Wardrobe Inspiration, Catwalk Jennifer Inglis Wardrobe Inspiration, Catwalk Jennifer Inglis

Prada Spring 2024 | 5 Takeaways

Prada is a lifelong favorite of mine. Back when I lived in Zurich I’d often stroll through the store on Bahnhofstrasse. I never actually bought anything. But I loved to look. It was the spring 2012 collection that really got me hooked on the brand. The classic car inspired shoes were so good. I’m still determined to find a pair.

But alas, that is not what we’re talking about here. Today, we are talking about Prada’s spring 2024 collection. Because it’s a good one.

While I’m deep in the mindset of trying to shop less and be more intentional about the items I add to my wardrobe, I still think it’s highly satisfying to look toward designer collections for inspiration on what to wear.

Maybe you have a wedding coming up this summer or are struggling to breathe new life into your work wardrobe. While you may not actually buy a Prada dress or pair of heels, the styling and details can inform what you wear.

So let’s dig into it. Here are my top five takeaways from the Prada spring/summer 2024 collection.

#1. Sheer Details

Are you kidding me?! This is downright angelic. Sheer moments have been popping up for a while but this is the most beautiful expression of it. The simple round neck sheath dress looks absolutely otherworldly with the billowing fabric floating off of it.

I can totally see this getting incorporated into more high street occasion wear. A dress like this would be a dream to wear and would look so dramatic when the wind hits just right.

#2. Demure Shoes

Look at these little green satin mules. Could they be any more adorable?

I love a low heel. It’s practical and comfortable. These would look so badass paired with a distressed pair of slouchy jeans and a black bodysuit. Simple outfits with a pop of color from an accessory is chef’s kiss.

I have an old pair of leopard print mules in my wardrobe that I feel inspired to start wearing again after seeing these.

#3. Fringe

This look is giving 1930s flapper vibes but in a modern chic way. The shape of the dress is so elegant (that little cap sleeve) but the fringe makes it really special.

I’d love to see this filter down to brands that offer a more approachable price point. The details shows a bit of skin but in a very sophisticated way. I’m all here for it.

#4. Long Belts

An ultra long belt that wraps over is probably one of the simplest and most approachable styling tricks from this collection. Head to your local thrift shop and you can easily grab a belt from the men’s section and recreate this look.

Lately I’ve gotten very into belts as a way to add interest to an otherwise simple outfit. Would this be a bit annoying to wear? Perhaps. But it adds an undone element to the look which I’m very into it.

#5. Utility Jackets

Not to be dramatic but this one has captured my heart. An oversized work wear jacket paired over a refined and dressed up look is so good. It adds the perfect mix of unexpected into the outfit and just offsets everything in a very wearable way.

I’m very here for the mix of high and low and this is such a great way to do it.

Voila! Those are my five takeaways from the Prada spring/summer 2024 collection. What do you think? Would you incorporate any of these details into your wardrobe?

Read More
Shopping Edit Jennifer Inglis Shopping Edit Jennifer Inglis

Madewell Spring Shopping Edit

Obsessed. ✨

New arrivals recently dropped at Madewell and they. are. so. good.

Madewell has long been one of my favorite US shops. When I started working in an office full time about seven years ago they were my go-to spot for work clothes. I knew anytime I went in I could find something I'd love. Fast forward and a lot of the pieces I bought during that time are still closet staples that I wear today.

TBH I kinda fell out of love with the brand more recently. The collections started to feel very young. I don't think I'm their target demographic anymore. My guess is, like many brands, they are trying to resonate more with Gen Z. But this millennial is LOVING all the new items. 

The pieces have classic silhouettes but feel relevant for today. The color palette is a bit unexpected in places (hello muted yellow) but there are lots of staple colors like brown, white and navy. The little crescent moon bag? Yes, please. Woven ballet flats? Duh. And the denim jumpsuit worn under a pinstripe blazer? Seriously, why don't I already own that?

If you are looking for some new pieces to add to your wardrobe as we slowly make our way towards spring, the new arrivals at Madwell are definitely worth checking out.

Shop my favorite items below…

Photos via Madewell.com

Read More
Outfits, Shopping Tips Jennifer Inglis Outfits, Shopping Tips Jennifer Inglis

How to Dress for Cold Weather

If you aren’t used to it, dressing for cold climates can be tricky and overwhelming. After growing up in hot climates, I moved to England when I was twenty. Not gonna lie, I made some stupid fashion choices. I’d wear ballet flats (sans socks) on cold rainy days and claim I was, “totally fine.” Spoiler alert, I was not fine.

When I moved to St. Louis ten years ago I didn’t have any proper winter boots. So whenever it would snow I’d just wear my UGG boots. One snowy day I trekked to my local coffee shop only to end up with soaking wet feet. Like PUDDLES of water inside my shoes. I cried the whole 30 minute walk home because I was so miserable and cold.

Ever since… I’ve made better choices.

Woman wearing a cold weather outfit featuring an army green puffer jacket and cashmere beanie.

Casual cold weather OOTD

Jogger sets are the epitome of casual wear. Paired with a cashmere beanie and puffer jacket, it’s the perfect off-duty look for school drop off and errands.

5 TIPS to Stay Warm in Cold weather

  1. Layer: this might sound obvious but smart layering goes a long way. Uniqlo heat tech is where its at. Thin layers that won’t bulk up feel the nicest to wear.

  2. Tuck in your base layer: ever walk outside and have a burst of cold air shoot straight up your shirt? Yeah, me too. Always tuck in your base layer or wear a bodysuit. This one from Skims is my all-time favorite.

  3. Invest in good quality boots: having cold feet is miserable. Cold wet feet are even worse. Be smart and spend a little money on a good pair of waterproof boots. I’ve had the Carabou boot from Sorel for a few years and I still get excited every time I get to wear them.

  4. Wear a coat that covers your bum: it honestly makes a big difference. The Whisper Featherless Jacket from Athleta is very lightweight and surprisingly warm.

  5. Hand warmers: if you are going to be outside for an extended period of time, tuck a couple HotHands hand warmers into your bra and pockets. It might sound weird but it’s basically like having a portable heater attached to you.


Shop TSC Winter Essentials


Read More
Fashion, Inspiration Jennifer Inglis Fashion, Inspiration Jennifer Inglis

Spring Summer Inspiration

spring21inspo.jpg

My mood has officially moved to spring/summer fashion. Snow is forecast for this week but I’m not having any of it. Bring on the light layers, the bright colors and the slouchy wide legged trousers. This past weekend I sifted through magazines to make a mood board. Crossed legged on the floor of my daughter’s bedroom, together we cut out our favorite pictures to make a collage. My end result was the above image that ended up showcasing what I want to be wearing over the months to come. A list of those things is below.

Tailored separates in loose silhouettes. Can we talk about the resurgence of menswear and power dressing. It’s good.

Silk scrunchies are another must. The scrunchies I’m currently wearing are velvet and, therefore, far too wintery for a springtime look. I must get my hands on some silk ones, preferably in bold vibrant colors. Pictured above you’ll find some by Hermes. This is the dream. I will likely find some on Etsy or do a DIY.

How are we feeling about bucket hats? I know these have been trending for a while and they aren’t anything new but I’m still kind of obsessed with them. Last year I bought a cheap option from Amazon and it was truly horrible. I think the answer might be to buy one that’s a little pricier. Perhaps the fabric composition and shape needs to be a bit more thoughtful to have it truly look good.

Neon. I know, who would have thought. I normally shy away from bright colors but I’m in the mood to wear something painfully acidic (get ready to guard your eyes).

Yellow. Yes, I’ve loved yellow for a long time but this season’s version feels a bit more muted. I like that.

Coordinating sets. How cute is the matching STAUD skirt and top pictured above? I’m not sure if I’m ready to bare my midriff but maybe if I found a set that was quite high waisted and just showed a couple inches of tummy I could embrace this style (on or near the beach).

A summer sandal update is a must and I’ve got my eye on the Big Buckle Birkenstock

Ladylike accessories. Need I say more? After a year hunkered down in my sweats indoors I’m in the mood to look elevated and put together. Enter pearls, structured handbags and pieces that show I put more than 2min into getting ready. 

Round neck t-shirts with short chained necklaces. Yes and yes.

 Minimalist beauty. Because if the past year has taught me anything it’s that less is truly more.

Ok, that’s my rundown of must-have items for spring/summer ‘21. I will report back with news on how it goes incorporating these things into my wardrobe. I may just stay in my house like a hermit for the next four months and continue to wear my sweats but I’m hoping I break free a bit and explore the world again in clothes that feel fresh and alive.

After all, it officially time to embrace fashion (and life) again.

Read More
Fashion Jennifer Inglis Fashion Jennifer Inglis

How many pairs of jeans should a person own?

FullSizeRender.jpeg

How tall is your denim pile? Mine is 15 pairs high.

According to Fashion United, the average number of jeans a woman owns is seven. But the catch? They say she only really wears four. Mind = blown. 

So, how have I come to have so many pairs and is it a bit excessive?

The truth is, I’ve just sort of accumulated them over the past 6 years. They range in size from a 27 to a 31. Having had two kids recently has meant my weight has fluctuated significantly. A lot of people would say that I should have cleaned out my closet more thoroughly over the past few years. That no one needs 15 pairs of jeans - especially if half of them don’t fit perfectly at any given time.

But you know what? I’m glad I’ve held onto them.

They’re all classic styles and they work just as well today as they did the day I bought them. Most have a skinny or slim leg. They’re all in shades of classic chambray or black. I have no regrets.

I’m ok with having items in my wardrobe that are a bit too big or a bit too small. It means that when my weight fluctuates (which I’m sure it will continue to do) I don’t have to freak out about not having clothes that fit. So, I’m holding onto my 15 pairs for now and, who knows, I might even add a couple new pairs into the mix this year.

But back to the original question: how many pairs of jeans should a person own? There’s no right answer but I think having 3-5 pairs that you really love and that fit well is a pretty good benchmark to work towards.

Read More
Fashion Jennifer Inglis Fashion Jennifer Inglis

Back to Basics

Carola Pojer mastering the art of uniform dressing.

I’m a firm believer in the magic of good basics. They last longer, wash better and act as the building blocks for a workable wardrobe. 

This look from Carola Pojer has been in my saved folder since 2017. I love it as much today as I did back then. It’s a reminder that classic items never go out of style. 

Are you team uniform dressing? I love the idea of having a closet of staples that I can gradually build on. By adding one or two new pieces to the below outfit you could easily make it feel fresh. It’s an outfit that would work for years to come and it’s exactly what I want to be wearing today. ✨

Read More
Fashion Jennifer Inglis Fashion Jennifer Inglis

The Original Days of Blogging

Raise your hand if you remember the original days of blogging!

It was pretty glorious, right? So much fun. There was space for everyone. We were collaborative. Excited. There were no brand partnerships, ads or gifted products. We were all just doing it because it provided an outlet to express ourselves and a radically new way to connect with people.

I loved it. I met so many amazing people through my blog and had some truly incredible experiences. But I fell pretty hard out of love and kind of jumped ship.

There are already so many voices. So many faces. I’ve often wondered what I can offer that will cut through the noise. Not another #ootd, motivational quote or home inspo pic. There’s enough of that already.


So, I’m asking you to stay tuned because I’ve got an idea for this space. I hope it will be collaborative, fun and useful. Fingers crossed you like it. 🤞🏼 

Read More
Style Profile, Fashion, Interview Jennifer Inglis Style Profile, Fashion, Interview Jennifer Inglis

Style Profile: Matthew Zorpas

Matthew Zorpas

Matthew Zorpas

Sophisticated. Tailored. Experimental.

The first time I met Matthew he was walking across Somerset House during London Fashion Week. He immediately stood out from the crowds. Back then the crazier the outfit the better and Matthew’s style exuded a quiet sort of confidence. We became fast friends, meeting up every time I was in London to snap photos and catch up. It has been at least five years since we last hung out in person but I’ve loved watching his adventures from afar via Instagram. He’s one of the most stylish people I know and I thought he’d be the perfect person to launch this new blog series called Style Profiles.

Matthew and I caught up this week over FaceTime to talk all things quarantine, fashion and life changes…

 

 

Describe your style and its evolution.

There has been a certain evolution between who I was ten years ago and who I am today. I think I started my connection with fashion by looking at young designers and modern/futuristic design. Slowly I started familiarizing myself with tailoring due to my professional career as a lecturer. It forced me to develop a new uniform which was a suit. I felt right wearing that. I went very classic for a period of time and very sharp. I was very strict with what I was wearing.

Now I’m in the phase of trying to mix the two eras. There is still a sophistication and attention to detail but there is also some modernization and freshness from young/new designers.

 

Favorite designers.

Every season it changes. I don’t think there is any brand out there that has not fallen into following certain trends or adapting to the market. I always get my white shirts from Brooke Brothers. Stripey shirts from Eton. American cut double breasted from Ralph Lauren. Tuxedo from Tom Ford. Jeans from Levis. I think there are certain brands and designers that have excelled in a certain product. If you feel comfortable in that white t-shirt make sure that white t-shirt is sustainable, 100% cotton and ethically made. Continue to buy that from the same brand if you trust that brand.

 

Most prized possession.

If you asked me that 10 years ago it would be a fashion item but from fashion I jumped into the art scene a bit. I have some beautiful paintings I bought from Brazil from Oscar Niemeyer. Now I think after owning an apartment for the first time in my most valued possessions are becoming furniture.

 

Collaboration you are most proud of.

Being a watch ambassador for Breitling. Two years ago, the first launch project that we did together used aero acrobatics to announce my role. I had the opportunity to fly with a pilot in plane with just two seats. I got to experience the different G’s in a way that is similar to what astronauts experience.

 

What do you think the secret is to great style?

Experience. Just like any other job you need to familiarize yourself with what’s available and test it. See how you feel and look in different things and check with others. If you wear a certain color and people compliment you more then maybe it’s a good color for you. I think it’s about familiarizing yourself with what’s out there and developing taste slowly.

Three items everyone should have in their wardrobe.

White shirt. Navy double breasted suit. Good pair of English brogues.

Describe your quarantine style.

I try to at least dress up once a day. Whether it’s to go to the supermarket, to meet with my guest speaker for Couch Sessions or just to go out on the roof terrace and have a drink by myself. I do stay in a t-shirt and shorts during the day for a longer period of time than before but I still try to use my wardrobe. It’s like eating for me. It’s one of thing that still feel normal.

 

Favorite meal to cook at home.

Tuna cake. My mom used to make it and now i’m doing it too. It’s a cold tuna cake with avocado, Philadelphia cheese and biscuits. It’s one of my favorites.

Thing you are most looking forward to when this is all over.

How our time our reflection will become action and if it will become action. A lot of us experience a lot of reflective processes. We all want to change certain things. Become more sustainable. Joing the gym more. Learn how to cook. Whatever that is… can we maintain that afterwards. Can those become learning lessons that we will continue.


Currently watching.

 Just finished Unorthodox which was really interesting.

 Coffee or tea.

Coffee.

 

 Biggest fashion mistake in your youth.

I would never judge anything as a mistake. I think we all have a lot of embarrassing pictures but for that moment it was something that felt right. We learn and continue and grow.

 

Fashion is for everyone. What does that mean to you?

Yes, fashion is for everyone. I think we have reached a point where many, if not all of us, have access to the basics and the have the ability to dress up in someway. We have enough to cover the needs of the whole population and we need to reduce consumption. But fashion continues to be for everyone. People need to have the ability to dress up. Even if it’s in a casual way. I think anywhere you are on the planet you can find the basics you need. It’s important to be able to dress up.

All photos via Matthew’s Instagram. Follow him here.

 

 

Read More
Outfit, Fashion Jennifer Inglis Outfit, Fashion Jennifer Inglis

Thoughts on Loungewear

Tomboy X

Snooze o'clock

Nothing beats a good puppy cuddle.

There are two types of people in the world: those that need loungewear and those that do not. I am, undoubtedly, a loungewear kind of gal. When I get home I straightaway change into my comfies. It's like a theaurpeutic de-robing of the day and any stress that went along with it. Goodbye job. See you later colleagues. Hasta luego nightmare drivers that refuse to use their indicators. I'm home.

Breathe in.... breathe out. 

A key part of that breathing out is the changing of my clothes. I have a two year old daughter and a dog, so it's usually pretty hectic when I first get home. Everyone is excited. There's jumping and screaming. Hugs and sometimes chaos unfolding. But I always make an effort to dash off to my bedroom and change. It signifies an important shift in the day: a pause for relaxation.

While I'd like to say I sashay around my apartment in an opulent silk robe, the reality is I tend to favor a more relaxi-taxi type of look. High waisted leggings and cropped t-shirts are my look du-jour at the moment. Athleta is currently responsible for my favorite leggings and my favorite cropped t-shirts are from Madewell.

The most wonderful thing about this take on loungewear is that, if there isn't anything big going on during the weekend, it does double duty as pajamas and day clothes. Am I being gross? Oh well. If it's wrong, I don't want to be right. 

Wearing Tomboy X Essentials Soft Bra. Cuddles courtesy of #mredisoninglis.

Read More
Inspiration Jennifer Inglis Inspiration Jennifer Inglis

In Between

The place in between

When you're neither here nor quite there.

One part drawn to black and white, another part doused in a rainbow of shades. Forever pulled between monochrome and glitter, the realistic and the fanciful, the here and now versus the what could have been. The existence of being caught between two places.

Currently drawn to images that feel simple but pack an unexpected punch. The ordinary with a touch of sparkle. Simplicity captured in a way that feels dreamlike. When the basic takes on a life larger and more imaginative than its own. That's the space I want to inhabit. 

Click the images to visit their source.

Read More
Fashion Jennifer Inglis Fashion Jennifer Inglis

LFW Spring 2018

London is nothing if not unpredictable. 

It has been a few weeks since the spring 2018 shows ended but I want to take a moment to look back at London. Why London instead of New York, Milan or Paris? It's where I first experienced fashion week. London designers were the first to invite me to their shows. London will always be, for me, the expression of fashion in the way I understand it best. London champions underdogs. I'm grateful for that. It's experimental. It doesn't conform. 

utility |yo͞oˈtilədē|: the state of being useful, profitable, or beneficial

Utility isn't something I ever really associated with London Fashion Week. Sure, LFW is of course profitable. Of course, it's beneficial and useful to some degree. But the designs themselves? If I had to pick one word to describe them as a whole? It wouldn't be utility. For me, the trademark of fashion in London has always sort of been it's lack of practicality. It is wild and avänt gärde. Sometimes, it's offensive. It can be difficult to digest. But it pushes the envelop. It inspires. It breathes youth and creativity and beauty into a world that can sometimes feel rigid and dark. And the amazing thing? People in London actually embrace it. 

Tina Leung & Susie Lau, both in Molly Goddard - shot by Phil Oh for Vogue.com

Tina Leung & Susie Lau, both in Molly Goddard - shot by Phil Oh for Vogue.com

This season though, the thing that stood out to me about London Fashion Week (as I watched it from afar) was that it felt decidedly more utilitarian.

Some of my favorite designers were the ones that were really wearable. I've always loved Eudon Choi but this season his collection was one of my favorites. It was packed full of separates perfectly suited for a day at the office or a stroll down the promenade. Whether you're fashion-forward or style-delayed, his collection is understandable - especially when you break apart each look and consider the pieces for what they are alone. Anybody could wear it. You. Me. Your grandma. I literally want to wear everything from the collection. Right. Now. Especially the pink suit (gasp!). 

EudonChoi_SS18
EudonChoi_SS18

So many designers presented collections that felt useful, essential and easy-to-wear. Does this represent a shift in the industry? It's not minimalist or normcore. It's something else. It's looking at a catwalk and thinking you could actually wear what you see. You could wear it to walk your dog or pick up the groceries. You could wear it to class or to pick up your kids after school. There is beauty and attention-to-detail and a magic sparkle that emanates from the clothes but there is something else. There is a use. And you don't have to squint or work hard to figure out the use. It's glaringly obvious. The clothes are wearable.

To see what other people thought of the collections, I reached out to a few of my favorite people and asked them for their favorite look from London. Their responses reinforced what I had been thinking. London fashion is embracing practicality but there will always be an element of unexpected surprise that leaves you starry eyed and dreaming of another world. So yes, it seems London is embracing utility but there are still wild cards. ✨

_ARC0239.jpg

Joseph

"I loved this super clean look inspired by girl-scout uniforms, which was given a luxurious twist with Alighieri's giant silver hoops."

_AG10968.jpg

J.W.Anderson

"Underwhelming but the devil's in the details, as it usually is with this designer."

22-gareth-pugh-spring-2018-lookbook.jpg

Gareth Pugh

"Architectural full tower outfits reminiscent of dark sci-fi. Particularly the opera scene from The 5th Element."

Runway photos from Vogue.com

Read More
Interview, Fashion Jennifer Inglis Interview, Fashion Jennifer Inglis

Hayley Menzies

Simplicity and order are where my heart lies. I like routine. I don't like feeling confused in the morning when I'm getting dressed. I think that's why I have come to rely so heavily on pieces that work hard and that I know I can count on. I'm all about an elevated essential. Timeless pieces that are understated enough to work season-after-season and don't scream a particular designer's name. 

But, that's not always the case. 

If it were, I never would have bought this Issey Miyake Pleats Please skirt or worn this Natar Georgiou multi-color rainbow knit dress to fashion week. Yes, I like a good basic but I love a bright bold off-the-wall unexpected piece that makes a grand statement. The reason? Sometimes it's nice (and important) to inject a little carefree fun into our lives. An easy way to do that is with our clothing.

The desire for a relaxed freedom is exactly why Hayley Menzie's AW17 collection caught my eye. 

Hayley Menzies AW17

It's young. It's bold. It's colorful. It doesn't take itself too seriously. It's a bit kooky. It has a slight throwback seventies vibe. But it's elevated and something you'd still want to wear next season (or even in five years time). It represents exactly what I want to be wearing. The pieces are luxurious and refined but with a dose of something you'd never expect. 

Read on to get to know Hayley a bit better and be sure to check out her new fall knitwear collection. I'm particularly taken by the charcoal arm warmers. 

RTShot_07_1293 copy.jpg

Hayley Menzies

 

Bold. Luxurious. Accessible. 

Tell me a secret.

My next collection - SS18 is my favourite thing I’ve ever done. Blushing as I say this ;-)

Favorite thing about autumn?

Wrapping up in my Portobello Blanket… and not having to think about wearing a bikini for a few months so indulging in naughties!!

iPhone X. Hot or not?

I've not even caught up with hype yet...

Coffee or tea.

Thankfully not a caffeine addict, much more inclined to whiz up a smoothie. 

Biggest fashion mistake in your youth. 

I went through serious grunge stage and dyed my blonde hair red and wore patchwork trousers with DM boots. But i love all the different styles I experimented with in my youth and look back at them in fondness rather than horror!

Biggest fashion mistake recently.

I honestly don't make them anymore. My taste and style is established and Im considerate when making a purchase. 

Fashion is for everyone. What does that mean to you?

Go forth and experiment and express yourself!

Read More
Culture Jennifer Inglis Culture Jennifer Inglis

Get on my Instagram

My relationship with Instagram has long been a tumultuous one. To start, I refused vehemently to get the app. Then, of course, I developed major FOMO and caved. Then, year after year, I saw how Instagram came to increasingly control everyone's life. Everything revolved around Instagram. How to get more followers, how to get someone to tag you in their post, how to become Insta-FAMOUS and thereby live a life of luxury on a yacht with P-Diddy throwing dolla-bills into the ocean.

I am on Instagram. Yes. But I haven't always enjoyed it. And, I'm guessing you haven't either. 

Jennifer Inglis Johnson's Shut Ins State Park

Wow. Look how pretty.

How transparent do you want to be?

Anxiety. Self-doubt. Severe, crippling fear that you are on the OUTSIDE... looking in at strangers/brands/friends who have something wonderful that you do not have, that you NEVER will have. Magic. Sparkles. Heart eyes. It isn't real. 

Often I have wondered (and continue to wonder) why I am even on Instagram. Why do I have it on my phone? Why do I look through my feed? Why do I take time out of my day to post a photo or a story? Is it worthwhile? Is it productive? Is this setting a good example for my daughter and/or my friends? Am I fueling the fire that holds the hearts of people who feel inadequate?

But a part of me likes it. And it isn't even necessarily because of the likes or followers or the warm fuzzy feeling I get when someone (my friend who I haven't seen in 3 years) leaves a comment saying "BEAUT".

There is something therapeutic about sharing a part of who you are and making a connection with someone else. 

In the past I have unfollowed every account (down to zero) and started from scratch. The people whose photos you see in your feed are a reflection of who you are and what you want your mind to be filled with. Do you want to see women/girls/brands every day showing bikini bods? Do you want a feed full of #blessed freebies that leave you wondering why you aren't getting those? Do you want art and history and culture? Do you want to see your friend's kids? I don't know. What I want changes and that is why the people I follow are always evolving. 

Just like five years ago, when I was fighting the temptation to get an iPhone AND Instagram, today I am fighting the temptation to follow accounts that make me (ultimately) feel bad about myself. And that changes. Sometimes I can handle following my friends who I haven't seen in a few years who are doing amazing things in amazing places. Sometimes I feel happy when I see their photos and excited for them and the life they have created. But sometimes it makes me feel like I'm missing out. Sometimes it makes me flirt with feelings of regret. And that isn't something I want for myself. 

All this to say, be conscious of who you follow on Instagram (or any social channel). The images and words have an impact (whether you realize it at the moment of consumption or not). You have a choice about what you consume. Input goodness and hopefully, then, output goodness too.

See below for a few accounts that offer me a bit of fresh air.

21435595_981378975336822_9206879302308593664_n(1).jpg

Insider Access

PAUL SMITH head of marketing & digital

21435704_300512363757704_8717175162807517184_n(1).jpg

Unpretentious Luxury

Sarcastic. Beautiful. Plus, a killer tattoo.

21373674_169122926985174_1558400227331801088_n(1).jpg

Abstract Obsessions

Unexpected and oh-so-covetable. 

 

 

Read More
Fashion Jennifer Inglis Fashion Jennifer Inglis

Trend Watch: Yellow

Finally.

Big bird is having a moment...

It was bound to happen. Minimalism. Normcore. Stripped-back, no-fuss, grey-white-and-black fashion. It couldn't last forever. Of course, color was never truly dead (even if it might have felt that way). There were always people, designers and brands that continued to embrace it. And now, it looks like a burst of light is about to make its way to the masses thanks to a selection of designers at New York Fashion Week who are embracing the color with full force.

dab71a5caa6b06f4bbbe9269718ec7cf.jpg

Christian Siriano

Bigger. Bolder. Better.

b74caccc9df558c37d38acdb7ea34324.jpg
95eca1aaaabece748b4339ccf21d1106.jpg

Sophisticated and timeless, Siriano takes yellow and transports it to an entirely different dimension. Who wouldn't feel like a modern day Cinderalla shooting on a star in a floor sweeping golden gown? It is what dreams are made of. The straight necklines feel a bit nineties, the fitted bodies and delicate tied shoulder straps remind me of Cher's Calvin Klein dress, and yet it all maintains a very modern sensibility thanks to the touch of unexpected proportion play. It's yellow. It's bold. It's big. And yet, it feels doable.

e16921869766161157f3556e999009ca.jpg

Tibi

Youthful. Feminine. Unexpected.

_ARC0509.jpg
_ARC0489.jpg

Tibi, by contrast, presents yellow in an entirely wearable way. Yes, it is still YELLOW (and a lot of it) but it's yellow that you, or I, or even our moms might wear. Why not wear yellow denim shorts that reach towards your knee next summer? Why not swap your black slacks for a yellow pair at the office? The subtle variation in hue makes it easier to digest and the best thing is these separates work just as well together as they would paired with a denim jean or a white tee. Tibi is for the modern woman. Sometimes she wants to make a big statement and sometimes she doesn't. But either way, she wants to look (and feel) effortless. She will in these clothes.


If you're a bit skeptical, take your cue from the fashion elite. Pops of yellow are already visible on the streets of NYC this fashion week. And, we all know, if it's happening in street style then it's going to be happening in a store-near-you soon.

How long though until head-to-toe makes an appearance?

I, for one, can hardly wait.

Street style photos by Phil Oh for Vogue.com

Read More
Culture Jennifer Inglis Culture Jennifer Inglis

Sam Fox School of Design

Creativity undeniably feeds off creativity. When I have motivated determined people around me I can't help but also feel a sense of drive.

No one captures the essence of optimistic ambition quite like a student who is about to graduate. A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of visiting the Sam Fox School at Washington University to meet the graduating class of fashion design students. They were in the process of making the finishing touches to the collections that they have been working on for the past year. The mix of ideas and materials was so interesting to see - there was everything from hard wearing practical denim to a dress made out of glittering confetti. Inspiration came from peeling subway signs, the solitary nature of desert landscapes and often mixed everyday apparel with a thoughtful restructuring. 

Sometimes all it takes is a little unexpected spark to reignite a waning interest. Thank you Claire for inviting me over and thanks to the students for reminding me that there is beauty and opportunity all around.

Ella Young Collection
Read More