Shannon Ables's Blog, page 313
October 20, 2015
Style Inspiration: Sweater Season
As I woke up on Saturday morning of this past weekend, the rain was light but beautifully steady, and the first thought that bounced into my mind was sweater season. Finally, I can begin to wear the cashmere, the merino wool, the fine knits that I have tucked away since last year.
Whether a simple v-neck pull-over, a cape or what I’ve been drawn to lately, a sweater dress to be paired solely with heels and simple accessories, fall ushers in a lovely fashion staple that aches for chilly, brisk days and a cup of chocolat chaud to be sipped over leisurely, personal conversation. Below are a few sweater dresses that have caught my eye (especially this one), but even if shopping is not what you have in mind, enjoy pulling out, brushing off and donning your favorite sweaters from your closet. The time has arrived!
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~STYLE INSPIRATION POSTS from the Archives:
Images:(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)
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October 19, 2015
Money: Being vs Acting Rich
“More people look richer than they really are, and the really rich often don’t look anything like what we think they should look like.” -Thomas J. Stanley
~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #66
Perception versus reality. The primary goal of someone working in public relations is to present an exterior that will prompt a desired result: sales, confidence, change, movement, acceptance, etc. But as those who have been behind the scenes know, just because an image is given to us of what “rich” looks like doesn’t mean it is so.
The multi-million dollar contracts signed by Adonis-esque athletes, the many homes owned by starlets as well as the celebrity endorsed products seen ad-nauseum don’t guarantee or demonstrate the truth behind what being financially rich actually is.
Thomas J. Stanley in his 2009 book Stop Acting Rich: And Start Living Like a Real Millionaire, enumerates the many ways those of us who might desire to be rich are misled to believe what rich actually is.
Misnomers:
An expensive, well-located, spacious home
Owning a Rolex
Driving a BMW
A stocked wine cellar
Top designer clothing
Owning a vacation home
Have hired help
In reality, those who are actually rich generally defy the entire list mentioned above. Stanley points out that the image of “rich” presented by the media, advertisers and celebrities themselves (perhaps that are endorsed by the brands they don unbeknownst to the onlooker) misrepresent the truth of what it takes to truly become rich.
So what is the definition of rich? In Stanley’s first book The Millionaire Next Door, the numerical goal of net assets is approximately $350,000. Regardless of where those assets are coming from, if one has not attained this dollar amount, they are not a true millionaire.
Upon reading this equation, it was in many ways a relief. Why? Because for many, the idea of owning a house is described as the only way to become financially security, but as we saw in the Great Recession, many took a financial face-plant because of their real estate choices. This is not to say real estate is a bad financial decision. In fact, it is usually a very good idea in the long run, but the key is to understand there are many routes to attaining the label of rich, or a secure financial life. However you are able to attain the $350,000 will be dependent on your career, talents, goals, locale, etc. And most importantly, it will take time.
With that said, let’s take a look at the many ways you can actually become rich:
1. Become Well Educated
Ninety percent of millionaires who were happy in their lives had graduated from college, 62% had graduated from graduate or professional school and only 19% were in the top 5% of their class. The key to making sound life decisions not only
in finance, but in general, is to become savvy about what you will be doing for your career as that will be your foundation. Being at the top is not necessary, but it is clear that wisdom when applied makes a tremendous difference.
2. Have Patience
It takes time to accrue wealth. Stanley interviewed Baby Boomers in their mid-fifties who were millionaires and as many of them began investing in their mid-twenties, it was evident that the $350K mark did not happen overnight, but rather over decades of smart decision-making.
3. Make More Than You Spend
Another commonality was millionaires lived in a smaller or less expensive house than they could afford and refrained from buying status symbol items such as vehicles, watches, and clothing. Did it mean they were Scrooges? No, they had nice clothing, but they were smart, thoughtful purchases as I will talk about in #8.
4. Don’t Depend on an Inheritance
Only 12% of the millionaires in Stanley’s study inherited any money from relatives as their means to achieving wealth. In fact, those who received inheritance were less likely to grow their money or maintain a millionaire status.
5. Invest in Real Estate, but Purchase Less Than You Can Afford
As mentioned in #2, most millionaires bought their first house at the age of 26, but they don’t still live in this home and they tend to purchase less than what their income allows. Not only does this aid in one’s health and therefore overall happiness due to the stress alleviated, it also frees up money to be invested elsewhere or invest in experiences to grow as an individual.
6. Don’t Live in the Most Expensive Neighborhood
While location is key in real estate, investing in a neighborhood purely to maintain appearances regardless of how much it will cost will do you no favors in the long-run as you save and invest for your financial security. In fact, Stanley found that most millionaires were better off than their neighbors based on where they chose to live.
7. Be Generous
Sixty percent of happy millionaires were found to give to charitable causes while only 38% of unsatisfied millionaires did the same. While the reasons may be wide and vast, helping and giving when we can is easier when we make more than we spend on necessary expenditures and overall leaves us feeling more connected to our community and those we love.
8. Make Smart Purchases
Are wearing Manolo Blahniks off the table if we want to become rich? It depends. A frugal shopper who appreciates quality over quantity can purchase a pair of Manolo’s and wear them for years, or perhaps find them in a consignment shop. It is the person who believes they must have designer everything and pay full price as well. Part of the mission of living simply luxuriously is not to feel deprived, but instead to live intelligently. You know what you need, you know how much you can afford and you are the savvy shopper who knows how to get what they want at the best price.
9. Reconsider the Second Home or Extra Recreational Anything
Stanley shares a long list of experiences and activities that deca-millionaires spend their money on versus buying a second home, a boat, or expensive labels in watches, wines, cars and the like. Here is just a taste: gardening, vacationing in Paris (I kid you not), visiting museums, attending Broadway plays, jogging, attending lectures, socializing with loved ones, raising money for charities, participating in civic activities, studying art, golfing and this is just a start. In other words, as Stanley states, “You cannot be in two places at one time” so why spend your money unnecessarily on two mortgages or paying down debt you don’t need to thrive?
10. Refuse to Fall Prey to the Newest Model
In 1927, Stanley shares General Motors began to realize a winning sales strategy: produce new models of the same car each season as “people will pay big bucks for cars that symbolize wealth and status”. Whether it’s the latest Apple iPhone model or the new 2016 model of the car you are currently driving, new doesn’t necessarily mean better. So long as you purchase a quality vehicle, care for it properly, there is no need to invest every time a new edition is revealed.
One of the careers that predominantly acquires millionaires in its field of expertise is engineers. In particular, Stanley observes one such engineer (Tom) and what he reveals is significant. Rather than seeking out expensive automobiles or items that project the image of wealth, he drives a Honda Civic. Why? Tom is focused on value and quality rather than showmanship. The career achievements he has attained have played a significant role in his high self-esteem, and he need not seek out external validation.
12. Invest in Quality
Bottom line: purchase the best quality product necessarily to complete the task effectively. Whether it is a pair of jeans that cost $200, but will last for 10 years or a Honda Civic that will run smoothly and efficiently for 10 years or more, if it gets the job done, let go of worrying about the audience. If they applaud, okay. But if they do not, you will be financially secure and still be stylish and arriving safe at work each and every day.
While the goal of our lives is not to become rich, it is what becoming rich allows. I have always strived to be financially secure and independently so as it affords me the ability to dictate my future. As much as I wish I could have been über financially secure when I was in my twenties, I have realized that it is a gradual process and the key is to make savvy decisions, take educated risks and consult those who know better than us along the way.
“But the values and work habits of millionaires, like the roots of the oak, are what support their lifestyles (the leaves), not the other way around. ” -Thomas J. Stanley
~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
~10 Ways to Strengthen Self-Worth
~Confidence: How to Gain It & Why It’s Invaluable
Petit Plaisir:
~French Chic Living: Simple Ways to Make Your Home Beautiful by Florence de Dampierre
~Visit her website and blog here.
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October 16, 2015
This & That: No. 180
Blog
~The Boy Who Bakes
Edd Kimber is The Boy Who Bakes and is the blogger and author of now three cookbooks (his third was just released October 7th). Upon winning the first season of The Great British Baking Show (have you watched this? I just released discovered it and LOVE it!), Kimber’s baking career took off. I came across him on The Splendid Table podcast, and am tickled that I did as his blog is bookmarked and regularly viewed.
Book
~Elegant Simplicity At Home by Tricia Foley
Having happened upon designer Tricia Foley’s book a month ago, I was reminded by a reader more recently that her new book would be right up my alley. And they were right. Inspired by her Long Island, New York, farmhouse, she exhibits throughout her book elegant, simple living spaces that offer clean, fresh aesthetics that I would love to call home. Whether you pick up her book or stop by her blog, you will be certain to find inspiration.
Film
~Truth
As someone who is enthralled with the news and politics, I have been curious to watch Truth, starring Robert Redford as former CBS news anchor Dan Rather and Cate Blanchett as Mary Mapes the former producer at the time of 60 Minutes. Inspired by the controversy that swirled around Rather and Mapes’ firing, the film was adapted from Mary Mapes memoir Truth and Duty: The Press, The President And The Privilege Of Power. The political drama takes place in 2004 regarding George W. Bush and the Killian Documents Controversy regarding the alleged preferential treatment Bush received in the early 1970s at the Texas Air National Guard. Premiering tonight, take a look at the trailer below.
~The Women’s List
On September 25th PBS American Masters aired a documentary worth watching, A Women’s List. Available to view here, hear 15 successful and trailblazing women share their stories about struggling against discrimination and overcoming challenges that have irrefutably changed the perception of women in their respective fields. Have a look at the trailer below:
Shopping
~Mango Chunky Knit Sweater
The chunky cable sweater is in season this fall, and Mango offers a frugal version to add to your wardrobe. Pair with denim for play or trousers or even a skirt for work. Not only will you be warm, but you will be en vogue.
~Theory black linen-blend straight leg pants
Having a navy pair of Theory’s linen-blend pants, I can attest, they are comfortable and chic. Certainly a staple to keep on hand, and for this price, a steal to take advantage of. And if you’re a fan of Theory like I am, take a look at this week’s Weekly Finds in the right-hand column of TSLL blog as many items are reduction and worth taking a look at.
I don’t know about you, but I am ready for the weekend. I am ready to enjoy the few remaining weekends of fall that are warm, lovely and without need for a coat. I am ready to disregard a waking alarm. I am ready to read a few magazines that have been waiting to be devoured. And I am oh so ready for a croissant, good company and time to do as I please. Won’t you join me in reveling in a weekend that I have no doubt will be simply luxurious?
Below are a few articles you may be interested in reading as you relax with a cup of joe or hot tea. Until Monday, bon weekend!
~Keeping fashion simple and timeless . . . from Women’s Wear Daily Top 5 Figure-Flattering Basics
~Why Every Student Should Study Abroad . . . I could agree more.
~As a tea drinker, I was curious . . . Health Benefits from Tea as shared by The New York Times
~A few worthwhile facts about women and money. Bottom line, the more you know, the more confidence you have, the more financially secure you will be.
~Just in case you needed more inspiration, six reasons to live more healthily.
Image: (2)
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October 15, 2015
Decor Inspiration: A Simple Cozy Kitchen
Always a fan of a used, and therefore much-loved, butcher block, when I came across Thoughts from Alice’s kitchen, I wanted to share. While no, this isn’t a typical butcher block, it provides a lovely focal point and can be used as one if fashioned properly with a wood-block top. From the hardwood floors to the simple autumn gourd decor as well as the open shelving, the kitchen is cozy and welcoming.
Images from Thoughts from Alice
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October 14, 2015
Word of the Week: No. 21
~Click below for pronunciation:
http://www.thesimplyluxuriouslife.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/bucolic.m4a
~WORDS OF THE WEEK from the Archives:
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October 13, 2015
Outfit of the Week: Stylish Slumber
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~Desmond & Dempsey Howie Signature Short Pajama set, or here or red print , other prints & colors here~
~Acorn ‘Starlight’Smoking Slipper (other colors available)~
~La Perla Seta long Robe (other colors available)~
~Love Style Life: Garance Dore (available October 27th)~
~Eminence Facial Recovery Oil (my evening ritual before going to bed)~
~OUTFITS OF THE WEEK from the Archives:
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Style Inspiration: Jackets & Style Galore
October is revealing itself to be a very amicable companion when it comes to style. With ideal temperate, yet warm days and just a touch of chill in the evening and mornings, only a light jacket is necessary as a layering piece. And as such that means the playful options are bountiful. Enjoy today’s Style Inspiration collection as you contemplate a new outfit to pull together from your closet.
~STYLE INSPIRATION posts from the Archives:
Images: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11)
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October 12, 2015
6 Ways to Defy Stereotypes
“The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story.”― Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #65
History and our everyday are filled with stereotypes. Many of us have been subjected and denied opportunity because of them. And more us than we’d care to admit are guilty of perpetuating them.
Paul Theroux wrote about the myriad of detrimental stereotypes on men in America in the 1980s in his essay “Being a Man” and Judith Cofer Ortiz defied the stereotype she examined in “The Myth of the Latin Woman“. Both positive and negative stereotypes persist, and each are inaccurate and degrading because they simplify the story, and each of us is indeed quite complex. From blondes are dumb, to men don’t know how to clean, to Italians are good cooks and even French women don’t get fat, stereotypes are abundant and plentiful. Sometimes we don’t fight them because they work for us, but we do ourselves and society no favors by not addressing the destruction they can cause and thereby doing our due diligence to defy them, and eventually eliminating them.
1. Do the homework
The word “stereotype” is derived from the Greek language: “stereos” meaning firm, solid and “typos” meaning impression. Therefore, the meaning is “solid impression”. Let’s focus on that definition and especially the term “impression”. As we know, while first impressions are powerful, they aren’t always accurate as the story is merely incomplete, as reminded by writer Chimamanda Adichie in her 2009 Ted Talk “The Danger of a Single Story“. And if something is incomplete, much like a hamburger without one of the buns, an article without a conclusion, a house without a foundation, we don’t full understand what something is or can be.
Most stereotypes are rooted in some truth, but while they may have begun because one person somewhere was doing something and that particular action (for whatever reason) became associated with their sex, their race or their [fill in the blank], such an action doesn’t mean that all that look, act or live in the same scenario should be expected to behave in the same way. After all, at the heart of prejudice and then discrimination is a belief in some sort of stereotype. But you see a stereotype by definition is incomplete, and therefore, not accurate.
2.Determine why you do or don’t select certain options
“Show a people as one thing, only one thing, over and over again, and that is what they become.”
― Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Pink vs. blue, computer science vs. art, playing with dolls vs. playing with cars. From an early age certain expectations surrounded us, certain options were made more readily available, and certain choices were applauded or frowned upon. But at the heart of dismantling stereotypes is to get to know ourselves. Why are we choosing to care for a cat rather than a dog? Why are we wearing our hair a certain way or falling lock step into certain roles even when they don’t feel comfortable? At some level it is hard to determine what is culture and what is chromosome when it comes to our likes and dislikes, but with anything new we experience, if we can consciously choose not for approval, but rather authentic satisfaction and stand tall with our decision, we will help gradually break down stereotypes as others see the mold slowly become fractured.
3. Examine what properties, qualities are missing and then lead by example
Often the instinct is to fight back, push back in a manner that involves confrontation, but if first we do our homework and see how the stereotype is inaccurate, we discover the qualities that are being overlooked or ignored. To focus on revealing the qualities that are being ignored is to demonstrate that indeed the stereotype is wrong and when presented to the proper audience, the stereotype can be thwarted.
For example, if crying is believed to signify weakness, we then need to exemplify what it actually reveals. When we cry in public, it is to show empathy, compassion, etc., which are both strong, desirous qualities to have in a position of leadership. After all, to be human is to have emotion. The key is to not act on emotion, but rather recognize it and then, after giving ourselves time, make the best rational response moving forward.
If we are becoming frustrated that, for example, women are being labeled as incapable of becoming president, leading companies, holding 50% of the seats in Congress (in the United States), or anything that is blatantly untrue and simply hasn’t happened because a majority of people have ingrained into their minds it isn’t possible, then we need to lead by example. We need to change what we see in the world, so that the norm is something we are proud to say we know to be true and helped cultivate. The first leaders take the brunt, but so long as they have supporters to hold them up and ignore the ignorant, change can be made.
4. Keep your frustrations in check
Often people don’t realize they are making a decision based on pure assumption of a stereotype. Whether it is based on one’s age and assuming they can no longer do something or wouldn’t know how to do something, or someone’s career choice and an assumption of income or knowledge are presumed, or something as ignorant as one’s race assuming either a positive or a negative purely based on ethnicity. Of course, sex as well prompts many assumptions. If ever you have found yourself in a situation where an assumption is being made about you that short-changes your opportunities and negates further possibilities, it is understandable why any of us would become frustrated, even enraged. But . . .
Often, while it seems unfair, as the one who is being stereotyped has done nothing to deserve such treatment, in order to slow the tide of stereotyping, we must rise above the situation. We must master our emotions, speak calmly (or wait until we can speak calmly) and outwit the naysayers, or perhaps outperform them as often actions speak louder than any words. After all, using logic to argue with some who is comfortable with their ignorance is most often futile.
5. Don’t laugh with the crowd
Speaker of the House John Boehner is known for being rather emotional and has from time to time shown himself to be quite moved as his public displays with tears being wiped away are caught on camera. In fact, when Pope Francis arrived in Washington D.C. at the end of September this past month, Boehner was seen tearing up as he was standing directly behind the Pope. Many press upon reporting his response teased, laughed or chuckled which presents the idea that something is wrong with what he is doing, but not all news journalists did. Some did as they are trained to do, reported. The key to, for example in this case, shifting the idea that it is emasculating to cry is to not participate in the finger-pointing and mocking aftermath that follows.
The reason any of us who falls prey to relying on stereotypes do so is because it is comforting. What??!! As humans we want to know. For survival, for security, for certainty of the best path we must follow as we move forward, and when we don’t know how to interact with someone, when we don’t someone at all, we label them which makes us feel more secure. In reality, it is a false sense of reality, but until we know better, we categorize everything we can as a way to understand. Ironically, we are actually limiting our ability to understand because we have made the assumption and moved on.
So the next time, someone around you makes an assumptive remark or laughs at someone for doing the unexpected for their gender, age, sex, position at the job, etc., don’t participate. You don’t have to correct, just simply refrain from feeding the fire which will hopefully allow such discussion to die out quickly.
6. Don’t replace stereotypes with yet another stereotype
Without realizing it, when we recognize a stereotype and decide to let go of it, we can sometimes replace it with yet another stereotype. Such a response is actually quite human as we want absolutes, we want “to know”, and often times we cannot. For example, if we begin with the idea of nuns and what their behaviors should be, we limit them as individuals and the rigidity becomes destructive to those who pursue the life as well as the institution itself. If a nun, or a pope, as Pope Francis is demonstrating begins to behave in a contrary or unorthodox manner, gradually some may begin to stereotype what future nuns or popes should be based on the behaviors being exhibited. This too would be a mistake. This too would be stereotyping. Instead, allow the individual to be themselves and embrace who they are, reveling in it, trying to understanding it, but don’t use it as a mold for those who may look the same or choose a similar path.
I highly recommend Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s nineteen minute TEDtalk “The Danger of a Single Story”. Regardless of the stereotypes you may feel you have been subjected to or have unknowingly subjected other people to, the first step is to acknowledge how they begin, so that we can all go about the business of defying and eliminating them. Because when we are relegated to a single box, our true gifts are stifled, our opportunities are limited, and since I know none of us wants to be put in such a situation, why would we put others in that same detrimental position? Power comes from within, it does not come from holding other people down. Eventually the dam will break and the people who you could have been allied with with all of their unique gifts and talents will overcome you.
~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
~9 Ways to Trust Your Inner Compass
~Why Not . . . Be A Successful Woman?
Petit Plaisir:
~A Ballerina’s Tale
Since June 30, 2015, American ballet dancer Misty Copeland has officially become the first black female principal dancer at a major international company. The documentary “A Ballerina’s Tale” debuted at the Tribeca Film Festival in April 2015 to great acclaim which documents her journey beginning at the age of 13. Narrated by Misty Copeland, it is an inside look at her determination, challenges and successes as the dancer many have come to know and admire. Be sure to check out her best-selling book Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina.
Having had the opportunity to view the film this past weekend during the Bend Film Festival, I highly recommend watching the film when it is released nation-wide on October 14th.
~Correction from the episode. Misty Copeland did not co-produce the film, but rather Leslie Norville and Nelson George were the producers.
Image: source
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October 9, 2015
This & That: No. 179
Book
~French Chic Living: Simple Ways to Make Your Home Beautiful
Perhaps one day each of us who dream of living in France will acquire a Parisian apartment or a country cottage in which we can have the French flea markets at our fingertips and the bucolic landscapes that dance in our dreams at night just outside our front doors, but until then a new decor book, French Chic Living, will provide ample inspiration for bringing a touch of French living into your home wherever you live. Scheduled to be released on October 13th, my copy is pre-ordered, and I cannot wait for it to arrive. I have a feeling you will want a copy as well.
~Unfinished Business: Women Men Work Family by Anne-Marie Slaughter
In 2012, Anne-Marie Slaughter wrote a much-talked-about cover article for The Atlantic as I shared and discussed on the blog at the time. Since the publication, she has been hard at work on the book that was just recently released about the shift that must take place in order for women and men to have equally fulfilling work and home lives all the while raising healthy and happy children; thereby, modeling to children that sex shouldn’t be a determining factor in expectation of marital roles, but rather the personalities in the relationship.
As a pairing to allow readers to hear his own experience and voice, Slaughter’s husband Andrew Moravcsik just shared his own article in October’s issue of The Atlantic that further explains the need for a shift in expectation, balance and equal help in marriages that wish to have children. Without question, the book will certainly prompt a much-needed discussion.
Francophile Find
~My Paris Market Cookbook: A Culinary Tour of French Flavors and Seasonal Recipes by Emily Dilling
Well, if we can’t go to Paris and shop in the markets we can at least pick up blogger and podcaster Emily Dilling’s new book My Paris Market Cookbook. With recipes offering the best food available for each season to an itinerary of markets to visit when you do travel to Paris, this is a cookbook I cannot wait to have on my shelf. And the podcast, Paris Paysanne, is now on my playlist.
Shopping
~ Jennifer DeMoro Jewelry
A few weeks ago I came across Jennifer DeMoro’s jewelry on Instagram, and immediately was drawn to it as it fits my taste in jewelry that is simple, signature and offers superb quality. From the nameplate necklace (which reminds me of Carrie’s necklace in SATC) to the large curve 14Karat wire earrings as well as the classic bar necklace in which you can have inscribed with your name or word of choice, I am officially smitten. Having since communicated with her, it is clear this independent entrepreneur loves what she does and takes great care and pride in what she creates. Be sure, these investment pieces would be great items to last a lifetime or give to a special friend as a gift.
~Terrain Creamware Cake Stand
Lately I’ve had my eye on tabletop decor, and what has always grabbed my eye has been pedestals to display a wide array of food, decor and any seasonal choice to add a simple touch of personality to the home. While the entire Terrain website is worth taking a look at for unique, yet classic, chic decor items, it is the creamware cake stand that would be a simple, lovely low-standing pedestal for cakes, gourds or anything you prefer.
Television
~Code Black
While I am a fan of Grey’s Anatomy, I will admit I fast-forward through the über excessive drama scenes and instead only watch the main plots that I enjoy. Good acting is quickly apparent and makes it all the easier to not watch mediocre when time is limited. So when I heard about Marcia Gay Harden starring in Code Black Wednesday nights on CBS (10pm), I tuned in. Based on a documentary by doctor Ryan McGarry which explored America’s emergency departments winning acclaim at Los Angeles’ Film Festival, the weekly show is off to a roaring good start. The pace is quick, the dialogue lively and not syrupy. Tune in and be immediately enthralled.
~recipe for Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes~
With a new season, new lessons, new opportunities, and a new bounty of gifts to be savored, the weekend begins. Wanting to decorate my porch for fall with gourds and mums, I am finally going to have the chance this weekend to dabble with the pumpkins and pick through the last of the fall flower shades. As well, this weekend in Bend offers up an annual event I have been hearing about for some time: the Bend Film Festival. Having kicked off yesterday, I will be spending my Saturday dashing around to a few documentaries, so be sure to follow along on Instagram to see what I discover.
This week on the blog has been full of fashion, lessons from the vineyard about life and thoughts about finding a new flow to everyday living that is sitting with me quite well. I hope you have a lovely fall weekend and until Monday, bonjour!
In the meantime, a few articles you may enjoy reading this weekend with a cup of tea or hot java. Enjoy!
~Each of is, but just in case you are curious . . . 10 Signs You’re Really Special
~Certainly worth waiting for, but something to keep in mind . . . 12 Tough Truths About Great Relationships
~10 New Things to Do and See in London . . . just in case your next vacation takes you to England.
~8 Habits of People Who Always Have Great Ideas . . . it really is quite simple
~A simple regular practice that can make a tremendous difference on the quality of our lives . . . 12 Little Known Laws of Gratitude (That Will Change Your Life)
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October 8, 2015
Thoughts from the Editor: Vanessa Seward & Taking A Deep Breath
Coined the Neo-Casual Parisienne in a recent Wall Street Journal article, French designer Vanessa Seward’s first namesake collection is available to complete your fall capsule wardrobe with stunning chic style now. Preferring the high-low pairings of silk blouses and denim, she is speaking my language and upon further investigation, I am officially hooked.
~Vanessa Seward (center) and her Fall 2015 collection~
~Vanessa Seward’s Spring 2016 collection~
Her previous experience isn’t so shabby either, with fashion accessories designer for Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent (during the Tom Ford era), her most recent collection just walked down the catwalk earlier this week. View her Spring 2016 collection here. While her items are pricey, they are nowhere near Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel item prices; considered accessible luxury, whichever item you choose, it will be timeless and work for many seasons to come. Below are a few items that caught my eye.
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With each year that my style evolves, I find myself gravitating more toward classic, versatile, chic, casual clothing. In other words, items that can be dressed up or down for work and then move seamlessly into play. And with a few signature silk blouses as well as complimentary figure slimming denim to work with, it’s hard to go wrong no matter what I choose. So, without question, Vanessa Seward’s clothing is on my watch list.
On an entirely different note, but perhaps not really, I am also trying to simplify my daily routine. With any life change, tension and stress can build, but with my decision to move to Bend, it was an effort to find a place where all of my passions, career-pursuits and interests were at my fingertips.
Gradually, I have found that my life is becoming simpler, my days even more lovely and full of time to truly just luxuriate in the life that is slowly, but steadily coming together. No longer do I have to drive 40 miles once or twice a week for necessary and not-so necessary appointments and pleasures. No longer do I have to work two jobs each day as I am able to compartmentalize much easier with fewer miles on the road. And now that my favorite bakeries, bookshops, grocery stores, walking trails and theaters are right at my fingertips, I have endless inspiration always at the ready to draw upon for the blog and everyday enjoyment.
But the most interesting discovery is that now that I have found where I want to settle, I don’t seek out unnecessary pleasures, thereby reducing my need to spend money on things that once filled the void I was trying to fix. The community that I have been longing for, the lifestyle I have always enjoyed and craved has finally materialized and those unnecessary accessories that brought bursts of happiness, but not true sustained joy are no longer needed.
Such a realization seemed surreal at first, but the quality we search for is possible, and in my case I did have to uproot and replant. So far the transplanting is going well.
Again, the idea of a quality life rings true as worth the pursuit. Please know, I’m still ironing out a few details and reminding myself to relax more, breath more, do less so that what I need and want to do, I can do well, as it has become a habit over this past two to four years to think I didn’t have time (because I truly didn’t) to accomplish all that I desired. But now that I do have the time, I am recalibrating, and it feels mighty amazing.
Here’s to the journey and trusting that our intuition, our true selves knows the way if only we can just trust it.
Below are a few images to serve as a reminder to take a few moments each day to just breathe, unwind, relax and appreciate all that is already going well because I have no doubt that so much is running quite smoothly.
~Place des Vosges in the Marais in Paris~
~dining and sipping outside at Cafe Le Nemours at the entrance of Palais-Royale~
~THOUGHTS FROM THE EDITOR posts from the Archives:
~It’s Fall! & My Favorites from the Emmy’s Red Carpet
Images: (1) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (7.5) (8)
The post Thoughts from the Editor: Vanessa Seward & Taking A Deep Breath appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.
