By: Jen Shoop

Image via.

First, a heads up that Gap is running an epic 40% off sale! All my top picks here, but I recently ordered this crochet top and this tomato red gauze set (top, pants — avail in petite inseam!), and now all are 40% off! That red gauze set is exactly what I dream of wearing with a bucket hat and raffia sandals for a FOJ getaway. And I just went back and got this Doen x Gap gingham dress…not included in the sale but couldn’t help myself!

GAP GAUZE PANTS AND TOP SET // GAP STRIPED SKIRT // GAP CROCHET TOP // GAP WHITE MINI // GAP SLOUCHY BAG // GAP BANDANA PRINT MINI

Q: Lightweight pants for summer.

A: These dreamy gauze pants, these block print J. Crews (have worn the past two weekends), pull-on linen pants (upgrade pick: Donni), linen barrels from Gap, these white eyelet or seashell trim statements, and these patterned Julia Amorys.

Q: Dress for postpartum newborn shoot in July.

A: Congrats (early)! I love this lace caftan in the most gorgeous lilac color, anything Loretta Caponi (dreamy white or playfully patterned), this Agua Bendita, a floral Mi Golondrina, this Mille (use code JEN15), and of course Doen is always perfect for more of a boho mom moment. Oh, and this Farm Rio!

Q: A cute cover-up for Miami!

A: This Tuckernuck or this La Veste!

Q: Swimsuit that is cute but appropriate for a 50 year old mom.

A: I love the ones from Minnow right now! Sweet, playful, but not too far in any direction.

Q: Wedding guest dress for Italy in September. Dress code is semi-formal.

A: This Julia Amory, this Zimmermann, this Agua Bendita, this Damaris Bailey, this Coco Shop, this Veronica Beard.

Q: Tote to be used for diaper bag. (Will buy organizational insert.)

A: I love the chic totes from Rue De Verneuil! These patterned canvas ones from Timo and Violet would also be sweet. The St. Barths Medium tote is also a great choice, and practical (woven neoprene). The handles do fit over the shoulder! A little more sporty / casual, but I just got this striped Vee Collective tote, and was thinking it’d also be a great baby bag. If you’re looking for something more discrete – more like an everyday tote that can also work as a diaper bag – I mainly used my Goyard and loved it! One of these colorful Mansur Gavriels would also be fun.

Q: Morgan Wallen outdoor concert outfit?

A: SO jealous. Love “Talkin Tennessee.” For country concerts, I like a denim dress (this, this, this) with either a statement sandal or (if you’re committing) cowboy boots from Tecovas or Miron Crosby. The other direction — a breezy slightly boho white dress with the boot. OR do something like this gingham mini with a fun sandal like this or this.

Q: College reunion – day outfit for walk around campus and nighttime look for dinner/drinks/bar in June.

A: For day, I like a polished but playful/colorful daytime dress like this with some easy-to-wear-and-walk-in sandals like these or these. If you’re a little more of a minimalist, try this dress. And if you’re a black girlie, try this dress with these sandals. For nighttime, wear something FUN that comunicates joy and confidence! I like something like this, this, this, or this. Or if you prefer solids, this, with some big bangles or a big necklace. I’d wear any/all of these with a FLAT sandal. I feel like it looks more modern/carefree and is obviously much more comfortable.

Q: Lightweight cotton sweater — preferably oversized.

A: This G. Label or this Alice Walk! The latter is particularly lightweight. I own in a great moss green color. I’d go up a size in this if you’d like it looser/boxier.

Q: Statement designer bag for summer – something a little different.

A: This Prada!

Q: A gift for my mom’s 75th birthday.

A: An Aura frame pre-loaded with lots of family pictures in it. Or an Aurelia Demark necklace, customized/engraved. Last idea: a getaway just the two of you to somewhere you can drive to overnight. I did this just recently with my mom and it was so special. Even just the two hour car rides there/back. So special to have that one-on-one time!

Q: A special gift for a friend’s second marriage. Her home is stocked…

A: I have yet to meet anyone who doesn’t love new luxe towels. Another idea: an extravagant gift card for a date night to a special restaurant in your town.

Q: Haircare/shampoo/conditioner for my kids. My mini has outgrown baby shampoo.

A: We use Pantene Pro-V for our kids! Inexpensive and really good quality — it’s my favorite drugstore variety option and the kids always say “it smells SO good!” If you want something that’s more kid-branded, though, try Ever Eden or Tubby Todd.

Q: Girls trip to St. Tropez!

A: OMG – how fun?! A few pieces that leapt out at me: some Posse linen separates/dresses (vibe for less with Quince), fun sandals with gold hardware, this dress, this tote (look for less here), anything Cala de la Cruz or Ciao Lucia, this cover up, this woven Zara.

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

By: Jen Shoop

POINTELLE CARDI // OPEN STITCH CARDI // CROCHET FLORAL // WHITE BASIC // BLUE CROCHET // NAVY POINTELLE STRIPE // SKY BLUE SHORT SLEEVE // V-NECK CARDI

I have this one open-weave cardigan I bought from G. Label a few summers ago (seen above) that I bring out every single year — it’s the perfect breathable, summery-looking top layer for chillier nights or air conditioned venues. It somehow works just as well with a t-shirt and jeans as it does with a sundress. You can still find a rare size or two here and there on Poshmark and eBay (search for “G Label Beckham sweater”), but I’ve been keeping my eyes peeled for something similar since that particular style sold out at Goop long ago. I will say that G. Label excels at knitwear — I have several styles that I wear constantly. This new beach-weight pullover caught my eye for the season ahead! They are spendy but the quality is fantastic and they’ve really thought through versatile, elevated basics; I find they fill a major void in my wardrobe.

Anyhow, I’m happy to share a couple of great alternatives at all different price points:

01. A J. Crew classic on sale.

02. Faherty linen cardigan.

03. I love this pointelle knit from Ann Mashburn.

04. An easy throw-on that is somewhere between a wrap and a cardigan.

05. I am such a Quince fan! This cardigan is an excellent affordable option.

06. Stunning Veronica Beard look-for-less from Mango.

07. Banana Republic Factory open stitch cardi.

08. Gap pointelle.

09. Minnow stripes! I own and love this — I love to pattern mix with it.

10. Perfect Jenni Kayne.

11. I own several La Ligne pieces and they know how to do a striped sweater!

12. Tuckernuck crochet — light and airy for summer nights.

13. More La Ligne, this time in a gorgeous sky blue.

14. Alex Mill short sleeve beauty in several colors.

15. Doen delicate feminine cardigan — this would be perfect on its own or layered! They released a similar look for less with their Gap x Doen collection. A few sizes still available!

16. A G. Label classic cream sweater.

17. Another score from the Gap x Doen collab: this pointelle stripe.

Styling Lightweight Layers for Spring.

CARDIGAN // SANDALS // DRESS // BAG (I ACTUALLY WORE THIS EXACT OUTFIT HERE)

CARDIGAN // SANDALS // SKIRT // TEE // BAG

P.S. Chic shorts for spring.

P.P.S. On sitting with yourself.

P.P.P.S. Elevated activewear.

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

By: Jen Shoop

I’ve been testing lots of inexpensive t-shirts the past few weeks on the recommendations of many Magpies, magazines, and fellow creatives. This exercise made me realize I wear t-shirts a lot more often than I thought I did. In these still-chilly months between winter and warmer weather, I wear them nearly every day of the week beneath sweaters/sweatshirts/blazers/cardigans tucked into jeans. (I’m currently swooning over the new shades of BA&SH’s Gaspard cardigans!)

J. Crew’s Vintage Cotton Crewneck Tee.

I hope this isn’t a boring punchline, but my favorite of the tested candidates was J. Crew’s Vintage Cotton crewneck t-shirt, which has been my favorite for nearly a decade. Is it the longest lasting, best-quality t-shirt you’ll ever own? No. But it is a soft, 100% cotton, feather-weight, lived-in, tag-less fabric, purported to be modeled after “thrift store t-shirts,” and it therefore wears like nothing at all and tucks wonderfully into any pair of pants/jeans/shorts. It basically adds no bulk to your frame. It is the tiniest bit sheer (has almost a burnout quality in some spots) so you do need a nude bra if you go for the white, but I also own and love in navy and black. The sleeve shape and length are, for me, the clinchers. So many of the competitors I tried had much boxier sleeve shapes/lengths, which — yes — have their merit and appeal. But J. Crew’s reads a bit more shrunken/feminine/tailored/soft — a bit more like me, I guess. I take these tees in either the XS or XXS and see virtually no difference in size.

Uniqlo U-Neck Tee.

My second favorite was Uniqlo’s U-Neck tee (seen at top of post), which has a massive cult following, and I now understand why. These t-shirts are only $15 but they boast a thick, almost glossy cotton (and yes, they are also 100% cotton) that reads like something you bought at a designer boutique in Berlin selling minimalist shapes at insane price tags. The t-shirts have a completely different vibe than my favorite J. Crew ones — they have a more polished, contoured, slim-fit silhouette. The sleeves are narrower. I love the slightly exaggerated collar width. This will be my go-to when I’m looking for a t-shirt that needs to look a bit dressier — say, when paired with black pants or a skirt. I tried to take an up-close photo of the quality so you could get a sense at the top of this post. Wildly sophisticated for $15! I took this in the XS and am glad I did — I would take your true size or size up if in between sizes. This style runs pretty narrow and snug. (I’m wearing below with Agolde’s Riley jeans in the Zephyr Wash. I sized up in them for a perfect fit because they have ZERO stretch and I can’t be walking around like a tin man all day. In nearly every photo in this post, I’m wearing my Jane Win Joy pendant and my Lizzie Scheck Zodiac pendant. I’m a cancer!)

uniqlo u neck t shirt review

Runners Up: Walmart Free Assembly Tee + Gap Organic Cotton Vintage Crewneck Tee.

I have to give runners up awards to both Walmart’s Free Assembly tee (bottom left — $10, 100% cotton) and Gap’s Organic Cotton Vintage Crewneck tee (bottom right — currently on sale for under $20, 100% cotton). I actually slightly preferred the Walmart for handfeel and laundering (held up better at the collar especially) — I found the Gap looked a tad bit shrivelly/obviously-laundered/brushed after going through the wash only once (!) I took both in the XS. (I’m wearing my favorite white jeans from Gap in left photo — run TTS — and these Agolde jeans, also run TTS, in right photo.)

walmart free assembly t-shirt
gap 100% cotton t shirt

Target New Day Tee.

The only one I tested that I really did not like was this Target tee. Maybe I tested the wrong Target tee? (Several of you wrote enthusiastically about your experience with Target’s t-shirts, so please LMK if I ordered the wrong style.) It was too clingy, the sleeves were too cutesy/cap-sleeve-like, and the material felt and looked cheaper than the other styles. Like, I swear that you could wear the Uniqlo and someone might think you’re wearing something from Rag and Bone or Proenza Schouler or something.

Next Level Up: Buck Mason’s Pima Boxy Tee.

If you’re willing to spend a little bit more, let me extol the virtues of Buck Mason’s Pima Boxy Tee. It is the softest, airiest, most featherweight dream of a tee. It is the one I reach for first thing when I want to layer beneath a sweater or sweatshirt. It is second skin; it is divine. The only caveat is that it is slightly cropped — not, like, midriff baring, but runs short, intentionally. I’m wearing it below; all outfit details here.

buck mason neutral spring sunday outfit

Higher-End T-Shirts I Love.

Two t-shirts at higher price points that I absolutely adore: SoldOutNYC’s Iconically Soft Perfect Tee, which I own in about four colors and LOVE, and Alice Walk’s Crew tee. SoldOut’s tee is ultra-soft and has a high-end, dropped shoulder, slightly more dramatic shape. You wear this with jeans and it looks super intentional — not like you just grabbed an old tee. It’s elevated; it’s finished. The material is a gorgeous cotton. This is probably my most-worn tee — more opaque than the Buck Mason and with a bit more of a point of view. Before I discovered SoldOut’s tee, I was a devotee of Leset’s Margo, which I do still like — has a similar sophisticated shape and is even more opaque/heavyweight than the SoldOut — but I find it doesn’t launder as well.

Alice Walk’s is like the sophisticated older sister of all of these under $100 t-shirts. She’s elegance, she’s grace. She feels like heaven, with THE softest, silkiest, almost springiest cotton you will ever lay on your body. She is a lady. I love the slightly elongated waist and contoured silhouette. It hugs and drapes in all the right places. I wrote more detailed reviews of these and a few other pricier t-shirt brands a few months ago.

Did I miss any? What are your favorites?

P.S. The nightgowns-for-daytime vibe.

P.P.S. What to read this summer!

P.P.P.S. The chicest everyday bags for the season ahead.

By: Jen Shoop

“We picked up one excellent word—a word worth traveling to New Orleans to get; a nice limber, expressive, handy word—”lagniappe.” They pronounce it lanny-yap…We discovered it at the head of a column of odds and ends in the Picayune the first day; heard twenty people use it the second; inquired what it meant the third; adopted it and got facility in swinging it the fourth. It has a restricted meaning, but I think the people spread it out a little when they choose. It is the equivalent of the thirteenth roll in a baker’s dozen. It is something thrown in, gratis, for good measure.”

— Mark Twain

I couldn’t agree more with Twain: lagniappe is a word, and a way of being, worth traveling for.

In that vein: where can I find or offer a bonus in my day?

What are “the little extra somethings” that feel like upside, or icing?

Please share one or several in the comments — let’s publish the good news today.

My list of lagniappes this Thursday in May:

table fries

open windows in spring weather: an embarrassment of riches

generous pouring, followed by generous tipping

that bite of steak with a little extra fat on it

the spiriting presence of sun

a lunch beer

enough time on the meter to linger over the check

“help yourself; there is more of everything”

Post-Scripts.

+On letting people be wrong about you.

+Magpie readers share their self-portraits.

+Change and the invisible hands that want to keep us where we are. (Darn them!)

+A love letter to my husband.

Shopping Break.

+I found our favorite daily facial peel pads 28% off! (Use code SPRING28.) Landon and I use these every other night, and we cut each pad in two to make the box last longer — they’re generous in size! The other skincare rituals we share: we both use this LED mask (JEN10 for 10% off) every day or every other day, and we are both obsessed with this super splurgey duo of nighttime repair serum and cream, which we apply every night!

+An Alice Walk Warehouse sale just went live!!! Don’t miss these gorgeous cashmere mockneck sweaters and my absolute favorite cotton weekender sweater (I own in two sizes!)

+If you’re a local Magpie: Rails just opened a boutique in Bethesda Row, and they invited me in this week. The current assortment is SO chic and is an ideal destination when you’re in the mode of “OMG, I need an outfit for a birthday dinner / a Mem Day BBQ / an event at school / a gals brunch.” I left with this gingham tie-front top and these red jeans (you can see me in them here). I’d wanted one of those tie-front tops for awhile and this one was perfect! All my Rails favorites here.

+Also, Mr. Magpie came with me to the store and left with this! We both agreed it’s the perfect “Lake day” item for wearing with swim trunks, throwing on in the evening when the temperatures drop, etc.

+OMG this embroidered dress! Love every detail about it, and it’s under $200.

+A fab colorful and slouchy straw tote at a great price.

+A little niche but I bought this professional-grade clothing steamer at full price last month (I did some research on Reddit to select it), and now I find it here for over 50% off! I am super impressed with it. I love the design and find it very easy to use. Two other items I found there and added to cart: these freezer cubes (great for stock / soup / etc) and this darling tennis set for my daughter in the pastel blue!

+Swooning over this grosgrain wonder.

+Veronica Beard jumps in on the bungee nano-trend!

+You all loved this Mille dress I shared earlier this week! You can get 15% off with code JEN15. I had it in my cart but ended up deciding on the same pattern in a different silhouette — this one. I just know what looks best on my body, and I was worried the Alma style would be a little long and baggy on me (I’m 5’0!). I shared all my current favorite Mille pieces here! I love all the red and blue!

+Fun cordless stick lamps with great lampshade options. Or get a rattan shade from here!

+Have you seen Cuyana’s new silhouette?!?! ZOMG. Majorly chic. And I love that they are doing green and blue — black/taupe/brown are beautiful and practical but I love an everyday pop of color.

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





By: Jen Shoop

What are the products you always keep in stock for beauty/skincare emergencies? A few of my must-have “repair” products below. Wherever possible, I’ve requested a custom discount code for us to use so you can try them at a discount!

CLARINS V-FACIAL MASK // MOTHER SCIENCE REPAIR MOISTURIZER // TRUE BOTANICALS RESCUE BALM // EYE MASKS // MIRACLE OIL // LIFT MASK

+GOOP BEAUTY GOOPGLOW. A two-minute skin transformation. I use this frequently if I’m about to go out for the night, am short on time, and feel like I need a skin turnaround. It is both a physical and chemical exfoliant that leaves skin baby-soft. Use code SHOOP15 for a discount on this and all other Goop beauty. (All my favorites here!)

+MOTHER SCIENCE MOLECULAR GNESIS BARRIER REPAIR MOISTURIZER. This is my go-to for when my skin is ultra-dry or ultra-upset/irritated with me. I was drawn to this brand because they carry only a very tightly curated, deeply-researched set of three products; they really do their homework. This is always in my cabinet for parched and irritated skin. Use code JENSHOOP.

+CLARINS V-FACIAL MASK. This is one of a handful of products that I keep multiples of in my beauty cabinet. It is my favorite facial mask. I like to apply this from my cheeks down and then use a clay mask (usually Origins) on my forehead/nose. The Clarins mask chisels away your features — dramatically depuffs — and leaves skin so soft and beautifully defined. It is absolute magic.

+CLARINS CRYO-FLASH INSTANT LIFT MASK. Especially love this in the summer — it leaves your skin feeling chilled, iced-down, refreshed. The effect is like dunking your head into a bowl of ice water. Skin is awake, alert!

+JILLIAN DEMPSEY EYE MASKS. I’ve written about these so many times but they are absolute magic. Totally brighten and hydrate and wake up tired eyes. I mean, they really brighten the eye area! I’ve never had an eye product that actually brightens my dark undereye circles. I always have 1-2 of these masks in my travel cosmetics bag. Use code JENSHOOP.

+TRUE BOTANICALS EVERYTHING RESCUE BALM. My neighbor and dear friend gave me this balm a year or two ago and I use it constantly. It has a great botanical scent and is not quite as unctuous as Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream — but delivers similar results. I use this on chapped lips and skin, scrapes/abrasions, cuticles, upset or bumpy patches, and even recently on razor burn on my shins! I absolutely love this stuff. My neighbor keeps a pot in her car; I might copy and add to my glove box.

+OMOROVIZCA MIRACLE OIL. This is a recent beauty empty for me, and I especially loved it during the dry winter months. It is a rich but easy-to-blend facial oil that hydrates, brightens, and smooths skin. I wear vitamin C daily and then follow with either an oil or a serum; this oil was my favorite and beloved over the past winter.

Two new emergency / repair products I am resting after reading about — Tower28’s SOS Rescue Spray, which has hypochlorous acid in it. Hypochlorous acid is a “natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial that helps defend your skin against harmful bacteria, reduce redness, and soothe irritation.” I had heard a dermatologist say she uses this for surgery/procedure recovery, but I’m especially intrigued by using it post-workout (on body and face!), which I think makes me prone to breakouts, and to combat redness in my t-zone. Another product I’ve been using intermittently since December: these Niacinamide pads. I really love the instant glow/dewiness/tightness/firmness they impart but I was just reading that Niacinamide (or B3) also reduces inflammation, minimizes the appearance of pores, and lightens dark spots. So I have been incorporating into my daily skincare process. I notice an immediate brightening/firming effect and am feeling encouraged!

What about you? Share yours!

P.S. My everything shower favorites.

P.P.S. Do you remember when we used to take our time?

P.P.P.S. An envelope containing the universe.

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

By: Jen Shoop

There are those people who draw light to themselves, and almost can’t help it.

They just stand still and keep the lamps lit.

These are the people who pull out a chair for you when you approach the table: “please,” they say, gesturing you into it, earnest and unaware of their outsized generosity. It is instinctive, their pre-disposition to include.

These are also the people who say “atta girl!” to strangers who have just ridden a big wave, or run the bases, and they fill the hungry heart with pride, and they do it with such ease, and egolessness, having learned some time ago that there is no economy of compliments.

These, too, are the people who say “my pleasure” and mean it, who gamely forebear conversations with the lonely or unhappy, who are practiced in the art of “yes, and–” thinking. They teach us that a rising tide lifts all ships, and that there is enough good in the world to go around, and then some.

What made them this way?

Not the absence of pain, no. More often than not, heartbreak is the holy ground that anoints them.

The more of these light-gatherers I meet, the more I believe it’s will, and will forged anew each day. They wake up and they call forth an adamantine determination to resist the ease of despair, and to believe that reality is mainly possibility — even when the wicked comes knocking.

I would like to learn from them how to draw the luminous, too,

how to stand still and shine,

how to turn on every last light in the city,

flame to flame,

unbound luminescence.

Post-Scripts.

+I don’t know who the gorgeous gal at top is, but I saw this photo on Pinterest and I thought she captured the exact energy of the light-gathering people I know.

+While writing this, I was thinking of a few specific light gathering people in my own life, but the inspiration came from the receptionist at the pediatrician’s office who offered to look after my son while I took my daughter to her annual check-up. She was so easy with her generosity, so light-hearted and joyful, while in a job that is undoubtedly draining — I can just imagine that she bears the brunt of scared/frustrated parents! I was thinking, too, of Katie from Beach Reads and Bubbly. I am only loose Internet acquaintances with her, but my goodness does she reflect the light and lift other people!

+It’s just that….we have so little time with our loved ones.

+Life is short. You might as well…

+What are your signatures?

Shopping Break.

+Madewell has some FAB new arrivals — I ordered these sandals! I have been eyeing similar pairs that are 3-4x as expensive from Amanu and Beek but these are perfect. I’m imagining pairing those sandals with dresses like this, this, and this.

+Other things I like from Madewell: this skirt, this top, this bag.

+OMG this $20 bag with the bungee cord detail! (You know I’m loving this nanotrend…)

+This easy gingham dress! Perfect for summer concerts!

+I just ordered this crochet tank. $60! They also have a cute bucket hat!

+Veronica Beard vibes for $35. (Although I did find the Veronica Beard version of those shorts on sale at The Outnet!)

+Other great Veronica Beard clearance finds at The Outnet and Nordstrom Rack: this striped blazer, this linen waistcoat (pair with white jeans!), and this iconic tweed blazer (70% off!).

+LOVE this striped sweatshirt! Reminds me of the one I have from Frank and Eileen, but it’s 1/3 the price.

+I’ve been seeing these jelly flip flops all over, but the price is steep! Found these looks for less.

+New NBs for your kids! While you’re there, how chic are these retro canvas bags?!

+Just discovered a fab new athletic/swim/UPF brand called Watskin. They have great court/course options, like this dress, and also these chic rash guards.

+Love these jelly t-straps. At the other end of the sandal silhouette spectrum: these funky Naghedis!

+I would wear this as a pool cover-up. So sweet!

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





By: Jen Shoop

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?

Go-To Happy Hour Snacks: Minimal Cooking/Assembly Required.

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)

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

Gildas (the original pintxo)

Spiral ham with Hawaiian rolls and mustard

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

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

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

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

Dozen oysters with mignonette sauce

Go-To Happy Hour Snacks: Open and Serve.

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

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)

Breadsticks (thin, crispy kind) wrapped with prosciutto

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

Happy Hour Snack with a Little More Prep Required: BBQ Shrimp.

BBQ shrimp is a bit more ambitious, but not difficult and can be made well in advance. This is something great to make the night before — chilling the shrimp in their own spices makes them even more delicious. Be sure to serve with paper towels!

Preheat oven to 375.  Fry three slices chopped bacon.  Add two sticks butter, 2 tablespoons dijon mustard, 1.5 teaspoons chili powder, ¼ teaspoon dried basil, ¼ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoons pepper, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, 2 cloves crushed garlic, 2 tablespoons Old Bay, and ½ teaspoon Tabasco.

Place 1.5 pounds of shell-on shrimp in baking dish. Coat with sauce and bake 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve with crusty bread and paper towels.

Even Smaller Nibbles for Happy Hour.

In addition to the ideas above, I love to have little bowls of snacks sprinkled around the bar and countertops, like: 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!

Cocktails to Try at Your Next Happy Hour.

If I’m hosting more than a friend or two, I like to make a punch (the Death and Co cocktail book has an entire section dedicated to punches; we’ve made many of them and they are delicious), something that can be easily made in batches (margs!), or a built cocktail like an aperol spritz, so I’m not fussing with tons of equipment, shaking, etc while your guests are waiting. No matter what you serve, my best tip is to “prep” the bar fully earlier in the day. For example, squeeze all citrus and keep in the fridge, clean and slice all garnishes, and line up all the tonic/soda/etc at the station. I also pre-chill glasses!

A couple of cocktail recipes to consider:

+The only margarita recipe you’ll ever need.

+Mai tais, made the Magpie way!

+A cocktail for mezcal skeptics.

Post-Scripts.

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

+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 Reformation and this eyelet by GAP x Doen.

+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 paracord necklace.

+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.

+A new razor is essential for swim season.

+Juliet Dunn…!!!

+FUN 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 goodies: this shirt, this jacket, and hat.

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

By: Jen Shoop

SWIMSUIT // GIRLS TENNIS SET // BOYS TERRY SET // STRIPED SHORTS // COSMETIC BAG // TOWEL DRESS // TOTE

I love the plush, chic look of terrycloth for the summer. Below, I’ve compiled a collection of pieces from everyday separates to swimwear!

01. Seen above, this gorgeous Pitaya towel dress I’ve recently been obsessed with.

02. Tote from Tuckernuck — I love the scalloped trim!

03. Shell coverup.

04. Classic Kule sweatshirt.

05. Kule terry dress.

06. Another Tuckernuck pick — striped shorts.

07. Weezie initial toiletry bag.

08. This jumpsuit is such a unique piece!

09. One piece with flattering balconette detail.

10. Banana bikini bottoms and top.

11. Anthropologie cosmetic bag under $40.

12. Embroidered terry bundle for a great price.

13. For your husband: terry collared shirt and shorts.

14. For your boys: blue stripe shorts and this darling set.

15. For your girls: cute tennis set, tennis dress, and drawstring romper.

16. Tennis bubble for your baby.

17. Zimmermann’s entire toweling line — a moment for this dress.

Styling The Terry Trend

TOWEL DRESS // SWIMSUIT // FLATS // NECKLACE

TOTE // COSMETIC BAG // SANDALS // DRESS // SUN HAT

SWIMSUIT // SHORTS // TOP // PURSE

P.S. Spring finds for Mr. Magpies.

P.P.S. The pool edit.

P.P.P.S. If your life were a movie.

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

By: Jen Shoop

Some great new finds at J. Crew, Shopbop, Tuckernuck, and Tory Burch, including my new favorite Kira “sport sandals,” seen above. (Other outfit details here.) Love the contrast/edge they offer when paired with an otherwise classic-leaning look.

Sharing all my top finds from May’s new arrivals below —

BLOCKPRINT SHIRT // ESPADRILLES // EYELET SWIMSUIT // MINI RAFFIA BAG // WHITE PINTUCK DRESS // PACKABLE STRAW HAT // EYELET SHORTS // BLUE PINTUCK DRESS

Over at Shopbop, I’m so charmed by this fish-print mini from Staud!

STAUD FISH PRINT DRESS // BRINKER AND ELIZA NECKLACE // $54 JELLY FLATS // ALEMAIS TOTE

All my Shopbop picks here.

Over at Tuckernuck, lots of options to plan your summer festivity wardrobe. I’m obsessed with their options for FOJ — love this and this in particular.

BLUE AND WHITE STRIPE MIDI DRESS // SEERSUCKER STRIPE DRESS // ESPADRILLES // WOVEN BAG // BEADED NECKLACE // COVER UP // JELLY SANDALS // TERRYCLOTH TOTE

And over at Tory Burch! Lots of goodies. I’ve been absolutely obsessed with what they’re putting out this year!

TENNIS HENLEY // KIRA SUNGLASSES // POPLIN SKIRT // SUEDE PLATFORM SANDALS // PINK LINEN GOWN // ROMY BUCKET BAG // INES SANDALS

And a few one-off favorites from our favorite retailers:

+This Julia Amory “Mustique” set. Code JEN-15 gets us 15% off!

+HHH is launching a FABULOUS collection today at noon — they invited me to select a few pieces from the launch and I had to snag this Margot dress (below left; if link doesn’t work now, it will work at launch time, which is I believe 12 EST) and this Pippa (below right).

+From Nordies, I can’t stop thinking about this vintage-vibes RL fleece set! J’adore! I have no plans for this, but I imagine myself coming in off the water / off a boat / off the beach, slipping into this set, and mixing up a cocktail on a balcony somewhere.

P.S. How do you stay organized?

P.P.S. Thoughts on re-setting for the week.

P.P.P.S. Musings on fractionality.

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

By: Jen Shoop

How absolutely darling are these mother-and-child coordinating outfits from Ralph Lauren?  I love the way Ralph Lauren’s iconic mother-and-child pieces were captured by photographer Karel Balas for Milk Magazine a few years ago — the imagery has stuck with me for years, and kept me returning to Ralph for similar looks each season.

ralph lauren mommy and me

 

ralph lauren mommy and me

 

ralph lauren mommy and me

I especially love this classic oxford dress for me, and this for my daughter.

Styling Ralph Lauren Mommy and Me for Summer.

styling collage for mommy and me ralph lauren outfits

CHAMBRAY DRESS // MIU MIU SANDALS (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // JENNI KAYNE HAT // LOEWE CLUTCH // BANDANA PRINT HAIR CLIPS // GIRLS CHAMBRAY DRESS // MAISON MANGOSTAN GIRLS SANDALS

styling collage for mommy and me ralph lauren outfits

RALPH LAUREN OXFORD DRESS // LOEFFLER RANDALL SANDALS // ELIOU NECKLACE // PRADA BAG // GIRLS OXFORD DRESS // SALT WATER SANDALS

styling collage for mommy and me ralph lauren outfits

GINGHAM ATHLETIC DRESS //  DORSEY PARACORD BRACELET // PRADA PHONE SLING // BROOKS GLYCERIN MAX SHOES // GINGHAM BABY ROMPER // PACIFIER

styling collage for mommy and me ralph lauren outfits

RALPH LAUREN SUNGLASSES // CELINE PHONE SLING // RALPH LAUREN CABLE KNIT SWEATER //  AGOLDE SHORTS // BIRKENSTOCKS // CABLE KNIT SWEATER // GIRLS PLEATED SKORT // GIRLS ESPADRILLES

The Iconic Ralph Lauren Flag Sweater for the Entire Family.

Or, flag sweaters for all!  (Mom, Dad, brother, sister!). I adored these on my children as babies in particular but recently snagged one for myself, too.

ralph lauren flag sweater mommy and me
ralph lauren flag sweater mommy and me
red white and blue ralph lauren sweater

Ralph Lauren Flag Sweater Look for Less.

I found a great look for less this season for the RL flag sweater — see here for women and here for kids.

P.S.  What are your favorite family games?

P.P.S. Summer finds for little boys.

P.P.P.S. An essay on the pinch of watching your kids get older.

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

By: Jen Shoop

Every summer I find myself reaching for stripes; above, wearing my favorite Mille Saffron dress in a past-season striped pattern; you can find a mini-length version of this dress in a great red stripe here. (My code JEN15 should get you 15% off at Mille, sitewide; note that this brand tends to run super big. I go down a size!)

I love the preppy/office vibes and the way styling stripes in unexpected ways can create fun fashion friction. See below for some incredible inspo —

Striped Shopping Finds.

LEFT TO RIGHT: WREN LACE TRIM SHIRTDRESS // LORI DRESS // THE GOOD BEHAVIOR DRESS // DELPHINE NAP SKIRT

FINE RIB CAMISOLE IN STRIPE // EXCLUSIVE RIVIERA ARI STRIPED KNIT TOP // STRIPED TEXTURED SHIRT // BAHAMAS ONE PIECE // RAFFIA NAVY STRIPES // STRIPED SALERNO SANDALS

LEFT: LINEN OVERSIZED SHIRT // EASY LINEN SHORTS

RIGHT: CAPRI STRIPED COTTON SHIRT // ELVA STRIPED COTTON SHORT

Styling Stripes for Summer.

LINEN OVERSIZED SHIRT // EASY LINEN SHORTS // SMALL BASKET BAG (LOOK FOR LESS HERE)// HILLIE SANDAL // NAUTILUS EARRINGS // PEARL DISC BEADED BRACELET

STRIPED TEXTURED SHIRT // PARKER LONG SHORT // KYLE BUSTIER ONE PIECE // CASSANDRA FLAT SANDAL // PASSEO SMALL LEATHER TRIMMED TOTE (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // 1983C SUNGLASSES (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // CHUNKY MEDIUM HOOPS

EXCLUSIVE RIVIERA ARI STRIPED KNIT TOP // THE LINEN SIMPLE PANT // INCA BUCKET HAT // JACKIE ACETATE SUNGLASSES // PERIDOT MIGNON FLAT SANDAL // MIRA LARGE TOTE // LOU HUGGIES

WELLS DRESS // KIGALI SANDALS // RAFFIA NAVY STRIPES // DOME HOOPS // PAPERCLIP CHAIN BRACELET

P.S. The beach/pool edit.

P.P.S. Fresh sandal silhouette for spring/summer.

P.P.P.S. Statement jewelry for spring and summer.

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





By: Jen Shoop

It’s not that I don’t go to the fountains and altars and mountaintops, lay alms and offerings, burn incense, seek the celestial fix.

In fact, I do these things, over and over, tripping on my hem in haste, eyes wide in anticipation, when I sit with determination each morning at my desk, and drink from the wide font of literature, and wait in breathless quiet.

But why is it that the more I fall into my private life, filled as it is with small things and heartstrings and accidents and attic dust, that I hear the flute and most clearly?

Come stand in your backyard.

Come look at the napkin your daughter has folded on the dining room table, and the love note from your son.

Come take the familiar hand, and smell your grandmother’s soup on the stove, and slip your arms around your home.

These are the yeomen of inspiration; hang on.

Post-Scripts.

+My day is filled with small things.

+Motherhood can feel like long division.

+Notes to self on motherhood.

+Reassurance for a Monday, if you need it.

+How do you start your day?

Shopping Break.

+A great striped sweater at a great price.

+This bag is under $140 and wildly chic.

+This botanical print $30 dress!

+Just the chicest summer top ever.

+I am usually a die-hard Nike Invincible girl for runners, but these Brooks glycerin running sneakers have my attention. While we’re talking running, I just ordered some of these Bombas running socks (the colors are SO fun — use code comfort20 if it’s your first order) and am contemplating buying more Tracksmith running shorts — I love these and these. I go up a size in their bottoms — I find they run really small and narrow.

+Basketweave Birks! These are so fun!

+A year in French style.

+Loving Pink Chicken’s new diffusion line, Coop! How cute are these rollneck sweaters and these gingham shorts?

+OK this La Ligne dress is perfect.

+Fun awning stripe cover up with scallop trim.

+Little English has some seriously cute FOJ options out for littles — love this dress and these shorts. But also, their alligator print is SO cute! This for a baby boy, this for a baby girl!

+Prada dream shoes.

+This denim vest!

+Chic tortoise vase!

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

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