Winter Favorites – 10 Items I’ve Worn Constantly This Winter

Spring Snow

The calendar says spring has arrived but the weather says winter. Based on today’s weather, you’d never know that it is the second day of spring.  There are kids shoveling snow and others walking by with sleds.  While many other people are talking about the latest spring fashions, I thought I would say farewell to winter weather by sharing the items that I have worn non-stop during our never-ending winter.  While I love cold weather and appreciate and enjoy experiencing all four seasons, after growing up in the perpetually warm and humid Savannah, Georgia, I’m ready to say farewell to my winter wardrobe. In fact, if you follow along on my daily Instagram stories, then you will most likely recognize many of these items especially the tops and coats.

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One of the downsides to simplifying my life and wardrobe is that I now have far fewer clothes in my closet. As I scroll through Instagram photos or our family photo stream, it is clear that I played favorites this season, even within my smaller wardrobe, and wore the below ten items on repeat.  I am ready to say hello to short sleeves, skirts, dresses and vibrant colors as soon as spring appears in Brooklyn. But, until then, since there are lots of end of season sales taking place right now, I thought it would be helpful to share the 10 items I wore non-stop this winter in case you want to stock up for next year.

Barbour Beadnell Polarquilt Jacket – Even though I’ve owned this coat for more than a year, this was the first year I could wear it as I purchased it when I was unknowingly pregnant with Katie. It became an instant favorite this year for warmer winter days and was worn on repeat when the weather was below 50 degrees and above 30.  It has large pockets that easily fit my cell phone, keys and credit card while the second set of front pockets are hand pockets –  perfectly angled and lined with fleece to keep my hands warm on cold days.

L.L. Bean Cozy Pullover – I wish I had purchased this sweatshirt in multiple colors as I’ve worn the spruce heather at least twice a week since receiving it in November. Clearly I’m not the only person who fell head over heels for this sweatshirt as every color in my size is back-ordered until late April.  It isn’t loose and baggy like most sweatshirts, instead it has a slimming cut and the hip length is perfect for wearing it with jeans or leggings. The thumb holes were an added bonus that I discovered after ordering it and the front pocket has been perfect for holding Katie’s toys or pacifier when we’re out and about.

9′  high-rise toothpick jean in classic wash  – These jeans have been a blessing for my post baby as the higher rise and stretch allow me to wear the jeans confidently without being uncomfortable all day. The cut and dark color accentuate and flatter my long legs while I also appreciate that they come in petite, regular and tall.

Sorel Joan of Arctic Cold Weather boots – I bought these five years ago when we moved abroad and just today did I notice that they are starting to show some wear and tear. These waterproof boots are perfect for snowy days as they keep my feet and calves dry and warm while also providing traction that makes me feel safe and secure even when I’m wearing Katie. I find that these run a bit small especially considering how thick most winter socks are so I would recommend ordering a size larger.

Sorel Nakiska Suede Slippers – Since I work from home, I spend more time in slippers than the average person. In fact, I wore out these amazing slippers in two years and received a new pair for Christmas. Unlike most slippers, these have a sole that provides arch support and the rubber bottom provides traction on our slippery, wooden stairs. The only down side to these slippers is that the wool lining keeps feet nice and cozy, which makes them  more appropriate for cooler months than year round.

J.Crew Dreamy Stripe Pajamas  – After buying one pair of these pajamas in gray and white I loved them so much that I bought a second pair in navy and white and have worn them almost exclusively all fall and winter. Since I have a short torso and long legs, most pajama pant sets don’t fit properly. These pajamas not only are long enough but they are also the softest pajamas I’ve found. The fit is definitely loose and I sized down in my second pair after finding that my regular size was a bit baggier than I preferred.

Tissue Turtleneck – Every year J.Crew factory sells this turtleneck in multiple patterns and colors but this year the black and white stripe was my favorite. It’s a perfect weight for layering thanks to the lighter weight and slim fit. I own four of these turtlenecks and wear them alone and under blazers, jackets or sweaters. They wash and dry well in the washer, are thick enough to not show bra lines and don’t shrink. If you want a looser fit, order a size larger than normal as they are pretty snug.

Merino Wool Sweater Blazer  – Available on both J.Crew and J.Crew Factory sites this has been one of their most popular items this season. A great classic that can easily be dressed up or down, I love that this one cotton which means it is machine washable and far cheaper than the J.Crew version which is merino wool.  It runs a bit large so I recommend ordering down one size but otherwise this has been a great staple this season and has been worn to both the farmer’s market on weekends and client meetings during the week.

Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket – This water resistant, down jacket is a lot warmer than it looks!  I’ve only worn my long, down coat a few times this season as this coat has been heavy enough to keep me warm most days, including during today’s snowstorm. The coat is more fitted than some winter coats which makes it very flattering. It is light and easily rolled up or stuffed into my purse and diaper bag but once I put it on it’s so much warmer than expected.  It is definitely an upgrade versus my long, down coat which I lovingly call my wearable sleeping bag.

Sarah Marie Design Studio Sweatshirt –  The saying on the sweatshirt makes it fun while the fit and cozy factor make it a winter time essential especially when I’m relaxing on the couch or hanging out with Katie. Every time I wear it I get comments from people on the street or Instagram as the struggle to get out of bed is very real. The fleece sweatshirt is so soft that I’ve actually worn it to sleep during colder winter nights. But, typically I wear it to and from workouts, relaxing at home or running errands.  An added benefit is that Sarah Marie Design Studio is a small business and you’re supporting a fellow runner and designer by purchasing through her online store.

 

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Instagram Fashion: April 2016

Insta Fashion April“Where can I buy that shirt? Who makes those shoes? Those tights are awesome, who makes them?” 

It’s time for this month’s edition of Instagram Fashion workout gear round up! This month I mixed things up a bit by sharing items beyond workout gear. April’s weather was far different than I expected – chilly and rainy, which therefore limited the amount of fun, new workout gear I could wear. The forecast for the next few days is warm and sunny so I’m sure that May will bring the beginning of Summer’s heat and humidity.

  1. An athleisure moto jacket that combines fashion with the technical details you’d expect from an athletic brand sounds too good to be true, right? This New Balance Shadow jacket is a favorite of mine as I dash home after a sweaty workout since it’s breathable and made of sweat-wicking material. Anytime I wear the moto jacket people are in shock when they hear it is New Balance.
  2. Is there a more fun combination than stripes and pom-pom details on a shirt? I love pairing this navy and white striped top with jeans or white shorts for a casual, yet fun weekend look. Since buying it last month I’ve worn it five times AND bought it for two friends. It’s on super sale right now, so snag it before they sell out.
  3. I’ve worn this outfit combination a few times this month as it’s perfect for the transitional weather. The Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity tights are lightweight while still providing compression and fun details, while the Brooks Ghost tank is so light I forget I’m wearing it. While I’ll probably not use the tights for Summer workouts, this tank will be a staple for the next few months as I run through the heat and humidity.
  4. I wore this same outfit on three different flights this month as it is comfortable and keeps me warm during chilly flights. The Patagonia Nano Puff  is compact and lightweight so you can easily stuff it into your suitcase if you don’t need it.  Available in 30 different color combination, the Brooks Chariot Heritage shoe is a great everyday shoe that provides great foot support while still being fun and colorful. Last but not least, the Timex Ironman Sleek 150 is a great update to their classic sports watch, allowing me to keep track of time and my workouts with a pop of neon.
  5. There is no question about it, the Brooks LSD Running Jacket was my single favorite item of clothing in April! It’s available in 7 different colors but I love pairing the neon yellow with solid crops or shorts for wet or windy runs.
  6. I wore this vibrant, flattering Jill Stuart dress to a beach wedding down in Avalon last month and loved it so much that I was tempted to buy it after my great Rent the Runway experience. The fun open back and high neck flattered my shoulders and back, two areas I love to highlight.
  7. As soon as I saw this tank in Target I knew I had to buy it! This fun, flowy and inspirational muscle tank has been the perfect top for barre classes and HIIT classes alike since it has side vents and is lightweight.
  8. I’ve owned this Athleta bikini (top and bottom) for four years and it is constantly my favorite for everything from laying out to riding the waves.  The halter top is adjustable and has removable cups – making it a great option for those of us who want just a little bit of padding.

Your turn: What was your favorite item of clothing last month? 

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored and instead is a list of the things of my favorite things this week. As normal, it includes lots of beauty and fashion items which means there are a few affiliate links via ShopStyle. It takes time and money to maintain a blog so I thank you for the support and few cents that come from clicking through the links!

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Friday Favorites – January Edition #1

It’s Friday! Insert all the excited emoticons and celebratory gestures!

What do you have planned for the weekend? I’m looking forward to a large pour of red wine tonight and a weekend in the mountains. We’re heading to La Clusaz with our friends for some cross country skiing and relaxing, mountain fun. The trip is easy since La Clusaz is only 90 minutes from Geneva, in southeastern France. As we’ve never cross country skied, Bo and I are taking our downhill skies in case the lesson doesn’t go too well. 

When we’re not traveling, I want to make Friday Favorites a regular blog post as I enjoy sharing my favorite things with you along with a few of the things on my wish lists. You can expect that most Friday’s it will be a mix of articles, fashion and beauty items.

So, let’s get things started, shall we?

This article blew my mind yesterday! Hard boiled eggs in a muffin tin? Who knew!

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I love that these 12 women dedicate part of their morning to their family and their health. However,  I have to agree with a few other people – they seem to get ready in record time considering they are the “face” of their companies!

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Running outside more, and crazy wind in Geneva and St. Petersburg has me replacing my usual lipstick with this lip balm! I love the price, small package that doesn’t open in your purse (lipsticks!!) and the faint tint it provides.

People asked how I stayed warm in St. Petersburg. While the temperatures weren’t that cold, there was ice and snow everywhere. My favorite Sorel boots didn’t come off my feet the entire weekend, save for those workout sessions and sleeping.

The other essential wardrobe item this winter is my new Patagonia Nano Puff jacket. My dad LOVES giving me a jacket each year for Christmas as he knows I’ll think of him when I wear it. When he chooses one as epic as this lightweight, compactable, WARM jacket, I don’t mind at all! Until I owned a Nano I didn’t understand the hype behind what I thought was just another jacket. I love that it is fitted, windproof and lightweight – making it perfect for travel or everyday use!

I’ve been layering this tissue-thin turtleneck under my blazers and favorite fur vest so much that I wish I owned one in every color! I’m was silly and only bought one when we were in the US, but highly recommend you take advantage of the sales and stock up! 

My hair goes all sorts of flat in the dry, winter air, but this brush has been taming it better than any I’ve tried previously. The barrel is wide enough that I don’t worry about getting my hair stuck and gives body and gentle waves. For less than $10 it’s a great deal too!

 

Last but not least, I blame Grace for introducing me to one of my new favorite skincare products. I’ve never been one to use all natural body or face products but after her rave reviews of Tata Harper’s products, I couldn’t help but use my Sephora gift card to try the brand firsthand. My mom and I both used the Tata Harper Purely Powerful trial kit during the holidays, and each raved about how fresh, vibrant and clean our skin felt after using the gentle exfoliating cleanser. The moisturizer is super rich, perfect for nighttime.

Your turn – what do I need to discover next?

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored and instead is a list of the things of my favorite things this week. As normal, it includes lots of beauty and fashion items which means there are a few affiliate links via ShopStyle. It takes time and money to maintain a blog so I thank you for the support and few cents that come from clicking through the links!

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