Hometown Heritage finds its inspiration in the nostalgic rituals of small-town life… Friday Night games beside a fire, weekends spent walking through rugged forests and stumbling across flea markets, and old family plaids pulled from the back of the closet as the first chill settles in. It’s a celebration of the beautifully familiar, where heritage checks and plaid are layered with faded sports graphics, striped rugby tops and handcrafted details that lend each look a sense of history. College references mingle with homespun craft, while oversized proportions and unexpected styling bring these nostalgic pieces firmly into the present. The results feel collected rather than coordinated, a little preppy, a little playful and wonderfully lived-in.

Reimagined for wherever you call home.

Below, Addie, our EU Social & Content Manager, takes our Hometown Heritage trend to the streets.

“One of my favourite staple pieces for fall is a good rugby shirt–you can’t go wrong. This one is so cozy and oversized. It looks so undone and cool paired with ultra baggy trousers.”

August has always been one of my favorite months to get dressed. Summer is still lingering but, there’s that anticipation of fall slowly creeping in. You start to feel a touch of crispness in the air, you start dreaming of the softness of sweaters and cozy-weather accessories. Being from the UK, I appreciate all the old world craft and attention to sport in Hometown Heritage. It feels very transitional and a little quirky.

We The Free Skipper Pleated Plaid Midi, We The Free Bubble Gum Rugby, We The Free Parker Suede Tote, Varsity Vibe Muscle Tee

I’m currently loving these really rich colour combinations like red, mustard, deep brown etc.--they feel so autumnal and very old school varsity vibes. It’s such a retro look, made modern with cool chunk gold jewellery and a graphic tee.

One of my favourite staple pieces for fall is a good rugby shirt. This one is so cozy and oversized which looks so undone and cool paired with ultra baggy trousers.

This look is so fun and whimsical and perfect for a warmer autumn day when you’re still wanting to feel fall-ready. Anything plaid just screams autumn to me.

EXPLORE OUR HOMETOWN HERITAGE EDIT.

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It’s nostalgic, a modern romance with minimalism, where the beauty lies in what’s left undone. Iconic.

Take a ‘90s-inspired cue from Kristin, our Creative Marketing Coordinator.

“I was so excited to shoot for the ’90s minimal trend because it feels like such a natural reflection of the wardrobe I already gravitate toward. This aesthetic is truly me: it’s effortless, timeless, and understated, but still leaves so much room to play with personal style.”

I was so excited to shoot the ’90s minimal trend–it’s such a natural reflection of the wardrobe to which I already gravitate. This aesthetic is truly so me: effortless, timeless, and understated, but still leaves so much room to play with personal style. I also love fall dressing, and this aesthetic comes to life especially well this time of year. The weather naturally lends itself to layering, mixing textures, and creating those perfectly undone outfit combinations.

To me, minimal doesn’t have to mean simple or boring. I love taking classic basics and layering them in unexpected ways, pairing different textures and proportions, and adding little details that make an outfit feel elevated while still looking effortless. There’s something about that balance– looking polished without looking like you tried too hard.

Skyscraper Trouser Shorts, Ruby Cotton Cardi, Meet Me In The Middle Tap Shorts, Academia Blazer

I’m always drawn to layering because, honestly, I’m pretty indecisive. I’d rather choose both. I love how adding another layer can instantly make a simple look feel more elevated and intentional, while maintaining a minimal, classic feeling. It’s such an easy way to make even a basic outfit feel more styled.

And I LOVE LOVE LOVE a ballet flat. I would genuinely wear one with just about any outfit. But with this look in particular, it feels like the only option. There’s something about the ballet flat that completely finishes the outfit and says so much about the personality of the look without needing to do too much. It adds a feminine, slightly polished touch while still feeling effortless and very ’90s. It’s classic, but still has so much personality.

I love how a long skirt can make an outfit feel instantly polished without feeling overdone. For me, it’s very clean, effortless, and all about the silhouette. I simplified the rest of the look so the skirt could be the focus.

The boots were one of my favorite parts of this look. As a shorter girl, I loved how they instantly made me feel so much taller and elongated the whole silhouette, but they also brought this really chic, unexpected element to the outfit. There’s something about pairing a longer skirt with a structured boot that feels so elevated without feeling overly styled. It’s such a good example of what I love about this trend: taking simple, classic pieces and styling them in a way that feels fresh and intentional. Nothing is competing for attention, but together the pieces create a strong look. It feels sophisticated, effortless, and very much in that ’90s minimal world.

The lace slip is what really makes this look for me. I love the simplicity of the white turtleneck mixed with the fun of a striped layer. This look feels so versatile–I can easily take the striped layer on or off depending on my mood, and the outfit still works either way. That’s always something I look for when getting dressed–pieces that can stand on their own but become even more interesting when layering them together. It feels playful and styled, and still like a staple I can wear over and over again.

EXPLORE OUR ’90S MINIMALISM EDIT.

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Our trend, “Fall Into Romance,” found its inspiration in the birth of 19th century Bohemian Paris, where smoky cafes spilled onto cobbled streets and artists, poets and dreamers gathered beneath the glow of gas lamps to reinvent the world. It was a carefree romantic era where lace, chiffon, and velvet danced their way through the narrow streets of Montmartre. In the case of our trend, romanticizing the past but also modernizing it through moto detailing and a fresh take on accessories. Tapestry adds a delicate take on print and faux fur drapes whimsically over slip dressing.

Below, our Studio Creative Assistant, Sydney, interprets Falling For Romance through her own eyes and styling.

“I wanted to bring in more boho and feminine elements while still keeping the looks grounded in the way I naturally dress.”

I normally gravitate toward a minimal, ’90s-inspired wardrobe with clean lines, simple silhouettes, and a mostly neutral color palette. For fall, however, I wanted to bring in more boho and feminine elements while still keeping the looks grounded in the way I naturally dress. The idea of “fall romance” felt like the perfect balance between those two sides of my style.

Angel Wings Mini Dress, Grayson Clog Boots, Lotty Jacquard Band Jacket, Kiss Kiss Pom Scarf

I chose this look because it felt like the most direct interpretation of the romantic side of the trend. The sheer ivory blouse, oversized tie, lace detailing, and flowing ruffles add a very feminine, almost vintage feeling, while the black flared pants and pointed boots keep the outfit from feeling precious. I love this top’s sheerness, and how cute a lace bra looks underneath for an extra pop of femme.

What I enjoy most about this outfit is the contrast between the softness of the blouse and the structure of the black pants. The neutral ivory-and-black palette also makes it feel more connected to my usual minimal style. The sheer fabric and dramatic sleeves give me a chance to experiment with something more bohemian and feminine without feeling like I completely stepped outside of my comfort zone. When I wear it, I feel romantic and expressive, but still cool and understated.

For the second look, I love how the proportions and colors feel little more unexpected but also very fall. I like the awkward lengths–the pop of the bra, the tank, longer shorts, oversized coat, and over-the-knee boots create different proportions instead of everything lining up perfectly. That slightly unconventional length is what makes the look feel interesting.

Instead of relying on my usual black-and-white palette, I wanted to experiment with warmer, earthy neutrals. Fur adds texture and makes the simple tank and shorts feel much more elevated. I love that the outfit feels a little vintage, a little bohemian, and slightly rebellious all at once. This was my favorite look, as it feels closer to my personal style while also experimenting with different lengths.

I love that this look feels more ’70s. The dusty rose flared pants immediately give a vintage vibe, while the white tank and cream denim vest keep the outfit light and neutral. I love how the black boots and black leather bag add a contrasting edge.

The combination of a feminine dusty-rose color with a more masculine, utilitarian denim vest and leather accessories feels nostalgic without going costume-y. Flared pants make this look feel more dramatic than what I would normally wear, and make it the most forward of my outfits–it maintains a simplicity and neutral foundation that I love, but with vintage, bohemian and feminine details.

EXPLORE OUR FALL INTO ROMANCE EDIT.

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I live in Philadelphia, so the opportunity to make true my dream of keeping bees proved challenging. Not because I didn’t hope to try, but the thought of neighbors attempting to enjoy an afternoon siesta in their backyards until a honeybee made other plans… well, that kind of stopped me before I started.

So I did what any normal person would do. I bought my parents a hive.

And that’s it. I left it to them to actually source their bees. And learn everything about them: how to protect them from cruel summers and winters, how to shield them from predators and disease, how to extract honey-crusted frames from the hive’s supers and spin them down. They did it, though, and with so much care. Mom only lets Dad cut the grass in the evening after the bees have finished their day’s work. My parents sell their honey at the general store down the road to share their excess with the community. And now, even people in the area call them if they’ve found a swarm on their property. Mom and Dad suit up and head out, and it seems they are wildly successful in their efforts to shake out the queen and bring her and her minions back to theirs.

I didn’t intend for my folks to take on yet another responsibility, but they welcomed it fully. And though the transition of the seasons sometimes generates stress as they think about how their bees might fare, it’s just something they do. They love their bees. They’re tickled to reap a bounty of honey while ensuring that the bees have plenty enough to feed themselves. They’ve planted so many new flowers around the house to give their bees a rich environment on which to feast. The relationship to their hives yields tremendous gratitude, and makes them very happy.

The reason I even thought of this–well, truth be told, I did just see a trailer for Matthew McConaughey’s new film–is because I was meditating on the idea of effortlessness, and how it actually requires a heck of a lot of work.

The RESULT of Mom and Dad’s beekeeping is joy and pride. They make it look simple. But it took so much for them to reach point B(ee) from point A.

Me: “Here you two, here’s a beehive. Have fun with that. Let me know how it goes… Oh, um, no, I don’t know of any apiaries. Um, suits–let me look up some sites for you. Oh, you bought them already? What kind of bees did you buy? They died? Oh, you got more? You went out and caught them? In a pine tree?!”

It’s funny, because they no longer approach this relationship with their bees as work. It’s now in their DNA. They can’t help it. They are stewards of their land, which now happens to include four colonies of bees.

At work, in fashion in general, the idea of effortlessness is tossed around with abandon. Get this look, style that with this, and you’ll look like you didn’t have to try at all.

But there is effort involved.

There are people for whom “doing fashion right” appears to come so easily. My partner, for example, is someone who I find to have impeccable style. (Though she’s not 100% right–do not tell her that.) But I can’t say her discerning eye and aesthetic arrived without putting in said work–she climbed the proverbial fashion ladder and earned a CFDA nomination. Sort of like my parents’ experience… maybe with the same amount of stings (yes, they do get stung on occasion). But what her career has produced in addition to accolades is confidence. An absolute assurance that, to dress smartly, nothing should be too “same-same.” Meaning, if you’re wearing jeans, maybe even a classic tee/jean pairing, perhaps lean toward a short heel or ballet flat instead of a sneaker that makes a look that feels “expected.”

The assurance is actually everything.

Try as I may, I still craft expected outfits. Case in point–jeans/tees/sneakers. Jeans/tees/clogs. Sometimes I fail to find the drama of a look. Maybe much to her chagrin. But it’s a stance that is now planted firmly in my mind. Should I choose to act on that cue I can say that leaving the house becomes more about what lies ahead than “sh*t, I don’t like what I’m wearing.”

Those who have acquired this air of effortlessness have done so without the use of a handbook, of course. There’s no true 101 to abide by. Eventually all of the tears and magazines and pictures and stories and experience we’ve accumulated become molded into something that looks and feels like style.

Even my parents, via bees, have adopted a style. It doesn’t look like something coming down the runway next season, but it’s a proven dance-like system that works–for them. And it’s beautiful to watch. Much like seeing my partner descending the stairs before an outing and thinking, “how does she always look so great? I’d never think to wear a caftan with flares and a bomber jacket.”

But now I see how those things unexpectedly come together, and I’ll put it to practice on the right day.

If there was a cosmic effortlessness lottery, I’d likely pay to play every day. But when you exercise something enough, whatever your “buzz” may be, you’ll be doing it like it’s been there with you all along. Although you’ve probably spent months, even years, learning to get there.

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Written by Carrie Yotter, Editorial Copy Director.

Without fail, the yearly arrival of Girl Scout cookies inspires the same rituals: folding tables outside the grocery store, a sea of rainbow boxes—and, increasingly, IG posts and parent asks on the office chat. If you look deeper, what you’ll find is sweetness, nostalgia, and a six-week-long rite of passage.

(I was a Girl Scout only briefly, but I still remember receiving my sash and immediately combing through the list of badges I hoped to earn, one of which was for selling cookies. I would hold it up in my bedroom as though I’d won the lottery.)

Filmmaker Alysa Nahmias saw within that ritual something else: girls learning—likely for the first time—how ambition, identity, value, and business can intersect.

In her documentary “Cookie Queens,” in select theaters as of August 7th, Nahmias follows four Girl Scouts across the country through the annual whirlwind of selling and striving toward their goals. The film is captivating, candid, and full of heart. But beneath the Samoas® and badges lies an interesting question: What do girls learn about themselves when childhood meets big business?

Part One: Girlhood, Business, and “Cookie Queens”

Carrie: Before we begin: What is your favorite Girl Scout cookie?

Alysa: I’m a Thin Mint® gal for the classics, but I’ve learned to love Lemonades®. If you have an extra six bucks, I highly recommend them.

Carrie: I’m a very basic shortbread person.

Alysa: Oh, you like the Trefoils®. They’re good. I won’t turn one down.

Carrie: I was curious if you were a Girl Scout—and, whether or not you were, what inspired this film? As a storyteller, I often encounter a person or situation and think, “I wish I had a video camera to document this.” What was that moment for you?

Alysa: I was not a Girl Scout. My mom was. She was a Brownie in the 1950s in Chicago and ended up being the first person—not just the first woman, but the first person—in her large immigrant family to go to college.

I think those two things are related.

“When girls and women have spaces to be with one another, learn from one another, and learn with one another—especially in multigenerational ways—it can benefit us in the long run and create confidence and belonging. It’s so important.”

The film actually started with my kids. It’s my fourth feature as a director, and I’ve produced many more, so it wasn’t the beginning of my becoming a documentary filmmaker. But my kids watched my last film when they were about nine and eleven. They said they really liked it—and then asked if I would please consider making one they would really want to share with their friends next. I took that to heart and held onto it.

I was later talking with a friend who became a producer on the film. He had been sold a really large number of Girl Scout cookies by this very savvy girl. Even the way he talked about it suggested he was surprised by how brilliant she was. At first, it seemed as though she was simply cute and being nice, but she was incredibly savvy. As he told the story, I thought: This is a really cool visual world and an interesting potential concept.

But I could also see a way for the film to be about more than the amazing visual world and delightful interactions. It could look at girlhood and capitalism, and at the ways girls and women learn about our value—for better or worse—including the notion that cuteness sells, and an early understanding of how the economy works.

Once my producing team and I dug deeper, we learned that the Girl Scouts sell about $800 million in cookies every year.

“These girls aren’t trying out or rehearsing business. They are doing business in a major way for a large corporation.”

I thought it was a fascinating microcosm through which to consider broader cultural questions around girlhood, performing femininity, and ambition—while still being wildly entertaining.

Carrie: That’s so interesting. I was a Girl Scout for two years, but I never really thought about the scale of those six weeks as actual business. That’s a lot for a young person. I assumed there must also be an element of competition—hopefully a healthy one.

Alysa: You’ll see that it isn’t a competition documentary. Each girl has her own goal, and Girl Scouts doesn’t necessarily encourage competition. Some of the girls are competitive and very ambitious, but they aren’t competing against one another in the film.

The selling itself is less than half of what you see onscreen. We also see the girls in other parts of their lives. It was really important to me to show them three-dimensionally.

Part Two: Finding the Girls—and the Story That Threaded Their Stories

Carrie: What did the filmmaking process entail? How did you narrow the film to the four featured Girl Scouts?

Alysa: We filmed with seven girls in order to arrive at the four who are featured. Before that, there was an extensive casting process. I worked with a casting producer, we conducted many Zoom interviews, and I visited several families without a camera to decide who might be the right match—and to understand the alchemy among them.

Ultimately, all the stories were great..

“It became a matter of finding harmony among the stories: a way for them to play off one another so that the whole would be greater than the sum of its parts.”

Carrie: The four girls weren’t all part of the same troop, correct?

Alysa: Correct. They live in completely different cities: El Paso; Riverside, California; San Diego; and Charlotte, North Carolina.

Carrie: Was there anything you learned while making the film—or something that surprised or wowed you—that you hadn’t anticipated?

Alysa: So many things. There were things about Girl Scouts I didn’t know. I had no idea how many American women had been Girl Scouts, or how large its impact on American culture has been—one in three women.

“And the girls who are passionate about selling these cookies go really hard. They wore us out. It was a lot. Seeing that was powerful.”

Part Three: The Creative Spirit Fund and Supporting Women Filmmakers

Carrie: I came to know you through the Free People Creative Spirit Fund. Could you tell me how that connection came about and how the support affected the making of the film?

Alysa: I’m an artist who has been supported for a long time by the Sundance Institute and its many incredible programs, including the Documentary Film Program. My first film, Unfinished Spaces, which came out in 2011, was part of a global festival program Sundance had called Film Forward. Since then, the Institute has just been there. And it isn’t only the Institute and its staff—it’s also the other artists you meet who are part of that Sundance family.

I’ve had multiple films I produced at the festival, and I’ve been part of a program called Sundance Catalyst, which is actually where we launched Cookie Queens. It’s a financing lab Sundance runs.

When we were in post-production, we applied for support from the Sundance Documentary Film Fund. We didn’t apply specifically for the Creative Spirit partnership. But Sundance, through its incredible ways of matchmaking and understanding the needs of each artist and each sponsor of the Institute, told us when we received the grant that it was part of a special cohort supported by Free People’s Creative Spirit Fund.

I was over the moon. Once I understood what the Creative Spirit Fund was, it felt completely aligned—not only with Cookie Queens, but with a key creative team made up overwhelmingly of women. My producer, composer, editors, sound woman—so many of the people involved. We had a few amazing men as part of the team, too.

“It’s very important that philanthropy not just support projects, but support people.”

I feel as though the Creative Spirit Fund is doing that through Sundance: not only finding projects that are aligned, but supporting women globally.

There is a pay gap in the world, and it can be even more extreme in the arts and filmmaking. Those statistics are widely available. And it isn’t only a pay gap; it’s an access gap. You see it in the number of women directors whose films are featured at major festivals, who receive theatrical releases, or who have higher budgets for their projects.

Funds like the Creative Spirit Fund can look across genres and different types of storytelling while really seeing women artists.

“We’re out here. We’re doing the work. And we love when it gets seen. That has been amazing.”

The grant was our first point of contact. Then, when Cookie Queens was invited to have its world premiere at Sundance in January, I spoke with the Documentary Film Fund team. I said, “I would love to thank people again and see if they want to engage during the festival.” That’s when I met Morgan and Hannah and the team at Free People behind the Creative Spirit Fund. They were very supportive during our launch and our party at Sundance, and they really engaged with the girls and the team. It was awesome.

To continue that relationship during the film’s distribution and impact phase is really meaningful. I love that the fund is supporting projects and people across time—not at just one point.

Carrie: What you’re highlighting in the film—confidence and bonding—feels so in line with Free People’s inherent values that it’s a strangely perfect fit. The girls are building up one another and themselves through Girl Scouts, which feels very close to the ethos Free People hangs its hat on: being there for one another and providing support.

Alysa: It was so cool to screen the film at URBN headquarters, to see the place, meet more of the team, and feel that center of gravity of Free People and the broader URBN community. We felt very welcomed into it.

And we got to wear the clothes. The girls and I were outfitted, and it felt so special, beautiful, and connected.

Stories have the power to expand perspectives, build empathy and inspire culture. Through our partnership with Sundance Institute, the Free People Creative Spirit Fund is helping women documentary filmmakers bring important stories to life through grants, visibility, and mentorship. Since 2025, we’ve supported five filmmakers and celebrated the Sundance Festival global premiere of the supported film, Cookie Queens, as well as its theatrical release to audiences. We’re continuing to support the next generation of filmmakers, ensuring more women’s voices have the opportunity to be heard and celebrated.

Follow along with the Creative Spirit Fund here.

Written by Team FP.

It’s funny… even if we haven’t visited Paris, it seems we’ve already been there—via photographs, films, paintings, songs, and stories.

Paris has a curious habit of finding people before they ever find it.

Because it is a place that cups and clasps and holds you.

____________________________________________________________________________

Long before “bohemian” described a way of dressing, it described a way of living.

Nineteenth-century artists, writers and free thinkers rejected convention in favor of clothing that allowed movement, expression and individuality. More than a silhouette, bohème became a philosophy—of unrestraint, creativity and confidence–that continues to echo through fashion today.

So when we began imagining our August Chapter, there was only one city that felt capable of providing the backdrop.

We asked Paris-born sisters Léa Meylan and Louise Meylan to show us the version of Paris they know—not the postcard version, but the everyday poetry of the city. Alongside our Assistant Styling Director Laura, they meandered through familiar streets, clandestine corners and quiet moments to capture the city through the people who call it home.

THE CITY

LAURA: Our locations included the Marias, around the Tuileries and Place de la Concorde, and ended at midnight on a bridge crossing the Seine.

MEYLANS: The Seine, the bridges, the architecture… Every time I walk or ride a scooter through Paris, I’m reminded of how beautiful it is.

bag and clogs

dress

THE CLOTHES

MEYLANS: I like to keep my outfits effortless but polished. I’d usually wear a pair of wide-leg tailored trousers, an oversized shirt, a chic belt with a gold buckle, a few beautiful pieces of jewelry, and a pair of heeled mules. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and elegance—I feel put together without feeling restricted or uncomfortable.

bodysuit, trousers

tee, leggings, hat

LAURA: I love the femininity that comes through in this collection, with its soft pastels and ivories, mixed with utility. It feels so archival–lace detailing, soft pastel satin contrasts, and embroidery–and Edwardian. And so so special–as if it was from someone’s trousseau.

jacket, cargo pants, satin lace tunic, rollneck sweater, boots

Also, the headwear in this edit is such a work of art–and feels so authentically vintage.

crochet hood, hair scarf, straw hat, crochet cap

THE ATMOSPHERE

MEYLANS: Paris has this lively, almost 80s vibe. People are sitting at cafés, having drinks, smoking, chatting for hours, and enjoying life. It feels vibrant, relaxed, and full of energy.

I love that there’s always something to do, whether it’s discovering a new neighborhood, spending time by the river, visiting an exhibition, or simply enjoying a coffee on a terrace. Paris makes everyday life feel special.

A PERFECT DAY IN PARIS

LAURA: Anywhere in Le Marais–endless shops, restaurants, and cafes to check out. You can’t go wrong. Nothing better than starting off your day peoplewatching at a cafe with a cappuccino.

Forever swooning over Parisian flea markets. Marché au Puces/Porte de Vanves is my personal favorite, but you can’t go wrong with Marche aux Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen/Marche Dauphine.

Favorite Boulangeries: Tout Autour du Pain, Maison Landemaine, and Au Petit Versailles du Marais

MEYLANS: My perfect day in Paris would be spending it with my husband and my son, walking around the 6th arrondissement. We’d have lunch at Le Bar de la Croix-Rouge, then spend the afternoon browsing vintage shops around Saint-Germain or in Le Marais.

We’d take a long walk along the Seine, enjoying the city without any plans or schedule. My favorite part would be randomly running into friends in the street, stopping for a coffee together, and just letting the day unfold naturally. The best days are the ones where you completely lose track of time.

HOW TO LOOK EFFORTLESS

MEYLANS: My secret is not overthinking it. I like to keep things natural and trust my instincts. For me, looking effortless is all about choosing the right pieces and making sure the colors work well together. Even the simplest outfit can look chic if the fit is perfect—whether it’s a beautifully cut shirt or the right pair of jeans. When the proportions, colors, and fit are right, you look put together without trying too hard.

Visit us here for the full Free People August Chapter Collection.

I arrived at London Heathrow in the early hours of the morning after a red-eye flight from Philadelphia. The airport is already alive with movement—rolling suitcases, hurried footsteps, sleepy reunions—and yet my mind is fixed on just one thing: a Ploughman’s Sandwich from Marks & Spencer. It’s a ritual I’ve kept for years, one that begins almost before I’ve collected my luggage.

The air in the airport is stagnant. The UK is experiencing one of its hottest summers yet! Luckily for me, I’m wearing the easiest pair: The Moonflower Pant, which helps whisk me through the airport like a breeze. I receive so many compliments when I wear these pants--“those look so comfortable”—and it’s true! They ARE so comfortable.

With coffee in hand and a Ploughman’s Sandwich digesting nicely, the last traces of jet lag beginning to fade, I make my way to Paddington Station for the train to South Wales, my home. One of my favorite things to do is ride a train. There’s something about sitting still, looking out the window, reading the landscape that whizzes by you. And I will say the British countryside is lovely to gaze out onto—hedgerows stitched together with stone walls, church spires punctuating villages that seem untouched by urgency, horses standing motionless beneath broad oaks as if they have nowhere more important to be.

I arrive in Wales. The air is mountain fresh but the sun is hot. I start to unpack, feeling good about the clothing choices I made to accommodate this British summer. Usually when I travel to Wales, I live in my Blundstone Boots, a pair of pants or shorts, and a cozy sweater, but this time around I wanted to have some fun…and why not!? The weather is perfect!

Here’s what I packed for my short stay in Wales.

An early morning rise to buy some plants with my dad for the garden. I didn’t mean for there to be a theme with this embroidered floral top but it turned out that way. I always gravitate toward clothing that feels hand-touched. This sweet top reminds me of a vintage tablecloth reworked and I love the lace piecing at the sides.

The Chloe Embroidered Tank is so easy for warmer days and goes with almost anything. I love the modern square neckline and that it’s shapeless, allowing you room to breathe. I wanted to be comfy today so opted again for my favorite Moonflower Pant (did I mention I have these in 3 colors! I love them that much).

It’s 80 degrees in Wales today, which is unheard of! Thank goodness I packed these micro shorts to help me cope with the heat. The fabric is quite structured, so they hold the shape nicely—good for a long day exploring.

Every few years I like to touch base at St Fagans. It’s our National Museum of Welsh History, and serves to remind myself where I came from. It’s an open-air museum and a great place to go if you want to understand the heart and soul of Wales. It’s like stepping into a living Welsh village that spans centuries. Rather than reading about Welsh history, you simply walk through it.

I wore this eyelet lightweight blouse—The Salone Eyelet Top. The golden ochre color so satisfyingly paired back to the forest green of the shorts. I loved adding a subtle print to this look! The tile print of The Ana Printed Micro Shorts is so dainty and the color combo of the print is unexpected.

There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty pub meal. It’s one of my favorite things to do in Wales. The pubs are so cozy and have a lovely old-world charm about them. There’s something timeless about a Welsh pub; the century-old stone walls seem to hold the echoes of countless conversations and laughter. I order a good ol’ pie dish and a pint and stay for about 4 hours, people-watching and observing the world go by.

Every summer I try to purchase the one cotton Victorian skirt I know I will live in. It must have an elasticated pull-on waist. The FP One Lily Lace Midi Skirt fit in perfectly in the Welsh countryside. I got a few stares from the local sheep, I will say. Continuing the ochre color theme, I teamed it with our Parker Tank. There’s something so nostalgic about the assortment of buttons on this top. The detail is so unique.

Wales holds a special place in my heart. My trips home are always so grounding and allow me that little reset that is needed every now and again. I hope you enjoyed traveling to Wales with me.

Much love,

Jemma

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Today, on the East Coast, it’s sweltering.

I mean, it is summer after all. So I’ve made the proper preparations… wearing a rotation of oversized tees, breezy linen pants and shorts… and always my trusty Birks. Whatever can grant me a reprieve from the elements besides central air and lemon water.

But, as is true every year, this too shall pass. In the blink of an eye, we’ll soon be trading these loose, light layers for pieces to formally usher in cooler days and nights. This year, it looks more structured, fitted, intentional, though always embracing a bit of wonder and whimsy…bohemian spirit, we’ll say.

I talked to five of our FP designers about the pieces they crafted for our Pre-Fall collection–to find out which of their designs are their favorites, and how they came to be.

After 25 years of working here, I find myself no less inspired by what this team dreams up, consistently. It keeps me excited about each new season to come, to feel their vision and creativity and passion at my fingertips. Without further ado… let’s meet Noa, Jill, Briana, Lindsey, and Amanda.

–Carrie Yotter, Editorial Director

NOA, ASSISTANT DESIGN DIRECTOR

PIECE: WE THE FREE ACE OF SWORDS DUSTER

From where did the inspiration for this item originate?

For Fall we wanted Napoleon jackets to be a big thing for the season, a little collection, and this is one of the interpretations in that larger story.

What considerations did you take, re: fabrication/silhouette?

I love plaid, so when I saw this tartan fabric it all sort of came together in my mental printer. The way it frays is so beautiful, so I wanted to keep a lot of the edges raw. I wanted to treat it like this is some heirloom you’ve found and it’s fraying a bit and there’s been stitching added over the years to reinforce everything.

Tell us about the creation process. What does that look like for you? Was it the same/different for this piece?

I worked on this jacket in-house with our creative technical designer, Gina, who is a genius patternmaker. A lot of my process is working with a patternmaker to find a new shape in the sleeve or something. Or a different way to interpret something classic. I love Napoleon jackets, and the twist is Oopsie, we made it too long, and now you’ve got this amazing plaid Napoleon coat you couldn’t buy anywhere else.

How did you envision people wearing this, ideally?

I really love the idea of someone wearing this jacket to go buy groceries or walk their dog.

What’s your favorite transition-to-fall item and why?

My favorite is when you wake up and it’s suddenly a little chilly and you can open up your trunk of Fall clothes and you remember how many amazing jackets you own and you’re like a little kid on Christmas.

How long have you worked at FP?

A little more than two years.

What’s your most favorite part of being a designer here?

The creativity. I can’t think of another company where I could design a jacket like the Ace of Swords and it not only be approved by production, but held up as a big idea. I get to design a lot of things that genuinely delight me, and with people that are so, so talented and make that moment of delight even bigger and better.

JILL, ASSISTANT DESIGN DIRECTOR

PIECE: A PERFECT DAY MINI SLIP DRESS

From where did the inspiration for this item originate?

I developed this artwork based on a very small scrap of a vintage Victorian collar we had from a fabric presentation. I knew it would be really expensive as is, so I had our vendor reinterpret it using lace trims and cotton voile godets, omitting the embroidery but still keeping it impactful!

What considerations did you take, re: fabrication/silhouette?

Slip dressing has been so relevant lately, which is really exciting—I love thinking about how our customer is going to wear each piece first. I felt like we were missing this easy, shapeless silhouette in the line, and adding something sheer and lacy with a super easy shape felt like the base layer she needed. I also loved adding the little FP touch of a pop-color satin ribbon behind the lace strap; it’s subtle but feels special. We initially presented this style with a lace rosette at the front but decided to remove it—it has enough going on! :)

Tell us about the creation process. What does that look like for you? Was it the same/different for this piece?

I love doing a lot of pre-development so I have tangible pieces to work with, but I am also constantly inspired by vintage garments—ranging from 1990s Blumarine and Ralph Lauren to Edwardian and Victorian styles. This process was a bit different from mocking up designs from scratch (which I usually love to do) because I worked really closely with our market vendor to develop this piece. They did a wonderful job interpreting my vision.

How did you envision people wearing this, ideally? paired with what?

Since it’s so hot right now, I see it layered over long denim shorts with a cute Intimately bralette underneath—ideally in a print or a pop of color!—paired with easy flip-flops. I also see this easily transitioning into fall and winter with a big, cozy sweater and our latest FP jeans.

What’s your favorite transition-to-fall item and why?

I will always love a 100% cotton sweater in a great color—something I can wear with shorts and sandals, and easily take off to tie around my waist or shoulders. And then, when it gets colder, I can layer it up!

How long have you worked at FP?

15 years!!

What’s your most favorite part of being a designer here?

I love how creative my role is and being surrounded by people who are just as excited about designing beautiful things. Plus, my coworkers are wonderful—we truly have the best team!

BRIANA, ASSOCIATE DESIGN DIRECTOR

PIECE: MOONFLOWER PLAID PULL-ON BALLOON PANT

From where did the inspiration for this item originate?

Inspired by our customer, the plaid Balloon Pant builds on a silhouette we know they already love. Since the solid version has become an easy, fashion-forward staple, we wanted to introduce a plaid option that feels fresh. It’s easy to style and versatile enough to wear season after season.

What considerations did you take, re: fabrication/silhouette?

Fabrication was especially important when bringing the Balloon Pant into a new material. Texture and weight played a key role in preserving the shape, and I wanted it to feel casual yet elevated while maintaining the integrity of the original silhouette and fit.

Tell us about the creation process. What does that look like for you? Was it the same/different for this piece?

My process usually starts with thinking about what the collection needs, working with our buying team and how we can build on styles our customer already loves. For this piece, the biggest focus was finding the right fabric. Since the Balloon Pant is all about its shape, it was important to choose a plaid with the right weight and texture to keep the fit and silhouette consistent while giving it a fresh feel.

How did you envision people wearing this, ideally? paired with what?

I envisioned it being a really easy piece to style. It pairs well with simple basics like a tee or sweater, but can also be dressed up with a more structured top or jacket. The plaid makes a statement on its own, so it’s an effortless way to add something special to an everyday outfit.

What’s your favorite transition-to-fall item and why?

Lightweight pants/trousers are always my favorite transition-to-fall piece. They’re easy to style, great for layering, and a simple way to add new color pops into your rotation. You can wear them with a tee while it’s still warm, then switch to knits and jackets as the weather cools, making them a piece you’ll reach for longer than transitional seasons. A good pair of new shoes is always a helpful too!.

How long have you worked at FP?

It will be 13 years at the end of this month (July)!

What’s your most favorite part of being a designer here?

My favorite part is the creative process—from the first idea to seeing someone wear the finished piece. Designing at Free People is constantly a creative challenge, which I love. I’m always trying to create something that feels new and like I’ve never seen before, while still staying true to the brand’s identity. Finding that balance is what makes it so rewarding.

LINDSEY, DESIGN DIRECTOR

PIECE: WE THE FREE HUDSON STRIPED CASHMERE HENLEY

From where did the inspiration for this item originate?

This sweater was based off of our bestselling knit top, the Jamie Henley! We wanted to give a lux cozy friend to it in cashmere!

What considerations did you take, re: fabrication/silhouette?

Cashmere is a noble fiber that feels lux on your skin. We used a fine count of that yarn, striped in a rib to create a comfy cozy henley, great for layering in the colder months of the year. The silhouette was inspired from the Jamie, in cut and sew knits!

Tell us about the creation process. What does that look like for you? Was it the same/different for this piece?

We are hands on and makers at FP! We knitted lots of swatches until we found the perfect tension stitch and color layout. Usually we knit a whole garment and present it to our buyers.

How did you envision people wearing this, ideally? Paired with what?

Wear it with anything all day long! Great on its own or layered under a We The Free sweater, OR wear two at once for an extra cozy layering effect!

What’s your favorite transition-to-fall item and why?

We The Free sweaters! After a blazing summer on the east coast, there’s nothing better than grabbing one of these sweaters on a cool crisp morn to effortlessly look and feel ready.

How long have you worked at FP?

Next year it will be 20 years!!!!

What’s your most favorite part of being a designer here?

I get to make beautiful things and work with epic humans!!

AMANDA, DESIGNER

PIECE: WE THE FREE EDIE HIGH-RISE TAPERED JEAN

Tell us about the creative process. What does that look like for you? Was it the same/different for this piece? From where did the inspiration for this item originate?

My creative process starts with a lot of thought and intention. I’m always inspired by vintage and the idea of creating denim pieces that get better with wear and become closet favorites over time. That means perfecting fit, refining design details and developing beautiful washes that feel authentic and lived-in.

These elements were key to the development of the Edie High Rise Tapered Jean, which reimagines the return of 90s high-rise straight silhouettes with a fresh, elevated take on a five-pocket denim classic.

What considerations did you take, re: fabrication/silhouette?

As a denim team we have been really excited about articulated seaming and elevated design details. The Edie features a twisted forward side seam that works to elongate the leg and create a relaxed, not too slim shape. It’s also constructed from a mid-weight, stretch denim that gives you a beautiful fit and all day comfort.

How did you envision people wearing this, ideally? Paired with what?

This jean is such a great elevated basic because you can really dress it up and make it your own. Style it with flats and a baby tee during the day, then swap in heels and a “going out” top for a night out. It’s just one of those closet staples that goes with everything.

What’s your favorite transition-to-fall item and why?

My personal favorite transition-to-fall piece is a cropped pant or jean that can be worn breezy or layered up for warmth. I’m all about shoe versatility and being able to swap a casual flip-flop for a knee-high boot to completely change the vibe/look for the season.

How long have you worked at FP?

Later this year I will be celebrating five years at Free People with experience on the Soft Bottoms and Denim team. (BIG pants enthusiast!)

What’s your favorite part of being a designer here?

I love how exploratory and uniquely creative the design process is at FP. Whether it’s sketching by hand or mocking up ideas when inspiration hits, there’s a real emphasis on bringing an artistic touch that I think shines through in the final product.

Feel free to check out our full Pre-Fall collection. What are you coveting for next season?

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One thing I’ve learned after working at Free People for 25 years is that sometimes our best ideas rarely arrive looking like work.

Sometimes they look like ten minutes of debating mustard.

On Friday last week, our merchandising and copy teams met (via Slack) to finalize an email, its working title “Summer In Color.” (NOTE: This email is being sent Wednesday, 7/15… so, keep an eye on your inboxes for visual context, because I was going to share a screenshot of it with you, but now I’m forbidden. If you’re not on the mailing list, go to the bottom of our site and sign up!)

It was during this conversation that our denim merchandiser shared that she may want to revisit the email layout, because:

Landry [12:43 PM]

@Sierra I would like to put something between the grids and belts – it’s giving too much mustard

And then, Kendall inadvertently opened a massive Pandora’s Box… full of, well, condiments. Read on:

Kendall [12:43 PM]

Sierra [12:44 PM]

my mortal enemy

Kendall [12:44 PM]

can’t believe there was a mustard emoji for that

Landry [12:44 PM]

you don’t like mustard @Sierra?

Landry [12:44 PM]

I. love it

Sierra [12:44 PM]

can’t even touch the bottle

Sierra [12:44 PM]

i skeeve

Landry [12:44 PM]

oh wow interesting

Sierra [12:45 PM]

same with ketchup

Landry [12:45 PM]

mayo?

Jules [12:45 PM]

i love the color hate the condiment

Kendall [12:45 PM]

i like love mustard

Landry [12:45 PM]

I’ve never met a condiment I don’t like

Kendall [12:45 PM]

but i like, looove condiments and sauces lolol

Sierra [12:45 PM]

mayo rellish all of it i die

Kendall [12:45 PM]

no same landry hahahahaha

Landry [12:45 PM]

wow are you just housing dry sandwiches ?

Landry [12:45 PM]

like bread and ham

Sierra [12:45 PM]

yes

Kendall [12:45 PM]

i put like too much sauce on things....

Sierra [12:45 PM]

dry

Landry [12:45 PM]

lol no

Sierra [12:46 PM]

i like bbq sauce and hot sauce

Jules [12:46 PM]

i’m the same way sierra

Jules [12:46 PM]

i can do light mayo sometimes but too much is gross

Amber [12:47 PM]

Hi just flagging here as well can we PLEASE attach vintage *** asset to this email?

Poor Amber… trying to keep everyone in check. But it’s not really happening, even though I can assure it is.

Landry [12:48 PM]

that’s fine

Simone [1:01 PM]

lol amber’s like stop talking about condiments and put my vintage banner on !!!!!!!!

Claire [1:01 PM]

yellow mustard is my fav condiment

Claire [1:01 PM]

i use it for everything

Landry [1:02 PM]

sierra is weird I had no idea

Claire [1:02 PM]

i dip my french fries and chicken nugs in ittt mmmmmmmmmm

Claire [1:02 PM]

so good

Sierra [1:02 PM]

i like will throw up

AND THEN 💡

Carrie [1:09 PM]

i think this thread, re: condiments would make for a good substack story

Jules [1:10 PM]

I think we should add a poll to it too lol

Kendall [1:10 PM]

“july in condiments”

Sierra [1:11 PM]

liz posted a picture of kaley at the phillies game with a hot dog with ketchup and mustard and i had to block her

Jules [1:11 PM]

stop LOL

Amber [1:11 PM]

YOU GUYS

Landry [1:11 PM]

that’s what I do on my hot dogs too

Amber [1:11 PM]

this is really killing me

This is truly how the magic happens. Plus, now you know a little bit about the palate of our merch team…

What summer condiment are you?

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Years ago, I came across a story penned by Ama, for Coveteur, which took my breath away. In it, she talked about beauty, and that her very first memory of beauty rituals came as a result of church. Watching family members getting dressed and applying their lipstick, specifically.

I was so taken aback by the honesty and intimacy with which she shared that sentiment. One that was so unique to any other beauty conversation I’d had or found.

Ever since, she and I have worked together on several stories… mostly beauty-tinged, but not all.

Because the color white is so prevalent across our feeds this season, I asked Ama to share a bit about her thoughts and experience with this most accommodating of colors.

Without further ado…

Carrie, Editorial Director

Even though wardrobe basics are called that for a reason—they’re meant to be versatile and worn regardless of the season—there is a specific shade I associate with summer, one I gravitate towards as the days grow longer: white.

And no, this isn’t because of the archaic rule dictating that white be worn solely between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

During high school, August was dedicated to pre-season tennis practices. They were held outdoors, in the middle of the day, when the sun was at its peak, its light only occasionally broken by a drifting cloud. Because of this, my teammates and I unintentionally mimicked the strict all-white dress code seen at Wimbledon. White is less likely to absorb sunlight, and the shade kept us cool as we ran back and forth across the court.

Another August memory: When I was 20, before I left for a semester abroad in Prague, an aunt advised me to buy a white linen button-down. I thought she was letting me in on a secret, something that would help me transition seamlessly into my new city. In some ways, it did. Relaxed and breezy, the linen shirt made dressing for the Central European heat feel effortless. I wore, and rewore it, to dinners with new friends and visits to other cities. I would hand-wash it before clipping it onto a clothesline to dry.

Years later, I returned to Europe—this time to Paris—also in August, in the middle of a heat wave, or a canicule, as the French say. That trip, a white ribbed tank top was my most-worn item. It was form-fitting yet stretchy enough not to stick to slick skin. The slim razorback straps gave it an elevated feel. I paired it with silk midi skirts, denim jorts, and colorful sandals as I traversed arrondissements.

The color white is associated with several ideas, but to me it represents a sort of rebirth; we see it in the flowers whose pale petals indicate a new beginning. This isn’t only reflected in nature; it can be seen in our summer wardrobes, too.

For me, white dresses, linen sets, and woven tops mark the end of winter’s cold and the start of summer. Clean and classic, white pairs well with any color, bringing ease to putting together an outfit while also keeping you cool. And isn’t simplicity what we want as the thermometer starts to rise and our calendar grows full with plans of beach excursions, pool days, and rooftop drinks? I’d have to say yes.

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Written by Allie White.

I’ve known Allie White for about 10 years now. Introduced to me by a former colleague, she came on board (contractually) with FP as our go-to beauty writer. As someone who grew up with a mother whose skincare regimen consisted of olive oil soap…and olive soap, I didn’t feel as though I could or should serve as an aficionado of this very complex space. Allie did–and continues to–craft insightful, first-account guidance of toners, serums, masks and makeup, and we’re so grateful for her knowledge and very honest delivery.

For this exercise, Allie stepped outside of the beauty world to share how she has survived and thrived after the birth of her children and subsequent recalibration of her family’s life.

I find it relatable, humorous at times, and action-worthy. I hope you do as well.

Carrie, Editorial Copy Director

Since the very day I was born right smack dab in the middle of autumn, I’ve been a “fall forever” girl. I’m a sucker for a festive autumnal activity (pumpkin patches, pumpkin foods, pumpkin carving…maybe I’m actually just really into pumpkins?!), fall produce (who needs a blueberry when you can spend $100 to pick your own apples!), back-to-school supply shopping, light knits and jackets, Halloween!

And since I’m a fall baby, I’ve always viewed September as the right time to start new things. Screw New Year’s resolutions; autumn is literally the earth signaling a fundamental reset, a changing of seasons so profound that everything hibernates for the next few months before emerging, evolved, from their cocoons. All this to say, for many years, I was all about fall and all about new beginnings taking place in fall and at no other time ever throughout the year.

But wouldn’t you know it, despite this Virgo’s very best efforts, it turns out I was not in full control of every tiny aspect of my life and the world around me and thus destiny laughed in my face a few weeks ago when it decided I was due for a big ‘ole shakeup in early summer.

I’ll spare you the boring (and personal) details but the general gist is that overnight, I went from having a lovingly predictable, mostly-balanced family schedule and responsibility share to a 180-degree shift. Where once I could get into bed whenever I felt like it and dawdle over nighttime skincare because I knew I had a guaranteed seven hours of slumber ahead of me, now I was lucky to get five. Semi-leisurely mornings where all I had to worry about was getting myself dressed and feeding my kids before my partner took over were replaced by sunrise alarm clocks and solo parenting from 5:30 to 9am. That 15-minute walk and comfortable train commute I’d done for the last four years? Now it was a frantic drive across town to two different drop-offs, a silent prayer that I could find parking, and a mad dash to the late train.

Cool, calm and collected I was not. And I hated it. I felt manic. And out of control. And, frankly, pissed. I know, I know, partnership is about supporting each other and being ok with things not being ok because this moment of “not ok-ness” is a blip in the grand scheme of things. But to a Type-A control freak, this didn’t feel like a blip and it wasn’t something I just wanted to ride out in the hopes that eventually things would stabilize.

So I did what any good Type-A control freak would do and I looked for what could be controlled in the chaos.

Dear reader, you may have already guessed what this Virgo did not foresee: there was very little within my control. Kids are unpredictable. Public transit is unpredictable. Your fridge fritzing out and needing an emergency repair is unpredictable. New four-month-old puppies are unpredictable.

But you know what was predictable? My bedtime routine. This span of time I’d always taken for granted was now all I wanted to think about. I wanted to meticulously work backwards from those crack-of-dawn alarms to figure out exactly when I should get my butt into the bathroom to shower and start my skincare routine so that I could then be comfortably in bed with enough time to read and decompress before turning out the lights at a time that would ensure I could get back to the previous glory of seven-to-eight hours of sleep.

Unfortunately, it turns out I needed to be in bed by 7:30 every night. Which meant a scheduling conflict with my kids’ bedtimes. And no time at all to reset the house, prep for the next day, walk the dog, spend 1:1 time with my partner or do anything remotely social with friends. No watching delicious reality TV. No making slow-but-steady progress on the embroidery hobby I’d recently started. No mindless scrolling on social media until your eyes get blurry and you’re shocked at what time it is.

It really broke my heart because the idea had been so lovely, but I knew Operation: Optimize Bedtime wasn’t going to fly.

And so I found myself having to do the hardest thing a schedule-worshipping Virgo can do: I abandoned the plan entirely. Against my better judgment and inherent nature, I stopped trying to outsmart the chaos with a spreadsheet and instead reluctantly embraced a little bit of the unknown.

I could manufacture the “perfect” schedule all I wanted but if it didn’t work with the reality of my wants or needs, it wasn’t actually perfect. And so maybe I needed to live with an imperfect one instead. That meant brutally auditing how I spent my remaining time and energy. The elaborate 12-step skincare routine? Cut to the tried-and-true basics. The mindless social media scrolling that served as an excuse for a buffer between day and sleep? Axed (mostly). Bingeing multiple episodes of a show? How about actually enjoying just one.

The biggest shift, though, was how I connected with my partner. When our long, cozy evening hangouts were swallowed by the new schedule, we got creative. Instead of waiting to check in on the couch after all the family chores were done, we did it over dinner or daytime phone calls during breaks or commutes. It wasn’t movie-caliber romance with flattering candle lighting, but it was real and it worked. (And we were rested.)

By letting go of my rigid ideal, I accidentally fell into healthier, leaner and more sustainable habits.

Back to my beloved calendar: we’re here at the arc of the summer solstice. And while I used to think September held the monopoly on fresh starts, maybe it’s actually the longest day of the year, a day literally defined by an abundance of light, that’s the perfect time to establish new habits. That extra light exposes the areas of our lives that need a little extra tending and make it a lot harder to hide from the things that aren’t working.

Or, actually, let me contradict my know-it-all Virgo vibes once again, but maybe actually there is no universal “ideal” time for a new beginning. Nature changes when the earth tilts and we change when our circumstances demand it.

The best time to build a new habit or practice or approach isn’t written in a calendar (sadly), dictated by a season (sorry, pumpkins), or waiting for 8am on a Monday. It’s simply the time that’s best for you, even if that means it shows up in June, wrapped in chaos.

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In celebration of Free People’s newest collaboration with renowned designer Matthew Williamson, I asked my dear friend Jemma–who also wrote this beautiful story about her relationship with her sister, who happens to live near Williamson in Mallorca–to share her experience of that undoubtedly magical place. It is the air, earth, and water which lulled both Matthew and Leighanne, and countless others, to “begin again.” In a way, through visiting, it allowed Jem to do the very same…

There is a certain magic woven into Deià—the kind that lingers in the air like salt on sun-warmed skin. Hidden between the ancient folds of the Tramuntana Mountains and the glittering Mediterranean Sea, the village feels suspended in another rhythm entirely, where days drift slowly and creativity blooms as naturally as the wild olive trees. Artists, poets, musicians, and free spirits have long been drawn to this tiny corner of the Balearic Islands. Along the honey colored stone streets or nestled chatting outside of coffee shops or bars you will find a group of like minded people saying sweet nothings in sun-faded linens, embroidered cottons, weathered leather sandals and baskets woven by hand. Dresses flow romantically through the streets and the Mediterranean sunsets light up the sky like a wild fire on a hot summer day… the silhouettes of the palm trees against the amber sky is enough to leave a mark on your memories. There is something about the people and the light here—soft, golden, almost dreamlike—that makes everything feel more alive, more romantic, more possible.

Mirador Striped Bootcut Trousers

Palma Printed Maxi Dress

Deia Duster

The Balearic Islands carry an undeniable energetic pull, a feeling of escape not only from the world, but from the noise within yourself. Time seems to dissolve here. Long afternoons melt into amber sunsets, music drifts through hidden terraces, and the sea sparkles like glass beneath the cliffs. In Deià, inspiration does not need to be searched for—it arrives effortlessly, carried in the mountain breeze and hidden in the stillness of the landscape.

People come here searching for beauty, but often leave having rediscovered parts of themselves they had forgotten. I’ve known people who have visited and never left. While visiting last summer I had a sweet conversation with someone who told me the pull comes from the mountains–“they speak to you..” and the unspoiled landscape, the agriculture and farming that surround you makes you want to peel back the layers.

Towering above the village, the Tramuntana Mountains feel ancient and almost mystical, like guardian angels wrapping Deià in a quiet sense of protection and wonder. Their presence is grounding yet expansive, inspiring the kind of reflection that leads to new beginnings.

There is a reason so many creatives have made lives here over the decades—not simply to create art, but to reconnect with a version of themselves they thought they had lost. Deià has a way of softening you, slowing you, awakening something dormant beneath the surface. You witness the locals tending to the land, burning fires in the morning to control their crops and to tame the wildfires that could pop up on hot summer days. It gives you the sense that not everything needs to be rushed, that you have time, and slowing down is good for the soul–lallowing creativity to speak to you rather than being forced.

To be in Deià is to surrender to a softer way of living. It is a place where reality blurs gently into fantasy, where beauty exists in the smallest details, and where every sunset feels like the beginning of something anew.

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About once per day, I have a grand idea about…something.

Sometimes it takes the shape of a concept that is yet to be. Like a new invention (stay tuned because I may have dreamed up a real winner today!), or a new hobby.

Sometimes it looks like the birth of something in my current periphery, like a new take on styling sweatpants (yes, I adore them–sorry to the uninitiated or uninterested).

Sometimes it manifests as the reworkings of something in my past; most likely, the edit of a previous conversation that went sour but is now righted–in my mind, at least.

What links these things, though some healthier and more constructive than others, is change.

I’ve always resisted change because it signals my resignation of a previous stance or habit (if I’m being honest), but I’ve always been told that growth can’t really occur without it. I guess both things can be true.

Summer isn’t necessarily associated with “new beginnings” the way January is, but I’ve taken a considerable step in accepting that it can and should be. And it’s in thanks to a random prompt I read about Juno.

If you didn’t know, the month of June is named after the supreme Roman goddess, Juno, who is traditionally affiliated with all things female–protection, nurturing, and new life.

(My first question–how did June get SO lucky? My birth month–July–was named after Julius Caesar, who was a heralded general… but do we know if he was even a moral man?)

But truly, what sticks with me about Juno is this: her representation as THE female principle of life, governing those aspects attributed to but not exclusively to women–fertility, care and protection. A true guardian angel.

To honor and employ these things well, one must dedicate themselves, wholly, to this aspect of their nature, to ensure that self and others are safe and loved. Goodness knows I try, and fail often, at consistently exercising these traits. But what’s really, really cool is that… if I revisit the “grand ideas” I shared, even something as trivial as jazzing up my sweatpants, all of those “ideas” are “beginnings.” Even amended beginnings, in an effort to right a wrong, to showcase love to myself, to nurture my family with presence and stability (especially if my invention should ever take flight).

Think of an amended beginning as a soft launch to change.

It doesn’t always mean taking a new job or moving across the country. Sometimes it looks like apologizing. Sometimes it looks like changing your mind. Sometimes it’s admitting that something which once worked no longer does.

I think that human nature compels us to constantly reinvent ourselves, so even if I’m resistant to it, I can’t fight it. And deep down, I don’t want to. (Actually….. I’m just thinking that maybe it’s my Aries Rising stubbornness that hits the brakes for me, versus fear? I need to talk to a therapist or palm reader or farmer about this.)

Maybe because humans aren’t meant to remain stagnant.

All of a sudden, change doesn’t seem so scary. Possibility becomes under the guise of change, of just trying to do better, be better, be bigger, feel better, feel loved.

All of this to say–look to Juno and what she embodies. Think about how one little change toward the good (whatever that looks like for you) can bring about powerful results. Lean into a new or AMENDED beginning because… you’re in charge of writing your own story, so you can really edit any time. Give yourself that permission.

Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing stories that reflect this idea of change/starting over/being vulnerable and brave. I hope that you continue to visit us, and as always, please feel free to share your thoughts. Is there anything that you’re beginning right now, or revising, that could help to empower and inspire us all?

I want to know–AND grow!

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I’ve known Merrie for quite a long time, and am constantly enamored by her unique take on music, art, and what she finds beautiful. She has an exquisite eye and insatiable curiosity. Plus, her mom lives near mine, so…I’m further inclined to appreciate her philosophy.

– Carrie Yotter, Editorial Director

I’ll admit it. I’m a teensy bit fussy. A weensy bit particular. I want things to be… Just right… I have a little Goldilocks streak. I don’t like being cold. I don’t like being too hot. I don’t want to be hungry. I don’t want to have a ridiculously capacious bag draining my fun side. You see, in a happy middle, just right. Mainly what I want to achieve is to leave the house in the morning, go back when the sun is down having walked the length and breadth of the city, and at all times prepared for the beauty of the unknown, which is to say, I can say “yes” more easily.

So, I have a little kit. Like Batman with fun little things in my utility belt. Come at me serendipity, I’m ready to follow you right into “why not.”

For my kit bag, I don’t want a tote as opportunistic as that seems. I’m curling my nose just thinking of the heft. The bigger the bag, the greater the temptation to fill it. My go-to is the belt bag, slung cross body for ultimate quick access. It keeps the edit tight. I like the constraint of the edit. Be warned, the bag also needs to be its own “just right” because I’ve gone the other directions and have a number of little bags so mini that barely carry a phone and a lip balm. My mistake. Through trial and error, I’ve found I’m a fan of the Cotopaxi belt bags for fun color, a vintage Coach dinky bag, I love our Lillie bag for being able to swap out straps and change a look to my particularity of the day. And I’m not NOT going to tell you the FP shop bag is kind of a move.

Maybe I’ll skew just a little bigger for the ultimate kit, which involves a newspaper in case there’s park time. The greatness of the newspaper is you can’t curate the read, the articles cover things my algorithm doesn’t (playoff chat here I come) and I can shed its layers as I’m done. I may be waiting in line for soft serve, but by the time it’s in hand I’ve got better banter and the bag has one less thing to accommodate.

A folding fan has been my true unlock. I love being out on the longest days of the year, so I want to smell sociable for the duration (travel deodorant is also on the packing list). One summer in Paris, the city of no AC, having stopped in the gift shop at the Orangerie I picked up a water lilies fan and I’ve maintained the habit in other destinations to gather a little collection of cooling souvenirs. It’s doing it all: heat management, reminder of a beautiful place, conversation starter. Seriously, be prepared that people may want to be an accidental participant to your comfort zone, because I’ve had ladies next to me at a baseball game beg me not to stop fanning myself given their passive relief with some air flow.

If you fancy a side quest read on fabulous fans, read ahead here.

On the other end, there’s the cold. Are we all wearing a slip dress this year? Do you feel like going to that movie in ten minutes? Fancy a wander around a gallery? Running into Sephora? Need milk? THESE ARE THE COLDEST PLACES! BE WARNED. I dislike lugging a sweater because it’s just too cozy to touch and, as you know, the bag has no room. This is where the shirt around the waist provides a layer of just right. With no further fuss, the poplin shirt pops on my shoulders and I’m back in the Goldilocks zone.

Of course there are your own must-haves to maximize the day; a perfect lip tint, a hair band, a disposable camera, headphones, a little snack, you do you. Whatever you need to get to Goldilocks: just right.

Curating a just-right tool kit, if you’re not armed with one already, might offer you a refreshing sense of starting anew. Though the New Year is admittedly famous for making such declarations, any time is really the right time to adopt a new ritual, philosophy… because you deserve as much.

We’ll be speaking to new beginnings quite a bit in the coming weeks. In the meantime, we’d love to know what’s in your own tool kits.

Comment away!

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Please join us in this coast-to-coast voyage.

First up, Portland. Set along a working harbor, the heartbeat of Maine boasts brick-laden streets and a bustling waterfront. Its pace is steady and purposeful-rooted in maritime history but ever-evolving. And cool, in both its vibe and sea breezes.

MUST-SEE’S IN PORTLAND, ME

Start your day off with some Vinyasa at the Portland Yoga Project. This studio places high value in things like accountability, accessibility, and community, definitely making them a local favorite!

Then walk to the heart of the Old Port where you can grab a coffee or tea from Bard. They have a variety of roasts, ranging from Guatemala to Vietnam, and they make all of their syrups in house. Maine is known for their maple syrup so the Maine Maple Latte is definitely a must try!

The Eastern Promenade is a 78-acre historic public park and rec area on the Eastern tip of the peninsula. There is something for everyone here, including the East End beach, trails, a boat launch, food trucks, and various athletic fields. Bring a picnic blanket and spend the day here taking in the Casco Bay views!

Print: A Bookstore is a locally owned, independent bookstore known not just for its wide selection, but also its event series, readings, and active involvement with the community!

A trip to Portland is just not complete without some lobster. The Highroller Lobster Co. doesn’t just have an amazing lobster roll, but they also have lobster grilled cheese, lobster tacos, etc. all served in the cutest indoor/outdoor retro diner.

End the day with a walk to the Top of the World on the East End. This is truly an if you know, you know spot and is worth all the hype. Here you’ll find one of the only spots in Portland where you can get a panoramic view of the entire city, and score a beautiful sunset.

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MUST-SEE’S IN PALM BEACH, FL

Start your trip at Drift Coffee–bright, locally owned and has the BEST banana bread! Great for pics lighter brunch

Then walk over to Worth Avenue.

• Explore hidden courtyards (Via Mizner is a must)

• Pop into boutiques + galleries

• Grab lunch at the Colony Hotel

Head to Mid-Town Beach for afternoon beach and bikes–easy access, less crowded than some spots. Bring cute towels + snacks. Rent bikes and cruise the Lake Trail, for perfect waterfront and mansion views.(Golden hour here is unreal!)

Dinner at Buccan–lively, fresh, great cocktails

FOR MORE OF A VINTAGE/WELLNESS VIBE:

Start at Celis Juice Bar & Cafe–smoothies, acai bowls, juices

Then, beach yoga OR scenic walk along the Palm Beach Lake Trail

Spend late morning/afternoon at The Breakers Palm Beach–walk the property (stunning architecture). Grab lunch at their seafood bar or poolside and take a few iconic photos.

Visit The Flagler Museum–Gilded Age mansion, super aesthetic interior

Dinner at Buccan–one of the best restaurants in the area where you can share plates (trendy but not stuffy)

After: casual drinks or a low-key night back at your stay

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MUST-SEE’S IN MONTECITO, CA

Best Dinner Spot: Little Mountain–elegant with romantic interior and intimate outdoor seating

Best Outdoor Space: San Ysidro Ranch (Stonehouse) for and outdoor dinner, but The Rosewood Miramar has the best drinks with a view (celeb hot spot)

Best Book Store: Chaucer’s Books

Best Coffee: Little King at The Post, but for the BEST matcha and mochi donuts visit Kin Bakeshop

Best Workout Place: Solos Pilates

Best Place to watch a sunset/sunrise: Butterfly Beach

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She was (and is) so easy to work with, and enriched so many of the stories we told at that time with her light yet very spirited hand. Her animated maps of a few of our National Parks remain some of my favorites. (And, Jessie has told some stories of her own, as in authoring the book “Thinking In Watercolor”.)

Recently, Jessie emailed me to let me know that she was creating 3D paper sculptures, should I be interested. Coincidentally enough, we were working through our May ‘26 catalog, which tells styling stories via three inspiring, same-but-different coastal towns, highlighted by our stores there… which led us to wonder, “could Jessie recreate our stores in Portland, Palm Beach, and Montecito?!”

Spoiler–she could. And did.

Jessie’s art continues to leave us in awe and wonder, so much so that we thought it might be nice to share a little bit about JESSIE with you all.

we’ve worked together for... I want to say 8, 9 years? (is that accurate?) can you tell everyone a little bit about those first few projects with fp? I’ve been creating gifs and watercolors for Free People for almost a decade. I’ve loved how open FP is to collaboration and they are always welcome to my thoughts and ideas, in which I have many.

you live in france, and are a transplant from the us. what prompted you to make such a substantial life change? I moved to Paris when I was 22 fresh out of undergrad in 2008. I had a year before I had to pay off my student loans and thought it was the time to travel in my life. I found a job as an au pair and moved a few weeks later. I met the elusive French lover who became my husband. We now have a very French kid who likes to correct my French. I’ve been here for so long now that I can’t really consider living anywhere else at this point. Paris gets a lot sweeter with time.

3 things that france serves you, re: sources of your greatest inspiration? As a bonafide artist, I get to visit museums for free which is always an excellent way to spend time. I love following the changing of the seasons by shopping at my thrice weekly outdoor market. I’m obsessed with understanding light and color and observing Paris in all of its many nuances.

we’ve collaborated on still and animated illustrations in the past. what pushed you to explore art via 3-D realm? I work with watercolor on paper. One day I had the idea to create a stop motion recipe by cutting up a bunch of old illustrations from my archives. It was so fun building these imaginary worlds and it was much more enjoyable than animating on my computer. I’ve shown these objects in art exhibitions and people love the playfulness. The joy I feel making them easily translates to how they are received.

tell us about what your process entails... how do you take pictures and transform into something with true, real depth? My background is in theatrical costume design where I learned pattern making and draping. This helps me to look at a 2D image and visualize it in the third dimension. I usually sculpt the 3D paper object first through careful measurement, scoring with an Exacto knife and folding. Then I paint it with watercolor. There’s a lot of trial, error and hot glue involved.

what is your greatest challenge in working with paper? and your greatest triumph? Now that I’m working 3D, storage has become a new issue for me. The other day I thought “what am I going to do with all these fake lemon slices I’ve accumulated?” The coolest thing is I love how I can turn a simple, flat sheet of paper into something so sculptural like a flower or a historic Parisian monument.

favorite coastal town you’ve ever visited...I just recently visited Dinard in Brittany for the first time which was absolutely charming.

what does your dream home look like? A light-filled Parisian apartment overflowing with our artwork (my husband is a photographer and artist) and those of our friends.

what’s next for you to tackle? I’m writing and illustrating a graphic memoir.

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My sister had always been a compass. Even though I was the first one to make the bold move to come to the US to work for my dream company, without her I could not have made such a big transition. Together at FP, our sisterhood translated into quiet mentorship: a reassuring glance across a meeting room, a subtle nod that said you’ve got this, late-night calls breaking down office politics into something manageable. I learned quickly, not just from observation, but from years of trust already built. We had this way…like a conversation that never needed words.

We dressed alike without trying, reaching for similar silhouettes, colors, and textures as if guided by the same invisible thread. It wasn’t imitation—it was alignment. Even in a crowded office, you could spot us: two figures in quiet harmony, laughing at something no one else quite caught. We ate lunch together more often than not, shared glances across open-plan desks, and celebrated each other’s wins as if they were our own.

When my sister became a mother, something shifted—but not in the way people might expect. It didn’t create distance; it deepened our bond. In witnessing her step into motherhood, I found myself quietly invited into that world too—not fully, not in the literal sense, but in the tenderness of it. I learned how to soothe, how to hold space, how to care in a way that felt instinctive and ancient. As sisters, especially being far from our own mother, we had always “mothered” each other in small, invisible ways—through encouragement, protection, and patience. But now, that instinct took on a new shape. It was as if my sister's having a child opened a door, allowing me to experience a version of motherhood through love, proximity, and shared responsibility. And in return, I offered support that steadied my sister in those early, uncertain days—proof that nurturing, like everything else between us, was something we carried together.

Beneath the ease of our closeness grew something deeper—a shared leap of faith. We had left behind familiarity, family, and everything that once defined “home,” choosing instead to build something new together. And in that unfamiliar place, we became anchors for one another. Not just sisters, but partners in reinvention. Two peas in a pod, yes—but also two halves of a story still unfolding, shaped by courage, loyalty, and the quiet, unshakable bond that had carried us across an ocean.

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I recently celebrated my TWENTY-FIFTH anniversary with Free People.

(See here if you missed my story about life leading up to that pivotal moment.)

Though I try not to take that for granted, there are certainly moments that might get lost in my periphery because, well, FP has been home for so long. As we’ve certainly seen a lot of growth in that time, my focus may sometimes remain locked in a previous iteration of what the brand was. So, I tasked our two newest copywriters, Sarah and Claire, with sharing their take on Free People, as they have the freshest eyes and ears of the group. And with that, I hope that all of us might see something we haven’t taken notice of until now.

Carrie Yotter, Editorial Copy Director

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We (Sarah and Claire) started at Free People at roughly the same time, joining the copywriting team in late summer 2025. There is always something daunting about introducing yourself to a new place and role, but our time here has been overwhelmingly positive and filled with memorable moments. Now that we’ve been at Home Office for eight months, we wanted to reflect on our roles, what we’ve learned, and where we’re going. Here’s what we’ve learned so far:

Copywriting Day-to-Day

How does your day as a copywriter start?

Claire: Every morning, we pull a list of ISNO (in stock, not online) styles and break them down into the many different product categories we cover. I write for shoes, intimates, and beauty + wellness, so I spend the day researching, corresponding with relevant teams, and writing. I love seeing what shoe trends we’re buying into and the newest beauty products coming out.

What’s your favorite part of your workday?

Sarah: My job is primarily to write the product copy for specific product classes: tops, sweaters, sweatshirts, dresses, sets (like skirt or pant sets), jackets, and coats. So, when I’m in the office, it’s fun to see everyone’s take on the products I write about and how they style them to suit their own personal tastes.

One day, while my parents were in town, I brought them to the office, and my mom mentioned that people-watching was her favorite part of the visit. She was in awe of everyone’s different outfits and styles around the Navy Yard; she compared it to a “fashion show every day.” It definitely made me appreciate my surroundings more.

When I work from home, I love looking at the different products I have to write about each day. It’s like having VIP access to the different products we drop each week, my very own sneak peek.

What’s your least favorite part of your workday?

Sarah: I have a really bad habit of being glued to my desk. I’m trying to get better at moving, to make the most of the beautiful workspaces in the office.Sometimes I’ll take my computer to the lobby couches to work, or since it’s so nice out, I’ll take advantage of the weather and work by the water. It’s nice to have opportunities to get away from my desk and enjoy the scenery at the Navy Yard.

An Inside Scoop

How would you describe the Home Office culture?

Claire: To me, the words that come to mind are creative and fast-paced. From desk decor to slide decks to the office events, there is a certain creative flair to everything that is done here. Regardless of our different jobs and experiences, everyone here is cut from the same cloth when it comes to a love for creativity and visual taste.

What’s your favorite thing about FP’s office?

Sarah: The FP offices are located in refurbished shipbuilding structures, and everywhere you look, you can see the remnants of that past. The open-air layout, exposed brick, and industrial vibe allow tons of sunlight to flood the space. My parents have been restoring my childhood home throughout my life, so it’s really comforting to work in an older building similar to the ones I grew up in.

It also helps that everrrrrything is aesthetically pleasing, from the racks and racks of clothes to the design boards hanging on the walls. It feels like stepping into an artist’s studio every day.

Tell me more about the office appearance.

Claire: I think if you imagine a Free People store as a corporate office, the image you get is pretty spot on. The whole building is a closet, essentially. There’s a constant buzz; racks of clothing are always being carted from one building to another; you can catch the studio camera flash from your desk, and see the site models walk right in front of you. It is a very lively environment, much like the brand itself.

What’s something that people would find surprising about the office culture at FP?

Sarah: The FP office and its employees reflect the brand itself—bright and welcoming. Having previously worked in fashion, I had expected the environment to be cliquey and exclusive. However, everyone at FP has truly made an effort to make me feel included. We have FP Movement events called “We Tried It,” where employees from both the FP brand and the Movement team participate in exercise classes or athletic events. I attended one at the beginning of the year where we learned how to play ice hockey. It was an exciting way to showcase the brand and its products while also engaging in a fun activity. It was nice to attend as someone new to the brand, and I met a bunch of new people I hadn’t met before.

What does a dog-friendly office look like?

Claire: I remember hearing about dogs being allowed in when I interviewed, but I was surprised by just how many dogs are here. Every size, breed, and personality of dog, and the office is set up for them with a dog park and dog-centered activities. We had a pup costume parade for Halloween, and it seems like every office party snack has a corresponding dog snack. Every day, I get a little closer to adopting one of my own.

All About the Brand

What’s something you’ve added to the brand?

Sarah: I really like that my team trusts me to introduce new things or ideas to the brand. They have a very open-minded policy and are always willing to listen to my thoughts or feelings about my work. Recently, my boss was very open to a new idea I had for highlighting natural fibers in our products. Personally, I’m a very fabric- or textile-minded shopper. I think that’s greatly influenced by my background as an avid thrifter. I’m always looking for clothing pieces made with 100% cotton or other natural fibers. I wanted to create an easy way for customers to learn when a product is made of completely natural fibers and how best to care for it in the long run, so it can become a staple for decades to come.

That’s where the idea for fabric care highlights came to me. I started by adding short blurbs before the product description to help customers know how to care for products made from natural fibers. That was one of my first big pitches, and I’m glad my team trusted me enough to see it through.

What FP vocab have you learned?

Claire: Some important terms I’ve learned: SKU, or stock keeping unit, is the number we use to track a style across different platforms; this is super crucial in the fashion world. CC, or color choices, are the different colors we have available for a specific style. WTF here does not stand for what you would expect (usually), but instead, We The Free, our in-house brand of heritage styles.

Discounts, Freebies, and More Perks

Is it true you get free clothes?

Claire: This is the first thing that people ask. When it comes to freebies, pretty often someone will send out a Slack about shoes or beauty products up for grabs. It is also common for different teams to seek out volunteers to test out our newest jeans or tops, which is a fun way to try out new items while helping the team learn more about their fit and feel.

What’s the discount like?

Sarah: The discount is definitely a nice perk, especially for someone who has a small (large) shopping problem. It’s also nice to use the discount to buy gifts for my friends or family. When the holidays rolled around last year, I warned my family that they were only getting things from FP, Urban Outfitters, or Anthropologie. The products are so nice, it’s hard not to take advantage.

What is the office snack situation?

Claire: Jharoka, our on-site coffee shop, always has an assortment of fun seasonal beverages and pastries. Plus, at 3 pm every day, the 3 pm snack is announced, where the kitchen comes up with a fun, unique snack (think fruit tarts and zucchini fries).

We also have a monthly hoagie club, where we pick out a local shop to bulk order hoagies from and enjoy them at the office. As a new Philadelphian, this has been a great way to learn about local delis and get introduced to the hoagie culture (which I would’ve mistakenly called sandwiches in the past). Our team even enjoyed a 3 ft long hoagie together, which we had no problem finishing.

Impact and Thinking Ahead

How has working at FP influenced your life?

Sarah: It’s changed my life in many ways. This is my first time working in-house for a fashion brand. Before, I worked in the communications industry, mainly for fashion media companies, writing articles on trends, consumer impact, and other fashion-related topics. While this is still the same field, it’s a different side of the business I hadn’t experienced before. Working for FP also brought me to Philly, a place I had never been, let alone visited. All in all, it was a fun risk that brought me to an amazing city with fun, interesting people, and a host of new experiences.

What do you want to learn in the future at FP?

Claire: I am so inspired by so many of the people here, so I hope to learn much from them about personal style, creativity, and reaching your goals in the workplace. While there is an element of administrative work, answering emails, and hopping on Zoom calls, I feel lucky that so much of the daily work that I do is creative, and I look forward to continuing to grow these skills.

What’s something you’re looking forward to in the future?

Sarah: I’m looking forward to expanding my impact at the brand, whether that means writing more articles for our Substack or blog, learning to better inform customers through product descriptions, or just enjoying the warm weather at the Navy Yard.

Recently, the brand held an all-company meeting where various employees received awards for how long they’ve been with FP and FP Movement. As the awards were being handed out to those celebrating five, 10, 15, and 25 years with the company, it was hard to picture what our lives would be like. What stories would we tell? Would they be full of passion, dedication, and nostalgia? Looking to the future, we can only imagine our impact on the brand and how, in turn, it will impact us.

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But I won’t change my mind. I’ve been waiting. And I’m being rewarded. I’m lucky to have garden space and I’m starting to see the emergence of all the little darlings from the earth. The world has been busy underground all this time, not resting and grumping about in the darkness like me. It’s been making new things, putting down roots and secretly chatting about future plans.

Lykke Li helped my momentum, with a newly released a new single Lucky Again that samples Max Richter’s interpretation of Vivaldi’s Spring.

A seasonal treat of Spring is rhubarb, and forced rhubarb has such romance and is so vividly pink that it really lifts my spirits. Can you think of anything more fabulous than a vegetable dressing up as a fruit in its glorious pink fit, and growing by candlelight. A pop of pink is always something to enjoy.

And the last thing to top it (me) off is a Spring bonnet in the form of the hair scarf. I’m trying to grow in my bangs, and I think this will really help make it less painful and, after seeing them worn in a chic minimal way for Calvin Klein and in a granny chic way in Copenhagen, I think I’m in good company.

And with this I’m elevating the opening of Spring to a favorite thing. Raindrops on roses, pink pie, let’s celebrate.

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