpy / oversized in a not cute way, so I decided to nix. Are there any other pairs you’re eyeing or loving that you think I need to know about?

P.S. More recent fitness finds here.

P.P.S. Extending the notion of “smidgies” (e.g., inessential things we can “let drop”) into the new year.

P.P.P.S. Barnacles and joy.

By: Jen Shoop

*image via.

I worry

About my son’s articulation, the way his mispronunciations alienate him from friends and frustrate him. We are in weekly speech therapy, and seeing progress, but how much and is it enough?

About loved ones, getting older — how many more holidays and clinked glasses and “I was just calling you because I saw the English muffins were on sale” are left?

About failed or embattled relationships – did I give fully of myself? Was I right or wrong, and does it matter anyway? I mourn the friendships, but were they healthy for me to begin with?

About my writing, currently dimmed and strained by the heft of my everyday life: how long will I sit beneath this waning moon?

About my own health: each doctor’s visit a crescendo-ing panic of “I’m sure I have cancer,” having lost or seen suffer too many loved ones in its nasty grip,

About my daughter’s moodiness: is this the way of all six year old girls, or have I done something wrong as a parent?

About my still-too-full days, brimming despite my valiant efforts to reduce the volume —

About my c-section scars that feel still-weird, and whose dimpled impression I tolerate but do not love,

About my awkwardnesses in certain social settings (having recently left a room and thought, ‘That…was not my best work’),

About the way I snapped at my son while I was frantically attempting to sign him up for a difficult-to-get-into summer camp last night,

About the timer I’d set for the camp registration, and was convinced would not go off,

About the summer ahead: not yet planned and registrations are filling up or full,

But

What good is this worry litany?

It imagines too many endings that never come,

and instead pile up in my lap, unwanted freight.

Michele de Montaigne wrote: “There were many terrible things in my life, and most of them never happened.”

Let me place these worries elsewhere. I am not strong enough to burn them, and I don’t like the image of locking them up somewhere, to multiply in intensity when I am too weak to keep the latch closed,

So instead, I will hang them in a closet in another house far away, only visitable after strenuous travel. They are there, but a long way gone.

Now, let me go out into my morning, and stand at the foot of Mount Helicon, and praise the day and what it might bring,

Scarred but fleeter-footed.

Post-Scripts.

+On reminding myself I’m where I need to be.

+On medical anxiety in the COVID/post-COVID age.

+On catastrophizing.

+Emotional touchstones.

Shopping Break.

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

+An easy way to get organized this January: add a purse organizer to your everyday tote!

+Chic $129 tweed blazer. Chanel vibes for less. The olive green color is new and head-turning!

+Fab dark wash trouser jeans.

+This always-popular rattan side table is back in stock.

+My recent Sezane order: these jeans, this sweater, this tee, and these socks.

+Inspo for working out: this cheery $30 sweatshirt, colorful weights, and this ribbed cropped tank.

+New swim options I’m eyeing: have heard so many good things about LSpace suits over the years, and I know several Magpies are evangelical about Matteau, which is deeply discounted here.

+Everyone’s favorite sweater blazer, on sale. Perfect buy for the new year.

+One of my favorite children’s boutiques, Danrie, currently has a great sale section that includes Northern Classics parkas, Huxbaby dresses, infant knitwear from Paz, and spendy but adorable Bobo Choses sweatsuits. We have a handful of Bobo Choses pieces and I always feel like my kids look like fancy French children who have cool parents in the music industry when they wear them — ha.

+These goodies from Target’s new collection with McGee are selling fast, and have been really popular among Magpies. Especially love this brass bowl.

+These wavy brass frames are so chic for special photographs.

+A beautiful writing desk.

+Still obsessed with my headphones and their little stand.

+Ordered myself a wick trimmer! Fun little object to keep out on a tray, too.

+Lots of Dorsey restocks this week — just saw that my favorite emerald earrings also came back! Wore these a lot over the holidays. So many compliments! People assumed they were heirloom / from my grandmother!

By: Jen Shoop

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

+Two fantastic mascaras I’ve been using the past few weeks: Tower28 and Westman Atelier. Both are on the fuller / inkier side of the spectrum and yield a great, jet-black, full lash line. (If you prefer something more natural, I would recommend Ilia.) Tower28 is a really good value — $20 but I think it “plays” amidst the prestige beauty caliber competitors.

+Hanni everything! Mama mia, I love these products. I’ve been using their shave pillow (would be excellent especially for travel or, in summer, when you just want to shave underarms without taking full shower because you’re headed to the pool), splash salve, and water balm religiously and I’m obsessed with the way it makes my skin feel — buttery/silky soft, but not waxy or oily. I think the splash salve is the star player. You could use just that and feel like a million bucks, but I like to layer on the water balm after, too. They recently sent me their just-launched-today weightless oil, which they apparently spent years researching/perfecting. It truly is weightless and absorbs almost instnatly. Unlike other body oils I’ve used, it leaves no greasy/oily residue — just a beautiful, hydrating layer of sheen. I noticed that the oil includes jojoba, which I’ve recently heard a lot of people chattering about on Reddit. (I went down a Reddit hole while thinking about packing cosmetics/skincare while traveling, and one Redditor said she only packs jojoba oil!). Little reminder that you can get 15% off your purchase at Hanni with code JEN15.

+Leset’s Margo tee. A girlfriend just texted me asking for a basic white t-shirt suggestion. I recommended both Uniqlo’s U-Neck ($15 and a fantastic quality — but heavier weight / thicker weight) and Leset’s Margo. The latter has a great opaque material, perfect mid-weight (thinner than Uniqlo, but not burnout/shapeless/drapey – still holds its structure), and ideal length for me. Slightly boxier.

+Geeky, but Mr. Magpie and I have been majorly into this Duel game. It requires a substantial investment of time to read and grasp the instructions and dynamics, but once you’ve made the commitment, it’s thoroughly engrossing. We love our games together (!). I find it the perfect way to unwind and also connect with my husband. Does anyone have any other great two-player games they love? We’re also longtime devotees of Azul, and we’ve enjoyed in the past Patchwork and Jaipur. My daughter (six years old) has been loving playing Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza! It’s a bit too advanced for my four-year-old son but we play a lot of it with my girl.

+This little waste basket in my son’s room is still sparking joy. Just fun to add more texture/pattern to a boy’s room. Such great patterns, and only $30. (More details I love from my son’s room here, and a little reminder that The Inside is offering us $50 off purchases of $199+ with code magpie50. We use their patterned arm chair in his room.)

+My last gel manicure absolutely destroyed my nails! I went to a technician I don’t normally see (usually am religious about going to two gals, but they were booked around the holidays!) and she must have used a different base coat, but I’ve had to give my nails a serious break by going bare and applying a nail protein for a few weeks. My trusted nail technician advised this product (below), applied every other day for two weeks.

+Back on this hyperfixation meal wagon. It is SO good. Maybe after all the sweets of the holidays I’m leaning into savory? I don’t know, but I can’t get enough. The Good Culture brand is THE BEST.

+Recently rediscovered my Toteme striped cardigan. I’m such a cardigan girl, and this one has a fun length and dramatic cuffs and a perfect mid-weight! So far as I can tell, these are sold out online but you can still score on eBay. The Real Real has a few of the turtleneck version of this sweater from Toteme (or you can buy brand new in select colors/sizes at Farfetch), and Gap has a fabulous look-for-less option (and Amazon has a few options for even less). If you’re also a cardi girl, a few other striped options in the vein of my Toteme you might consider:

RAILS CARDIGAN — COLORS WOULD BE SO GOOD WITH THE NEWEST SAMBAS

THIS LA LIGNE (10% OFF WITH CODE MAGPIE10)

THIS VERONICA BEARD (ON SALE)

THIS KULE

Also, the tee I’m wearing below is Le Luxe brand, generously gifted — it’s a linen blend with more of a loose / burnout feel and look to it. It’s great for layering under bulkier things. You can get 15% off with code MAGPIE-15.

P.S. All my favorite January Amazon finds in one place here.

P.P.S. The feeling of falling in love and no one around you knowing it.

P.P.P.S. It’s just that…life is short.

By: Jen Shoop

“After drop off today, I drove by the house of neighbor whose husband is getting a kidney tomorrow. I literally thought to myself: from the outside, with the snow and toddler toys, you would never know what they are going through and reminded myself it holds true for probably most people we meet.”

-A Magpie Reader

The world softens, as though a line run slack,

when I remember that many of us are privately nursing broken hearts and invisible griefs.

If I can look beyond the sunny Instagram posts and perfectly-packed Bento box lunches, or the de rigueur smile and wave from the neighbor, or the unexpected outburst from a stranger —

if I can see past the stipules, be they thorny or decorative,

I so often find a tender center.

Today I am challenging myself to ignore the guard petals,

and, equally, to be unafraid of looking sadness or hardship in its Janus face.

Years ago, I plumbed for meaning: “what does it mean to be a woman of substance?” At the time, I doubted myself. Career transitions and a string of years that asked instead of answered had left me wraith-like with worry and insecurity. I was straining to sketch out a dress form I might eventually fill. If I could only identify its dimensions, perhaps I could model myself against it.

I now believe that a woman of substance is someone so at ease with herself, she can give herself to others without self-diminishment or self-projection. She can be happy for friends, and sad for them, too, without losing anything of herself. She can listen without interjecting her own story; she can marvel without battling jealousy; she can endure unkindnesses without questioning herself. She does not need the last word, the biggest laugh, the adulation, the apology: she is full without the feedback. She stands still in her center.

I work to be that woman.

What I mean to say to myself this January morning:

Find ease today — both in your dealings with others and your personal comportment.

As always, onward —

Post-Scripts.

+On looking squarely at grief.

+Life somehow compensates for our losses.

+On giving myself a soft landing when I need it.

+Grace, in action.

Shopping Break.

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

+The Great is running a big sale — I’m using it to finally test their sweats and tees (both about 50% off!), which many of you have raved about over the years!

+New/fun Sambas colors, restocked.

+This bag…!!!! I’ve been wanting one of these bags forever.

+Obsessed with the silhouette / details on these under-$100 cords.

+Been on a big and satisfying cleaning kick — Mr. Magpie and I have both been exercising the same “bit by bit, corner by corner” mentality since January 1st, where we’ll just tackle a little nook of the house as we encounter it (versus going room by room in any strategic way). This makes it feel so manageable! So, for example, the other day I pruned my top cosmetics drawer to just keep my everyday essential makeup favorites on hand in these, and put the rest in these drawered compartments beneath the sink.

+This brand has some really fun tees.

+Love the fit of these off-white jeans.

+These suitcases look like Away, but cost less.

+Cute ribbed trouser socks.

+I wrote about my daughter reading books that were a bit too thematically advanced for her — her librarian pointed her in the direction of these “little sister” baby-sitter’s club books to accommodate her interest in the baby sitter’s club at a more age appropriate level, and they’ve been a huge hit! We’ve also been listening to the audiobooks of the Magic Treehouse series, which has in turn re-piqued her interest in the series. Such a relief to have her reading books that are affirming/comfortable for her!

+It’s been COLD here — I asked a very fit/active girlfriend who excels in winter sports how she keeps warm while running, and she insisted that a neck buff is the way to go! She recommended the ones from this female-founded Vermont-based business. They have a few different styles for different sports/climates, but these are the ones best-suited for my every-other-day runs. If you prefer a solid one, I also found good options from Tracksmith, Smartwool, and Stio.

+I’ve been spotting Timex’s utility watches layered into the arm stacks of many a chic-pea lately!

+This $40 sweatshirt arrived and I’ve barely taken her off. A really nice, heavy weight for the cold days.

+Kitchen/office/desk/junk drawer refresh with these trays and fresh scissors for each one!

+A great white top.

By: Jen Shoop

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

A few fun finds for the upcoming holiday. (Even more in notes below, including Valentines my children will be handing out to classmates.)

01. J. CREW SWEATER // 02. GUCCI POUCH // 03. BAUBLE BAR NECKLACES // 04. LAKE PAJAMAS // 05. PETITE PLUME SHEETING // 06. ELEMIS CLEANSING BALM // 07. SLVRLAKE JEANS // 08. EMI JAY HAIR CLIP // 09. WEEZIE ROBE // 10. KULE SWEATSHIRT // 11. AMAZON HEART DECOR // 12. HEART NOTEPADS // 13. D. PORTHAULT TURTLE // 14. JACADI DRESS // 15. OLD NAVY SWEATSHIRT AND WALMART DINO SWEATSUIT // 16. MAREA DRESS

+Cutest Lake Pajamas Valentine’s Day collection launched today! I loved the soft green heart pattern — perfect for both my children! — and I will be twinning, too. (Thanks to Lake for sending these adorable jammies my way.) BTW, I’m wearing below with my two favorite heart necklaces, which I wear daily — this one from Dorsey; this one from Jane Win. Both would be fab gifts from a loved one…!

+Petite Plume sent me the sweetest heart-print bed sheets for mini. We will use these year-round as they go perfectly with her pink-and-green bedroom decor, but they are especially perfect for Valentine’s Day. You can see them on mini’s bed along with the most precious baby quilt I found on Etsy a few years ago. I bought it to send it as a part of mini’s “nap kit” back when she napped at Montessori. It’s ultra soft/plush and the pattern is darling. She still loves it to this day! (Also love the options from Roller Rabbit, like this. My son has one of their quilts and still sleeps with it every night.) These ruffly heart shaped cushions are also adorable for a zhushed-up bed. Finally, seen in photos here: mini loves to dress her American Girl doll in these pajamas (which match her own, and her robe!). Note: do you love the butterfly clip hairdo and fact that she clearly tried to brush her doll’s teeth?!

+Speaking of robes, an amazing treat for yourself: this Weezie terry cloth robe, reimagined in a fun red and pink combo. I’ve written about this dozens of times, but it’s one of my most treasured possessions. I wear it every single morning (and many evenings / post-shower sessions, too!) as it’s the perfect weight and length, and I love the over-long sash (which never comes un-done!)

+I ordered myself this pair of heart-adorned crew socks. Fun little motif!

+This heart-print bedding looks like D. Porthault, but much more affordable. I wish I’d discovered this back when mini was an infant — they even do crib sheets! Or you can splurge on a little something from D. Porthault in their iconic coeurs pattern, like this piggy bank.

+For little ones to wear on hearts day: this sweatshirt and these leggings (a steal!); this dino-and-heart patterned set; this Keith-Haring-esque inspired sweatshirt for older girls; this scalloped heart-print dress; these leggings; this heart pocket jersey dress; this smocked dress.

+For us to wear: a great red sweater and on-trend jeans; a dress like this or this if in warmer climates; a sweatshirt or fleece if going more casual.

+Little surprises for the occasion for yourself or a loved one: a fun hair claw; initial necklaces for your littles; heart notepads; this hooded towel; this heart print pouch, or this set of checkerboard ones; these for party decor; rose-scented cleansing balm (divine, divine!); letterpress XOXO cards to send to girlfriends.

+If you’re celebrating BIG this year: an engraved heart necklace from Dorsey or this Gucci key case.

+For at-school Valentines this year, I know my daughter will flip over a Taylor Swift-themed option. I’m eyeing these (a little spendy for the full class but so, so cute), these, or these. (You could always bundle the latter with TS-inspired friendship bracelets from Amazon.) My son has fewer children to give Valentines Day cards to (about a dozen in his immediate pre-K class), so might splurge on these, these, or these. Drawn to the ease of not having to tie/bundle anything together! These fill-in-the-blank ones from Joy Creative Club are also adorable.

P.S. Love in the ways big and small.

P.P.S. Love is…making someone a salad.

P.P.P.S. No space between.

By: Jen Shoop

Above: my favorite Julia Amory toiletry pouches while we stayed at Indian Springs Resort in Calistoga, CA.

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

I was chatting with a girlfriend about packing beauty and skincare products while traveling, and I mentioned that I was shopping for mini/trial sizes of face wash to test on an upcoming trip. She immediately replied:

“Oh, I never test something new while traveling. Too high risk! Decant what works.”

It made total sense — why would I risk using something I don’t like, or that my skin doesn’t like, while marooned on a vacation, with no back-ups? Obviously not the time to rotate a new product into the regimen, especially as I might already be encountering different climates, drier skin because of air travel, etc! Duh! The obviousness of her insight reminded me of the time, just after she was born, that I was taking mini out in her stroller (with the pram-like infant bassinet attachment) for a walk, and I plopped her right in, with no swaddle. She was rolling around in there like a loose hot dog. (Ha!) At the park, I noticed that other moms had cushioned their babies in swaddles and blankets so that they were safely nestled. Thank God for other women, who show us the way, whether by gentle modeling or earnest response.

Anyhow, what other perspectives and insights do you have into this matter? I’m specifically curious about how you pare down your beauty routine for a trip. Do you take only the basics (face wash, moisturizer) and skip serums and oils? Do you take tiny portions of everything in your lineup, carefully measured out for each day you’ll be gone? Do you take your full skincare routine but only a small portion of your beauty bag?

(This is one of those ultra-niche, nosy questions that typically elicits a lot of “omg, how did I not think of that earlier?” responses.)

On recent trips, I’ve been decanting face wash, moisturizer, shampoo, and conditioner into these little tubs and tubes; I pack this mini sized makeup melt or these individually wrapped Neutrogena wipes; and then taking the full size of my eye cream and vitamin c serum (I skip the extra serum I usually apply after Vitamin C while traveling). I’m so curious about how others handle serums. Do we skip or take the whole dang bottle? Seems impossible to compress into a smaller size.

I do take a fairly robust set of beauty products, on the other hand, decanting/minimizing very little.

Please share your perspectives and tips!

Post-Scripts.

+What are your best tips for better travel?

+Recent beauty finds/buys inspired by a long afternoon watching beauty TikTok-ers.

+What beauty tips have stuck with you?

+What do you keep in your guest bedroom?

+My most recent batch of “honest beauty reviews.”

Shopping Break.

+The only thing I want to buy right now are fresh sweaters. It’s be cold and rainy/snowy and gross — if you don’t have a La Ligne Marin or Mini Marina, I can’t recommend enough. You can get 10% off at La Ligne with code MAGPIE10.

+La Ligne looks for less: J. Crew or Quince!

+Those striped cozies are perfect for pairing with some new jeans (<<ordered to test the fit!). Also ordered this pair to try! Different wash for me.

+The Dorsey Clemence necklace is back! This is my favorite gem-stone necklace/bracelet I own from Dorsey. Details on why here!

+Major celeb off-duty vibes.

+You really must try this $8 foundation brush. A Magpie wrote about it over the weekend: “I purchased and received the $8 brush from Amazon this week I am positively stunned that it is such a bargain. It really works beautifully.” Strongly agree — mine arrived and I think the stubby/flat end is very similar to my beloved Merit brush.

+This $40 half-zip sweatshirt arrived and is really good – impressed with the quality. Two other recent Amazon fitness finds: these high-waisted wide legs and this top.

+Have heard these cropped flare leggings are v flattering for us petites.

+I just re-discovered this sleeveless tank from Vuori in the back of my fitness drawer. I love it for my stationery bike sessions / indoor mat exercises!

+Several of you have raved about Ayr’s morning tee over the years. I feel like the weight / drape looks ideal for layering over a tank for a morning walk.

+This fleece sweatshirt/capelet looks dreamy.

+Love Jacadi’s “Petit Marin” collection for baby gifts, especially this princely jersey set and/or this padded pouch for the baby bag.

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