Here we are, kiddos.
It’s almost the holllidddayyys (sung like Liza), and honestly, are you really feeling festive? It's hard to get in the spirit with so much unrest and bad news beyond comprehension. Lately, my Cancerian Crab self has felt the need for a retreat. And my wardrobe is matching that vibe in a big way.
I can’t be the only one who feels like saying “see ya” to sequins. I’m finding myself in big sweatshirts, comfy chunky knit turtlenecks, and yes, the elastic waist pants have made a rentree in my rotation. I’m ISO comfort. Full stop. And I’ve just done a huge closet purge, so not so much in the mood to shop, except for a fantastic coat (more on that later). I did interview a fantastic person for The Ageist who inspired me to be a bit more ballsy and fun, but my soul is feeling otherwise at present, but that’s just me.
As a bit of a compromise, I could spend some time nuzzling about in the trend known as “grandpa chic.” Not to be confused with coastal grandmom, the grandpa trend is all about cardigans, slippers, and a bit of plaid. I am dying for a red cardigan like this, with some Gucci slippers or an embellished mary jane and baggy jean to keep it all kind of 90s grunge gramps. I’m also hearing a lot of excitement for Grandma Chic, but if your grandmother lives in the 60s on the East Side and summers in Southhampton. Think beige, greige, and lots of cashmere. Sounds like Jenni Kayne but is actually much cooler. Also, I’m inclined to mix it all up because I am all about masculine juxtaposed with feminine, I’d rock the camel sweater with an oversized plaid coat like this excellent one from Asos and some brogues. If you haven’t checked out Ladies of Madison Ave on TikTok, run. And this round-up on Etsy is fun, too.
I’ve also been ruminating on the current zeitgeist/fervor for the 90s we’re all having. My feeds are full of 90s blowouts, which are sort of bouncy and big. Cindy Crawford-type hair was a part of that magical time, but I also remember wanting POKER STRAIGHT hair at any cost. This was before keratin treatments, so you can imagine what lengths (pun intended) we would go to to get that stick-straight hair. I’m so much happier that the texture is feeling more modern now. I hope that sticks around, says me and every other strurly (not straight/not curly) girly.
Also top of mind was a recent chat about another icon of the 90s, the Gap. If you moved to New York in the early 90s like me, there was a Gap store on most corners, and their black pants were an affordable working pant that also looked pretty great with a boot and a silky button down. I also remember the brand’s amazing advertising from that time, particularly this Gap Khaki spot. It was fun, not just for the great pants but for that swing soundtrack. Just imagine a time in New York when you could go swing dancing with cute young things in full skirts and fur wraps and guys in suits and fedoras. And though I was in love with the movie Swingers (because young Vince Vaughn was amazing), I loathed the swing kids. No part of me wanted to “go daddy-o.” I was far more of a hip-hop/house/East Village rock bar chick. Full stop. No swing dancing. No jump and jivin’. Not then and not now.
So with that, let’s get into it.
I don’t think it’s just me who HATES when my long dress shows too far under the hem of my long coat. It’s cringy, so I love that true maxi coats are having a moment. I purchased this one for 30 percent off, and I am THRILLED with it. Just for fit notes- it’s not oversized, so maybe go up one size if you have major rackage.
I also love this one from Tibi, but it’s mad spendy; but wanted to share because it’s so Helmut Newton-era glamorous.
I do love a good fuzzy wuzzy, and this coat makes me happy. It’s preppy cool, and I dig it a bunch.
Also, these leopard Wales Bonner x Adidas sneakers are so good. I don’t have it in me to hunt for them like a sneakerhead, but I want them to wear with cropped black trousers and black socks. Ugh. So good.
I finally tossed my chunky Zara Chelsea boots, which I wore everywhere for a while. I still dig a lug sole boot with a tucked-in track pant or jean or legging, so when I saw they did a fresh iteration, I allowed myself to toss the old ones and purchase the new ones. They are a bit stiffer and shinier than my more matte leather version, but I love ‘em. For some reason, Zara shoes work on my feet, which says a lot. I find them super comfy.
And since working out/going out of the house is essential, so is this very good onesie from Universal Standard. So many good colors; can’t go wrong in black, but I dig this dark cherry. I love wearing these to pilates classes and throwing a blazer or sweater over them to grab a latte afterward.
Back in Grandpa land, how about a good old Lacoste v-neck sweater from the men’s department? I’m loving red this season, and so is everyone else, plus love that this is cotton and not too sweaty for certain people who are now hot an awful lot. I have several and rock them with absolutely everything.
Oh, and these PJs from Cuup. Holy moly. Satin PJs (recycled is a bonus) are chic and lovely to wear for indoor weekends. I have even walked the dog in mine.
On the comfy front, I wanna know if these pintuck jeans from Spanx are as comfy as good-looking. I may be tempted to give them a spin. And these from Donni are a dream, and the ivory reminds me of my grandmother, who wore an ivory stretch pant with a zebra print silk top and knotted pearls. Amazing.
And with party season upon us, this slip- on dress will haunt me. It checks all my boxes and speaks to my heart.
Ooh, and as far as beauty goes, I’ve been pretty low-key, but I wanted to share a dependable favorite I will always have on my makeup time. This classic primer is hands down my favorite for aging skin. Your makeup will thank you, too because the application is so lovely after you’ve applied this perfect primer.
So now that I’ve written this, perhaps my festive mood is returning. Because despite all of the meshugas, there is much for me to celebrate, and I have immense gratitude for being here with all of you. I’ll try to squeeze in a post dedicated to party looks next week. Be there or be, you know.
All the love,
S.
tres cher on the la coste stuff! a nifty throwback but too pricey
I now have a wardrobe of Vuori joggers ( not too baggy but oh so comfy) and cute Vuori hoodies. I am not back to looking like an art dealer anymore...good years however. I also just purchased the short Ugh boots in black. Not ready to shed comfort but added a hint of style. "The world is too much with us."