SIGNATURE STYLE: Summer Vibe
We are in full-blown summer mode here by mid-July, at least here in Northern California. Are you feeling it too? Soaring temps, late evening sunsets, bountiful fresh fruits and veggies, backyard BBQs, lazy days - perhaps even the luxury of a poolside nap - all speak to the vibe of summer. During our road trip last week we experienced a mini-heatwave even on the coast in Newport Beach. It's official: the summer vibe is here!
SIGNATURE STYLE: Summer Vibe
We are in full-blown summer mode here by mid-July, at least here in Northern California. Are you feeling it too? Soaring temps, late evening sunsets, bountiful fresh fruits and veggies, backyard BBQs, lazy days - perhaps even the luxury of a poolside nap - all speak to the vibe of summer. During our road trip last week we experienced a mini-heatwave even on the coast in Newport Beach. It's official: the summer vibe is here!
I find myself reaching for flowy dresses, maxi skirts, palazzo pants, and loosely woven pieces to help keep me cool. I wore a black off the shoulder number to an outdoor party in the sun and realized light or white is my definitely my best friend for summer temps. I'm such a fan of caftans, wrap skirts and off the shoulder blouses. Stripes are feeling fresh and fun this season. I found this gallery of summer style inspiration on my Pinterest boards for summer 2017.
Travels are in high gear and I'm enjoying so many of the colorful travel photos on Facebook and Instagram. One of the bonuses of social media is being able to keep in touch with the goings on of family and friends. I LOVE it!
I'm also thankful for the most lovely birthday wishes I received over the weekend. Thank you, dear readers, for sharing the birthday love with me.
Signature Style: Block Heeled Sandals
Call them a perfect blend of style and comfort and I'll call it a signature style. I'm spotting block heeled sandals all over this summer and I'm loving the look. My pregnant step-daughter, Briana, showed up at dinner with a stylish pair of black block-heeled sandals last week and reported that they are a comfortable way to wear heels, even when pregnant. Talk about walking on solid ground in style!
Signature Style:
Block Heeled Sandals
BLOCK HEELED SANDALS
Call them a perfect blend of style and comfort and I'll call it a signature style. I'm spotting block heeled sandals all over this summer and I'm loving the look. My pregnant step-daughter, Briana, showed up at dinner with a stylish pair of black block-heeled sandals last week and reported that they are a comfortable way to wear heels, even when pregnant. Talk about walking on solid ground in style!
Block heels are significantly more comfortable than the stilettos I've almost completely given up on, finally, at age 55..... Sigh! I have to admit that years of rocking medium to high heels, on a regular basis, have taken a toll. I now reserve the higher heels for a dressy event or special date night, otherwise, I'll reach for the block heel or stylish flat anytime. I also find the block heels to be more balanced and sturdy than flirting with the delicate kitten heel, while usually lower, but can often feel unbalanced.
Block heels are my new favorite for summer. You will definitely see some chunky heels popping up on my Instagram page for upcoming travel.
This gallery features some of my favorites looks. I especially like the ankle strap numbers. Nude shoes ALWAYS elongate the leg which is a plus in my style book. Are you a fan of the block heel style? Has your shoe style changed recently like mine has?
Signature Style: Sensational Sleeves
We are seeing them everywhere this season-- flared, gathered, tapered, capped, layered, slit, caped, draped -- those sensational sleeves. When I was in fifth grade I asked my mom to sew a dress for me with straight sleeves and 2 layers of fabric encircling the wrists. I was also very clear, I wanted it in daffodil yellow!!
Oh, how I felt I made a bold fashion statement in that yellow dress, circa early 70's, with those sensational sleeves. We can skip the references to my 'Big Bird' yellow taste, but I will confess I continue to have fashion affection for those sensational sleeves.
Signature Style: Sensational Sleeves
We are seeing them everywhere this season-- flared, gathered, tapered, capped, layered, slit, caped, draped -- those sensational sleeves. When I was in fifth grade I asked my mom to sew a dress for me with straight sleeves and 2 layers of fabric encircling the wrists. I was also very clear, I wanted it in daffodil yellow!!
Oh, how I felt I made a bold fashion statement in that yellow dress, circa early 70's, with those sensational sleeves. We can skip the references to my 'Big Bird' yellow taste, but I will confess I continue to have fashion affection for those sensational sleeves.
Style Tip: Wearing dresses or blouses with sleeves is also a good way to hide skin imperfections or skin that may not be as firm as we want it to be. Hello aging beautifully!
Are you a fan of this trend or is it just too much?
Which look is your favorite?
Know your sleeves:
COLOR STORY: Blush
The first home I owned was a condo in the northern suburbs of Los Angeles, in La Crescenta. Though it was small, purchasing it was a huge milestone in my life. It was a brand spanking new one bedroom, one bath space with a balcony that overlooked a luscious garden of fragrant orange trees from the neighboring house. It was perfect for me.
Though I kept the color scheme neutral, back in the late 1980’s, I sought out the perfect shade of blush paint for the walls of my bedroom. The color, chameleon as the light changed throughout the day, added just the right amount of warmth to my space. Blush is a universally flattering shade which is always a good thing, especially in the bedroom.
COLOR STORY: Blush
The first home I owned was a condo in the northern suburbs of Los Angeles, in La Crescenta. Though it was small, purchasing it was a huge milestone in my life. It was a brand spanking new one bedroom, one bath space with a balcony that overlooked a luscious garden of fragrant orange trees from the neighboring house. It was perfect for me.
Though I kept the color scheme neutral, back in the late 1980's, I sought out the perfect shade of blush paint for the walls of my bedroom. The color, chameleon as the light changed throughout the day, added just the right amount of warmth to my space. Blush is a universally flattering shade which is always a good thing, especially in the bedroom.
Whether blush is used as an accent in decor or in fashion, it adds a touch of warmth without being overpowering. I love it mixed with the bold yellow and aqua of that second image, as well as in more muted color schemes accented by gold.
Are you a fan of the shade blush?
A Stylish Wedding at Piazza del Campo in Siena, Italy
On the next leg of our summer in Italy, Scott and I found ourselves in Siena, the embodiment of a medieval city and jewel of Tuscany, on a lazy July afternoon.
A Stylish Wedding in Siena, Italy
On the next leg of our summer in Italy, Scott and I found ourselves in Siena, the embodiment of a medieval city and jewel of Tuscany, on a lazy July afternoon.
This was another golden, cloudless day strolling the Piazza del Campo. Locals and visitors enjoyed the slow pace of a warm afternoon. Children frolicked with pigeons on the moss-covered pastel bricks.
Our mission was to select the daily dose of gelato: gianduia (chocolate/hazelnut) for me and a double scoop of limone and stracciatella for Scott.
We happened upon a stylish scene and enjoyed watching the wedding festivities unfold.
Undoubtedly, Italy boasts some of the most elegant, stylish people-watching in the world. There are times, while traveling, where a moment just captures our attention and the camera helps it come to life. This was one of those moments for us, in Tuscany, the jewel of Siena.
Now that's amore!
Ciao!
Contact me to book your dreamy getaway to Italy.
Signature Style: Fall Edit
Have you given much thought to your signature style? The older I get the more I feel the desire to hone in on my unique style, have laser focus on what I have that works (and what doesn’t), clear the clutter, donate to those in need and simplify my style. Rather than more is more, I’m taking a less is more approach: less clutter, less mindless purchasing and more refinement of my style. This is my vibe, especially for this stage of reinvention in my new lifestyle.
Signature Style: Fall Edit
Have you given much thought to your signature style? The older I get the more I feel the desire to hone in on my unique style, have laser focus on what I have that works (and what doesn't), clear the clutter, donate to those in need and simplify my style. Rather than more is more, I'm taking a less is more approach: less clutter, less mindless purchasing and more refinement of my style. This is my vibe, especially for this stage of reinvention in my new lifestyle.
I pulled some style inspiration from my "Fall Style" Pinterest Board for the gallery:
Do any of these looks speak to you of fall?
Signature style: Fall Edit
Notes: Must haves - Asymmetrical sweaters for layering, a camel trench, a structured shoulder bag, an on trend mini-bag, silky blouses, slim cut pants, leggings, a knit tunic, boots- knee length and booties - and statement jewelry. I often choose stacked beads or bangles, with gold details and mixed metals. Camel, caramel and chocolate are fun when popped with bold colors, like sunflower or pumpkin. Blush and dusty rose remain strong for the season. If you do a feminine look (like the skirt above) edge it up with a textured sweater or leather jacket and boots. There is power in a monochromatic look. Stripes add a bold edge. The navy and black pairing is always sophisticated, and often unexpected. It's all about the boots for fall!
There is nothing like slipping into my leather boots, for the first time in fall, to feel like the season has truly arrived! We are in for a big storm here in Northern California this weekend and boots will be a must for me. Have you donned your boots this season?
We have a quick trip to Lake Tahoe planned in the near future.
The leaves should beautiful this time of year. Those boots will come in handy!
What is your signature style for fall this year?
xx,
Signature Style: The Power of Shoes + Iconic Beauty of Italian Shoes
I recently went through my shoe closet to see just how serious this addiction is.
I must confess, I have a thing for shoes. On a bleak day last February, I did something I've long wanted to do. Inspired by the classic book on organizing by Marie Kondo, "The Life-Changing Magic of tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing", I had a burning desire to start decluttering with my shoe collection. As I hauled out, let's round it to 45 pairs of shoes (please don't judge- shoes are my thing!), I realized the right pair of shoes can have a transformative nature. I spotted the Grecian gold stilettos that transport me to the island of Capri simply by slipping them on, the leopard print flats that make me feel instantly sporty, the nude booties that are comfy AND go with everything in the fall and winter, and the flat black riding boots that make me want to crack a whip into the air in the English countryside. Care for a spot of tea? I spotted the black shoe/boot that may not be an "all day" shoe but make me feel instantly a bit edgy and sexy. Yep, the right shoe can do that, have you noticed?
As I stared at this collection, curated over time, I realized these shoe, sandal, and boot 'soldiers' have carried me through many chapters of life. Some of them are looking a bit worn, but so am I. From dress up date nights, to running in heels during my career as a school psychologist, to walking the halls of a hospital when dad was ill; these shoes have walked with me. I had to take a few moments to reflect, to ponder what I needed to keep and what I was ready to let go of. In the end, about 8 pairs made their way to donation or consignment. I recommitted to a few pairs I had forgotten about. I decided I am not ready to let go of the memory, or the transportive power, not just yet.
And yes, when Scott came home to this scene, he thought I'd lost my marbles. ;)
I don't have many super fancy pairs of shoes though some of my friends would disagree with that. I do have a couple of gifted pairs from St. John, where my sister, Dorie Swanson, was a designer for many years. St. John Knits is an American brand, located in Orange County, yet their shoes are made in Italy. These beauties with the sparkling "anklelace" (it's not a necklace) have made their way from my closet to a party and have been tried on by more than a couple of friends. My beautiful friend, Lena, slipped them on during my retirement party. Don't they look fab on her?
Shoes made in Italy are part art, part architecture.
In the memorable words of Carrie Bradshaw, from Sex and the City, when she saw a fabulous pair of stilettos, "Hello Lover!".
In my book, quality shoes are the first item to consider when building a signature style. On a practical note, our weight may fluctuate, but shoe size tends to stay the same over time. I conclude that shoes are an excellent investment. They are also perfect mementos to bring home from travels--especially from one of my favorite places: Italy.
My number started at 48 pairs. What's your number?
Are you a shoe aficionado like I am??
An Invitation: Caudalie French Skin Care + Jason Wu Event in Venice Beach, California
As I was going through the mail following our summer travel, I discovered an invitation to an event for a brand of which I am a longtime fan. The event was to celebrate the collaboration between the french skin care line, Caudalie by Mathilde Thomas, and fashion designer, Jason Wu. My first thought was, "I can't fly to Venice Beach, I just got home from 3 weeks in Europe". Then I realized that Scott was already planning to be in LA for a class reunion that very weekend and had already reserved a hotel. The timing could not have been more perfect! We decided to drive the 8+ hours to Los Angeles and it was so convenient to have a car for all the stops we planned to make. We downloaded the intriguing podcast 'Serial' which made the drive absolutely fly by.
An Invitation: Caudalie French Skin Care + Jason Wu in Venice Beach
As I was going through the mail following our summer travel, I discovered an invitation to an event for a brand of which I am a longtime fan. The event was to celebrate the collaboration between the french skin care line, Caudalie by Mathilde Thomas, and fashion designer, Jason Wu. My first thought was, "I can't fly to Venice Beach, I just got home from 3 weeks in Europe". Then I realized that Scott was already planning to be in LA for a class reunion that very weekend and had already reserved a hotel. The timing could not have been more perfect! We decided to drive the 8+ hours to Los Angeles and it was so convenient to have a car for all the stops we planned to make. We downloaded the intriguing podcast 'Serial' which made the drive absolutely fly by.
The next day I dropped Scott off at his luncheon and headed off to my old stomping grounds of LA, and the beach cities, on my own. Sometimes it's fun to have a few reflective hours to yourself in one of your favorite places. I drove by some favorite spots, Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, Playa Vista and the intriguing Venice Canals.
This swan captured my imagination. What fun to cruise the canals on a swan, right??
I enjoyed a light lunch at Salt Air, a new discovery on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, in Venice. It was just a block from the event at the Caudalie Boutique. I enjoyed a delicious beet salad and one perfectly chilled glass of rosé recommended to me. The wait staff at Salt Air was fantastic. I don't dine alone often at this time in life, but when I do, I appreciate a wait staff that is friendly and professional. I was also impressed with the fresh, tasty menu.
Next up... the event at Caudalie!
I was warmly greeted at Caudalie and given the VIP treatment. My mini-facial, performed by Regine, a french woman who now lives in New York City and travels to do personalized facials at high-end events for the brand. Regine introduced me to some new products and reminded me of some long time favorites. For the last several years I have started just about every morning with a spritz of the Caudalie Beauty Elixir. I find it's the best way to wake up my skin as well as tone and tighten.
Regine reintroduced me to Premier Cru The Eye Cream which did a number on my road trip weary dark circles and puffiness. I loved it! The Premier Cru Elixir is another brand favorite and now part of my morning and night-time routines. It firms, nourishes, brightens and adds radiance using patent technology and natural ingredients. This product blends an oil and a serum creating a double-duty product which makes it more likely I will use it.
Caudalie french skincare was founded in 1995 by Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas, college sweethearts, who discovered the antioxidant properties of the grape-vine while working at a vineyard. Their vinotherapy skin care line uses patented technologies, in luxurious, yet natural formulations to promote anti-aging and skin health.
“I believe in a greener planet and more committed cosmetics. I formulate my products for all women who, like me, don’t want to choose between effectiveness and naturalness, between glamor and ecology.”
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Read more on the story and the ethics behind Caudalie.
For more on this cool collaboration of beauty and fashion with Jason Wu:
I purchased the Ultimate Anti-Aging Set in the travel size which I highly recommend if you are trying a new line of skin care products. I'm now using the Beauty Elixir, Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil, Premier Cru Eye Cream and the Premier Cru Elixir on a daily basis. I received a beauty elixir with my name beautifully engraved on it at the event. Such a stylish memento of my afternoon at Caudalie.
I've been using my new products for about 2 weeks and have been extremely pleased with the way my skin feels. This is a quick snap taken yesterday with my beautiful best friend since fourth grade, Deb. I feel like my skin tone and radiance has improved since I started using the extensive line of Caudalie skin care. I'm a big fan!
We also made time to see this beauty, my step-daughter Lauren, while visiting in LA. We had so much fun exploring some of her favorite spots.
If you are heading to Los Angeles I have some recommendations on where to stay on my travel recommendations page.
Have you tried Caudalie french skin care?
Would you ride a swan in the Venice Beach Canals (would a glass of rose' help make your decision easier? ;)
I received an invitation to attend the Caudalie Skin Care +Jason Wu launch event in Venice Beach. I was given a mini-facial, light lunch and personalized, engraved bottle of the beauty elixir. Other purchases were my own.
As a travel advisor, I typically design full‑service, door‑to‑door journeys—hotels, transfers, tours, trains, every detail handled. But sometimes you may only need that spectacular hotel you already found, and still want access to those coveted Virtuoso amenities. We get it. When it’s a hotel‑only stay, you may feel it’s simplest to book it yourself, especially knowing you’ll still receive the full Virtuoso benefits and have Curated Travel + Cadence standing behind your reservation with dedicated support for anything you may need along the way.