GET THE LOOK
more plaid
SOMETHING NAVY LAUNCH
PERFECT PLAID
FALL UNIFORM
It doesnβt have to be all leggings all the time! One of my favorite comments from a recent client was, βI donβt have to think when I get dressed anymore, and I feel and look great!β. Every season I start with a statement coat. If its in your budget to purchase one long and one short, that would be my suggestion. I love all the styles in todayβs post because theyβre classics but stylish. You never want to buy anything that you wonβt want to reach for next year.
Iβve been getting requests to link some of my favorite Zara sweater styles. This is the grey style I wore in a recent blog post. I love this camel one paired with black denim or a skirt. This one isnβt available yet but it would be great with a pair of blue jeans or cords! Iβm also LOVING this sweater from Sezane. If you havenβt shopped the brand yet everything is designed in Paris and the price point is very reasonable. Insider tip: there wool can be a little itchy! Hope everyone has a great day! TGIF:)
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shop the post
FALL COLOR EDIT: RUST
Surprisingly I didnβt shop a ton while we were in Belgium. Our daily schedules revolved around the boyβs naps and it was hard to find an extended period of time to break away. Also, every day was so new and exciting that I didnβt want to miss out and leave the group. BUT when my mom and aunt offered to take me one day I jumped at the chance! My favorite spot to shop in Belgium has always been at the Belgium Coast in Knokke. They have everything from Hermes to Zara and everything in between. My favorite stops were the Belgian and other European designers that I donβt get to see in the US: Essential (Antwerp), Patrizia Pepe (Florence), River Woods (Belgium), and a few more. The best shop though is called Princess.
Side bar: It was in the 60s the entire time we were in Belgium so Fall was definitely on my mind. I walked in and was immediately inspired for the new season and couldnβt wait to bring something home (see pic below of one of the racks). I zeroed in on this rust colored open cardigan (referred to as a βBernadetteβ sweater in Europe) and decided I had to try it on. It was surprising because it also came in a light gray, but I decided to try something new. The color worked! In the shop I paired it with a navy silk camisole because I knew I had this one at home. This color also looks amazing with other browns, ivory, tonal florals, and I came home to find that its everywhere and as Iβm styling it more Iβve realized it looks good on everyone!
Girl Guide Update: When I left my job at Theory in June to focus on my styling business and the blog I decided I would let the summer play out and see where it could/would take me! Well I have to say I am still pinching myself every day that I get to do what I love. That being said I have decided to start putting a little more structure around things, starting with my blog posts. For the last three months I was averaging about 4 blog posts a week but there was no set schedule or consistency. Full disclosure - I hated that! I want my readers to know what to expect and when and to be able to count on me:) Starting this week I will post three times per week, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Iβm really excited and I hope you are too!
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get the look: rust
SHOP THE POST
THE TEDDY COAT
Happy Monday friends! I hope you all had a great weekend! I had a little case of the scaries last night around 10pm when thought about how nice it was that we were all together this weekend. Luke had his first soccer practice on Saturday and it was adorable. I donβt know what I expected (possibly a little more organization and coordination hehe) but I had so much fun watching him on the field with all his friends. Heβs getting so big! Also I should add that 16 month old Harry was running up and down the field like a champ too. Second child!
If youβve been following me for a little while you know, Iβm a neutral lover. When it comes to finding the perfect Fall coat the first thing I look for is a color that will go with everything. From the moment I saw this Bernardo teddy coat I knew it was perfect. Not only is it the perfect shade of beige and will go with all of my tonal winter white looks, it can also be worn back to Fall florals and black. Iβve been looking for something to wear to The Berkshires for my sisterβs wedding next month and wanted a coat that would work for the rehearsal dinner and for the day of. Love that this style is both functional and lux.
Hope everyone has a great week!
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SHOP THE POST
teddy jacket // Bernardo
MY FAVORITE SKIRT + IVORY SWEATER ROUND UP
OK so this skirt! I hate saying it but its old! I tried finding similar styles though and linked them below:) Funny story: my mom is a PRO at getting stains out of things and I desperately needed her services after spilling black tea all over this skirt while driving one day. I was so excited when she called me to tell me that she had cleaned it and it looked like new! Fast forward a couple weeks when I got it back and EEEEK! My mom had pressed out all the PEATS! Click here to see what it originally looked like:) I had a moment and then decided it still worked sans pleats. Needless to say I will never part with this one! If you want to recreate this look I love this skirtβ¦not a maxi but would look great layered with a shorter sweater (turtleneck would be great!).
Here is a link to this sweater. Iβm a huge pom pom fan so when I check Zara I usually start by typing in βpomβ and I always find great tops and dresses and in this case an awesome sweater. I love Zara and Mango because most of their things are machine washable. I always say I can wear ivory every day but I have to be able to clean it! Hope everyone is having an awesome Thursday!
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SKIRT
ivory sweaters
CROSSBODY
TRANSITIONAL MINI SKIRTS
How did it go from 100 degrees to 55?! I canβt complain thoughβ¦Iβve been begging the weather gods to get me to sweater weather:) I picked up this skirt at Zara in Belgium - it was love at first sight. Love the micro pleat and the colors are a grayish brown, perfect transition into Fall with blush, ivory, and browns. I think Iβll style it again with black tights, boots, and a black sweater in October/November.
A few questions answered from Instagram!
Flats from this post!
Iβve been wearing a very similar pair of pointy black woven flats in stories but I canβt find them online. Here is a VERY similar pair:)
My sweater (also in grey on stories) was a purchase from a Belgian market. Send me a note if its something you might want (considering bringing some back to the states)!
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GET THE LOOK
sweaters
skirts
slides
the bag
WHERE TO STAY + EAT - BRUGGE & GHENT, BELGIUM
BRUGGE
where to stay - The Dukeβs Palace
why we loved it: kid-friendly, gorgeous, amazing food, central location, there is really nothing bad to say about it!
where to eat - Restaurant Patrick Devosο»Ώ
why we loved it: kid-friendly, pre fix lunch options for this Michelin rated restaurant, dairy-free options, everything was delicious!! Insider tip - They have a gorgeous private room upon request!
GENT
where to stay - The Marriot, Ghent
why we loved it: location, location, location (and we had Marriott points) no but really its in the heart of the historical area overlooking the canal and picture PERFECT! One note - it is definitely a hotel for business travelers so if youβre looking for a more boutique feel this is not your place. Service was great and we' were upgraded to the Presidential Suite!
DATE NIGHT IN GENT
where to eat - ALICE , Eat Love Lasagna
CLEAN + MODERN
SHOP THE POST
OH HOW I LOVE SEPTEMBER
silk pajama jacket // francΓ©s austen
denim // mother
september I love you
its my birthday month! whoop whoop September 25th (mark your calendars hehe)
back to school - am I the only weirdo who loves the feeling of going back to school? Ever since I was a child its been one of my favorite times of the year. I think its because everything is fresh and new again. My mom would always get us a new pair of shoes (usually Keds) and school supplies, love fresh pencils!
apple picking - sounds cliche but apple picking has been a family tradition for as long as I can remember. We go to Wilkins Fruit and Fur Farm in Yorktown, NY.. Even those in between years (not a kid anymore and don't have kids yet) I would go. Frank and I love it!
indian summers - Its kind of an oxymoron to like both apple picking and warm Fall temps but when I say Indian summer I mean upper 60's with sun! That is my ideal - just cool enough to wear a cardigan or light jacket and still warm enough for a maxi dress and booties.
loose leaf tea - I drink hot tea pretty much all year round but I love when the temps start to drop a little and everyone else likes drinking it with me!
fall styling - I linked some of my favorite pieces for pre-fall here. There is not transition love more than going from summer to Fall. My favorite looks are jeans or a skirt paired back to a fresh sweater.
september favorites
WEEKEND READING + LDW SALES
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ldw sales
- Love this lace blouse - wear it into fall tucked into dark denim. Here is another similar style also under $100
- Do you ever shop this site? I'm always on the hunt and I love finding pieces from my favorite designers that I've missed. Like this one! and these:)
- This blush ruffle dress - buy now and thank me next Spring!
Β
in my cart
weekend reading
We desperately need to renovate our kitchen but I've been feeling very overwhelmed about it lately. I liked this article's perspective and tips for making the change a little more interesting.
- Speaking of home design, I've been looking for new wall sconces for our front door. Thinking about these...I really want gas lanterns but unfortunately we don't have gas in our home so I think this would be a nice alternative. Now if I could only choose a finish....
- My eyes LIT up when I first saw this collab. LOVE everything!
- After a long fight jet lag and dry skin is no joke! I just ordered this mask...hoping it lives up to all the hype!
MY DAILY LOOKS : Belgium
the flight
day one
day two
day three
day four
day five
day six (day)
day six (night in Ghent)
DAY SEVEN
DAY EIGHT (EXPLORING BRUGGE)
dress is old camilla and marc (tagged similar)
day nine
FALL'S MUST HAVE
GET THE LOOK
Still in Belgium and it feels good to take a break from travel pictures and back to the blog. I missed it! This is the first time we've taken a vacation since I relaunched THE GIRL LOOK BOOK so I wasn't quite sure how it would go in regards to posting, frequency, etc. I decided I wouldn't put too much pressure on myself and would decide once I got here. We are visiting family and friends everyday and I've enjoyed the break with Frank and the boys. I will say though...taking pictures has never been more exciting because I get to share them with YOU! So let me know what you would prefer for the next time around, more blog posts or following along on social. Both answers are helpful!
The blazer is your wardrobe's must have this season. You can wear one with everything. I styled it here in an easy everyday way but you can also pair it back to a dress, maxi skirt, etc. ALSO had to tell you that I just picked these up in Belgium. They're real leather and super comfortable. They are a perfect "steal" version of the ones I'm wearing. Also I've been living in these sunglasses! I've been looking for a metal frame to replace my aviators and finally found one. LOVE!
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mad for plaid
WHAT TO PACK: BELGIUM
Our trip to Belgium was a success! Of course we had a few ups and downs (like literally horrible turbulence for 15 minutes that had me lifted out of my seat and screaming) but Luke slept through most of it and we made it in tact and semi-rested! I've had some questions about the boys adapting to the first 24hrs and I'll do a post on our schedule after the red-eye..just want to wait till tomorrow to see if there are any major changes.
I feel like at least half of our positive experience was the result of all the great suggestions I received through my Instagram followers (especially the kid advice). Also this article was great for me! I've been feeling like I am on the brink of getting a sold but the Vitamin C packets have been great. I strongly recommend them for travel. Also setting my watch to the time in Belgium the minute we got on the plane also worked!
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IN MY CARRY ON
- Luke loved this tape on the plane. We used it to make shapes and designs on the tray table. I originally bought it for a window seat but we switched to the middle of the plane and it was equally as fun on the seat in front of us!
- This is the best invention! We both used it to fall asleep. Two downsides though: you have to blow it up, no pump. Not the biggest deal but I got a little light-headed at 30,000 feet! Also the height didn't quite match our seat so it wasn't perfect. Overall though totally worth it. Now I know why they call it 1st class for kids!
IN MY SUITCASE
LOCAL: AL FRESCO DINING
sweater Vanessa Bruno // jeans Baldwin // espadrilles Robert Clergerie
I've always been in love with romance of dining. Its not just about the food for me, although thats really important to, but more so the experience. Ever since I was a little girl I've loved serving people meals, drinks, you name it. I get so much joy from their reactions when I would do it. But its not just that, it was creating the experience that I loved so much...setting the table, filling the bar cart, lighting candles. When we hosted parties my Dad would open the windows in our house and the music would pour out of the screens and on to the patio. It was magic. I think about that a lot these days now that I'm a mom and Luke notices everything. I want to pass on this feeling to him too.
My parents tell this funny story of me when I was around 6 years old. I loved waking up early and making breakfast for them, especially coffee. My sister and I would usually make pancakes, set a tray, and excitedly run up to their room to serve them "breakfast in bed" (FYI it was probably 7am). Every time their faces would light up, "This coffee is amazing Artemis, thank you!". It was only about 5 years ago that they told me the coffee was horrible!!! I think I was bragging to Frank that I had been an expert barista from an early age and they gently corrected me so as not to crush my childhood memories :)
I love The Perfect Provenance. The food is amazing, the experience is unmatched, and you will be transported to another place even for just a little while. If you're local go now, ask for a Solstice Sun iced tea, and sit outside!
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dress Vanessa Bruno // bag Vanessa Bruno // espadrilles Robert Clergerie
this post was sponsored by the perfect provenance
EASY TRAVEL DRESS
SHOP THE POST
I'm starting to pack for our trip to Belgium and I want to bring everything and actually nothing at the same time! I've always had this dream of going to Europe wearing only jeans and a white t-shirt, and with an empty suitcase that I fill along the way. A GIRL CAN DREAM! I couldn't find my exact dress but linked very similar ones all in the same easy fabric below. I ordered this one the minute I found it. It reminds me of a Chloe and Zimmermann which would have been in the thousands and couldn't believe it was under $150. Happy hump day!
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT // LOVE SAM
dresses
tops
BEST FOOT FORWARD
STYLING NEUTRALS
shop the post
I want EVERYTHING! I created a Fall shopping list for a client and had to share. She wanted neutral blush tones, a mixture of textures, and a asked for a trench that would go with everything. Et voila!
- Love these sandals ! They're a neutral version of another raffia favorite of mine from Carrie Forbes
- I get so many questions about the rug in our living room. It's been sold out but found one more site with it. BEST neutral color and looks and feels very expensive!
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WEEKEND RECAP + THE BERKSHIRES
We had the loveliest weekend in the Berkshires. I know I call a lot of places my "happy place" but this truly is. We've been going to Great Barrington as a family for almost 30 years. In the beginning it was for overnight ski trips to Butternut or Jiminy Peak. The proximity to Westchester and Fairfield makes it a super easy and convenient trip with kids and it feels like you're getting away.
When I was 25 my parents decided to purchase a second home in South Egremont, MA. For the next 6 years I would fall in love with the Berkshires...the air, the scenery, the people...it was all so calming for me and it felt like home. Looking back I wish I had been able to visit more but realistically my job didn't allow for it. Last year my parents decided to sell both of there homes and move to CT (closer to us...YAY!). This weekend was the first time we've all been up together since and we had the best time. Also there was lots of talk about finding a smaller place in Great Barrington. Day dreaming...
On Saturday night we went to Tanglewood to see the Boston Symphony Orchestra perform film scripts written and conducted by John Williams. If you're not familiar with John Williams he wrote the music for all the classics: Indiana Jones, Star Wars, Jaws, Jurassic Park, and Back to the Future to name a few. Rain or shine the show goes on at Tanglewood so we pitched a tent (literally) and enjoyed a magical night with the kids. I highly recommend seeing a concert here if you're heading up to the Berkshires!
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RUBI'S IN GREAT BARRINGTON
DEPOT 6 IN WEST STOCKBRIDGE
THE BERKSHIRES
WHAT TO PACK
MYFAVORITE BERKSHIRE TEA AT DEPOT 6
RUBY'S IN GREAT BARRINGTON
PLACES TO GO, THINGS TO SEE
restaurants
Depot 6
Baba Louie's
Bizen
Prarie Whale
WALKING TO THE GREAT BARRINGTON FARMER'S MARKET
VEGETABLE GARDEN AT THE BRIARCLIFF MOTEL
BRUNCH AT PATISSERIE LENOX IN GREAT BARRINGTON
COVERUPS FOR ON AND OFF THE BEACH
GET THE LOOK
Harry and I had SO much fun in Watch Hill on Monday. We drove out for the day (two hours each way but its a straight shot from CT and I was happy to catch up on phone calls) and visited our friends at Coco and Lala. They have one store for women and the cutest store for kids. The selection for little girls is so adorable. If you're heading to Watch Hill or just passing through you have to stop by. Also I fell in love with this coffee shop when Frank and I went for a day trip back in May. The gluten free cookies are amazing!!
Love this coverup! Its def an investment piece but I love that I can wear it as a dress apres beach. I just through a slip under it and it was good to go. I like this one.
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PS I get a lot of questions about my this bag. I LOVE it. I've had it for a little over 2 years and I still feel like its a classic and not trend. I think its the color I have and the "saddle" style. My color is "abstract white".
ON AND OFF THE BEACH
3 MUST HAVE DENIM STYLES
These days shopping for denim can de overwhelming but it doesn't have to be. Clients always ask me, "Are these out of style?". My answer is this - at this point pretty much every style has come full circle and nothing is in and nothing is out. Of course there will be a trend every season but if you style them right, you should be able to wear almost ever jean in your closet and still look current. Sharing my top 3 styles for this Fall that I also consider classics and staples in my wardrobe.
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THE WEDGIE
THE STYLED JEAN
THE IVORY JEAN
MY FAVORITE SUMMER (OR WHENEVER) COCKTAIL
I went barefoot and makeup-free for today's post! More and more we've been having friends pop over for a cocktail on a Friday night and its important to note that it doesn't have to be over the top! Especially in the summer...I love hosting and I especially love it in a casual setting, no shoes, music on, good food and good cocktails! I'm sharing my favorite go-to drink, a dark and stormy. I love to load up on the lime juice and the key is to use the best ingredients. I was so excited when I found this ginger beer - its the best!!
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garden entertaining in style
DARK AND STORMY
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
2 limes
1 handful of fresh mint
2 pieces of crystalized ginger slices
Belvoir ginger beer
dark rum
2 wood skewers
2 straws
* serves two
Prepare the limes, one lime into wedges for garnish and one widthwise into 1 inch slices to place into the cocktail
Fill Ball jar with ice and pour in two parts ginger beer for 1 part rum. You can add additional rum/ginger beer depending on how strong you want it to be!
Squeeze the juice from two lime wedges into each
Prepare the garnish, slide lime wedge, ginger, and fresh mint onto the skewer
Add skewer to cocktail and garnish with remaining lime wedges and SERVE!
