just a girl with a zest for getting dressed & an appetite for online shopping.
“Do we really need another Substack?” I’ve been contemplating and asking myself as I write this first post. Needless to say, the answer to that question was inconclusive, so here we are & how did we get here?
Since I can remember, getting dressed has been a highlight of my day. I see getting dressed (in a good outfit) as a tool and take great pride in the “fits” I curate. I shamelessly love when others love them too, and find so much joy in coming up with a new outfit combination—or wearing something from my wardrobe I haven’t touched in years. And while I aim to exude an effortless aesthetic, each look is in fact very effortful.
As someone who has worked in the fashion industry—and on a fashion salary, for 12+ years, I’ve always been on a quest for the “look for less.” Looks inspired by the runway and latest trends, but affordable and realistic for my current income. It’s a real thrill when I find the item(s) I’ve been coveting on sale, but I also feel confident when I decide to purchase those “investment” pieces that I know I’ll wear over and over again.
As my style has evolved, I’ve found myself caring less about trends and focused more on timeless, sophisticated silhouettes. That, coupled with my limited closet space in NYC, has led me to the “capsule wardrobe” and a closet filled with pieces I’ll wear on rotation for years to come. With this evolution has come the simplification of getting dressed, which I have come to realize doesn’t come easy for most.
While I head down the road of fewer better, it feels like many are going down the path of more is more. With fast fashion sites and TikTok hauls aplenty, I see why it’s hard not to fall into the trap of buying just to buy.
I now think through every purchase before “checking out.” The contemplation phase can be long, with endless open tabs and full carts waiting to make it to that final processing window. You can rest assured that if an item or product has made it to my closet or medicine cabinet I’ve already spent the time (a lot of it!) confirming it’s really worth the spend—only “the best best” comes home to my 680 square foot apartment :)
So here it goes! A bi-weekly newsletter of pieces, sometimes places, and things that I’m loving, coveting, and fixating on. An outlet to highlight and share the items I’m thoughtfully sourcing, as well as the staples in my current rotation that have streamlined my getting ready process. While my love of fashion and online shopping has led us here, I’ll be sharing much much more— like my go-to beauty items, favorite restaurants, home decor, guides from recent travel, and everything in between!
I’m scouring the internet for the latest and greatest so you don’t have to, and I can’t wait to share all my favorite finds with you on a regular basis.
To kick things off, sharing the best best essentials I wear at least once a week.
Xx, my best best!
Alex Mill Button-Back Crewneck Sweater in Dark Navy | This is a piece I’ve treasured for years. I love the versatility—wear it as a crewneck, reverse it and wear it as an open cardigan, or drape it over your shoulders. It’s my go-to sweater for travel!
Reformation Layla Satin Skirt | I wear this skirt 1-2 times a week (this week I wore it three times!) this skirt + tank/tee + blazer = perfect look!
Argent Slim Blouse in Ivory | Wear it tucked into denim, trousers, shorts, etc.! This silk twill is just a little more elevated than your standard silk, and with the smart cuff within the wrist you can push this sleeve up and it will stay put all day.
Citizens of Humanity Alya Baggy Cuffed Crop Jeans | COH has become one of my favorite denim brands and this style is my most worn pair—so much so that I purchased the short equivalent for for summer. Wear them cuffed or relaxed, love them so much.
Everlane The Day Ballet Flat | Very much a dupe of the Mansur Gavriel ballet flat, but a fraction of the price. I have these in burgundy and can confirm they are comfortable, chic, and an easy way to elevate a look.
Sezane Gaspard Cardigan in Mottled Grey | My go-to cardigan for shoulder draping.
DONNI The Rib Tank | I am SO passionate about this tank, and really all things DONNI. I love this tank so much that I bought a second one! Hands down my favorite base piece—all year round. It’s so fitted you don’t need a bra and I can confirm that it does not lose its stretch—even after 100+ wears.
JENNYBIRD Florence Earrings | We love a staple earring! Highly recommend layering with the JENNYBIRD Puffy U-Link Earrings—if you have a second hole available :-)
DRAGON DIFFUSION Nantucket Tote Bag | This bag is really a crowd pleaser! Currently using this tote as my ‘work bag.’ It’s also the perfect bag for running around on the weekend. You can fit SO much inside, and I love/appreciate the deeper/wider armhole. Perfect for all my schlepping around the city! If you’re not familiar with DRAGON DIFFUSION I highly recommend checking out their other bags. So many great shapes!
Argent Copain Blazer in Black | My closet is filled with lots of great blazers, but this style has become my favorite. I have it in two colors, and I wear it weekly (sometimes multiple times a week!). Pair it with denim, trousers, silk skirts, etc. Like the blouse, Argent blazers also feature a smart cuff. So you can push up your sleeves as needed—and they will stay put all day!
✨✨✨