Balenciaga curated on LTK

NEW BLACK BAGS

A few new black bags have caught my attention. I’ve already talked about a tan Balenciaga Rodeo in this post, but think it looks especially strong in black. The somewhat slouchy but still structured shape is appealing. And I love the subtle warmth the gold hardware brings to the Rodeo. My preference is the smaller of the sizes offered. Also in the same vein of slightly undone is Prada’s Buckle bag or the even simpler Aimee shoulder bag. These are all a nice departure from the more formal, structured bags that have been on my radar the last several years.

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NEW BLACK BAGS A few new black bags have caught my attention. I’ve already talked about a tan Balenciaga Rodeo in this post, but think it looks especially strong in black. The somewhat slouchy but still structured shape is appealing. And I love the subtle warmth the gold hardware brings to the Rodeo. My preference is the smaller of the sizes offered. Also in the same vein of slightly undone is Prada’s Buckle bag or the even simpler Aimee shoulder bag. These are all a nice departure from the more formal, structured bags that have been on my radar the last several years. LTKSeasonal LTKStyleTip

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Balenciaga | Mytheresa (US/CA)

Prada | Mytheresa (US/CA)

Prada | Mytheresa (US/CA)

Rodeo Mini Leather Top Handle Bag | Moda Operandi (Global)

Small Rodeo Leather Top Handle Bag | Moda Operandi (Global)

Settling into a variation on my dinner uniform: jeans, blazer, blouse and heels

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SUNDAY STYLE - OCTOBER
Street style inspiration is back, Calvin Klein looks good, pencil skirts and argyle knits on my radar...plus, late to the game but loving pilot frames.

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A handful of the items, colors, styling, and images shaping my September moodboard for More Of, Less Of. The themes covered this month include zeroing in on my current style, bringing back old school classics, adding personality to an outfit, reminiscing on old Vogue, and an ongoing appreciation of collected decor. Read on for the details and more.

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A lot of my fall inspiration comes in the form of creating a palette around familiar pieces. This week it’s a blue and brown story stemming from the Ralph Lauren Home Rue Boheme Collection. I’m especially drawn to a deep, rich blue which is pretty new for me meaning I’ll most likely be purchasing a piece or two to create some fresh looks.

The key to the richness of this palette lies in the varying textures that bring depth and visual interest to each outfit. Consider matte suede loafers paired with lustrous silk blouses, creating a beautiful contrast between smooth and textured surfaces. Even the blue pants above come to life when rendered in soft corduroy, adding dimension that makes the color look more interesting.

These earthy browns ground the vibrant blue perfectly, think cognac leather boots or chocolate cashmere sweaters. The interplay between warm and cool tones creates a harmony that feels right for fall.

I’d finish up with a Devon Woodhill shimmering tigers-eye pendant that serves as an intentional polishing touch. The warm brown striations add just the right amount of luxurious detail to tie everything together with effortless elegance.

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Diving deep into curating a fall wardrobe.

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This season, I'm investing in the richest tones autumn offers: chocolate browns, burgundy, and suede pieces that will form the foundation of my fall wardrobe.

I'll balance matte textures with a hit of shine through crinkled patent leather (love these loafers!). The combination creates visual interest without overthinking it.

And I like how a stacked wood heel brings an organic element to a beautiful suede boot. Weathered finishes that feel worn add character to this palette too. A Miu Miu bag speaks nicely to this theme. It brings in a note of vintage beauty which could further translate to jewelry. One-of-a-kind special pieces always elevate!

These details help create a palette that's sophisticated for any setting. It's an approach to seasonal dressing I've been referring to often lately, with palette taking priority over specific items for creating interesting combinations rather than following trends.

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A mood board of four very good, unrelated finds. Each piece stands on its own as a simple style statement. All keepers. Full story on Substack.

1. These jeans strike a perfect balance with their uniform fade - far more sophisticated than heavily distressed denim.

2. Love these beautiful drop earrings. They'd create stunning contrast against my go-to all-black evening looks or bring unexpected sophistication to more casual ensembles - the kind of accessory that elevates everything it touches.

3. Snake print accessories work beautifully when used sparingly and strategically. A delicate strap on sandals or a petite handbag introduces just the right amount of texture and visual interest to simple outfits.

4. These new Prada frames capture a sporty sensibility with tinted lenses and clean rectangular lines. The silhouette manages to feel both contemporary and classic - style that will transcend seasonal trends.

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Redefining Formal Wear: Simple, Elegant, and Endlessly Versatile

Even if an event calls for formal attire, I skip the preconceived idea of what formal wear should look like. I prefer to wear something simple and elegant that’s elevated enough for me to confidently mingle with the dressier crowd. The bonus points hit when the same outfit can be turned down a notch and have a life for other moments - a relaxed dinner party, cocktail party, destination dress, etc. Instead of being confined by rigid rules about what constitutes "appropriate" formal wear, I've learned to trust my instincts and choose pieces that feel like me while still honoring the occasion.

The key is finding that sweet spot where elevated meets effortless. A silk slip dress can work just as beautifully at a black-tie event as it does at a beachside dinner, swapping heels for sandals and adding a relaxed cardigan. This approach has made my wardrobe infinitely more practical. Instead of owning separate outfits for every type of occasion, I invest in versatile pieces that can be styled up or down with shoes and jewelry depending on the moment.

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Elevating the Ordinary

I may never purchase a pair of black flip flops this season, even though they've been on my radar. They're incredibly versatile and very much in style, but I've reached fatigue with the overwhelming availability across price points that run the gamut. I'll probably pass on the basics now that I've found a more elevated style from Tom Ford - so simple in softly braided suede with a delicate gold T-bar adding major style points. They're a notch above the rest.

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The Outfit Defining Top

The top I want multiples of right now looks like this: sleeveless, special neck detail (meaning draped, drawstring, funnel), gathered or asymmetrical silhouette, interesting fabric. It’s a nod to pieces from The Row that’ve gained enough momentum to trickle down into a multitude of interpretations over the last several seasons. Look at the striped double-layered silk top or the layered cotton gauze style above if you want the OG. If you’re more interested in an alternative that perhaps better suits your personal style and pocketbook, check out at the links below.

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Today’s Sunday Style Newsletter on Substack includes an outfit defining top, an elevated flip flop, adding personal style to a tech ring, and rethinking what formal wear looks like.

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A FRESH WAY TO STYLE BLACK

I’ll never abandon black in my wardrobe, so I’m always looking for ways to make it feel fresh. This season, I’ll introduce green.

An emerald sweater, a bright olive skirt, or sage pants will bring life to my favorite black pieces.

The key is to break it up with a pop of white to emphasize the contrast. What I love about this combination is how sophisticated it feels without trying too hard. Black with green is one of those color pairings that feels both unexpected and completely natural. The darker the green, the more dramatic the effect.

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Leaning into fall fashion even though I know we won’t get a glimpse of cooler weather for several months. Living in California, the best way to partake in fall fashion is to shift the palette. Today, I’m talking about the pants that are replacing my jeans, a fresh way to style black, a good shoe, beautiful bags, and a striking watch you don’t see on everyone’s wrist - all in the context of dipping into fall fashion.

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NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE FIND:

On a recent trip to Portugal in May, a padded black bomber became the surprising hero. I loved its sporty vibe that gave my wardrobe a contemporary edge. I only wished it wasn’t so heavy. Note to self…find a lightweight style to wear in warmer weather.

A contender popped up online, but I wasn’t sold based on how it was styled. I scrolled on. In store, I spotted it again and saw its relevance. The slightly textured sheen, subtle interesting details, lots of pockets - it was a definite winner I wouldn’t have considered if I hadn’t seen it in person. I purchased it in navy (so dark it almost reads black). It’s available in ivory too which I’m seriously considering. When I love an item, I buy doubles, and this may be one of those special pieces.

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NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PREVIEW
Thinking ahead…I like to have a few items on hand I think would be universally good for a last minute gift. Sets from Byredo, Le Labo, Diptyque, and Salt & Stone are always well received. Or, if I see something I know a friend would love, I’ll purchase it now and gift it later for a birthday or just because gift. Think about hostess gifts too…a beautiful carving board set or picnic blanket are great for the right occasion.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKHome #LTKSaleAlert

NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PREVIEW:

Fill in any voids in the kitchen with well priced cookware and kitchen essentials. Le Creuset pieces to add to a collection, fresh wine glasses, cookware sets...there's a nice selection included in the sale.

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NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PREVIEW:

For the home, I’m looking at lightweight blankets for summer, a fresh stack of towels, and Le Creuset pieces to fill in my collection. I have a lot of friends whose kids are moving to new apartments or homes and they (myself included) enjoy helping them put it together and of course provide a generous housewarming gift. Parachute or Boll & Branch bedding, cookware, or tabletop and kitchen essentials are good to consider.

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NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PREVIEW-BEAUTY PICKS

Several of my repeat beauty purchases are included in the sale. I keep doubles of my favorite lipsticks (one for home, one for my bag) and back stock on anything I know I’ll buy again anyway. I downsize my makeup selection for travel and pack efficient sets and mini sized product. Eye crayons that don’t need sharpeners, cream blush that doesn’t require a brush, compact eye shadows…those types of things. Some are sets exclusive to the sale, so I’ll shop for those now.

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NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PREVIEW

My fashion picks include one of my favorite Max Mara insulated jackets I’d want for travel. The fabric lends itself to day or night activities and the color is beautiful. I also love Max Mara’s classic double face wool wrap coat (not pictured) which is $1,100 and will go up to $1650 after the sale. The Frame jeans I’ve been wearing non-stop the last few months are part of the sale and I may get another in the dark wash…they’re that great! My sneaker wardrobe needs a refresh and a retro inspired style will do the trick. Love these from Vince in black or cream. I have the Vince crew in camel and it’s a go-to for silhouette, neckline and weight. I would get tons of wear from one in black or white. Out of all the stripe sweaters I have in my closet, none are sleeveless. The Rag & Bone top is an easy addition to layer under jackets. And a classic poplin shirt dress from Lafayette round out my picks.

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Summer style needs black accents .

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Catching up on posts and a dinner look from the week. Focused on wearing the things in my closet and repeating favorites. You’ve seen the jacket plenty of times. Here I’m wearing it with a pair of straight long Frame jeans that look best on me with heels. Flats don’t cut it with this silhouette. Then scroll for a new post on how summer style needs black. I’ll link in the bio to take you straight to the read.
1. Chanel jacket - vintage (I think from @kern1store )
2. Frame The Ruler jeans - new
3. Bottega Veneta pouch - old but still available
4. Chanel heels - old

Summer Style Moodboard: Relaxed looks always dominate my vision of summer style. Loose clothing, easy slip on flats, a pale palette with lots of white thrown in is the vibe. Pair that with minimal makeup, undone hair, glowing skin (a forever goal), and a swipe of lipstick. My favorite thing to do to with all of the casualness is to inject a tailored piece or something less expected with personality. A great piece of jewelry, a fabulous scarf, a beautiful bag - anything that summarizes a collected look. You know that woman who is wearing something very basic but you have to look twice to dissect why it’s so good? That’s the look. A blazer with soft loose jeans, a tailored trouser with a t-shirt are good places to start. Ground those pieces with a casual flat sandal. The somewhat mismatched pairing is what makes the outfit work.

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WHAT I WISH I PACKED MORE OF
The shirt that does everything.

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SUMMER STYLE NEEDS BLACK

I think almost everything looks better with a black accent. It's the punctuation mark to an outfit, like a period at the end of a sentence. It creates a balance and structure that complements whatever its paired with. My summer wardrobe always includes black and I'm routinely pairing it with white. I love the sharp contrast. The fabric defines the mood entirely. Crisp cottons deliver polish, while textured linens offer the relaxed sophistication that defines the season.

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STYLING MY CLOSET

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WEARING LATELY

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The SUMMER TRIO

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IN MY CARRY-ON TOTE

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THE KEY TO CARRY-ON TRAVEL

An Instagram post of my carry-on bag and tote generated lots of interest and questions. I listed all of the items I packed and mentioned how the perfect tote bag was the key piece to make carry-on travel feasible. Aside from being generously sized, a carry-on tote must have a zipper to close (extra points if it’s a double zipper), have a roomy interior with pockets plus additional exterior pockets, and a sleeve to slip over the handle of a carry-on roller suitcase. This tote has those features, plus it’s waterproof – handy if someone in front of you spills something on the ground in flight and your bag is sitting on the moisture for hours.

The perfect tote is the large Baseline Tote by Briggs and Riley. You can read about the numerous features on the sites that sell it, but just know, it’s sturdy and well-made. I wouldn’t be able to go carry-on without it.

#LTKTravel