We are still very much in the middle of moving. Add in the chaos of back to school and a new puppy arriving today, and it feels like we’re living in that strange in-between where nothing is quite settled, but life is moving full speed ahead anyway.

There are boxes everywhere. Our closets aren’t fully built out yet. We’re still waiting on almost all furniture. Every room is completely unfinished and there’s a running list of things to fix, paint, hang, replace, order, return. But somewhere in the middle of all of that, the house has started to feel like ours. And, predictably, it wasn’t because a few new chairs arrived.

I am, for better or worse, a details person. I will notice the soap in a bathroom before I notice the bathroom. I care about the little tray on the counter, the tissue box cleaner, the bath mat under my feet. I can live without a dining table for a surprisingly long time, but apparently I cannot live with the house numbers I don’t like.

The big things make a house functional. The little things make me want to live there. So while we wait for closets and furniture and all of the things that take eight to twelve weeks, these are the things that made our house feel like home almost immediately.

1. Really good (and pretty) hand soap.

This was one of the first things I bought. There is something mildly insane about unpacking boxes while ordering something as small as hand soap, but every time I walk into the powder room and see a beautiful bottle sitting next to the sink, the room feels finished- even though it absolutely is not.

2. New bath towels

Towels are something we should replace every couple of years anyway, but moving into a fresh space was the perfect excuse to get rid of any of the stiff/ over-washed ones. Fresh towels are one of those relatively small luxuries that have an outsized effect. Got these for my eldest son’s bathroom (so many fun prints), these for my younger two’s bathroom (diff colored stripes for each), and these for our primary bathroom.

3. Bath Mats

Same with bath mats. You use them every single day, and there is something so satisfying about starting fresh in a new house with fluffy towels that actually match. It made the bathrooms feel ours before we had changed a single permanent thing. We landed on these, these and these.

4. Good-looking bins for all the ugly little objects.

I don’t necessarily want less stuff, I just don’t want to see all of it. Dog things. Sunscreen. Pool toys. Chargers. Mail. Kids’ miscellaneous treasures. The approximately 700 tiny objects that enter a house every day and somehow never leave. I’ve realized that one of my favorite forms of decorating is simply putting ugly things inside pretty things. A basket. A felt bin. A little leather catchall. A box with a lid. Small lucite containers. I want everything to have somewhere to have a place.

5. Rosemary in my favorite old pots.

We brought over some of my favorite pots, filled them with rosemary, and suddenly the outside of the house felt like our house. I love love buying things for a home, but there is something about bringing an object you’ve loved for years into a new space that does more than anything brand-new can. And rosemary is perfect because it looks good, smells good, is useful, and doesn’t require me to become a person who spends her life tending to plants.

6. New house numbers.

This is perhaps the most accurate representation of my personality. We have major projects happening inside the house and somehow I was deeply preoccupied with the house numbers. But you see them every single time you come home.

Changing something that small made the exterior feel more intentional immediately. It’s the same reason I care so much about switch plates and cabinet knobs and hooks. They aren’t the things anyone puts at the top of a renovation budget, but they’re the things you actually touch and look at all day long.

7. Swapping cabinet knobs.

   …. especially if you’re swapping any dated hardware before doing a bigger renovation. Instantly adds character to even the most mundane cabinets.

   Knobs: Loving these ceramic ones and these brass guys

8. Pretty hooks

   Brass hooks by the back door, in bathrooms, wooden hooks inside closets… adds some immediate punch

   

9. A signature house candle.

Smells like tomato vines fresh from the garden- green, earthy, a little sun-warmed. Always get compliments on this one.

10. New cozies

    Because I’m exhausted, and what’s more comforting after a long day to slip these pajamas on. They are the softest things in the world, are super cooling (necessary when your AC isn’t installed yet), and are super flattering.

I think this is ultimately my rule. If I’m deciding where to spend money in a house, I’m increasingly interested in the things we interact with constantly.

The towel. The soap. The basket where the dog leash lives. The hook you hang your robe on. The tray where you drop your keys.

These are tiny things compared with a sofa or a rug or a beautifully renovated kitchen, but they create dozens of little moments throughout the day where your house feels good.

And maybe that’s what I’ve been learning through this move. A house doesn’t suddenly become home the day the last box is unpacked or the final piece of furniture arrives. It happens incrementally. You put fresh herbs in a pot you love. You replace the crunchy bath mat. You find somewhere to store the sunscreen. You put good soap by the sink. And one day, without really realizing it, you stop feeling like you’re living in a house you just moved into. You’re just home.

My favorite movie. And every August, without fail, I think about this quote.

I vividly remember my mom taking us to Staples at the end of every summer. I can still smell the fresh plastic binders, rubber erasers, and paper notebooks. Picking out a pencil box felt strangely consequential- as though it would somehow determine who I would become that year. Will I be organized? Will I have neat handwriting? Will I finally stop talking during math? (answer was always nope)

Every September, I committed to writing more neatly. And every September, as a true lefty, I smudged pencil across the side of my hand by approximately 9:14 a.m. on the first day of school.

Now, as a mom, I realize back-to-school isn’t really about the supplies. It’s about setting everyone up for an easier year.

(the coolest shoe for kids, waterproof pea coat)

A Few Things We Do Every August

1. Set up a grab-and-go station

If you have a mudroom, give each child a cubby with:

• Extra socks (they will never remember socks until they are at least 8.)

• A baseball cap.

• Sunglasses.

• Sunscreen.

• Hair ties/clips

• A mid-weight jacket

If you don’t have a mudroom with individual cubbies…

-Put all shoes in a beautiful basket by the door like this one or this one

-Place all the socks, hair ties, sunglasses, sunscreen and hair ties in a carryall like this

-Keep a tray available for all new school papers that come home

It’s amazing how many mornings can be saved by a designated location for their stuff.

2. Organize the car now.

By October, your car will become a mobile lost-and-found unless you prepare accordingly. This canvas car organizer is a game changer.

Mine includes:

• An outdoor blanket for outdoor sports games, impromptu picnics…

• Wipes. (didn’t know we could love a wipe company but here we are, they smell lovely- not like a hospital, and have the these airtight containers to keep things contained

• Sunscreen.

• Hairbrush.

• Rain jacket or this one

• Hand sanitizer.

• A spare sweatshirt for each kid. Bobo Choses makes our favorite ones. These are also similar vibe and cozy.

• Hair ties.

• First-aid kit (someone always needs a bandaid.)

3. Edit before you buy.

Before buying anything new, I pull everything out and ask:

• What still fits? I do this monthly

• What’s missing? Usually need to refresh their leggings or pants- they grow so tall in the summer and those holes in the knees…

• What do they actually wear? The t-shirts accumulate and yet they only really wear 10 of them. Get rid of anything they won’t wear or anything with stains or graphics from that aquarium outing they went on with their Poppop

• Fresh shoes always gives them a little pep in their step on their first day. I’m so into these in any color, these classic but retro sneakers, and this fresh take on Sambas.

4. Stop replacing things that don’t need replacing.

I used to buy new backpacks every year. Then I discovered State. Their backpacks have held up so well that I don’t understand it. Emerson’s three-year-old backpack still gets used for camp, while his newer one is reserved for school. They still look pristine, and you can even personalize them with initials.

So, for the first time, we’re skipping new backpacks this year. It feels oddly liberating.

(That said, the jump from preschool to elementary school absolutely warrants a size upgrade.)

5. Lunchboxes are another story.

We remain firmly committed to PlanetBox. The stainless steel system is easy, durable, and free of microplastics. My one complaint? Why can’t anyone make a lunch bag that fits the Rover with decent prints and colors. I’ve searched Etsy. I’ve searched the entire internet. Last year I ordered embroidered patches with their names and ironed them on, only to have them peel off almost immediately.

If anyone from PlanetBox is reading this: we need better prints and colors! Until then, we’ll just be stuck with these.

Because let’s be honest, back-to-school is a season for us, too.

This year, I’m adding:

• A henley sweatshirt- perfect cozy number for chilly mornings, but looks equally good with jeans (it’s so so soft too).

• Refresh the black leggings for after-drop off hikes, pilates, errands, etc… mine are looking a little too well-loved and faded. These are the best.

• A windbreaker! The not new but new cool jacket to throw on and functional. Torn between these three 1. 2. 3.

• A couple fresh t-shirts.

• Replace the sock collection with this brand! I just discovered them and they are indeed superior, so so soft.

• New house shoes. Suede clogs are back, they always come back. I love these and these.

There is something so hopeful about this time of year.

It’s the sharpened pencils. The fresh starts. The new routines. The feeling that maybe this will be the year everyone remembers to put their lunchbox back in the kitchen after school.

A mother can dream.

xx,

SO

This is the point in the season when getting dressed becomes surprisingly difficult. Not because you have nothing to wear, but because you’ve simply looked at the same pieces for three months.

The white linen dress has had a wonderful run. The raffia bag has accompanied you everywhere. The sandals have earned a vacation of their own. Nothing is wrong with any of it, and yet you’re no longer particularly excited to put any of it on.

Unfortunately, this is also the precise moment retailers begin insisting it’s fall. Every storefront is suddenly filled with suede, cashmere, and sweaters that would leave you sweating before you’ve made it out the front door. The instinct, naturally, is to lean in- to convince yourself that what you need is a completely new wardrobe.

The problem is, actual fall hasn’t arrived yet.

So instead of forcing September in the middle of July, I prefer to make a few subtle changes: a cotton cardigan draped over my shoulders, a camel leather bag replacing the basket tote, fresh where sandals used to be, dark linen pants instead of white… it’s just that time of year when your wardrobe hasn’t failed you- you’re just ready for a shift.

*Wearing: favorite tee, linen pants, deck shoes, rodeo bag, aviators

Deck Shoes: I know I’ve mentioned these more times than anyone needs to hear about a single shoe, but they’re simply that good. They’re a little preppy, somehow look equally at home with a babydoll dress or jeans and a T-shirt, and have become one of those rare pieces that make an outfit feel finished without trying very hard. They’re also, annoyingly, one of the most comfortable shoes I own. You can swap the laces too which gives them new life each season.

Dark Linen Pants: Perhaps my favorite late-summer piece. I want every color, they’re so flattering. Linen still feels right for the temperature, but the darker color shifts everything away from vacation mode. Espresso, navy, black or even red… shift the season. I picture wearing them the navy ones fall with a long-sleeve t-shirt and blazer.

A Proper White T-Shirt: Not the tissue-thin one that’s seen better days. I’m talking about the kind with a little structure- the one that stands slightly away from the body and holds its shape.

Non-Boring Pearls: I have a feeling pearls will be having a moment again this fall- but not the symmetrical strand your grandmother wore. The new versions feel fresh, a little undone, and surprisingly easy to wear. This dream asymmetrical pearl necklace is exactly that. Also this edgy one and this dainty one.

A Crisp White Shirt : I’ve always believed that if a woman looks good in a crisp white blouse, she’s probably doing just fine. For summer to fall transition, I’m loving this one and this one - both feeling slightly romantic on their own with my favorite denim cutoffs or more refined with straight-leg cream denim (or mid-wash) from now through the fall. Add a transitional jacket like this cool one or this denim guy.

A Birthstone Necklace: Summer tends to be all about shells, beads, and pieces that feel a little more playful, while fall has a way of making me crave jewelry with a bit more permanence. I’ve been wearing this Peridot necklace (August birthstone) in honor of my grandmother who is still with us- a piece that fits between playful summer and more grounded fall.

Cream Flats: There are very few shoes that can bridge the gap between summer and fall quite as effortlessly as a cream flat. They’re an under $200 no-brainer.

A Cotton Cardigan or Sweater : Not to wear. To carry. Over your shoulders for dinner wearing a simple dress like this, tucked into a tote for over-air-conditioned restaurants, or thrown on when the marine layer finally arrives after sunset. Cotton feels much more believable in July than cashmere ever will. I also love this one that’s in between a t-shirt and sweater.

A Camel Leather Bag: Camel has always been one of those seasonless neutrals to me- it works with everything. It feels polished and a little more grown-up.

This summer, after a dreamy lunch at Dal Bolognese in Rome, my daughter and I left the boys behind for some girl shopping. Stop 1) Schostal for the best, crispest pajamas ever that our whole family has been wearing nonstop Stop 2) To check out the Rodeo bag I’d been coveting. Winslow weighed in on everything- the size, the hardware, and, most importantly, the keychain (she chose the white one). I suspect I’ll think of that afternoon every time I carry it. And the best pieces tend to do that… they become less about the item itself and more about where you were when you found it. I also love this version , and here’s another gorgeous bag for 1/5 the price.

The older I get, the less interested I am in completely reinventing my wardrobe every season. I like when the change happens gradually.

A leather bag replaces a basket. The flip flops are slowly put away. The linen stays, but the colors deepen. Nothing feels forced, and suddenly your wardrobe has moved into the next season before you’ve even noticed.

Maybe that’s why this little stretch of the year has become one of my favorites. It isn’t about dressing for fall yet. It’s about making summer feel interesting again.

xx,

SO

The mornings are meant to begin with coffee outside, children happily building forts, long afternoons of arts & crafts, sunset watching at the beach… at least that’s the version of summer thats been living in my head since frosty February.

The reality, at least over here, has looked a little different.

One child has camp from 9 to 12. Another has lacrosse training from 4 to 6. One week everyone has camp and the next week no one does. One week all 3 kids are getting along like true best friends, and other weeks they are using pool noodles to light-saber each other to death. Some mornings feel wonderfully unstructured, while others feel more like a complicated transportation schedule and logistics are in no way my strong suit.

As much as I love this season, there are (many) moments when the wheels begin to wobble a bit. The snacks disappear. Everyone is suddenly hungry again. Someone forgot a towel. Someone is wet. Someone is bored (ohhh how I strongly dislike that word.) And yet, these are also the weeks I wait for all year. Lawn games in the afternoon that stretch longer than expected. The spontaneous swims. Grilling dinner outside. The evenings when nobody wants to come in because the sun is still hanging around.

A month into summer break, I’ve realized that summer doesn’t need to be perfectly organized. In fact, it probably can’t be.

But it does need a few systems: A bag that never leaves the car. A uniform that requires no thought. A playlist that can rescue a difficult afternoon. A juicy book waiting in your bag at all times. The sunscreen everyone will actually wear without a fight…

*Wearing this Kule terry set which is perfect for wrangling kids (ignore the bandaid) and baby Woody is wearing a T-shirt I designed for grandma camp- here’s the lil logo

These aren’t necessarily the things making summer magical, they’re the things making it work. And at this point in July, that’s close enough.

Here’s what’s saving me from killing everyone.

1. A Permanent Beach Bag

Lives in the car- and has everything you need for a summer’s day… Sunscreen, thin towels, goggles, a change of clothes for each kid, sand toys, and a few emergency snacks simply live in this bag in my trunk now. It isn’t the most glamorous, but it’s waterproof and fits everything. This bag is on my wishlist in red… for taking out of the car :)

2. Sunscreen That Actually Disappears

If I have to wrestle three children to apply sunscreen, it needs to melt into skin instantly. This is the best body sunscreen I’ve tried, it melts onto your skin and doesn’t leave any residue. I also love this face sunscreen, equally lovely.

3. A Fun Card Game

Our family has been obsessed with this game since Christmas, it’s a fast-paced fun game that goes everywhere with us.

4. A Killer Playlist

Sometimes what changes the entire mood of the afternoon is simply pressing play.

Music while making dinner, driving home from camp, or opening a bottle of wine outside can rescue an otherwise chaotic day.

5. A Gripping Beach Read

Now that all of our kids are finally water-safe, I can actually read by the pool which feels like a mini vacation. I just finished My Husband’s Wife - couldn’t put it down, and this year have really loved What Kind of Paradise, Wild Dark Shore, and Yesteryear (who hasn’t!).

6. A Terrycloth Set

I’ve become deeply committed to clothing that feels like a towel.

A terrycloth set, easy shorts, or a matching lounge outfit somehow works for breakfast, camp pickup, the beach, and late-afternoon errands. The less decision-making required, the better. I have this top in Poppy and Khaki and these bottoms in the same matching colors. Both sets on major sale right now.

7. Easy Flip-Flops

The pair you can wear to the pool and then somehow straight to dinner. Summer shoes should require absolutely no thought.

8. A Perfect T-Shirt Dress

After searching forever for a t-shirt dress that is actually flattering and elongating, this is the one! I have gotten so many compliments when I wear it (the white one), I had to buy a second color (black.) You can throw on at all times and I swear it makes you look taller. I’ve tried so many and all have looked frumpy, this one feels like the 90s Helmut Lang cotton dress I took from my mom and wore until the holes were beyond repair. At $150, it’s hard to beat.

9. A Cool Hat

The right hat makes a swimsuit feel like an outfit- and conveniently disguises the inevitable summer bad hair day. This one looks just as chic with a hiking outfit as it does with a linen set.

10. A Summery Necklace

The kind of piece that makes a white tank feel intentional, a swimsuit look like an outfit, and somehow puts you in vacation mode- even if you’re just driving the kids between camps.

Founded by a fellow mom, Pebble is one of those brands that’s easy to root for. The craftsmanship is beautiful, the price point is refreshingly reasonable, and every piece feels far more expensive than it is. I usually layer one or two with my everyday gold necklaces, and they’ve become some of my most worn accessories for summer.

11. A Lounge Set

There is a very specific hour in summer- usually around 6 p.m. -when everyone has showered, the sun is still out, and nobody wants to fully get dressed again.

A comfortable set for evenings at home has become one of my favorite small luxuries. You really cannot beat this one, it’s so soft and flattering I’ve been wearing it every single evening.

12. A Refreshing Body/Hair Mist

Like bottling up a summer afternoon… crisp, fresh, and just the right amount of beachy. the kind of fragrance that makes you want to spritz it on after a swim, before heading out to dinner, or every time you walk past the bottle.

13. An Amazing Self Tanner

The quickest shortcut to looking slightly more rested than I feel and takes a minute of effot. This brand’s face tanner and body tanning set are a game changer, they give you such a natural, gradual tan- friends have asked if I’ve been laying out all summer.

14. A Summer Lipstick

The beauty equivalent of putting on earrings. I have every color of this Jelly Hydrating Lipstick, it has that juicy look and isn’t sticky. A little color makes me feel awake even when I’ve spent the day covered in sunscreen, sand, and Goldfish crackers.

15. Specked Enamelware

If you’re buying one thing for summer entertaining, make it splatter enamelware. This collections is kid-proof, and somehow make everything look a little more summery.

Perhaps the funny thing about summer is that the things saving it are rarely very complicated. A good book. A favorite song. A tube of sunscreen. A towel-soft outfit. The right lipstick.

The children will remember cannonballs, homemade popsicles, and staying outside after dinner. I’ll remember these little things that made the beautiful chaos feel just a bit easier.

Over the years I’ve developed a formula for packing which helps keep my sanity during the trip. Everything is organized by category, every piece of clothing can be mixed and matched, and every shoe has multiple jobs. The goal isn’t minimalism for the sake of it- it’s eliminating decisions once you arrive. Because the last thing I wanted to do in hot sticky Rome was to dig through a suitcase looking for matching socks.

1. Contain

Keeping things organized is half the battle. Each child had their own suitcase and backpack, mesh zip pouches, packing cubes, and designated spaces for dirty clothes, swimsuits and pajamas. In the backpack we place easily accessible activities and a warm layer (like jacket or sweater).

The Carry-On Suitcase: We got each kid one of these- it is expandable (key!), is lightweight, and has a cushy handle which they loved. They also each come with a dirty clothes bag and a shoe bag.

The Backpack: These have compartments for everything which helps with the chaos, and also have a panel on the back that allows them to slide on top of any carry-on or suitcase. I love that you can customize them with cute patches and they hold up for years.

Compression Packing Cubes: Helps the clothes take up less space and keeps them organized by destination or leg of the trip. That way you don’t have to open the entire suitcase every time you hit a new destination.

Vacuum-Sealed Travel Kit: To put the bulkier items in and pack a couple extra empty ones in your suitcase for when you inevitably go shopping and need to squeeze more in.

Small Mesh Pouches: To keep their snacks contained, also great for legos.

Big Mesh Pouches: To keep all of their activities contained.

Clear Bins: What did I do before these- I’m addicted to them, they keep things so organized. I used them for anything from laundry/stain remover supplies, medicines, small toys, passports… anything and everything small. Also don’t buy the knock-off ones on Amazon, these are superior.

The Extra Carry-On: Because you’re probably going to need it for all of the souvenirs. I love this one because it expands and is easy to carry.

2. Coordinate

The clothes all work overtime and can be dressed up or down. Sets became my secret weapon because they eliminate decision-making and somehow always look polished. All of these clothing items pull double-duty, a small wardrobe with so many possibilities.

Girls:

Sets: Embroidered, Chambray, Tennis Inspired,

Easy Dresses: Smocked, Liberty Print , Lace Trim

Boys:

Sets: Stripe Terry, Seersucker , Striped

Best Shorts(only brand I buy)- to wear with Tees, Nicer Tops, Polos

For Both:

1 Versatile Lightweight Jacket: Girl, Boy

1 Soft Cotton Sweater

1 Sunhat: Girl, Boy

Swim suit (1-2 depending on where you’re headed): Girl, Boy

2 Pairs of Pajamas- all from Lake- they make the softest and most thin pajamas for summer.

3. Limit

No child needs more than three pairs when you travel. These are the tried and true brands and styles that my kids have worn all over and still hold up.

• Sneakers for the plane and most days. Girl, Boy
• One nicer shoe for special lunches or dinners. Girl, Boy
• One sandal for beaches, pools, and everything in between. Girl, Boy

*Maybe not the time nor place for light-up shoes :)

4. Assign

Each child had their own backpack that slides onto their carry-on. Inside were their water bottles, snacks, headphones, loaded iPad (they only ever get an iPad on a plane so it’s a real treat), coloring supplies, and a few carefully chosen activities. Wheeling their own stuff around gave them ownership- and meant I wasn't digging through my own bag every twenty minutes. They were responsible for all of their belongings which not only inspired independence, it also meant I didn’t have to be bag lady. *Plus those backpacks can get heavy so it was nice for them to be able to not carry, just wheel them along.

These are the tried and true activities that keep kids super busy on the plane and at restaurants. *When we go to restaurants I always use a canvas tote to throw in extra wipes, 1 coloring book or activity per kid that isn’t too big, and a small toy. I bring each thing out as needed and always switch it up for every meal- it’s the key to 3 hour dinners with children!

Personalized Colored Pencil Case: each kid has one and brings it everywhere!

Fun Tattoos: takes up time, and brings joy

Paper Sketchpads : one for each kid

Reusable Sticker Books

Water Reveal Book

Various Coloring and Activity Books depending on your child’s interests. Like this one and this one

These Maileg Mice have been played with endlessly, my daughter is 8 and still brings them with her anywhere she goes. I always surprise her with a new one for a big trip and they’re so very portable. And adding something like this Mice Stroller for them to wheel on their tray table, done and done.

New Cars to play with on all the surfaces (airplane seats, restaurant booths, sidewalks…)

Card Games that everyone can play like Go Fish and Old Maid

Scratch Art

*Maybe the most important travel hack for traveling with kids:

Hidden inside my own carry-on is what I think of as the emergency kit: a small zip pouch reserved entirely for difficult moments. Flight delays, long immigration lines, overtired children, unexpected meltdowns- it’s there for the moments when everyone’s patience has run out. Inside are a few sugar-free lollipops, a small surprise toy or activity, and a treat they weren’t expecting. It has saved us more times than almost anything else we pack.

At the end of the day, the goal wasn’t perfectly packed suitcases. It was enjoying the journey as much as possible. It was watching my oldest son’s face light up as the Colosseum came into view for the very first time. Feeling my daughter’s little hand in mine as we wandered the quiet streets of Venice after dinner. Hearing my five-year-old’s laugh echo across the pool as he flew down his very first waterslide. Because when you’re traveling with children, the goal isn’t to pack perfectly; it’s to create enough space- both in your suitcase and in your mind- to notice it all while it’s happening.

Spending morning until night playing basketball in the pool while we tried to dodge our giant dogs swimming around us. Building elaborate sandcastles for my Barbies on the beach. Endless milkshakes and cheeseburgers eaten with soggy hands straight from the pool. The sounds of Annie Lennox, Basia (iykyk), and Fleetwood Mac floating through the outdoor speakers while my dad grilled dinner. Staying up too late watching Heavyweights, The Parent Trap, and The Sandlot, our sunburns eventually fading into what felt like the world’s most perfect freckles.

The ‘90s really were the time.

And now, more than anything, I’m trying to create that same feeling for my own kids. Not necessarily the specific, although the vibes were all time. They have different movies, different music, and a world that looks nothing like the one I grew up in. But the feeling of it all. Long days outside, boredom, independence… the freedom that comes from having nowhere to be. The kind of summer memories that are made so slowly you don’t even realize they’re becoming memories at the time.

We have endless opportunities to escape the present now. Phones, emails, group texts, notifications, algorithms, and an endless stream of things we’re supposedly supposed to buy. Yet what most of us are actually craving is the opposite: the gift of being fully where we are.

Of course, creating a simple summer turns out to be surprisingly complicated.

Summer is supposedly the season of simplicity, and yet somehow it requires almost more equipment than any other time of year (I see you ski gear). There are beach bags to unpack and repack, towels that never seem to dry, sunscreen that disappears at an alarming rate, wet swimsuits, sandy car floors, and children who are somehow both freezing and sunburned.

Without the consistency of school schedules and everyday childcare, summer can feel a little like organized chaos. Over the years, I’ve found that the secret isn’t actually becoming more organized. It’s reducing the number of decisions I have to make.

Beaded Necklace- I love layering a fun little necklace for summer, and all of the Eliou ones really do the job well.

Wearing: This Tunic so very wrinkled but who cares! (that can be a coverup, a casual dress with sandals, or dressy with heels) | Foldable Raffia Hat | Camel Sandals

My boys are wearing: These Boardies | Goggles

My summer formula is simple:

Uniforms. Backups. Preparation. Perspective.

Uniforms.
Less is more. Summer is not the season for complicated outfits. You don’t have time to stand in your closet wondering what to wear when someone is asking for a snack, where their lego figure’s missing head is, and help finding their goggles. Find the pieces that you can throw on, feel good and wear on repeat. Like a simple dress that doubles as a cover-up, sandals that can handle the beach and lunch, easy sets for the kids that go from pool to dinner without a second thought.

Backups.
Keep a fully stocked summer bag in your car at all times. Ours has sunscreen, towels, hats, goggles, pool toys they’ve forgotten about, and a complete change of clothes for every child. Think of it as your emergency summer kit. It has saved countless afternoons.

Preparation.
The night before, pack tomorrow’s go-bag (Fill the water bottles. Charge the speaker. Restock the sunscreen. Pre-chill the cooler. Summer mornings move quickly, and every small task completed ahead of time feels like a gift to your future self.

Perspective.
The chaos is part of it. The wet towels, sandy floors, melted popsicles, forgotten shoes, and constant requests for snacks. Next summer they’ll be a year older. Some of the things that drive us crazy today will disappear seemingly overnight. Whenever I find myself getting overwhelmed, I try to remember that I’ll miss these little versions of them someday.

They’re simply the things that remove a bit of friction from the day. Because the days are long, but summer with tiny toes are so so short.

The cover-up that works just as well at lunch as it does by the pool.

The beach tote that survives a leaking sunscreen catastrophe.

The towel that’s actually big enough to share.

The sunscreen nobody complains about wearing.

The goal isn’t a perfect summer. It’s more afternoons that stretch longer than expected. These are the things that help us get there. If summer with kids had a cheat sheet, this would be mine:

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If the dads, husbands, grandfathers, or fun uncles in your life are anything like the men in mine, they have very little interest in accumulating more stuff. They don’t need another tie, another mug, another random flask, another Swiss Army knife they’ll never actually use. Let’s be honest: he’s probably not a 1920s gangster, and he’s probably not that rugged.

What they do appreciate are the things that make everyday life a little better: softer pajamas, better luggage, a beautifully made cooler, a chair worth sinking into at the end of the day… the useful luxuries… the everyday upgrades… the things they probably wouldn’t buy for themselves, but end up using constantly.

But the older I get, the more convinced I am that what most dads really want isn’t more stuff at all. They want a memorable day, time with their family, and a few uninterrupted hours doing something they genuinely enjoy. Consider this guide a little bit of both: thoughtful gifts they’ll use and ideas to make the day itself feel special.

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Once the weather turns hot, getting dressed should feel easier, not harder. The beauty of a great dress is that it removes the friction entirely: one piece, minimal effort, instantly pulled together. No layering, no overthinking, no standing in front of the closet trying to assemble an outfit in 85-degree heat. Just simple, one-and-done dressing that makes summer feel lighter in every sense.

Nearly every woman whose style I bookmark seems to understand the same thing: the right dress eliminates the need to think very hard at all. It’s the ease of sun-faded black cotton, crisp white poplin, linen that wrinkles softly instead of stiffly, silhouettes that skim rather than squeeze. Dresses that still look chic with salty hair, flat sandals in hand, and nowhere particularly important to be.

These are the ones worth repeating.

What I’m wearing (top right photo//ignore pale legs!): (similar) Denim Jacket | Mini Dress | Heeled Sandals | (similar) Hat

The goal isn’t a new dress for every occasion. It’s a small rotation that makes summer dressing feel almost automatic.

1. The Everyday Black Dress ($129)

The one that works at 10am with flats or sandals and somehow still works at dinner after a shower and lip gloss. These would be perfect.

2. The White Dress ($725)

Crisp, gorgeous detailing that makes it feel special. This dress makes you feel like you’re on vacation even when you’re just running errands. Wear with your favorite sandals. Mine right now are these wrap sandals.

3. The Linen Dress ($635)

Beachy but still sophisticated. Pair it with any sandals like these.

4. The Throw-On Dress ($398)

The “I don’t want to think” dress that makes you feel your best. Wear with your low-top sneakers or flats.

5. The Slightly Romantic Dress ($298)

A little softer and a little sexy… For dinners, vacations, summer birthdays, barefoot evenings. Burgundy summer sandals are unexpected and surprisingly feel so neutral they’ll be part of your weekly rotation.

6. The Button-Down Dress($720)

One visual break from all the solids, this one is so chic and polished. Burgundy sandals would be excellent with this dress, but you could also wear any neutral slide or thong. These are a good budget option.

7. The Dinner Dress ($375)

The easiest way to feel dressed up in summer without actually dressing up. I love the asymmetrical neckline and flattering fit. Wear with ballet flats or a chunky heel.

8. The Vacation Dress ($735)

The one that photographs beautifully and takes up almost no room in a suitcase. Wear with your favorite comfortable sandals.

For cold restaurants, late sunsets, over-air-conditioned flights, and pretending summer evenings don’t get chilly.

• Lightweight cardigan ($328) instant polish

• Oversized linen button-down ($148) unbuttoned with sleeves rolled up

• Crewneck ($275) draped over shoulders

• Cotton trench ($645) unbuttoned with sleeves scrunched up

• Cool denim jacket ($458) your go-to for casual warmth

The best summer wardrobes are rarely the most complicated ones. They’re the ones that feel lived in. Repeated dresses. Familiar sandals. A handful of pieces that work without requiring much thought at all. The kind of clothes that leave more room for everything else: slower mornings, salty hair, late dinners, children running through sprinklers, an extra glass of wine, staying outside longer than planned. That’s really the goal of getting dressed in the summer anyway. Not more options, just fewer things that feel exactly right, over and over again.

xx,

SO

I don’t.

Most of us don’t actually need more summer clothes… we need fewer decisions.

The women whose style I admire most in the summer rarely look overly styled. They usually repeat the same formulas over and over: easy dresses, relaxed trousers, oversized button downs, flat sandals, one sweater for cold restaurants, jewelry that makes everything feel intentional, a bag that pulls everything together.

The best summer wardrobes tend to feel slightly predictable.That’s usually why they work. Because summer dressing isn’t really about creating outfits. It’s about removing friction. You need pieces that survive: heat, sunscreen, walking, vacation, children, last-minute dinner plans, and the strange psychological vulnerability of having your entire body visible again after six months of layering.

So this year I’m committing to sticking to a uniform of easy outfits that I love, and not acquiring more just to have.

My own uniform usually comes back to the same things every year:

• Simple tanks and tees

• Relaxed linen pants

• Oversized white button downs

• A go-to black dress

• A go-to white dress

• Worn-in denim

• Cream denim

• Leather sandals

• Gold earrings

• Straw hat

• Lightweight sweater draped over my shoulders once the sun goes down

The chicest women in warm weather usually look slightly restrained:
sun-faded colors, minimal makeup, simple fabrics, clothes with movement,
nothing too tight or print-heavy. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become far less interested in owning dramatic seasonal wardrobes. I’d rather have a small collection of things I genuinely want to wear repeatedly: to dinner, to the farmers market, to the beach, through airports, to late lunches that turn into evenings, or while trying to keep three children alive on vacation.

The older I get, the more I think good style is mostly about familiarity. Finding the shapes, fabrics, and formulas that make you feel most like yourself- then wearing them on repeat with very little apology.

The items you wear 40 times in a million different ways.

• Simple tanks and tees | just the hits- can wear with anything and everything | White crewneck | Black v-neck | White tank | Brown tank

• Relaxed trousers | $218 | these just came out & I have a feeling everyone will be LIVING in them this season

• Oversized white button down | $218 | Donni can do no wrong, best staples & this is the perfect linen shirt

• A lightweight black dress | $545 | so elegant & made from breathable cotton so you can rock black without dying of heat stroke

• An easy white dress | $198 } the kind of dress you can throw on for 90% of occasions this summer, love the babydoll feeling without being too cutesy

• Worn-in denim | $134 (50% off right now) | these make me feel instantly cooler than I am, the fit is a dream

• Cream denim | $288 | the ideal shade and a forever cut that won’t go out of style

• Leather sandals | $170 | sorry still talking about these… so chic, go with everything, and are the most comfortable. I also am loving these, might need them.

• Gold hoops | $550 | the earrings that make even a plain tee look cool, you will live in these

• Wide-brim straw hat | $297 | didn’t think I needed another hat but here we are

• Lightweight flats (boat shoes, mary-janes or loafers) | the wear-everywhere shoe that you can slip on and go. To be worn with dresses, jeans, shorts, trousers, and anything else.

• Black bathing suit | $270 | the only one you need, so flattering

The combinations that make getting dressed feel automatic again. Dozens of other combinations are possible with your foundation pieces & most pieces can easily be mixed & matched.

Look 1

Light sweater / Black V-neck / Cream denim / Black sandals

Look 2

White crewneck / Worn-in jeans / Black sandals

Shared Accessories

Gold hoops / Sunglasses / Everyday Tote

Look 3

White tank / Relaxed trousers / Boat shoes

Look 4

White button down / Lightweight sweater / Cream jeans / Boat shoes

Shared Accessories

Wide-brim hat / Gold hoops / Day to night bag

The one-and-done pieces- outfits that survive the “I have nothing to wear” moments.

White dress / Day to night bag / Boat shoes

Black dress / Everyday tote / Black sandals

What makes repeated outfits feel different without requiring an entirely different closet.

• Day to night bag | $1700 | #1 on my wishlist for a reason, the ideal brown shade that goes with everything… can be worn crossbody for efficiency but still has that 90s minimal look… I love her

• Everyday tote | $385 (30% off right now!) | You cannot find a better tote for the price. It holds so much, is super lightweight, and reminds me of a much more practical version of Jane Birkin’s basket totes.

• Vintage-inspired sunglasses | $260 | I love this classic shape that feels very Gweneth Paltrow in Talented Mr. Ripley

• Lightweight sweater | $408 | to drape over your shoulders at night or throw on over everything. on my wish list.

These are the pieces that create the feeling of the wardrobe: relaxed, capable, warm-weather ease. The kind of wardrobe that works for beach days, dinners, travel, errands, and everything in between without needing to overthink it. Ok summer dressing, we’ve got this.

xx,

SO

I break out the beauty device that somehow makes me look more lifted in under five minutes, pile on gold and beaded jewelry, switch to woven bags, and fully commit to the illusion that summer has already arrived- even if the forecast still says otherwise.

Basically: the annual pursuit of looking fresh, lifted, hydrated, and vaguely Mediterranean by Memorial Day.

The 12 products that make me look hydrated, rested, and less affected by May…

1. Tinted Glowy Sunscreen - ($30) $38- - Tried so many in this category and always go back to this one. It’s what I wear everyday, makes your skin luminescent without being too shiny + SPF!

2. Vitamin C Serum - ($125) - Received this brand new serum a couple of weeks ago and I already notice a difference. It tones your face almost immediately and is so hydrating. I’m converted.

3. Dewy Cheek Balm - ($50) - Going to always recommend this cheek balm because there’s nothing like it. I have several colors and love them all. They look very pigmented in the product shots but once they are applied they all deliver a juicy glow to your cheeks. Obsessed.

4. Face Toning Device - ($399) - Out of all beauty gadgets I’ve noticed the most instant visible difference from this one. It’s truly a 5 minute face-lift, it instantly tightens and lifts your face. A miracle product!

5. Bronzer- use code SYDNEYO for 10% off! - ($60) - Just received this bronzer and brush and it is now part of my everyday routine. It tans your face and neck ever so slightly that you appear more glowy but not orange!

6. Linen Set - ($290) - Feels so European vacation ready, effortless and comfortable. Pair it with your new tan!

7. Beaded Necklace ($190) - Something about a beaded necklace, layered with your other jewelry, feels so summery and beachy. So many of the Chan Luu pieces are checking all the boxes.

8. Jelly Flip Flops ($150) - To go with your malachite necklace of course. Jelly flip flops are still very much in, and this green color looks like glass- need these.

9. Cotton Button-Down ($195) - Instantly makes me feel more put together- lightweight, perfectly relaxed without feeling overly oversized or boxy. I’m usually not drawn to pink, but this washed-out shade feels especially fresh paired with light-wash denim or earth-toned pants. Wearing these pants, size down 1 or 2 sizes.

10. Woven Tote ($1650) - Definitely a splurge, but I’ve carried this almost nonstop for the past two summers. It fits everything, somehow works with every outfit, and instantly gives that effortless St. Tropez-on-holiday feeling - even if I’m just headed to lunch or school pickup. One of those rare bags that feels both practical and incredibly chic. I also love this option and it’s under $250!

11. Gold Hoops ($550 $440) -My mom gave me a similar pair for Christmas and I’ve worn them almost daily ever since. I especially love gold hoops in the summer. They catch the light beautifully, bring out warmer tones in the skin, and somehow make even the simplest outfit feel more polished and sun-kissed. One of those pieces that instantly makes you look a little more alive.

12. Sunglasses ($425) - Instant outfit maker… I love that they’re clear, edgy but not trying too too hard. Here’s a similar look for less.

This is the time of year I love doing a ruthless wardrobe edit, late spring is the perfect time for it. Pulling out the pieces from last summer that never quite fit right, felt too fussy, or simply no longer feel like me. There’s nothing better than heading into summer with a closet full of pieces you genuinely love wearing - let’s simplify summer. Fewer decisions, better outfits, more room for the pieces that actually make you feel that the glowing goddess that you are.

xx,

SO

You choose 9 pieces total:

• 3 tops

• 3 bottoms

• 3 layers

And here’s the rule… Every piece has to work with every other piece- across, down, and diagonally. Just like in Sudoku, nothing is random- every placement has to make sense within the whole.

• Any top can pair with any bottom

• Any layer can go over any combination

• Nothing depends on one specific piece to work

  

9 well-chosen pieces gives you a month worth of outfits (up to 36 combinations!)

You get more options with less, because everything goes with everything.

• 1 carry-on

• 9 pieces

• 36 outfits

You can get dressed in 5 minutes, in any city, at any temperature shift- and it just works.

Before anything goes in your suitcase, it has to pass this:

• Works with at least 3 other pieces in your grid

• Can shift from day → dinner with a simple swap

• Doesn’t require a specific shoe or bag to “make sense”

• Feels like you (not a vacation version of you)

If it fails one of these, it stays home.

What I’d Pack:

3 Tops

White V-Neck- Oh didn’t think I needed another white t-shirt but this arrived last week and I literally wore it 3 days in a row. It’s the softest, ugh you do need it unfortunately.

Button Down- So cool and versatile- I’m obsessed with this one.

Tank- Best fit and goes with everything.

3 Bottoms

Cream Jeans- Most flattering I’ve tried and the ideal shade for summer.

Lace Skirt- Breezy and can take you from day to night.

Cotton Pants- My mom has these and gets so many compliments on them!

3 Layers

Sweater- Lightweight for summer, beautiful detailing.

Cotton-Twill Jacket- Ideal for travel!

Cardigan- Sweetest little cardi, can be worn open with a tank or buttoned up as a top

Necessary Accessories

Sneaker | Sandals | Heels | Tote | Crossbody

THE RESULT

You pack less. You wear everything. You look pulled together in every photo. Sorry I made you do some math for a sec but we have a growth mindset over here and the math is definitely mathing!

Want your own 9-piece capsule? I’ll build it for you! Tailored to your body, your coloring, and your life. Reach out!

xx,

SO

It’s almost my favorite day of the year… the one day we can sit back, do a little (or a lot) less, and be properly adored! As someone who shares her birthday with her husband, I don’t take having my own day lightly. Usually my husband plans a dreamy day (half of the dreamy-ness is that I don’t need to be the planner for once.) Sometimes we’ll do a day trip to go get oysters, or relax at a vineyard, or do an overnight somewhere that has a sparkling pool and spa. The biggest treat is not having to be my kids’ short order cook, butler, chauffeur, and lady’s maid (for my girl) for a day.

Before kids, we were the ones making the cards and picking out the flowers.
Now the baton’s been passed. It’s our turn to be thought of, taken care of, and yes… a little spoiled too :) But you also don’t want to forget your mom, your mother-in-law, grandmother, your girlfriends…
Teacher gifts somehow sneaking in too (Maycember! These gifts work for them too btw).

With a little less than 2 weeks until the big day- here are 25 things I personally love and would genuinely be excited to unwrap. Everything happens to be under $250 and will arrive in time for May 10th.

It’s almost time to celebrate the moms in your life. And this is your reminder- you’re one of them now too.

Go-To Hairbrush ($198)- The best brush I’ve ever bought. It detangles, smoothes and fits so easily in my bag. I never leave home without it.

Active Treatment Essence ($230)- I’ve noticed visible results from the first time I used this magic mist. It really is a facial in a bottle- hydrating, balancing and firms instantly.

Lip & Cheek Balm ($50)- Any mom would love an excuse to channel Margot Robbie in Wuthering Heights- this Chanel blush is the shortcut. It adds this dewy rich glow that isn’t too much, it’s just enough!

Letterpress Stationary ($167 for 45)- So useful and beautiful, the minimalist design is flawless.

Lip Basting Duo ($44)- Everyone has been raving about this lip duo (one exfoliates, and one moisturizes) and now I know why. I use it every night before I go to bed and you make up with the most pillowy lips.

Firming Moisturizer ($78)- My favorite moisturizer under $100, I always leave this one in my travel toiletry bag.

Meyer Lemon Tree ($139 $169)- Lasts way longer than flowers and brightens up her kitchen. She’ll think of you anytime she's grabbing a vibrant lemon from her tree.

Mother & Child Book ($120)- A beautiful book right on theme.

The Garden Tour ($228)- Everything from Flamingo Estate is incredible, but these happen to be some of my most re-purchased items. They really nail the scents, I can’t get enough of them, and all of their products are made with the finest ingredients.

Weighted Blanket ($198)- Oh how I want this! This cool, cotton weighted blanket is made for side sleepers (it me) and won’t overheat you.

3 in 1 Mug ($49 $57)- Everything from Fellow is really thoughtfully designed and this new mug has 3 different lids for 3 different uses. I bet she doesn’t have this yet!

Marble Tray ($212)- My sister gave me one of these and it’s one of the most useful items. It’s perfect for her vanity to put all of her perfumes on, or for her guest bathroom to put soaps and lotions on or for her entryway to put keys and mail on.

Handled Vase ($189)- This terracotta jug vase makes such a statement. Just put in some dogwood branches or tall arrangement, maybe a little silk ribbon around the opening, and you win Mother’s Day.

Mary-Jane Ballerinas ($165)- These are such a fun, happy edition to any wardrobe. They are so comfortable, make sure to size up!

Mini Marina Sweater ($250)- A year-round staple, it’s an excellent sweater in the best seasonless weight and comes in so many beautiful colors. The roll-neck collar is nostalgic, flattering and all the rage right now.

Short-Sleeved Cardigan ($235)- Nation recently gifted me this sweater and it has become a favorite. It is so very soft and comfy but still feels polished.

Mini Crossbody ($99)- For running errands, travel or anytime she wants to be lowkey but still chic. You can even monogram it!

Tortoise Sunglasses ($208 $520)- A universally flattering and classic silhouette, any girl would love to have these.

Stripe Button-Down ($210 $525)- Favorite button-down of all time, I’ve never seen it priced this well. Something that will become a staple in her wardrobe.

Beach Chair ($99)- Because our backs hurt when we sit on the floor now, ok? For all the beach days ahead, she’ll be sitting in style in these.

Raffia Tote ($123 $175)- The perfect summer bag, the ruffle detail makes it special.

Julienne Top ($248)- Embroidery and mother of pearl buttons jazz up this top, she’ll love having something new to wear on her day!

Bucket Hat ($162 $405)- It’s the checked pattern for me.

Healthy Skin Heroes ($199)- 3 products that everyone could use especially during the summer. They are a big part of my skincare routine now and they are effective. This bundle is priced so well it’s hard to pass-up.

Stone and Enamel Necklace ($248)- The kind of piece she can wear from the beach to dinner and effortlessly makes a white t-shirt look more interesting. You could also design a custom necklace for her.

*If budget is not top of mind, these are 5 items guaranteed to win her over.

Or at least win me over :)

Gold Link Bracelet ($6700)- A classic forever piece.

Whipstiched Suede Sandals ($1280)- They go with everything so if we’re looking at cost per wear, they’re basically $1.

Nylon Backpack ($2550)- The ideal travel/mom bag! My mom had one in the 90’s that she still has too this day.

Gold Diamond and Quartz Necklace ($3500)- So unique and stunning, instant outfit maker.

Crossbody Raffia Bag ($1500)- The perfect summer bag that couldn’t be easier to wear. Plus it matches everything.

Happy Mother’s Day to the moms in it, the ones becoming, the ones waiting, and the ones who show up with that same love in their own way. Take a moment to recognize how deeply valued you are- there’s nothing more important than raising humans!

xx,

SO

The Wardrobe

1. Lightweight Summer Trench- $1390 The piece that makes everything feel finished. Lightweight enough for day, polished enough for dinner. I keep mentioning this jacket because its versatility knows no bounds, I can’t stop wearing it. For a more budget-friendly option check out this one !

2. Lightweight Cardigan- $328 My favorite one! For planes, early mornings, and breezy evenings.

3. White Button-Down- $198 Beach, city, dinner- this does all three. Slightly oversized is key.

4. 2 T-Shirts- $150 / $119 The base layer you’ll reach for daily. Clean, structured, not too thin. One black and one white.

5. Dressier Blouse- $298 For dinners or dressier lunches when you want to feel pulled together without overthinking it.

6. Relaxed Trouser- $188 Polished but comfy enough for travel days. Works with sandals, sneakers, or a loafer.

7. Favorite Denim- $248 For travel days, cooler nights, and when you want something familiar.

8. Skort- $120 For day or night, the built in shorts ensure you don’t flash anyone!

9. Easy Dress- $198 Throw on, go. Works with both layers and doesn’t require a second thought.

10. Dinner Dress- $203 $444 Dinner-ready, but also day-friendly. I mentioned it last week because it’s that good! It’s simple enough to rewear without it feeling repetitive. Bonus it’s on major sale!

The Shoes

11. Leather Sandals- $295 Can be dressed up or down, walkable, go with everything and so comfortable. Another good option -these ivory fisherman sandals are like walking on a cloud and they’re on sale!

12. Boat Shoes- $1070 Finally bit the bullet on these and they fit like a glove. Great for everyday with casual dresses, shorts, or jeans, and can’t wait to wear them with socks in the Fall. For the same look for 1/10 of the price, check out these!

13. Sneakers- $192 For travel days and anything more active. They have never given me blisters and are the most comfortable.

The Extras!

14. Bathing Suit-$200 Even if it’s not a “pool trip,” you’ll want it just in case! This one is so flattering and won’t fall off if your kids grab you in the water.

15. Tote Bag- $3363 A classic leather dream, and the little pouch is my savior. The kind of bag that’s light enough to wear all day and big enough to fit even your kids’ coloring books. For a more budget friendly bag this one looks great.

16. Crossbody Bag- $3150 For dinners, walking around, and being handsfree. It fits so much and goes with absolutely everything. I also love that you can tuck in the strap and make it a clutch. For a more budget friendly crossbody, I love this one and this one.

17. Straw Hat- $287 Functional because hello sun damage, but also makes you look instantly more chic.

18. Sunglasses- $550 Grab a pair that fits well and are classic, definitely go with a cat-eye shape. They’ll be in so many photos so best to invest in ones that you love.

Let’s talk logistics…

We are planning on everyone having their own carry-on suitcase, with a backpack that can slide on top of it (for the children) and a big expandable tote for me. Husband always carries this backpack. That way everyone is in charge of their own stuff! For the kids- the backpack on wheels is much easier to maneuver than a heavy backpack on their little shoulders.

1. Compression Packing Cubes- Lifesaver you can fit so much in these!

2. Carry-On Suitcase- Planning on ordering this one, it supposably fits the most and is chic!

3. Carry-On Tote- This guy can expand if you need more space and the big strap makes it so easy to carry.

4. Toiletry Bag- The way it has pockets for all of your items so that they stand up, genius! I love the smaller one for makeup too.

1. Packing Cubes- Since their clothing is smaller and they each have their own suitcase, they don’t need compression cubes. Each kid has a different pattern or color and the different size bags are so handy.

2. Carry-On Suitcase- We recently bought these for each kid, they are so easy to roll, can hold a lot, and the handle has this foam part making it really comfortable to wheel around.

3. Backpack- These backpacks have a back strap so that they slide easily on the handle of suitcase. Genius! Plus they have a place for their water bottle and pockets inside to organize their trinkets.

4. Toiletry Bag- Each kid has one of these as well and they have a hook to hang them in the bathroom. All 3 kids shared one up until a month ago when I realized they’re getting too old to share!

If you need help planning your summer packing or wardrobe, you know where to find me!

xx,

SO

We’re heading back to Europe with the kids this June (slightly ambitious, always worth it), and this time we’re committing to carry-ons only for two full weeks. Which feels bold… but also necessary. We have six stops in two weeks (yikes), which means a lot of moving- cars, trains, hotels, unpacking, repacking. And the only way that works without losing your mind is if everything is lean, organized and efficient. No “just in case” outfits or extra shoes. It’s freeing not having to think about whether your bags will make it. Ours didn’t last summer in the St. Paul de Vence and we spent a couple days buying whatever clothing we could find in our sizes. I ended up in a bubblegum pink dress, mens’ linen shirt, and some sandals that I don’t even want to talk about for a couple days. Could have all been avoidable if I just packed smarter! They don’t call Air France “Air Chance” for nothing!

The reality is, overpacking doesn’t give you more options- it just makes everything harder. Heavier bags, more decisions, and somehow you still end up wearing the same few things on repeat. So instead, I’ve been approaching this the same way I approach getting dressed at home: Edited, interchangeable, easily mixed and matched, and built around quality pieces that earn their place. Think of this less as a packing list and more as a formula.

The Packing Formula

• Everything has to go with everything

• Every piece needs at least 3 ways to wear it

• If it only works for one outfit, it doesn’t come

• Layers have to work over everything

• Shoes have to work with every look

Outfit Options

From these 19 items I’m packing, I can make up to 40 different outfit combinations!

Here are Six Looks That Cover Everything

Airport or Travel Days

T-Shirt | Relaxed Trouser | Lightweight Cardigan over shoulders | Trench Coat | Sneakers | Tote Bag

Shopping and Lunch

T-Shirt | Skort | Lightweight Cardigan | Boat Shoes | Tote Bag | Straw Hat | Sunglasses

City Strolling and Sightseeing

White Button-Down | Jeans | Sneakers | Crossbody Bag | Straw Hat | Sunglasses

Dressier Dinner

Dinner Dress | Leather Sandals | Crossbody Bag | Trench Coat

Casual Dinner

Dressier Blouse | Jeans | Boat Shoes | Lightweight Cardigan | Crossbody Bag

Beach to Aperitif

Easy Dress | Leather Sandals | Straw Hat | Tote Bag | Sunglasses | Bathing Suit underneath

…continued on next email *check your inbox!

It’s the clean lines, the restraint, the confidence to stop before adding more. The same shift applies to beauty: barely-there makeup, dewy, almost undone skin. Nothing competing, nothing distracting- just an ease that somehow feels more modern than ever. The things that do earn a place in your closet (and your routine) are usually the ones you don’t have to think about. You reach for them without effort, they work every time, and over time they just become part of how you get dressed or get ready.

So this is that edit. A small group of things- clothing, shoes, and a few skincare products- that have held their place, and that I’d replace immediately if I didn’t have them.

*Bonus, the skincare/beauty items are all on sale today with Sephora- enter code SPRINGSALE at checkout for up to 30% off!

Accessories: For Everyday

Softest Bra ($70)
I was gifted a few pieces and was blown away by how unbelievably soft the undergarments were. It’s the kind of bra you forget you’re wearing, which is exactly what I want for everyday. I’ve been reaching for this almost daily and will be ordering more.

Leather Sandals ($170)
So good I bought them in three colorways, which I never do. They’re simple, comfortable, and work with everything- long linen dresses, loose pants, denim. This is the pair you default to without thinking, which is usually the best sign.

Buttery Soft Driver Loafers ($595)
The kind of shoe that makes getting dressed easier. They’re soft, broken-in from the start, an ideal neutral shade, and feel a little more polished than a sneaker but just as comfortable. I’ve been wearing them constantly and they’re sadly sold out in most sizes- get on the waitlist!

Clothing: To LIVE In

Summer Trench ($1390)
The ideal weight for this time of year- not too heavy, but enough to pull everything together. It instantly makes whatever you’re wearing feel more intentional, even if it’s just over something simple. A great piece for travel.

THE Cotton Button-Down ($198)
The one I’ve been looking for years. Crisp in the way you want a white shirt to be that isn’t too boxy or too fitted. It holds its shape, layers well, and works across everything- from denim to trousers.

Favorite Denim ($345)
I haven’t really taken these off since they’ve arrived. The fit is easy, the waistband is actually comfortable, and the silhouette feels vintage but fresh. Once you find a pair like this it’s hard to wear anything else.

Linen Dress ($203 $449)
I’m planning to bring this on every trip this summer. It works during the day, dresses up at night, and is genuinely flattering without trying too hard. Plus it has an unexpected detail along the back. It’s on major sale, so I had to buy it in white too :)

Beauty: For that Spring/Summer Glow

Moisturizer (The Super Hydrator) ($168)
I’ve tried a lot, and this is the one I keep using. It does exactly what you want- hydrates properly, layers well, and makes your skin look better without needing anything else (except sunscreen). It’s become a non-negotiable.

Lipstick ($30)
Anyone that knows me knows I carry a minimum of 5 lip products in my purse at all times. I discovered this brand randomly and haven’t purchased lipsticks from any other brand since. It hydrates your lips, doesn’t crack, and has gorgeous glossy colors perfect for Sumer.

Extreme Eye Cream ($52)
After trying more eye creams than I can count, this is the one that stood out immediately. You can feel it working when you put it on, and it actually makes a difference.

PS: I don’t own anything from this brand but I have to say- for the price, it’s hard to find a chicer bag! It reminds me of 90’s Prada with the nylon but also very The Row currently. If you’re looking for a new bag brand, this is it!

PPS: if you’re needing a closet refresh or need to sort out your Spring uniform, message me here!

Happy Shopping!

xx,

SO

Lately I’ve been especially inspired by Jennifer Lawrence’s style- ever since Jamie Mizrahi started styling her, it’s hit that perfect balance of minimal, timeless, and still interesting. Nothing feels overdone, but everything feels considered. That was very much the lens for this edit.

So instead of scrolling endlessly, I pulled 20 pieces I genuinely love and would build a wardrobe around- all under $310. These aren’t trendy one-offs- they’re the kind of pieces that work together, layer easily, and make getting dressed feel simple.

It’s less about individual items and more about how easily they mix- very much that effortless, pared-back approach that makes everything feel wearable on repeat.

If something feels like a “yes,” I wouldn’t sit on it, many items I’ve waited on are already gone. Shopbop sales are one of those rare moments where the pieces you’ll wear all season are actually included- and they don’t restock.

Happy shopping!

xx,

SO

Cropped Trench $96 - Under $100 and looks like Loewe, immediately ordered

Leather Sandals $98 - Love the shape and color, a classic and also under $100!

Tank $30 - Own this tank in 3 colors, it has the coolest fit and is so flattering

Cream Denim Shorts $142 - Hard to find this shade of denim shorts that aren’t too short, can’t wait for these to arrive

Knit Tee $94 - A 90’s-inspired top that looks great on it’s own or with a blazer on top

Long Sleeve Tee $87 - This tee is the holy grail of long-sleeve tees, it’s paper thin for summer, has an elegant rolled up hem, and is now a staple.

Poplin Pants $150 - These look simple online and when they arrive you’ll never take them off. I’ve been wearing these for 3 days in a row and don’t plan on stopping. I love them with a tank and an open button down, a light knit sweater, or a plain tee.

Gemstone Necklace $149 - The missing piece to your layered necklace look.

Jelly Sandals $112 - Loose-fit pants with a thong sandal is everything right now, and I personally think these are cooler looking than the Christopher Esber jelly sandals, and are 1/3 of the price

Open Knit Sweater $78 - The kind of summer light-weight knit you’ll find yourself grabbing for breezy days and crisp evenings

Drawstring Pants $134 - It’s the creamy color and loose fit for me

Suede Sandals $220 - These will go fast, they’re ideal for day-to-day, match everything, and can be worn with any summer dress

Raffia/Leather Tote $278 - I love that this tote isn’t trying to be a dupe of a designer bag, it has a style all its own. Something you’d wear everyday.

Best White Tee $96 - This really is the best. I’ve only just recently discovered SLVRLAKE’s tees and they are indeed perfection.

Black Jean Shorts $126 - These are the most flattering denim shorts I’ve tried.

Button Down $118 - A staple and the ideal weight for the warmer months.

Key Lime Sweater $200 - Sometimes you just need a pop of color to make your neutrals pop. This color is so fresh!

Raffia Hat $229 - Maximum sun coverage, maximum chic-ness

A-Line Dress $228 - Your go-to black dress sorted.

Linen Dress $312 - I remember seeing Amber Lewis on social media, wearing this dress in Europe last summer. It’s so effortless and easy, the kind of dress you’ll pack on every vacation this summer. (Ok not technically under $300 but we’re close!)

And yes- like the rest of us, I will absolutely be filling eggs with tiny Amazon trinkets that will live exactly 36 hours.

But.

These are the pieces you’ll keep.
The outfits that carry through Spring.
The toys that last longer than the holiday.

If you’re ordering now, these two favorite shops (Danrie & Maisonette) will still arrive in time- and take care of both outfits and baskets in one go. The third shop (hi Doen) has great outfits for you and your daughter or granddaughter to wear on Easter and all Spring long. Everything feels simple in the best way.

1. Danrie- always has the most special, curated outfits and accessories for children

Lemon Dress | Boys Short Set | Baby Set | Rabbit in Egg | Gardening Set | Crocodile Water Squirter | Magnetic Blocks

2. Maisonette- the best selection of cute & cool clothes for children, and quality toys & activities

Long Sleeve Dress | Knit Blazer & Shorts | Pink Toddler Dress | Bead Kit | Stuffed Animal Easter Basket | Marble Run Kit | Quilted Easter Basket

3. Doen- the go-to for coordinating outfits and light Spring classic pieces

For your mini: Cardigan | Floral Dress | White Dress

For you: White Dress | Cashmere Cardigan | Floral Skirt | Sunglasses | Raffia Bag | Sling Back Shoes

Shop the full edit here . And if you need help with gifts or outfits for Easter, Spring or Summer… shoot me a message.

xx,

SO

When clients ask what to pack for a warm-weather trip, I almost always start the same way: a small group of versatile pieces that work from pool to dinner. The goal isn’t a suitcase full of outfits - it’s a handful of beautiful basics that all work together.

For me, that usually looks like linen, cotton, raffia, and leather - pieces that feel relaxed but still polished. An easy rule of thumb when packing is to have the leather or color of your sandal match your bag. That way no matter what neutral you throw on you’ll look polished.

Ten pieces, endless outfits.

Pictured here: Wearing these Sunnies, this Red One-Shoulder Bathing Suit & Win is wearing this Red Bikini *Have to agree with my daughter that the Hunza G bathing suits are by far the most comfortable, and given their crinkly stretchy fabric they fit growing girls for 4+ years! And new Hunza G pastel coordinated bathing suits for Mama & Mini |

Here are the Ten items I would pack this year if you were my client:

1. Linen button-down (Under $120)

2. Linen pants ($98)

3. Cotton dress ($695) - Alternative option ($54)

4. Evening dress ($790) - Other easy vacation dresses for less here

   (use discount code SYDNEY20 for 20% off)

5. Raffia bag ($690) - Under $140 version

6. Leather sandals ($1280) - Under $400 version

7. Pool/beach flip-flops ($180) - *I have several colors of these, nothing is more comfortable!

8. Classic one-piece swimsuit ($455) - Alternative option for $200 *both bathing suits are so flattering

9. Cat-Eye sunglasses ($510) - A similar look for less than $200

10. Straw hat ($287) - We all need her!

For you: Cotton dress | Classic one-piece swimsuit | Raffia bag | Pool/beach flip-flops | Straw hat | Cat-Eye sunglasses | Pool/beach flip-flops

For the girls: Terry cloth set ($84) | Rashguard onesie ($72) | Sandals ($35)

For the boys: Rash guard ($58) | Board shorts ($64) | Sandals (35)

For you: Classic one-piece swimsuit | Linen pants | Raffia bag | Pool/beach flip-flops | Straw hat | Cat-Eye sunglasses | Pool/beach flip-flops

For the girls: Block print bikini ($66) | St.Barths coverup | Rubber Birkenstocks ($34)

For the boys: Matching Rashguard ($34) & Trunks ($36) | Rubber Birkenstocks ($34)

There’s something undeniably fun about coordinating with your kids now and then- not in a literal, matching-all-the-way way (we’ve outgrown the identical swim sets), but in a more nuanced, effortless way. Think the same silhouette in different colors, shared tones at dinner, or complementary shades that feel considered without trying too hard.

For you: Evening dress | Leather sandals | Raffia bag

For the girls: Ruffle dress ($88) | Maryjanes (Alaia dupes and less than $15!)

For the boys: Stripe top ($54) | Shorts ($108) | Sandals ($61)

For you: Linen button-down | Linen pants | Leather sandals | Raffia bag|Cat-Eye sunglasses

For the girls: Terry set ($68) | Rubber Birkenstocks ($34)

For the boys: Super soft set ($62) | Leather Birkenstocks ($61)

Kid Spring Break Cheat Sheet

*Just the cutest hits!

Girls: Hats | One Piece | Coverup | Bikini | Dress | Set | Hat

Boys: Hats | Trunks | Trunks | Set | Hat | Set

If you need help pulling this all together - packing, outfits, or a full spring break refresh - I’d love to help. Styling children brings me just as much joy as styling women, and yes, we can absolutely make sure your husband shows up in something better than a rotation of golf polos and faded swim trunks.

Shop all of my spring break favorites here :)

xx,

SO

The heavy layers of winter are behind us, but summer hasn’t complicated things yet. All you really need are a few good neutrals: linen trousers, a white button-down, a soft sweater, . Everything works together and nothing feels overthought.

In other words, it’s officially Nancy Meyers movie wardrobe season.

The films of Nancy Meyers have always been comfort movies for me. Not just for the houses and kitchens everyone talks about, but for the wardrobes.

They’re simply perfect.

Diane Keaton wandering barefoot through a Hamptons kitchen in cream linen in Something’s Gotta Give.

Meryl Streep in soft knits and easy button-downs in It’s Complicated.

Natasha Richardson in perfectly tailored neutrals and breezy dresses in The Parent Trap.

The clothes are never loud or trendy. They’re just the kind of pieces that always look good: linen, cotton, cashmere, soft neutrals, effortless silhouettes.

Ten years ago, when I was pregnant with my first child, my mom and I hosted a beach luncheon for my grandmother. The dress code was simple: come dressed as Diane Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give. Linen pants, white button-downs, creamy sweaters…

I remember posting a photo from the party and being absurdly excited when Nancy Meyers herself re-shared it… especially considering the enormous pregnant belly I was attempting to disguise under a cream turtleneck.

When Diane passed last year, it reminded me how much those films meant to me- and to so many other people. Her characters were funny and complicated and effortlessly chic.

Now my 7-year-old daughter loves those movies just as much as I do, which might be my favorite part. No joke, her favorite song to play in the car is “Dream Kitchen” from The Holiday. We’ll put one on and end up admiring the same things: the houses, the kitchens, the music, and of course the clothes.

Because Nancy Meyers wardrobes always follow the same simple formula:

A crisp white shirt.
Linen trousers.
A soft sweater.
Good sunglasses.

The best outfits are built from a few beautiful, simple pieces that always work together.

*Pictured here, Straw Hat | Tortoise Sunnies | this similar Sweater (now 20% off) | this sand-colored Crossbody | the best White Jeans | most worn Sandals

Inspiration: Diane Keaton - from The Beach to Entertaining at Home (Somethings Gotta Give)

Hat $149 | Drawstring Trousers $288 | Rollneck Sweater $118 | Tote $495 | Strap Sandals $391

Inspiration: Meryl Streep - from The Garden to Dinner Under the Stars (It’s Complicated)

Linen Shirt $175| Wide-Leg Trousers $265 | Pearl Necklace $690 | Raffia Bag $1350 | Flats ($360 *on sale)

or this set you will definitely live in this spring/summer

Inspiration: Natasha Richardson - from City Strolls to Vineyard Lunches (The Parent Trap)

Jacket $450 | Pants $290 | Necklace $495| Leather Sandals $375 | Crossbody Bag $3500 | Cat-Eye Sunglasses $590

other dresses Elizabeth James would have worn:

A-line Poplin Dress | Linen Midi Dress

When the palette stays simple- cream, white, taupe, camel- everything works together. Getting dressed becomes almost effortless. These are the pieces that never go out of style, and are timeless and ageless. Shop the full edit here.

xx,

SO