Collected Looks: Late Summer
I’m grateful that we still have malls.
It’s not that they’re the most inspiring place these days but there is something tactile about shopping in person that really can’t be replaced.
Whenever I’m feeling like I need to reconnect with myself, I hit the mall. Even if I don’t buy anything, there’s something regulating about following my intuition, trying things on, feeling the fabrics, and getting ideas.
I’m always collecting links and sorting them monthly into contemporary (roughly $100–$500), luxury designer, vintage and home decor. I like to think I’m pretty good at vetting for quality, fit, and that “special something.” So if you ever purchase something through one of my links, I really hope you love it!
On my end, I can see that we share an appreciation for investing in special finds like statement jackets, great jeans, beautiful sweaters, interesting tops. Oh, and of course, accessories too …that goes without saying.
I hope it’s not confusing that I link some of the vintage pieces available in my shop alongside newer finds. I’ve actually found that styling outfits makes me a better buyer. It helps me see which pieces have the versatility to move through a real life, rather than simply looking beautiful on their own.
And I think that’s what I’m always looking for in both new and old: pieces that can easily become part of your story.
So, on that note, here are five looks for these last, rich weeks of summer as we’re still dressing for warmth, but starting to crave a little more texture, layering, and transition.
Look One
Thoughts: Always love a good shirt dress. I tried this one on at the mall and the fit is so cute—just a little snug, so if you try it, I’d size up. Ugh, the richness of this very functional suede tote. Swoon. I hope to track down a vintage suede tote for the shop soon. I wore this vintage Chanel scarf from my shop with all white recently, but I love how beautifully it transitions with darker colors too.
Look Two
Thoughts: I tried these jeans on at J.Crew and loved the barrel fit. The icy pink feels especially fresh to me. I spotted this toggle jacket at Mango and immediately thought it would be great styled as a blazer. And okay, these orange sandals are a splurge—they sent me down a rabbit hole of colored suede shoes on TRR—but they’d be so worth it. Orange on the feet feels like a good place to me. The vintage Gucci pouch is just endlessly fun to style with weekend looks.
Look Three
Thoughts: This one was inspired by the new checked car coat at J.Crew. I personally always love black, blue, and white together—it always feels classic but not predictable. I have these suede flats on my fall shopping list from one of my all-time favorite footwear brand. This this vintage Chanel tote isn’t in good condition but what do you think about the style? Should I track one down for the shop? I unexpectedly love this lace top from the edgier brand AllSaints, but it feels really balanced with the classic silhouettes here. I’m also thinking about trying these new Citizens 90s French Straight jeans sometime soon.
Look Four
Thoughts: Not sure what inspired this one first—the green T-shirt (I love a bright, washed color like this layered up) or the colors of the newest Hermès scarf in my collection. I haven’t tried bubble-hem pants yet, but I like the shape of these Reformation ones, and I think a light color or print is the way to go because they have a summer sensibility to me. Threw in the Tod’s mini bag because there she goes again, polishing up a look. I’m also inspired by stone earrings right now and am considering adding some to the shop.
Look 5
Thoughts: This feels like the perfect weekend look to me. I really love the color of these Gap pants. I’ve been studying styling around long necklaces lately, and I think they’re fun with knit tops. I know these sneakers are kind of expensive, but I also get it—they’re emotional. Does anyone have the Alex Mill tote? I see it everywhere! It also has me wondering about designer canvas totes for the shop, they’re just so practical and can add a lot of personality in a color or print.
