While it’s always fun to revisit favorite places, it’s pretty special to experience someplace new. And when that place is Charleston, you are one lucky traveler. A South Carolina port city founded in 1670, Charleston is defined by its cobblestone streets, (somewhat controversial) horse-drawn carriages, and pastel antebellum houses — particularly in the elegant French Quarter and Battery districts. It’s a city made for walking…and walking.
Well, after 5 days we made it to Florida! We had such a cold, gloomy Spring that the sunshine we so craved was almost too much at first. The world looked so bright…the sky so blue…the gardens so lush. But not to worry, we dived right in and embraced the beachier side of life.
It’s hard to believe it’s been a month since Chris and I got back from our 16-day road trip down south. Of course, I wanted to get this post done weeks ago, but my “day job” as a freelance Creative Director took over my writing output and then we came down with COVID. But, just like our escape from a dreary start of Spring to Florida sunshine, there is light at the end of the tunnel. We’re both feeling much better (negative test, please!), and I can finally get the details of our adventure out to you.
The calendar may say April 18th, but the weather gods say we have to wait a little longer for the warm, sunny days we’re all craving. In the meantime, in Jersey City and environs, we’re facing a Nor’easter, plunging temperatures, and possible flooding. Up at our Adirondack cabin, the skiers are celebrating the 6-8 inches of snow that are expected. So until balmier days settle in FOR REAL, I’ll be layering on as many versatile options as I can find in my closet.
Four weeks ago, Chris and I had enough of chilly, grey March and decided a road trip to Florida was our escape plan. (More on that to follow!) The whole time we were gone, my Jersey City and NYC friends and family were messaging me about the horrible, rainy cold weather. Truth be told, an actual cold front took over the first few days of our trip as well. One thing I can say is that I really, really wished I had this cozy quilted coat with me! Which brings me to the biggest shopping tip I have honed over years of fashion fandom. And that is…shop off season, shop the sales! Now more than ever!! You might not get the immediate gratification of a fabulous new seasonal addition to your closet, but you will score some serious wardrobe options to look forward to.
It’s at this point of Winter that I really start dreaming of yellow sunshine, green grass and colorful flowers. But we’ve still got weeks to go before the official start of Spring. So in the meantime, I’m going to try to add some brighter colors and prettier patterns to my everyday uniform of mostly black.
Well, Puxsutawney Phil has declared another six weeks of winter, so those of us in colder climes will not be putting our puffers away any time soon. That being said, when we get a sunny day with temps in the 40s, it almost feels like Spring. So a puffer vest is the perfect option.
The last thing I probably need is another puffer jacket, but since this longline surplus green one is actually a coat I’m shopping with purpose and without guilt. And with a zip-up neckline and hood, this puffer was more than ready for the northeastern Bomb Cyclone we’re just digging out of.
Well this was one of my more inventive blog shoots. My photog/creative partner Kristin and I had planned a very ambitious day. After capturing 3 looks, we took a (very) late lunch. And in my opinion, a well-deserved break. But…that meant we ended up “chasing daylight” for my last look. It got dark very fast, so we had to get inventive. Kristin backed her car up, so she could shine her brights at this amazing mural. And we just decided to go for it. I’ll admit the look is different from most of my blog shoots, but we both loved the whole vibe. Hope you do too!
Between family and friends, everyone I know and care about is coming down with Covid or recovering from it. While it’s scary, this wave is nowhere near as terrifying as our world was a year ago — before we all could get vaccinated. Spoiler alert: if you’re Anti-Vax, stop reading now. And I guess, if you want to take it further, stop following me. Because while I’m concerned about becoming infected this time around, I trust the science that’s given us all a weapon against this killer Pandemic. If you’ve hesitated, please, please, please get vaccinated. And if you are vaxed, don’t skip that booster! And if you’re vaxed, boosted and bored, think about a closet cleanout.