Wednesday miscellany: what caught my eye this week
I finally had a chance to get out to some of my favorite shopping spots this week. While a lot of the retail real estate is still occupied by end-of-season sale merchandise, I did sniff out a few new (or new-ish) things I liked, and thought might interest you.
On my style radar…
I think Madewell has upped their game lately. While there’s still a good bit of croppy-toppy-Festival-Girl stuff, I’ve been finding more things lately that feel modern, and wearable.
For instance, these garment-dyed 5-pocket pants. I think these could be a great denim alternative, but just as easy to style as jeans.
The contrast stitching is fun detail, and they’re offered in Standard, Petite, Plus and Tall sizes. This brown color is a great neutral for Springs and Autumns. Summers, check out the “Chalked Fig” color. And Winters, the “Iris Bloom” looks like it might work for your palette. “Artichoke” is a good one for you Autumns.
I have these on order (in the Petite size) and will report back.
90’s minimalism continues to be a trend in 2024, and I’m here for it. 😉 I could picture Caroline Bessette Kennedy carrying a sleek, functional, logo-less bag like this one in yummy leather. (I’m also a bit tempted by the suede one.) Also available in black and Chocolate Raisin, which on my monitor could almost pass for a dark Burgundy.
These loafers remind me of something that might have come out of Céline during the Phoebe Philo era. I’ve shown the black here, have ordered the brown ones to try.
A denim jacket can be a versatile styling piece. But if a traditional trucker jacket feels too rough around the edges for you, this one from J.Crew has a more polished vibe, without being fussy. Sizes 00-16. Runs true-to-size. If you like a more relaxed fit, I’d suggest sizing up.
The “lady jacket” (or sweater jacket) looks to be 2024’s answer to the oversized blazer. Here’s a more relaxed take on the trend, available in sizes XX-Small to 3X. (I have this on order to check out sizing, will report back.) Also available in black with ivory stripes.
And a stylish (& very functional) countertop accessory…
I still look forward to (and enjoy) my morning coffee(s!). ☕️ But while I was in London in November, I really got into the habit of drinking herbal tea in the afternoon and evening. I finally decided to replace my old kettle with this one, which has a sleek, retro look. This “mini” version is perfect for heating water for 1 or 2 cups.
Food for thought…
Which is healthier, coffee or tea?
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Hello- I have that exact Smeg tea kettle and have been using it for years! I love it!
croppy toppy Festival girl! I love that! Thanks for my first laugh of the morning.
Same here! Great description!
Thanks, Susan! I just put those loafers in my cart. I like that Madewell has a wide range of sizes and have a pair of “Harlowe” pants that consistently look good. It’s not all crop top festival wear.
I almost never buy sweaters from J Crew because they almost all specify dry cleaning, even this striped sweater, which is a blend. Do you personally hand wash or dry clean sweaters like these?
Hi Linda, I wash almost all of my sweaters, except those that are more structured. I don’t see any reason why this one couldn’t be hand washed.
Susan—I need help finding petite print blouses to dress up black pants. I’m a winter so more crisp clear colors are best. A blazer seems too corporate for a bridal brunch that I’ll be attending and a sweater maybe too casual ??? I’m open to suggestions. I’m in a colder northern climate. I’m at a lost because so many designers don’t include petite sizing or petite friendly (meaning a little shorter in length) options. Any suggestions or where to look would be appreciated. Thank you
Same problem. Sometimes find something at Chico’s, though their prints are often too “Autumn”. Can dress up with silk fabric.
Rose, I’d suggest J Jill, Talbot’s or J Crew, or even Anthropolgie, who offers some items in Petite sizes.
Even though I am a spring, I prefer black over brown accessories lately. Can’t get past it somehow. I do own some brown and caramel, but black speaks to me.
Love these finds. I agree with your love of 90s minimalist style. Meg Ryan in ‘You’ve Got Mail’ – I could wear her entire wardrobe today!
We have a pale blue Smeg and the toaster to match. Cost a bomb as we say in the UK but worth every penny. It’s robust and looks good.
I agree Susan, those brown pants are a bit of fun. I wonder why it’s the only colour (that I can see) that got the contrast stitching?
Thank you again for your seasonal colour suggestions.
Best wishes,
Julie x
I agree about Madewell, for a long time they had very little that worked for me or my daughter who has always been a big fan. This fall I’ve bought a couple of pair of pants, one which was a pair of burgundy cords which I wore and wear on repeat. Madewell bags are fantastic. I’ve had a couple for over 15 years. I love that they have little or no hardware embellishments.
J. Crew went nearly all in with cropped sweaters, cardigans and other tops this past fall. Just No. That said, I like the denim jacket.
I love the lady jacket. Sweet and cool.
Greetje