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.

Image may contain: 2 people, people smiling, people standing, mountain, sky, outdoor and nature

Image may contain: 2 people, people smiling, people sitting, people standing, baby and child

Image may contain: 1 person, sitting and indoor

Image may contain: 2 people, people smiling, people sitting, baby and closeup

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.

 

Share Button
Follow:
Share:
Comments Off on Winter Favorites – 10 Items I’ve Worn Constantly This Winter

Friday Favorites – November 18th, 2016

Oh friends, do I have a story for you today to kick off this glorious Friday. Last night, I had the pleasure of hosting six friends in our home for a Fall Potluck dinner. The cool, Fall weather inspired me to make chili as the main course while the other ladies contributed the wine, appetizers, salad and s’more ingredients for our fire pit dessert.  Even though I’ve been told hundreds of times to never try something new for a dinner party or when hosting, I fell down the Pinterest trap and tried a new recipe last night. Not only was this a new chili recipe but it was also very unique and nontraditional. I almost collapsed in tears when after an hour of prep and cooking the final product was horrible. Luckily, Bo came to the rescue with the suggestion of laughing about it and ordering pizza for everyone.

pizza-for-the-win

friends-get-together

So now that we’ve had our Friday laugh and I’ve reminded you guys, in advance of the holidays, to never make a recipe for the first time when you’re hosting, let’s dive into this week’s edition of Friday Favorites, including recipes, articles, posts and other things that caught my eye this week.

  • As I mentioned, last night’s dinner was saved by a local pizza restaurant, Table 87. The group couldn’t stop raving about the pizza because it was seriously delicious. If you’re in NYC you should definitely order or visit one of their two Brooklyn locations.
  • After a stressful week, sometimes a simple image is all it takes to cheer me up. Luckily, Theodora introduced me to Meddy Teddy, a yoga-practicing, meditating teddy bear. The brand has a great Facebook and Instagram feed that will brighten even the worst of days.

meddyteddy

sorel-slippers

  • I tried Orange Theory when it first opened in New York City a few years ago but due to a less than stellar experience, never returned. Heather’s Orange Theory post this week inspired me to sign up for a class after the Thanksgiving holidays. Have you tried Orange Theory? Thoughts?
  • I remember watching Beauty and the Beast in the movie theater with my mom and while it will always be one of my favorites, I can’t wait to see the updated version, starring Emma Watson. Did you see the trailer that they released this week?
  • I’ve read Kath’s blog for years and consider her a blogging friend and mentor. Though I remember many of her posts, this post on balance is one of my favorites. Balance is something that I believe I’m only starting to find and this post articulated so may of the thoughts I’ve had over the past six months.

Okay, with that friends I’m out! I have a busy work day ahead of me and then Bo and I are heading up to Vermont to spend a relaxing few days with my aunt. Hopefully the weekend will include a lot of sleep, delicious food, reading by the fire and some snow!

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!

Share Button
Follow:

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!

image

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!

image

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!

Share Button
Follow: