Shannon Ables's Blog, page 287
August 22, 2016
10 Fantastique French-Inspired Blogs
For French food inspiration, French style inspiration, French dining inspiration and French-living inspiration, the internet is bursting with blogs to explore. Today I would like to share with you 10 French-inspired blogs that I have been visiting regularly for years or have just released been introduced to and think you too might enjoy.
Rest-assured, there are more Francophile blogs to enjoy, but this list should get you started and perhaps introduce you to the perfect blog about France that speaks to what vous adorez (you love) about the culture. From discovering lovely, unknown spots to visit in Paris, to learning about the latest restaurant or topic of conversation, to the effortless style that continues to inspire, peruse the blogs below and discover some magnificent inspiration for living well.
Tresor Parisien
Aisling has been a long-time blogger friend and inspiration to me, as I have had the opportunity to visit her twice in her beloved city of Paris. Living on the left-bank, Aisling’s photography is equal to Garance’s and her insights into shops, designers in Paris, as well as destinations outside of the city are fresh and fun. Just this past weekend she posted on her IG account a look inside Paris’ newly remodeled Ritz. If you can’t be in Paris, one of the next best things is to follow those who get to wake up in it each and every day on Instagram (I think 2/3 of the people I follow on IG are all about Paris or France), and she is someone who’s IG is well worth the follow as well as her blog. Enjoy!
A blog that is new to me, but not the internet: My Name is Odd. Aude Sarkamari is the 30-year-old blogger living in Paris that offers simple street style inspiration, insight into the latest fashion and beauty trends as well as takes her readers along for her travels (see below). Half-Persian, her stunningly magnetic aesthetic exudes confidence and a bit of mystery. Enjoy devouring her blog as it offers ample inspiration and beautiful photography.
Mango & Salt
Victoria of Mango & Salt describes herself as a Frenchie in Amsterdam who lives a natural lifestyle, loves yummy veggie food, enjoys traveling and devouring books. Born in Paris, she exudes the ideals of the French culture, an appreciation for simplicity and a quality way of living and eating. Take some time to look through her blog to discover her simple, youthful style as well as delicious, healthy recipes.
Une Libanaise à Paris
Samar Seraqui de Buttafoco brings her love for travel and style together in her blog Une Libanaise à Paris. With insights into fashion week, the newest collections and the opportunities to meet with top designers (Diane von Furstenberg for example), if you appreciate fashion, Samar Seraqui is a blogger to follow.
Chez Loulou
American expat Jennifer began her blog Chez Loulou in 2006 when she was living in the Languedob-Roussillon in France. In 2011, she and her family moved to the Calvados department in lower Normandy, followed by their most recent relocation to Paris in 2015. Documenting each and every detail that she experiences from food, to architecture to the people, follow her on IG as well to feel as though you are right alongside. And for you cheese lovers, Jennifer’s blog is a must as she is on a mission to explore and share all of the cheese she encounters. So far, 220 cheese have been enjoyed. With regards to the food, she doesn’t stop there, below is a glimpse into her opportunity to be a part of the annual Judging the Best Baguette in Paris. A simple and absolutely luxurious blog to enjoy.
Messy Nessy Chic
If you want to discover the secret or lesser-well-known destinations in the City of Light, Messy Nessy Chic is the blog for you. Vanessa (or Nessy) lives in Paris, was born in London and spent some time at New York University before discovering she had something going with this blogging thing. It’s all about Paris and anything you might be curious about, she will share. Enjoy going through her archives to learn, well, just about anything. It’s a treat of a blog, and I am tickled to have recently found it.
Mode and the City
A young fashion blogger living in Paris with her pup, her street style fashion is subtle, chic and feminine. Not only will you find style inspiration, but ideas for enjoying Paris, beauty tips and tricks and her experiences in the city. Put her blog on your Feedly or Bloglovin’ list and enjoy seeing Paris through the eyes of someone who has fully fallen head over heels for the fashionable city.
Garance Dorè
This list wouldn’t be complete without including Corsican born, formerly living in Paris and now calling New York City home blogger, author and illustrator Garance Dorè. Now with her Pardon My French podcast that I listen to at least once a month and have mentioned a couple of times on this blog, as well as her book released last year that is a wonderful read, her blog shares 2-5 new posts a day to keep you in the know when it comes to fashion as well as contemplating life questions in a playful way inspired by Garance’s own life experiences.
~Hip Paris
One of the first French-inspired blogs I began following back in 2010 and am continually loving and sharing posts I think TSLL readers will enjoy, Hip Paris is the blog of the Paris Vacation Rental website Haven in Paris (take a look at a handful of apartments I profiled on my last visit to Paris here). With contributors that live in the city, first-hand experiences are shared from conversational cultural topics such as the most recent post “The ‘M’ Word: From Mademoiselle to Madame in France” to grand openings of the new coffee bar. This is a blog that will keep you up-to-date and in the know of the best places to visit and why. A true gem and invaluable resource.
~My French Country Home
This past spring Sharon Santoni, the blogger and author behind My French Country Home and My Stylish French Girlfriends, joined me on The Simple Sophisticate podcast and shared her insights on life and living in France. As seen in the picture below of her French country home located in Northern France, her two pups and beautiful yard exude the simply magnificent quiet life that she shares with her readers demonstrating why her readers love stopping by her blog so frequently. Currently, she is traveling in the south of France and has brought her camera along to share some wonderful pics, so be sure to follow along on her journey wherever it might take her throughout the French countryside and occasionally Paris as well. (Also, if you are a fan of brocante decor, this is the blogger to follow. As well, she guides guests on brocante tours, so if you are ever in France, be sure to schedule time with her.)
The post 10 Fantastique French-Inspired Blogs appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.
How to Be Chic with Fiona Ferris
“It’s great to realize we don’t need to change ourselves to be happy, we simply need to peel away the layers that aren’t us.” -Fiona Ferris, author and blogger
~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #117
In today’s episode author and blogger Fiona Ferris joins me on the podcast to talk about her new book Thirty Chic Days: Practical Inspiration for a Beautiful Life. Not only do we talk about how to create a more beautiful life, but we dive into a handful of other topics as Fiona discusses what truly makes our lives richer and more fulfilling. I think you will be inspired by her approach to living well and be reminded of how simple it really is if we only ask the right questions.
Below are the links to books and movies that were mentioned during our conversation. Be sure to stop by her blog How to Be Chic and follow her on the social media accounts below.
~Lovers on the Bridge (Les Amants du Pont-Neuf )
~The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
Find, discover and follow Fiona Ferris on social media:
~Twitter: @fiona_ferris
~Facebook: FionaFerrisAuthor
~Instagram: @fionaferrisnz
~Blog: How to Be Chic
~Book: Thirty Chic Days: Practical Inspiration for a Beautiful Life
~Petit Plaisir
~The French Chef with Julia Child
~stream from Amazon Prime, all 10 seasons
~order the DVDs of The French Chef
~The French Chef cookbook
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August 20, 2016
10 Life Lessons Learned from the Rio Olympics
The Summer Olympics is a wonderful way to enjoy August. I think I shed more tears every four years during these two weeks than I do all total throughout the year, but the tears are tears of inspiration, amazement and a reminder that so much of what is thought to be impossible (because accepting this false truth is easier) is actually absolutely possible.
There are many beautiful, empowering lessons and I find that each of us tends to gravitate toward the stories that we need to learn depending upon where we are in our lives every four (or two) years. So today, on the penultimate day of the 31st Olympiad, I have gathered together 10 lessons offering a variety of different life lessons that I hope will offer the life inspiration you need in your life at this very moment. The good news is, in each of these lessons, whatever you seek, it is possible. I hope you enjoy reading.
1. Get Back Up
Great Britain’s distance runner and 2012 Olympic gold medalist in the 10K and 5k, Mo Farah took a tumble during the 10K event during the first week, but he was up as quick as he fell down. And he left no doubt that he was the best at the 10K race when he crossed the finish line first. Funny enough, the fall occurred without malice which is most often what happens in life. We simply are presented with something we have to deal with, nobody has tried to stop us, but we must respond and not add to the problem, but rather minimize it. Falling doesn’t mean failing; in fact, it can be the key to success as it reveals the true champion you possess within yourself.
2. Age is an Advantage
The Wall Street Journal reported this morning that the average age of Olympians this year has risen from 25 years in 1988 to 27 years today. And the “elders” are having great success along the way. Kristin Armstrong in women’s cycling, at the age of 43, won her third consecutive gold medal in the time trial. Kerri Walsh-Jennings, at the age of 38, won her fourth medal in her fourth Olympic games (three golds and one bronze). Sailor Santiago Lange from Argentina, at the age of 54, won a gold this year in his sixth Olympics, and this is just a sampling. Even the 22-year-old Aly Raisman, 31-year-old Michael Phelps and 29-year-old Usain Bolt, who are considered “old” for their respective sports, had a rather decent showing at these Rio games.
With smarter training and more funding available allowing athletes to turn their training and competition into a career, men and women are able to continue their pursuit in the sport they are passionate about without having to let go and step back into traditional jobs. What we once thought was impossible, is possible when barriers are removed and science and understanding improves.
3. The Definition of Success is Definable by Each Individual
For the first time, the Olympics’ Refugee Team was represented at the Olympics in Rio. Ten athletes who have survived unimaginable conditions were able to swim, run, and kick along with more than 11,000 other Olympic athletes. Something that was most likely not even a thought in their mind as they were simply striving to survive. And so it isn’t a place on the podium that is seen as a success, but merely walking in the Parade of Nations during the Opening Ceremonies. (Learn more about each of the athletes here.) The key is to understand that we must define success for ourselves. Only we know from where we’ve risen, only we know when we’ve given it our all, only we know if we are capable of more.
4. Your Response to Adversity will Determine Your Future Success
Kerri Walsh-Jennings and her new partner in beach volleyball April Ross were confidently beating opponents along the way toward gold until they met Brazil’s Àgatha Bednarczuk and Bárbara Seixas in the semifinals. For the first time in Kerri’s Olympic career, she lost a match. She openly admitted her passing played a significant role in the loss, and then she came back the next day with her upbeat, sunshine attitude (the inscription on her wedding band from her husband coins her nickname “six feet of sunshine”) and played well with her partner to take the bronze.
Adversity occurs eventually if we are pursuing anything for an extended period of our lives. If we are challenging ourselves, pushing our limits or doing anything that has never been done before, life will test us. Much like Mo Farah’s fall, the question is when and how are you going to get back up? Kerri rose with determination, with a positive attitude, because she was working with her partner and the energy Kerri brought to the court could either help or hurt their teamwork. She got real by accepting what hadn’t worked and figured out how to make it work.
It is the attitude we choose when we are confronted with adversity that predicts what will happen next. No, it may not guarantee a medal, as Kerri and April earned, but the medal will arrive in some form or fashion. Perhaps attracting more positive energy into your life or garnering more respect and genuine appreciation because a champion isn’t someone who always wins or stands atop the podium. No. A champion is determined by how they respond to the fall. A fall that will happen if you are willing to push your boundaries. But that fall will give you an opportunity to attain even higher heights.
5. The Hype, Pressure, Expectations Can Only Harm You If You Let It
One thing that caught my attention early on was the incessant pressure-filled statements and inquiries by commentators when they interviewed athletes that were seen as the front-runners. As much as I was put-off by their need to hype for ratings, I was equally overjoyed by the athletes’ response. Katie Ledecky (winner of four individual golds and one team silver), immediately said without pause, I’ll just brush the target off my back and do what I do.
You see, we can either accept the pressure or expectation others or society place upon us, or we can let it roll off our shoulders and not participate in the drama. It is our choice. We may not be able to control the outside world, but we can control how we respond to it.
6. Enjoying the Journey Amplifies the Outcome, No Matter What It Is
Usain Bolt, the now triple champion in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay in three consecutive Olympic games, not only is successful on the track, but it is his connection with his fellow athletes, fans and media that make it clear he is enjoying the journey.
Simone Biles coach since childhood, Aimee Boorman, structures their training so that Simone not only improves but enjoys the journey. Yes, being an athlete in training and preparation for the highest competition can involve stress, but it shouldn’t involve unnecessary stress. Compared to former ways of thinking, when it came to coaching, the mentor must be aggressive, tough, sometimes threatening, all for the purpose of achieving gold. But if the journey is miserable, if the journey destroys your spirit, find another approach. It is possible to love the journey if you do what works and let go of what doesn’t.
7. Rights of Equality Are Sweet to Possess and Must Not Be Taken for Granted
Four women represented Saudi Arabia in Rio. All four women were either educated or live in the United States. Some having dual citizenship took on the additional pressure of having to abide by Saudi Arabian traditional dress codes as well as defying gender expectations to do what they loved. Unable to legally drive, prevented by policies to exercise in nearly all gyms and from getting a physical education in most schools, the obstacles in Saudi Arabia were immense, but simply observing and knowing their journey is a reminder of the rights won and yet to be won in our own countries, rights that shouldn’t be forgotten and never taken for granted. Read more about the Saudi Arabian women and their training for the Olympics here.
8. Victory can happen, have patience
Fijians celebrated their first medal, which happened to be a gold victory over their former colonial power Great Britain with a scouring 43-7 score in men’s rugby-sevens, after participating in the summer Olympics since 1956. Victory, attainment of what we want or work diligently for, may not happen when we want it to, but that doesn’t mean we stop participating or traversing toward our destination. No. We must keep trying if indeed we truly desire what we seek from the core of our being.
Rugby is a national pastime in Fiji and actually officially considered the national sport of the country with more than 600 different clubs. It is their passion, and eventually a medal, that enabled a gold medal to be earned.
9. Stereotypes propose fall limitations
It happened during the first week of the Olympics, and the athlete herself did not seek the spotlight. Never-the-less, the press persisted, and in response the athlete proposed a novel idea: I look forward to a time when this is not a significant achievement. Simone Manuel’s gold medal finish (shared with Canada’s Penny Oleksiak) in the 100m Freestyle earned her the title of the first African-American woman to win gold in an Olympic individual swimming event. Demonstrating that while stereotypes can attempt to stiffle what is possible, they cannot stop the truth from occurring.
Stereotypes are based on something that may have happened, but because they are void of context (read more about the history in the United States regarding swimming pools and black communities here), they are only upheld because they benefit those who have imposed the stereotype to appear falsely as a truth. The limitations that are propped up by stereotypes are false, and often the one who breaks the barrier, whether they want it or not, will earn great praise. But that praise is warranted because it isn’t easy to go against what’s “comfortable” to society. However, it ultimately is better for society.
10. Inclusion Breaks Down Barriers
I have thoroughly enjoyed the break from the strife in the political world here in the United States to indulge each night by watching the Olympics. Amazingly, it is often what isn’t expected or planned that can have a more powerful influence than what is carefully structured.
The United Nations is an admirable entity in our world geo-politics, but there were so many moments during the Olympics (as there are each four years) that remind us we are more similar than we are different without the specific purpose of revealing this truth. We are all human, after all. And when we see athletes from different countries competing against each other in the same event still innately stick out a hand to help or look over their shoulder in concern, or the defeated offer a hand or hug of congratulations to the victor after a hard-fought match, it is a reminder that we can get along even if we don’t all experience the goal we sought. Because in the end, we all really do want the same goal: to live peacefully, respected by our fellow countrymen and global neighbors.
11. (An extra lesson) Listen to Your Life
As I was finishing up the list of lessons, I was watching the women’s Triathlon and Gwen Jorgensen. And as she crossed the finish line with a commanding lead to earn her first gold medal at her second Olympics (she earned 38th in London due in part to a flat tire near Hyde Park), tears immediately filled her eyes. We cannot know what was going through her mind, we cannot know how it has felt to train as she does for this grueling event, an event she has been exceedingly successful at with each competition, but we do know the world of being a tri-athlete was not something she sought, but rather something that sought her.
An eye for talent in the world of this new event to the Olympics (2000 was its first year), reached out to Jorgensen noticing that she had the talent, the skill and therefore, the ability to have great success if she wanted it. As we know now, she wanted it.
Sometimes we don’t know what we’re capable of because we have either have never been exposed to something or have never recognized our gifts as extraordinary, merely something we’ve always been able to do easily (not realizing that such abilities are difficult for most people). It takes life to speak to us, and it is then our job to listen. Life can speak to us in a myriad of ways, but it is always speaking. Quiet yourself, turn your ear or your life just so, and you too will hear what it is trying to reveal to you.
Tomorrow wraps up the 31st Olympiad in Rio de Janeiro, the first Olympics held in South America. If you tune in to the Closing Ceremonies, I will be watching with you. Enjoy, and may we carry the Olympic spirit beyond these games.
Image: (1) All other images, simply click on the image to be taken to the original source
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August 19, 2016
This & That: August 19, 2016
Book
—Make the Bread, Buy the Butter: What you Should and Shouldn’t Cook from Scratch by Jennifer Reese
A book for bakers and cooks that came highly recommended from a fantastic baker herself, Jennifer Reese’s 2011 sensation of what to pick at the store and what to take care of in your kitchen contains over 120 recipes for the best homemade foods. Initially her curiosity for food all began when she lost her job and started blogging (visit her blog The Tipsy Baker here). Determined to save money where she could, her journey is the treat of what this book is all about. However, an immense amount of information and reassurance is delivered as a reminder that not everything needs to be made at home as each recipe contains answers to three questions: Should you make it or buy it? How much hassle is it? What’s the cost compared to store-bought?
—The Umbrian Thursday Night Supper Club by Marlena de Blasi
Published last year, de Blasi’s memoir has been compared to Eat, Pray, Love, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and even Under the Tuscan Sun. These comparisons alone have me hooked. As the title states each Thursday night four Italian rural women gather to cook, share and drink the amazing bounty that is in their backyard. Drawn from de Blasi’s more than 20 years of living in the Umbria region with her husband and inspired by traveling, cooking, eating, and drinking in Italy, you will also find mouth-watering recipes within the pages to tempt your tastebuds.
Cookbook
—Ingredienti: Marcella’ Guide to the Market by Marcella Hazan and Victor Hazan
The godmother of Italian cooking, Marcella Hazan, may have passed away in 2013, but her expertise, legacy and love for Italian food and cooking live on in her book that was just released last month. Compiled, translated and transcribed by her husband Victor, discover the key to any delicious meal, quality ingredients, and how shop for them. Ingredienti: Marcella’s Guide to the Market provides you with just these skills. Learn how to select vegetables, pasta, olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, prosciutto, and all of the key elements of Marcella’s classic meals. (View her cookbooks here.) As well, if you are a devout lover of Italian cuisine, pick up her cookbook Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking to get started.
Francophile Find
—French Lessons: The Art of Living and Loving Well by E.J. Gore
If you are looking for a Francophile book to enjoy each night before you go to bed, this is the book you’ve been looking for. Released a couple of years ago, a visitor to Paris, Susan Purcell, meets Gabrielle Lacroix and is immediately charmed and impressed with the woman’s ability to be at peace in her own company and carry a quiet self-confidence all the while enjoying what Paris has to offer. Begin the French lessons, as Susan is guided by Gabrielle and wonderful tips and secrets are revealed.
Shopping
—Cole Haan ‘Dellora’ Skimmer Flat
One of the many compliments I receive on my clothing is for my leopard flats that I have had for years. They truly are the most versatile and simple statement shoes to always have on hand during the fall and winter months. And since the fall season is right around the corner and Cole Haan makes quality chasseures, why not, pick up a pair for yourself?
—Macy’s Bedding Close-Out Sales
You may have heard that 100 Macy stores will be closing around the country. Whether it is due to this news or not, I am not sure, but the sales this weekend are not to be missed. Especially if you are looking for the must-haves in the bedroom (bed covers, linens, pillows, etc.), take advantage of this opportunity.
—Shoes of Prey Block Heel Pump
Block heels are en vogue this coming fall season, and you will begin to see them everywhere no matter what the heel height. What I love about this style is that they provide wonderful stability as opposed to a stiletto or narrow heel. With the suede color block offered in Shoes of Prey’ pump (other colors are available), this pair would be a wonderful statement when completing a simple neutral hued outfit.
~recipes for crostini six different ways~
A full week, but a wonderful week. With projects coming together and an exciting new yearly feature, TSLL French Week, ready to kick off next week, I couldn’t be more happy with how the month of August is turning out to be. I hope your week has gone well, and you’re looking ahead to a wonderful weekend.
As far as how I will be spending it, I think I will be diving into a new book, taking advantage of some summer end-of-season sales and beginning to think about refreshing my fall capsule wardrobe. With TSLL Fall Shopping Guide being released on Thursday September 1st, I have begun to look for items to share with you, as well as decipher the trends worth saving or splurging on. The September issues are beginning to arrive, and I must say that is the somewhat official sign that a new season is nearly here. However, we still have a few weeks left, so why not plan, dream and at the same time relax and recharge? While you’re recharging, I have pulled together a few articles and podcast episodes you might enjoy reading or listening to below. Thank you as always for stopping by, and until Monday, bonne journée.
~A simple daily habit . . . 7 Amazing Benefits of Meditation
~Looking for basic French phrases that will always be a wise idea to have memorized? Check out this list from Lawless French
~Man Repeller‘s podcast “Oh Boy” welcomed Gloria Steinem to their 35th episode – tune in here.
~Such a refreshing read! No wonder single people have felt stigmatized. They have been! And according to this article, unfairly so. The New Science of Single People
~Blogger and author Sharon Santoni has introduced her readers to a new Stylish French Girlfriend and you will want to be introduced.
~Style advice from the effortless chic French women: 13 Slimming Style Rules Almost Every French Girl Follows
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August 18, 2016
The Inaugural Event: TSLL French Week!
Today marks Gabrielle “Coco” Bonheur Chanel’s birthday. And as I was looking at my editorial calendar, I found a theme popping up with many of the upcoming posts: France and the lifestyles inspired by the French culture. So I thought, Why Not . . . focus entirely on everything French for an entire week?. And you no doubt know what my answer was to any Why Not . . . ? question I pose on TSLL blog. Oui, mais bien sur!
So allowing Coco’s birthday to be the marker of what is to come beginning Monday August 22nd, be sure to tune in on Monday to The Simple Sophisticate podcast which will include a delightful conversation with another fellow Francophile and author, and continue stopping by the blog all next week where each day something French will be the muse for each post.
I do hope you enjoy it as much as I have been enjoying pulling it all together. Perhaps, as one reader commented below, a viewing of Coco Before Chanel staring Audrey Tautou is in order to prep for the big week?
~In the meantime, stop by TSLL French-Inspired Living page to discover all of the recommendations (books, movies, etc.) as well as destinations and French-themed posts to tide you over until Monday.
~Readers top TSLL French-inspired posts from the Archives:
~The 8 Gifts of Mastering the French Mystique
~10 Ways to Unearth Your Inner Francophile
~12 Ways to Celebrate La Reentrée
To wrap up today’s post, a few more words of inspiration from the woman who was self-made and changed not only the fashion industry but how women felt in their everyday lives.
The post The Inaugural Event: TSLL French Week! appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.
Outfit of the Week: Prepping for Fall
~DVF ‘Linda’ Cashmere Wrap Dress~
~Dolce Vita Cliff Acorn Suede over-the-knee boots~
~Kenneth Jay Lane gold-plated and faux wood necklace~
~Dolce & Gabbana textured leather shoulder bag (other colors available)~
~Ray-Ban 59mm Semi Rimless Aviator sunglasses~
~SHOP THE OUTFIT:
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~OUTFITS of the WEEK from the Archives:
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August 17, 2016
Sag Harbor Simple Living
Mona Nerenberg’s Sag Harbor home is as delightful as one might imagine a home on the Hamptons to be, without the pomp and circumstance and with the cozy, comfortable feeling of a lived in sanctuary. Highly regarded by interior experts and customers alike for her decor boutique Bloom, her home shared with her partner Lisa Bynon, exemplifies why so many adore her taste.
Found in the pages of Elle Decor‘s July/August 2016 issue, alongside Ina Garten’s garden, this was an issue to keep for endless inspiration. The ample amount of whitewashed walls and upholstered furniture brighten the home and allow the residents to bring the character. With wide-paneled hardwood floors and mixing rustic with new, state-of-the-art appliances, the balance of high and low reveals Nerenberg’s expertise and keen eye. The marble topped wooden work table in the kitchen is one of my favorite unique items, as well as the chicken coop in the back. Enjoy the tour and be inspired to live well as simply as possible.
~DECOR INSPIRATION from the Archives:
~The Power of Natural Simplicity
~French Normandy in the Hamptons
All images via July/August 2016 issue of Elle Decor
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Why Not . . . Wear Sunglasses?
Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly in Truman Capote’s Breakfast at Tiffany‘s, Jackie Kennedy in the 1960s and Anna Wintour as she goes from one front row seat during New York Fashion Week to the next. All three women don a simple, yet powerful accessory – a pair of sunglasses.
Such a simple accessory that sometimes its power is forgotten about, not included or dismissed. However, even on vacation when you’ve left your perfect outfit at home by accident, you can place a pair of sunglasses upon your ears, shade your eyes and elevate your style quotient, not to mention protect your eyes and skin.
While there are about as many options for a pair of sunglasses as there are colors in the universe, the classics will always remain for a reason, and if you would prefer to have some fun, the sky is the limit.
So what are some of the benefits of wearing sunglasses and why should you always have a go-to pair on hand? Let’s talk about it below . . .
1. Reveal a personality
As the senior fashion editor of Vogue Japan regularly demonstrates with her street style (see below), Giovanna Battaglia never forgets to reveal a signature style. And these Gucci sunglasses do just that. If you want your sunglasses to communicate your style more fervently than a classic complementary shape, choose a pair that will capture the attention of others and reveal that you have a creative side.
~shop the Gucci sunglasses here~
2. Accentuate your beautiful facial features
Model, author and iconic French woman who embodies the effortless chic persona Caroline De Maigret demonstrates the power of sunglasses, classic black oversized square sunglasses: they accentuate your beautiful facial features: smile, cheekbones and in her case here perfectly, purposefully messy hair style. While many women have beautiful eyes, choosing to wear sunglasses is still a way to accentuate other beautiful features without doing much of anything.
~shop similar square sunglasses here~
3. Protect your eyes
Wearing sunglasses is a worthwhile thing to do year round as they can protect your eyes from the UV rays from the sun which, with prolonged exposure, can cause cataracts, macular degeneration, pingueculae, pterygia and photokeratitis that can cause temporary vision loss (learn more here). As well, simply protecting your eyes from dust, allergens and debris is another reason to slip on your sunnies.
~shop similar clubmaster sunglasses here~
4. Protect the delicate skin around your eyes
And the protection continues. The skin around your eyes is some of the most delicate skin on your body. And while applying sunscreen is a must, additional protection from the sun by the way of your sunglasses, is not a bad idea to prevent premature wrinkles. (My favorite facial sunscreen which I use everyday before I go out walking with my dogs in the morning is La Roche-Posay Anthelios – 50 spf and waterproof). Beauty and health all wrapped into one fun decision.
5. Versatile accessory
Much like certain neutral colors or a classic trench, choosing to accessorize with a pair of sunglasses is hardly ever, if ever, going to be a bad fashion decision. Whether worn with a formal gown or ripped denim, sunglasses work. They just do.
~shop similar clubmaster sunglasses here~
~shop similar mirrored aviator sunglasses here~
6. A simple alternative to eye make-up
Now, most of the time, our mascara and concealer, eye shadow and liner will be in place, but sometimes, we just need to slip out to do an errand, and we either don’t have time or don’t want to bother with make-up. Slipping on our favorite sunglasses is a simple and foolproof option. As I mentioned in one of the first posts of TSLL blog, one component of my weekend uniform is my sunglasses. A simple accessory that works magic.
The simplicity of choosing to wear sunglasses is part of the beauty, and once you realize how much they can elevate an outfit, the only question you have to ask yourself is “Why Not?”. Below I have some shopping guidelines to help you find your perfect shade, and I also have done some shopping for you of my favorite brands in a variety of different styles and colors. So long as you take care of your sunglasses, always put them in their case, find a home for them so you always know where to find them, an investment pair can last for years and always look incredible.
Now, for me, I stick to the classics: a pair of aviators and black oversized square shades. And if you are someone as well who likes to stick with the classics, how do you know which size and style is best for your face’s shape? Well, for lovers of the over-sized (which just about any face can wear and look stunning), Vint & York offers the following advice:
No Cheek Touching – The frames should sit comfortably on your face without touching your cheeks, whether you’re relaxing or grinning from ear to ear. If the frames touch your cheeks, it means they’re too big for your face.
Show your eyebrows – don’t hide your eyebrows behind your glasses, or the overall effect will be odd. You should aim for your eyes to be peeking out from the center of the glasses.
Frame your face – oversized sunglasses shouldn’t dominate your face – if the frames are wider than your face, they’re too big for you.
Arm Positioning – if the ends (arms) of the glasses don’t rest comfortably over your ears, they are too small (often encountered by men with larger features).
Frame Size – choose frames that feel comfortable – a frame that is too big for you may start to feel too heavy and uncomfortable as the day wears on and give you a headache.
The Smile Test – Do the “Smile Test” — it works every time — if you smile and the glasses noticeably rise off your nose bridge, move on to the next pair!
As for which shape will work best with your face shape, if you like Ray-Ban classic shades, click here for their guide, and for an overall guide, take a look at Sunglass Warehouse’s visual graphic below:
Shop a variety of sunglasses below, and be sure to stop by The Outnet for discounted designer shades where I have purchased all of my sunglasses from in the past few years.
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~STYLE posts from the Archives you might enjoy:
~How to Create Your Own Style Commandments
The post Why Not . . . Wear Sunglasses? appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.
August 16, 2016
White: A Little and a Lot
White tops, white denim, white, white, white. There is something crisp and finishing about a touch of white. Whether it is a tailored white blouse or an oversized blouse paired with a tailored pencil skirt (as seen above), white radiates an appreciation for simplicity and at the same time sophistication. I am not sure how this paradox remains true, but it does. No . . . I think I do. It takes confidence to wear white well and without excess. It is this confident choice that reveals one’s sophistication and appreciation for simplicity. Enjoy this week’s Style Inspiration . . .
~SHOP White Options:
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~STYLE INSPIRATION posts from the Archives:
The post White: A Little and a Lot appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.
August 15, 2016
Make Your Own Life Rules: How & Why
“The older you get, the easier it becomes to follow your own rules.” —Linda Rodin
~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #116
At age 66, beauty business mogul Linda Rodin is a force of vitality, independence and femininity, all according to her own rules of how to live her best life. As I mentioned a few weeks ago, her interview with Garance Doré grabbed my attention. For many reasons, but primarily for her determination to love the life that she has chosen to live, following nobody else’s “rules”.
The quote above was quipped by Linda during that particular interview as she spoke about her introversion, her absolute enjoyment of not being a night-owl who partakes in the NYC late-night, but rather someone who goes to bed rather early (8 or nine) and reads or watches something of interest for a few more hours. She has her routines each morning, walking her French poodles Winks to grab a cup of caffeine from a select local coffee shops, and diving into her work from 9-5. She doesn’t apologize, she revels. It works for her, it enables her to thrive and brings forth who she is rather than who other people expect her to be.
Choosing to live a life, to follow our own “rules”, is to set ourselves free. To set ourselves free to respect what works for us, what energizes us, what respects the voice that speaks from within that may or may not synchronize with the rest of the world. The liberating life truth is that when we listen to that voice, we catapult the quality of our everyday lives into an entirely different dimension of contentment.
As someone who is 37, it was refreshing and a relief to know that living becomes all that more enjoyable with each year so long as we are listening to our lives. But I couldn’t help but ponder another question, can I be more comfortable following my own rules now, or do I have to wait a couple more decades? However, after I pondered my own question, I began to realize, the sooner we can become and allow ourselves to become more comfortable following our own rules, much like compound interest, the ease will only intensify as we live each year, and that is a very exciting revelation.
So how can we become more comfortable living by our own rules?
Begin listening to yourself
Get to know yourself
Begin to think for yourself
Step away from the world regularly
Accept and embrace the uniqueness that resides within you
Strengthen the powerful tool of self-acceptance
Stop looking for outside approval of the life and decisions you have made
To call the guidelines by which each of us chooses to live “rules” is a misnomer in many ways, as it contains an air of limitation. But I think we all understand what Linda Rodin was implying when she uttered this phrase. We know what works for us; we also know what doesn’t. And so to protect ourselves from making mistakes in moments when we, for whatever reason, are influenced by the moment, a persuasive person, etc., if we have personal rules set in place, it’s a no-brainer. We already know what we need to do, regardless of temptation.
In many ways, so long as we are the ones creating the rules for ourselves, the rules we put in place will be lifting us up and ensuring that when we wake up in the morning we are full of appreciation rather than regret and disappointment.
Below I’ve gathered together general areas of our lives where putting into place rules can bring more fulfillment. I’ve also included a few questions with each to help you pinpoint what would work best for you. Contemplate what has worked for you, what would benefit you and the journey you are on and what you want to achieve. Every single person will have a unique combination of answers. That is the beauty and that is also a sign that you are truly listening to yourself and the voice from within.
1. A schedule that works for you
How much sleep do you need?
What helps you unwind to have a deep, restful sleep?
What helps you begin the day well?
At what time do you need to go to bed, wake up to have a productive day?
When do you need breaks?
When are you the most productive?
In what instances did a particular schedule work for you? Why?
2. A style that speaks to who you are
What are you wearing when you feel your best?
What works with your lifestyle and regular routine?
What can you invest in that will be worn regularly and loved?
Visit TSLL Capsule Wardrobe to dive into how to create your own spring & fall simple, dependable and confident wardrobe
3. Which relationships to foster or let go (friendships, family, romantic and collegial)
Who can you relax around? Be yourself?
Who can you trust?
Who has similar interests and passions?
Who is kind and thoughtful?
Who do you enjoy being with?
Let go of wanting to be liked by everyone you meet .
Let go of not wanting to upset people.
Respect the boundaries you have put in place and let go of those who refuse to accept them.
Let go of people who try to control you, passively or directly.
Your feelings of discomfort or peace are feelings to respect even if others do not understand.
4. Risks worth taking
How did you reach the point where you are today? What were viewed as risks at that time?
What are you confident about in your life?
Who do you look up to for life advice? Have they taken risks and been successful? What did they learn when they weren’t?
What talents and abilities do you have that are not similar to the masses?
What are you comfortable letting go of or losing in order to gain what you seek?
Who is dependent upon you?
What responsibilities do you have?
Who is telling you it’s too risky? Who is telling you to jump? Consider their experience – do you want to live their life?
How would you feel if you never took the risk?
5. The food and drink you consume and imbibe
With each year of life in adulthood, if we choose to, we become very aware of our bodies: what makes it feel good, what gives it energy, when do we think most clearly and how it responds to types of food and drink and quantities of food and drink. No matter what your mom, a friend, a random stranger say has happened to them if they eat this or done that, first seek out the facts from science and the nature of human biology. How does the body work? Understand, for example, how certain carbs work in the body when more than needed are consumed. Read How Not to Die and come to understand the truth as to why many disease are preventable. Then, incorporate what you know about your own body. Knowledge is power and when you eat well, hydrate your body and have simple, clear rules that you abide by when it comes to food no matter what is put in front of you, the quality of your life will blossom. (Read Why Not . . . Feed Your Body Well? to get started on what and why the food you eat is or is not helping you.)
6. How you spend your money
What are your financial goals?
Have you seen or spoken with a financial adviser you trust?
What do you know about investing? (Read TSLL Money Archives to learn more about being financially savvy).
What risk are you comfortable with? (what is worth the investment – a home, a business venture, etc.)
How much and how long do you want to work?
Do you have debt? Do you have a plan to eradicate it?
Do you understand the power of money? (Read: The 9 Ways Money Can Buy Happiness)
In what manner do you feel most control when it comes to money? (cash, debit, credit, etc.)
As we know life and what will happen tomorrow is unpredictable. We can always put the odds in our favor, we can always look to others who have gone before us, but tomorrow, next year, and 10 years from now will have their own special uniqueness about them. As a child, our parents set certain rules for different periods of our lives: don’t walk across the street without holding my hand, don’t eat candy for breakfast, feed the dogs every day at a certain time, close the gate behind you, turn off the lights when you leave the house, etc. While yes, some rules can be too stringent and limit our potential as children and then as adults, other rules are merely for our own best interest: save our lives, feed our bodies well, properly care for others, keep others safe, reduce the energy bill. In no way do any of these particular rules hurt us or harm someone else but rather enhance the quality of our lives and play a rule in helping the community as well. A win-win.
When we are at our best, we feel amazing and yes, when we are at our best, the community and world around us benefit as well. So today consider the rules you live by. Are they your own? Are you consciously aware of the rules you follow? Why do you follow them? And then if you see a need for tweaking and improving take some time, an afternoon or a few hours this weekend to consider helping yourself build a life that cultivates habits that make you excited to wake up each and every day, no matter what your age.
~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
~Why Not . . . Reinvent Yourself?
~17 Benefits of Being Yourself
Petit Plaisir:
~pair with a decadent cheeseburger on a brioche bun
~see the entire recipe here and a video demonstrating how to put it all together here.
Image: Anna Ewers wearing Valentino for Vogue May 2015
The post Make Your Own Life Rules: How & Why appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.
