While I would have loved to have been strolling the streets of NYC for Fashion Week (next year?!?), I was in Santa Fe for a “Girls Getaway.” Did we eat too much? Yes! Shop too much? Some of us! Drink too much? I’ll never tell! Laugh too much? Not possible! I only packed one dress, this one, because most of the restaurants are on the casual side. But I was super excited to wear it for the first time. And now that I’m back home I plan to wear this lovely lacy dress at least a few more times in the weeks ahead, layering a leather jacket or bomber or cardigan over it as needed. So you may be seeing this dress again!
As you can imagine, when we weren’t walking around the historic and charming village of Santa Fe or exploring the surrounding awe-inspiring terrain, we did engage in a fair amount of conversation. It was eye-opening and heartening to hear how this smart, special group of newly minted and/or almost 60-somethings are navigating everything from their personal style to their health, marriages (and dating!), children (and grandchildren!), careers, and yes, aging, in this millennium. On a lighter note, I think we all got a kick out of seeing what we all wore to dinner each night. We even indulged in some wardrobe sharing. Just like in college!
So on that note, back to this dress, which is actually two pieces — a slip and lacy long-sleeved shift. I might have been mixing my Southwestern metaphors a bit, but I did feel a little Georgia O’Keefe meets Freda Kahlo in it. Continuing on the rebel theme, I could actually see layering it over jeans. (Note to self…might need to try that, too.) Best of all, it was a dream to pack, especially using the rolling method. It arrived wrinkle-free and ready to go out on the town.
Since the dress is a creamy white, I decided to go with pops of color when it came to accessories: a tribal beaded necklace, striped woven mini tote (Fall’s version of the Summer straw bag) and nude leather gladiator sandals with (surprise!) pompoms. Honestly, this look was simple to put together and made me feel simply pulled together. The temp does drop at night quite a bit out in the desert, so my favorite leather jacket was the perfect travel companion.
Also wanted to share just a few pics from my amazing adventure. If you get the chance to visit this special part of our great country, you must go!
Real life still lifes from Abiquiu, Georgia O’Keefe’s home and studio, that is preserved exactly as she left it. You see and feel her spirit, everywhere.
After lunch at Ghost Ranch, we hiked through the stunning limestone outcroppings of “The White Place” made famous by the paintings of O’Keefe. We were the only people there…which was so cool!
And look at Kasha-Katue Tent Rocks National Monument! Its cones, ridges and cliffs are made up of volcanic rock and ash deposited 6 to 7 million years ago. For me, they captured the colors of a sunset. And more O’Keefe paintings, of course. Breathtaking!
Dress: (Zara sold out) but like this and this
Sandals: (Madewell, on sale!, don’t miss these!!) but similar here and here (on sale too!)
Tote: (Zara, sold out) but super fun here and here
Necklace: (old) but fab options here and here
Photos by MP Allegaert, D. Linkenauger & K. Hornsby