Shannon Ables's Blog, page 261

Why Not . . . Read a Book of Leisure in the Evening?

“Reading is everything. Reading makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something, learned something, become a better person. Reading makes me smarter. Reading gives me something to talk about later on. Reading is the unbelievably healthy way my attention deficit disorder medicates itself. Reading is escape, and the opposite of escape; it’s a way to make contact with reality after a day of making things up, and it’s a way of making contact with someone else’s imagination after a day that’s all too real. Reading is grist. Reading is bliss.” — Nora Ephron

Books for me have always been a Linus blanket, items that upon having within an arm’s reach to grab from my purse, to pick up off of the bedside table, to reach for on my desk or pull from my carry-on, offer the comfort of calm, peace, a getaway from the real world if I need a break or a deep breath.

A book, if chosen properly, is a moment of escape into a world you choose to venture into. Perhaps it is a world of fantasy, or a world of improvement to become your better self should you apply the lessons, or maybe it is into a world you dream about – the countryside of France or Italy or [name your dream destination].

As I scrolled through my Instagram pics over the past few years, I noticed a shift. A shift I am thankful as taken place which is what inspired today’s Why Not . . . ? post. In 2011 I wrote a series of posts about the value of reading, but today I would like to drill down more specifically into a particular type of reading: leisure reading, in particular, evening leisure reading.

Approaching the term of leisure as doing something for pure enjoyment, over the past 20 months, almost nearly coinciding with my arrival in Bend (you can view all of my IG pics that involve reading material using the hashtag #tsllreads), I have read more memoirs, cozy mysteries, light-hearted fiction, than I have ever read in previous years.

While I am regularly reading self-improvement, how-tos and inspiration books for reaching one’s full contentment and fullest potential in all arenas of life, which is something I thoroughly enjoy doing, such reading requires a laser focus as I want to drill down to the author’s intent and then share with you here on the blog as well as on the podcast what I have learned and wish to pass along. Recently, what I have intentionally gravitated toward in order to balance the growth, improvement and productivity part of my life is the pleasure part.

All of the books shown here in today’s post are images captured over the past year and a half (except one from Peter Mayle that I had to include – it is truly delightful) that have savored and indulged in for pure pleasure. From Lauren Collins’ When in France: Love in a Second Language, to most recently M.L. Longworth’s cozy, set-in Provence The Curse of La Fontaine mystery (which upon picking up for the first time, had a very hard time putting down – playful, engaging, delightful characters set in a lovely dream of a French town).

And it is in the evening, especially the weekday evenings, but the weekend evenings as well, whether I am at home or traveling, that I seek out a book of leisure to read. No matter how the day has gone, extraordinarily well or frustratingly off-course, picking up such a book as the concluding punctuation mark that I can choose to bring me peace, calm and a beautiful taste of something I love is a simple pleasure, or should I say a petit plaisir.

Word of the Week: No. 38

Click below for the American pronunciation:

http://www.thesimplyluxuriouslife.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/nonpareil.mp3

 

~WORDS OF THEd WEEK from the Archives:

~No. 36: lingua franca

~No. 31: annus mirabilis

~No. 20: flânerie

Just over a year ago when I added to my daily schedule French language courses for a period of two quarters at the local community college, I pared down my blogging schedule. The decision meant putting a pause on a wonderful, simple, yet helpful while being intriguing weekly series titled The English Classroom (you can view all of the archived posts here).

As someone who is enthralled with learning how to communicate well, and with each new lesson discovers how much I do not know and how vast the world classroom of knowledge regarding the English language is I enjoyed the new series in which perplexing grammar rules were broken down (Good Grammar Is . . .  series), new vocabulary was unearthed through the variety of newspaper articles, books and films I enjoy on a regular basis (Word of the Week series, 37 words and counting! Today makes #38!) and intriguing conversations about shifts and changes in the grammar and language community (have you heard about the latest discussion surrounding the Oxford Comma?) were shared.

Well, the series is back. Albeit perhaps with a bit less regularity as I will be posting when I come across a word that tickles my brain, when I hear inquiring minds ask about a particular grammar rule, or as is the case with the Oxford Comma debate, when language rules make headlines. Now those are the articles worth reading when I see such a headline, non?

After all, to speak well, choosing the precise word and constructing them in just the right manner can have a powerful effect on the listener. Such a skill is to be a master of rhetoric: tools to communicate effectively and invite your audience to consider your ideas.

“Don’t ever diminish the power of words. Words move hearts and hearts move limbs.” -Hamza Yusuf

So why Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg to kick off the return of the series? A more apt question would be, Why not Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg?

In 2016 her new memoir was released, In My Own Words in which for the first time since becoming a United States Supreme Court justice in 1993 she shares her journey, her stories and her wisdom about living a life that seems to incorporate it all: a successful career, happy and healthy children and a loving partnership. And it was her husband Marty Ginsburg who passed away in 2010 (seen in the photo with Ruth above) that inspired today’s Word of the Week, nonpareil.

Marty Ginsburg was a self-taught, talented amateur chef, (aside from being one of the nation’s top nation’s tax law professors and practitioners), and with the idea of Samuel Alito’s wife, Martha-Ann to compile recipes from his vast resumé of different items, in 2010 the cookbook was published by the Supreme Court Historical Society, titled Chef Supreme. From simple to complex (the longest recipe is how to make a French baguette, which is four pages long), the cookbook is a tribute to a man not soon to be forgotten by Ruth or those he touched with his love for food. You can listen to the entire interview from 2011 here and read the article from which the excerpt above comes from here as it was shared in The New York Times.

Point Those Toes Over Here

Pointed toe flats that is. The added elegance of the pointed toe without the need for a heel provides the comfort along with the extra feminine and formal style. Black is a classic and dependable choice and having found these Marc Fisher d’orsay pointed toe flats, they may just be something to put in my closet for good. After all, the elongated leg is what wearing a heel provides, but so does a pointed toe. So on those days when wearing heels is just not something you want to entertain, why not slip into a pointed toe flat? At the end of the post, peruse a few hand-picked designs (there are many color options with most of the shoes) and see if you may want to add a pair to your wardrobe.

~Remember: Click on the image to be redirected to the original post. Most images are shoppable.

 

~SHOP 

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21 Life Lessons Learned in South Korea

“The life you have led doesn’t need to be the only life you have.” – Anna Quindlen

~Note: A new episode of The Simple Sophisticate podcast did not go live on Monday (4/10) due to my loss of voice. Argh! However, I do hope you enjoy today’s post as I reflect on my recent week-long trip to South Korea. 

The gifts of travel continue to amaze, surprise and elude even my attempts at guessing what I might return knowing, feeling or having become as I pack my luggage prior to the journey. And my trip to South Korea last month did not deviate from this learned truth.

Choosing to wait a full week before composing today’s post, I wanted to savor, reflect and ensure I did not forget even the most minor of details. While I am certain there will still be remembrances that will pop up as the weeks and months unfold, the time of pause has shown itself to be fruitful.

As I mentioned above, this past weekend, following a head cold, my voice as well decided to go on its own vacation. As is the case, often it is our bodies that need to take charge when we haven’t given it the rest it needs. And while upon returning to Bend last week, I hit the ground running at work, not easing into the everyday schedule allowing the jet lag to gradually wear off. However, sometimes opportunities arise that we could never have predicted, and we must leap. And I am so thankful I had the opportunity to say yes to such a gift of a trip.

Many TSLL readers and IG followers have ask why I went to South Korea, and while I shared briefly on IG, I have been keeping the reasons fairly close to the vest. Why? It involves my heart, and I will leave it at that for now. I thank you in advance for honoring my privacy as the journey of exploration continues. In the meantime and always when I travel, I am looking to see what can be learned, discovered and broaden horizons, and so I have compiled a list of 21 life lessons I learned during this beautiful journey and would like to share.

1. Knowing how to communicate is crucial.

Not knowing or expecting to be traveling to Korea, I humbling admit, I did not know the language. Certainly, we were at a disadvantage, and while many Koreans did speak English, more than expected did not. Attempting to learn “hello” and “thank you” was the extent of my knowledge which served as an important reminder that it is language, a common language, that is needed to be successful, to make progress and to strengthen bonds and build understanding (as well as to be able to order the food you want ;)). To the many native Koreans and fellow travelers who knew the language and who offered their language prowess, I extend my gratitude and appreciation.

2. Extending gratitude is a priceless form of communication.

Speaking of gratitude, even though we did not know much Korean, the extension of gratitude was something that could be expressed without saying the proper words. With body language (perhaps a bow or a nod of the head in deference), while not the most efficient, does convey appreciation which translates no matter what language you speak. Needless to say, I was doing a lot of bowing.

3. Always be open to learning from those who know more or who have more life experience in arenas you may not. 

The picture above and many of the images throughout today’s post were taken by my love who has far more expertise and experience in photography than I do. Whether it is a skill you are curious to learn more about or a way of better engaging with life, with others, with yourself or your mind, seeking out others who know more and have figured out how to successfully do what you wish to be able to do will never be a bad idea and will only enlighten your world. See below a few of the images he captured while we toured the Korean Folk Village.

4. Bringing a few comforts from home softs the culture shock.

With the ability to bring two checked pieces of luggage for free, I made the most of it and brought more than a few comforts from home. While it is always encouraged to fully experience the culture you are visiting, packing your favorite tea or even your favorite pillow to help ensure a deep, restful sleep is not a bad idea.

5. Vegetables are the most delicious food. Knowing what to do with vegetables makes all the difference. 

From fermented cabbage (kimchi) served with nearly every dish, to leaves and lettuce to wrap our freshly grilled pork or beef after having dipped it in red chili paste, the vegetables were abundant and full of flavor.

~my first bowl of bibimbap! (with a side of kimchi)~

 

6. Finding parallels of what you love in the new culture can provide a sense of calm, discovery and deeper appreciation.

One daily routine that I quickly missed was having the outdoors at my doorstep, and so on the weekend we ventured out to one of the many national and provincial parks and hiked to the top of Janggunbong Peak. The hike was magnificent, the air so fresh and the afternoon sun exquisite. Take a look at our hike up to the top, as well as a pavilion that at this moment (as I type) is most likely surrounded by blooming trees of spring.

7. Jet lag will happen no matter how hard you try to lessen its effects.

As I mentioned in this post about how to travel well, jet lag will just happen even if you think you’ve stealthily avoided it (as I had errantly presumed). The lesson is to not, at least for me, dive into places unknown by yourself when getting lost may just bring you to tears due to frustration you normally would have handled with no problem had you been experiencing jet lag.

8. Eat the local fare, but it’s okay to dine occasionally at a restaurant that serves what you know and love. 

After dining at local restaurants and eating many a dumpling (oh, my goodness, so delicious!), oodles of kimchi, bibimbap and more, when Friday arrived and the suggestion was to dine at a French/Italian restaurant, I was giddy. Twirling my pasta in my spoon and noshing on gourmet pizza, complete with a perfectly sized piece of tiramisu, it was a beautiful respite before diving back into the culture.

~Little Nozzac in Dongtan, Korea~

9. Knowing how to entertain yourself will lead to wonderful stories to share and remind you of your tenacity and capabilities. 

Having traveled on my own during most of my journeys abroad, I had the confidence that I could navigate and figure out where and what to do somewhat decently when I was on my own the first few days of the work week in Korea. While the language barrier caused more delays and confusion than I had anticipated and probably taxed my energy level more than I realized, I at least knew I could figure out the transportation (the bussing system is wonderful, and navigating the subway is akin to most major urban metropolis subways) and did meet some lovely individuals as well as see some beautiful sites. While there was much more I wanted to see and still more I probably didn’t know about but would have ventured to upon discovering their whereabouts, I returned each evening I did go out on my own with stories to share which adds to the trip as well.

10. Doing what you want, when you want to is a gift to be savored.

When you do have time to explore on your own, make the most of it. While I did spend two days working on the blog (I had a lovely working space which was quite inspiring), the remainder of the couple of days to wander on my own were lovely. As someone who lives on her own and goes about most of her days as needs arise (hungry? okay, let’s get lunch; tired? let’s take a nap; ready to relax? why not draw a bath even if it is 3pm in the afternoon), I felt quite comfortable with time on my hands.

11. Sharing the exploration with someone special is priceless. 

While wandering about on one’s own is a worthwhile and must-do experience, exploring with someone special is ideal. Yes, learning to travel well together can take time, but when you enjoy the company of each other, those  hiccups can be overcome. Seeing something new together for the first time, wandering about not knowing what you will see next, sitting down for a meal unsure of what you will be sharing, but experiencing it together, all of these opportunities cultivate memories and windows to better get to know each other.

12. No television (only Netflix for a few evenings), less time with cell phone in hand and not reading a newspaper enabled me to invest more fully into the moment.

For the record, I was more stressed about the proximity of North Korea while I was in the states than when I was in South Korea. While the reason for that can be debated, much of it had to do with the limited consumption of news and media I was exposed to while on my trip. And with the time difference (16 hours), in many ways I felt liberated to write, post, comment and explore the internet when the moment encouraged me to do so, not when I felt I needed to.

Often we aren’t aware of the stress we impose upon our lives unnecessarily until we remove ourselves from it unconsciously. As I step back into my everyday routine here in Bend, I am contemplating how I can reduce my habit of news consumption: perhaps limit notifications or maybe unsubscribe to the daily newspaper so that I only seek out news when I am curious? I don’t have the answer yet, but I am certainly exploring what might be a better fit for a reduction of stress and angst about the world.

13. Why not use chopsticks? Doing so slows down eating, and also creates smaller bites.

Forks were not an option, and I was truly thankful to “Do as the Romans do” so-to-speak. While there were spoons available, metal chopsticks were the eating utensil of choice, and while I still use them very slowly, and had days where my fingers would not work with me, I also had other moments in which I was amazed how easily I was enjoying my meal. It is true that if one wants to eat, one will figure out how to do it with the tools available, and because of this simple fact, I am appreciative for this lesson, immensely so. (Admittedly and to be completely honest, at breakfast, I allowed myself to use a fork.)

14. More soup please!

I did not know until I was on my return flight, but upon hearing it, would agree completely: Korea is soup country. The Splendid Table podcast recently did an entire episode titled Koreatown which is how I learned of this truth. From ox bone soup to many different stone bowl soups and soups with noodles (oh, I love the noodles!), the list goes on, and they are delicious.

15. Encouragement to become more proficient in French.

Even though I did not know or learn much Korean, I was reminded of a foreign language I am enamored with and thus was encouraged to continue my practice, French. Knowing how it felt the first time I visited France not knowing a word in 2000, I was taken back to those days of utter confusion and perplexity, and vowed to continue the process of improving my French.

16. Leisurely mornings make for beautiful full days.

As with most vacations or getaways, the schedule is looser and therefore the alarm clock isn’t necessary. While I still awoke early, not having to rush out of bed, but instead leisurely welcome the morning sun into the living space, savor a delicious breakfast and conversation over tea, coffee and delicious food set the tone for a beautiful day yet to come.

17. Civility and calm decorum in public spaces is a beautiful daily way of going about life.

Wherever we went, the subway, busses, city streets, restaurants, the decorum by all ages was calm, pleasant and about keeping to one’s business. This is not to say it isn’t this way in certain parts of other countries, but I found this to be the case throughout each experience I had in public in South Korea. I found it peaceful and as someone who is typically an observer, I didn’t feel rushed, unsafe or uncomfortable at any time.

18. Community over individuality. Why not?

As we would discuss the observation of #16, the concept of community over individuality came up, and perhaps that is the underlying motivation. The idea of an awareness of others and your effect upon them should you only think of yourself. Thinking of others, their comfort, their sense of security and enjoyment, creates an environment in which all are able to enjoy the moment in their own way. Certainly food for thought that I feel I have only touched the surface of.

19. Stepping outside of your life, aside from one familiarity (the person you are with or a job you do), is sometimes the only way to gain perspective on the life you are living.

Anna Quindlen’s quote at the top of the post has been dancing around in my mind since the jet plane left Incheon International airport to return me to the states. With the aforementioned idea that one never knows exactly what they will return with upon embarking on a travel adventure, it is the broadening of perspective, the deepening of awareness about ourselves that is the priceless gift of travel.

One thing I learned that was reinforced was the power of daily routines no matter where in the world I may be establishing them brings me comfort; however, not every routine needs to be brought with me when I travel. Knowing which ones I need to take with me and which ones can stay home is crucial to fully enjoying the traveling experience. And if I don’t need it when I travel, do I need it in my everyday life as I had once supposed?

More significantly, travel puts what we value, or what we thought we valued, into perspective, and sometimes the priority list shifts unexpectedly but with absolute clarity. So much so, it may just shock us.

20. Affording a simple gesture of respect to anyone you come into contact with creates an atmosphere of cordiality, presence and inclusion.

One of the first culture behaviors I learned and was reminded to practice daily, but I was thankful for the reminder as the concept was of respect and recognition, was the gesture of touching the underside of my wrist or arm when I received or giving something to another. (Learn more about South Korea culture etiquette here.)

21. Say yes to visiting destinations you may not have ever thought you would venture; what you discover, what you experience may completely change your life. 

It goes without surprise that I was ecstatic about the journey to South Korea. Was such a trip ever on my bucket list? No, but perhaps it should have been. If nothing else, to pull me out of my comfort zone, to expose me to perceived discomforts that shouldn’t have been feared at all and reveal to me that I would be just fine. I am thankful for the patience, support, companionship and many beautiful moments shared with my special someone, and especially grateful for the invitation.

I will leave you with one more glimpse into my trip . . .

On my last full day, we ventured to the Korean Folk Village and were in attendance to observe a myriad of performances, one of which is captured in the pictures and videos below. Press play on each of the videos and I guarantee you, as was I, will be amazed by the simplistic complexity in which these dancers present their jaw-dropping talents (yes, their ribbons are attached to the top of their hats).

 

~See more of Shannon’s Journeys here.

 

This & That: April 7, 2017

Books
—The Curse of La Fontaine: A Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery by M.L. Longworth

Upon learning of M.L. Longworth’s latest cozy mystery last fall, I have been patiently waiting for April. The sixth in the Verlaque and Bonnet series, if you haven’t started yet, I encourage you to dive in with the first, Death at the Chateau Bremont. Set in Aix-en Provence, the chemistry between the two protagonist is playful, loving and intelligent, all the while teasing your tastebuds and your wanderlust to hop to southern France the next chance you get. I am diving in to The Curse of La Fontaine next week and cannot wait.

—Solitude: In Pursuit of a Singular Life in a  Crowded World by Michael Harris

Released just this past week and already a best-seller, Michael Harris dives into the power of solitude on our mind, body and spirit, while bringing to the reader’s attention that our culture of obsessive connection due to the multitude of devices we have at our disposal may not be serving us all that well.

Film
—Their Finest

Receiving wide acclaim, Their Finest, is set in 1940 London, starring Gemma Arterton, Sam Claflin and Bill Nighy. Tapped as a comedy and described as charming, amusing and more sophisticated than most blockbusters, the fictitious tale of a neophyte screenwriter brought on to add a woman’s touch to a war propaganda film about the evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk, France, appears to be a pleasure to see in the theater. Being released this month, have a look at the trailer below.

Francophile Find
—Dinner Chez Moi: 50 French Secrets to Joyful Eating and Entertaining by Elizabeth Bard

Since expat from NYC, not living in Provence, Elizabeth Bard’s first book Lunch in Paris, I have been a fan of her writing and love for food. Released this past Tuesday, her new book is a cookbook, her first. Based on 15 years of living with her French husband and becoming a mom, she reveals her discovery of the gift of good cooking on the body as well as the senses, (hunger as foreplay? yes!). My copy arrived a few days ago and I look forward to sharing a few favorite recipes I discovered in the coming days. Stay tuned!

Kitchen
—All Clad Cookware Sale

Sur la Table is having a weekend sale on All Clad as well as other top cooking brands. Save up to 50% through Monday April 10th, and be sure to use the promo codeALLCLAD17. Here are a few of the many items to stock up on if you are in the market: stainless steel sauce pans, skillets, and sets

Shopping
—Reformation Cruz Dress (black and red also available)

A worthwhile online shopping boutique to check out is Reformation. At the moment they have some beautiful items for the spring and summer season. The Cruz dress, with it’s wrap front and hit-at-the-knee lengths offer a simple dress for travel, perusing the summer markets and relaxing no matter how warm it may become.

If you are a jumpsuit fan like myself, their black Plantain Jumpsuit is available in a unique, but classic cut to show some skin, but not too much. Perfect for days or evenings, as layering would be perfect.

—Vans US Court Sneakers

And a staple item almost all of us need, and Ines de la Fressange suggests in her new book, the white sneaker. For fewer than $60, these white Vans are classic, simple and a great find.

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~recipe for Lemon Tart with Rosemary crust~

A long soak in a delicious bathtub full of bubbles is calling my name. And as it is the weekend, I cannot think of a more exquisite combination.

The jet lag is nearly gone, and just to make sure, I am certainly looking forward to extra long nights of sleep to be back in tip-top shape come Monday. How was your first full week in April? And, how is it already April? Wow. Spring is here and I think I first realized it when I woke up after having returned from my week away to notice more daylight at the early hour that I rise during the work week. There is certainly something special about this season, and I am ready to drink it up. How about you? Below are a few articles I think you might enjoy as you make your way through the weekend. Wishing you a lovely few days of rest and relaxation. Thank you for taking the time to stop by and until Monday, bonne journée!

~Did you know that the opening credits of Sex and the City could have been quite different? See this lost footage shared by Sarah Jessica Parker on her IG feed earlier this week.

—Emma Thompson talks media and its thinness problem. Food for thought. Are we, as consumers, part of the problem?

~The National Endowment for the Arts and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting  is being proposed to be cut in the federal budget. Read these two articles on the effects of the loss of arts and public education for a society: here and here.

~As the 2010s begin to wind down, what style will it be best known for? The New York Times‘ Style section predicts full coverage here. 

~Yep, it’s true. Jenna Lyons and J.Crew are parting ways. Find out the details here.

~Now for less serious matters: food! Pasta and spring, a beautiful pairing. Discover 22 pasta recipes for the season here.

~Francophiles, be sure to save this post: The 10 Best Flea Markets in France 

 

Barefoot Contessa’s NYC Pied-à-Terre: For Sale

If you are in the market for an apartment on New York City’s illustrious Park Avenue (71 East 77th Street), why not consider Ina Garten and husband Jeffrey’s pied-à-terre? Just listed at $1.98 million, the couple is opting for a larger kitchen in their newly purchased apartment on the corner of Park Avenue and 62nd Street ($4.65 million). Tour their new two-bedroom apartment here, but before you do, check out a simple living space that certainly would be a lovely space to call home in the Big Apple.

~View Barefoot Contessa’s other residences: Easthampton and Paris.

~View more Decor Inspiration here.

Staples for the Spring Wardrobe: TSLL Boutique Additions!

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A well curated capsule wardrobe takes time, as we all know. It also requires of each of us to visit multiple shops, boutiques, fashion blogs, websites and flip through different magazines. But what if you could find the basics, the classics, the always-going-want-to-have-staples in one location, season after season?

TSLL Capsule Wardrobe Boutique (located in the drop-down menu under “TSLL Shop” on the menu bar) is regularly stocked with capsule wardrobe items for your spring, fall and all-season items. From head to toe: white crisp cotton button-up tops, denim in different styles, nude pumps and black ballet flats, even the simple hoop earrings and day tote, the items you need that are both stylish and versatile can be found.

With the release this past weekend of TSLL Spring Shopping Guide 2017, the boutique has been completely restocked and all links are updated.

And after hearing from readers who didn’t know about the boutique until just recently, I thought I would from time to time write a Petite Post announcing new items that have been added. So hear we go!

Frame ‘Le Garcon’ skinny boyfriend jeans, (color: mentor)

My personal, so-happy-I’ve-found-them alternative to the skinny jean option. While I love my skinny jeans, recently, I have found myself wanting something that looks a bit looser, but still reveals a silhouette. With a touch of casual and the ability to be dressed up or down (I am wearing them with nude suede pumps today), these boyfriend jeans are not loose, but not skin-tight either. Hitting just above my ankle (a 29″ inseam, uncured), and a mid-to-high waist, Le Garcon is the missing piece for my all-season capsule wardrobe.

Nashelle small gold hoop earrings

After purchasing my pair at a trunk show this past winter, I have worn my small hoop earrings easily 3-4 times each week. They aren’t large and dangling, but rather the perfect size to transition from work to play without looking out of place. And at the great price ($68), they are a steal.

A Classic Spring Trench Coat (Luxury & Budget options)

See by Chloé’s linen and cotton trench is an investment, but it is a classic cut in a beautiful color. If you are looking for a spring coat that will easily carry into early fall, rest-assured, this quality item will last for years.
LAUREN Ralph Lauren’s water resistant coat is a bit more budget friendly (under $300), and offers the style and color that is timeless.

 

Shop all of these items here in TSLL Capsule Wardrobe Boutique

Why Not . . . Do What Brings You Calm, No Matter Where Your Travels Take You?

As a visitor in a country in which I did not speak the language, I felt more welcomed and comfortable than I could have imagined during my time in South Korea.

While I am still organizing my thoughts and inspiration from the journey, I wanted to share with you some images captured during a hike we took in Jeolla-do to Janggunbong Peak. Standing at 696 meters, the hike was steep, challenging, and it was no wonder we were only one of four sets of hikers making the ascent that particular sun-drenched afternoon. However, reaching the pinnacle made it all the more worth the while and the return foray quite quick.

As we are spoiled by the beautiful outdoors that surrounds Bend, Oregon, it was Mother Nature that I missed quite ardently (my boys of course were at the top of my most missed list) and South Korea does indeed have an abundance of trails, hiking opportunities and stunning seasonal vignettes which soothed some of my jet lag a craving I didn’t expect to be so powerful.

While the cherry blossoms were just beginning to bloom in many regions, where we went, they were a few days away, but I did my best to imagine what Naejangsan National Park might look like.

Needless to say, the restoration of the outdoors was powerful, invigorating and made for magnificent sleep.

Stay tuned for more on my trip in the coming days and weeks. In the meantime, you can check out TSLL Instagram (@thesimplyluxuriouslife) for a few more images from the trip.

Classic Coat Sophistication

One aspect of different cultures and cities that I enjoy observing and attempting to interpret when I travel and am meandering about the city streets are the common style trends. After spending two days in Seoul, one style observation I noted was their brilliant choice of coats. All ages, men and women donned well-tailored, classic coats. Most were below the waist, and while many were black, the look was simple, sophisticated and cultivated an air of confident simplicity.

However, from experience, while it is easy to know which coat we want and perhaps which color, finding the proper size can be quite the task. An approach that works for me typically is ordering larger than I might expect, and often, due to my broad shoulders I have chosen just right. Even if I haven’t, I can at least take it to a tailor. Below I’ve done some shopping of you. Since we are kicking off spring, most of the coasts are trenches, but not all. Be sure to have a look and be inspired to add a beautiful capsule coat to your wardrobe.

~Remember: Click on any of the images to be directed to the original source and shop the outfit.

SHOP:

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~View more STYLE INSPIRATION here.

How to Cultivate Your True Style All Year Long

~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #149
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“What’s true style? Knowing how to mix the right combinations of ingredients.” —Ines de la Fressange, author of Parisian Chic Look Book: What Should I Wear Today?

Most of us have heard of and are incorporating into our lives a capsule wardrobe, but as much as we’d love to hire a stylist to tell us what to wear every day and how to style the clothes we’ve invested in, we either absolutely cannot afford such an extravagance or well, let’s get serious. But the truth is, we can do it ourselves.

Understanding how to cultivate true style into our lives throughout the entire year is completely possible so long as we learn the necessary tools and fail-safe combinations. Former Chanel model and the epitome of Parisian chic Ines de la Fressange has just released her new book to follow up her wildly successful first Parisian Chic, and in it she does the work of the stylist. Parisian Chic Look Book: What Should I Wear Today? does everything for you except the shopping.

With nearly every page in the 130 page book filled with styled outfits and noted for which occasion they would be perfect for, this look book is your guide when you step into your closet. This look book is the finishing touch to building your confidence that you do know how to dress well without having too many clothes to choose from and feeling you have nothing to wear.

What I would like to do today is share a glimpse of Ines’ suggestions and my favorite outfits, and then I highly recommend you pick up or check out this book.

If you are someone who appreciates the classic Parisian chic approach to style, if you adhere to a capsule wardrobe approach and if you want to keep it simple but mix high and low items ensuring you look effortlessly style, take a look inside the book and discover how to become the stylist you’ve always wanted to hire.

1. Stock your closet with the essentials

capsule wardrobe essentials
handbags
shoes
jewelry
lingerie
outerwear
scarves
belts

Often we have almost everything we need but a few finishing touches are missing. Take a look at her detailed list (above are just the categories) and find what you may need or what to look for the next time you are shopping or a wonderful sale on your favorite designer clothing or accessories offers a beautiful price.

2. Stick to a dress code unique to each general occasion

business

beyond the uniform that works for you, how to choose an outfit that transitions from one work place to another business appointment (applying for a loan, a business dinner, etc.)

“I Have a Tricky Day Ahead”

silk print pants
v-neck sweater
black velvet flats
classic watch
bangles

family gatherings

lunch with a family member, a great aunt perhaps?

high waisted pants
ruffled or signature blouse
pendant necklace
high heels or platforms
a scarf as a belt

personal get-togethers

a dinner with an old flame

over-the-knee pencil skirt
velvet jacket
camisole
heels
classic watch

evening attire

Dinner at Home with Friends

blue jeans
white blouse
black belt
gold bangles
black velvet flats

vacation

airport attire

stylish sweatpants
t-shirt
v-neck sweater (oversized)
flat slide sandals
navy men’s overcoat

special, unique occasions

museum buff

black midi, (perhaps body-con) dress

denim jacket
lace up sneakers
saddle bag
bracelets

3. Stick to neutrals

One common thread I noticed through all of the items Ines suggests is a neutral color palette. Black, navy, white, khaki/biege, gray, light blue, stripes. While there were a few signature pieces, a sequin gold camisole, printed silk pants, a hot pink sweater and a red saddle purse, these boisterous colors were few, but powerful.

The mixing and matching becomes easier when you adhere to a neutral palette that complements your skin tone. Don’t deviate from this. For example, the pop of color I often choose is blush pink: my skin instantly looks more bronzed and healthy and it pairs well with everything else in my closet depending upon the season and occasion. Other than that its navy, gray, black, white, stripes and light blue.

4. Finish with few accessories, but don’t forget them

Each of her looks as you pour through the book reveal typically one piece of jewelry being worn if any and an expected, but signature tote, coat or pair of shoes.

5. Purchase well and don’t fuss

The key with Parisian chic style is mixing the high and low: a beautiful white silk blouse from Saint Laurent paired with classic denim jeans and costume jewelry bangles. Knowing what you are wearing looks well on your physique will enabled you to say no to extra details and finish with just the right amount of detail. Then once it all comes together, you can relax and enjoy wherever you are headed.

6. Learn the fashion style tricks 

wear a khaki military jacket over a little black dress
wear a rock t-shirt with a pencil skirt
buy clothes in the men’s department

A sampling of items that what works for me:

jumpsuit
denim jacket
pencil skirts
simple black dress
long shirt dress
black/navy v-neck sweater
black/white t-shirt
navy blazer
trench coat
blue jeans
slip-on sneakers
wellies (farm/ranch boots)
black tote
classic watch
brown/black belt
camisoles
black panties
black bra
men’s camel coat (I actually wear a woman’s but it is one size too large)

Ultimately, seeing how to pull something together, seeing it on a model is a useful visual we often do not see when it comes to basics and not all in one place. Covered in gold that shimmers, the book will be easy to spot on the shelf as you look to use it again and again and again until these classic ensembles become engrained in your memory.

THe most significant take-away for me was a sigh of relief when I saw the outfits. The number of items involved were minimal, the key was quality items paired with finishing touches that worked with the woman’s body and the other neutral pieces. So start with #1, begin to build the foundation which is the necessary clothing and then have fun and look forward to stepping into your closet again.

Petit Plaisir:

—Tartine All Day: Modern Recipes for the Home Cook by Elisabeth Prueitt

 

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