My Silk Scarf Collection

Today's post features one of my all-time favorite things - silk scarves! At this point it should come as no surprise that I love to collect and wear silk scarves more than any other accessory in my wardrobe.

As you've heard me say countless times, theres just something so classic and chic about silk scarves that I can't get enough of. Whether I'm wearing one in my hair, around my neck or on my handbag, I think theres rarely an outfit that can't be made better with the addition of a silk scarf. Beyond their beautiful prints and intricate designs, I think silk scarves are a wonderful way to update even your most basic pieces - allowing you to get more wear out of them without anyone being the wiser.

Needless to say, this love affair of silk scarves has translated into a small collection that I am excited to share with you now. Below, I've outlined each of the pieces that make up my collection along with where I purchased them so that you can find your perfect silk scarf too. 

7 Small-Medium Square Silk Scarves

In total, I have 11 silk scarves - 7 of which are small-medium and square so let's start there.

First up, is the bright pink number you see to the left. I purchased this light, chiffon silk scarf at ABC Home & Carpet in the city and couldn't be happier with it. As you can see, it's a vibrant shade of pink and is made of the lightest chiffon so that it isn't uncomfortable to wear in the warmer weather.

Next up is a small Chanel scarf that I purchased at Century 21 a few years ago. I love this scarf for it's simplistic design and almost monochromatic feel. My favorite way to wear it is with a bold blouse so that the grey, black and white can really shine.

Along the same lines as the Chanel scarf are two great vintage Ralph Lauren polka-dot scarves that I purchased from a great seller on Etsy. The navy and cream polka-dot one is a lightweight chiffon silk that I love for the warmer months, and the cream and red one is heavier weight silk that I love to wear during the cooler months.     

My next medium sized scarf is a lovely vintage one that I picked up on Etsy and love for it's unique design. What I love about this scarf is that despite the neutral color palette (navy, white, black, maroon) it features a whimsical print like this scarf that further enhances the whimsy of an already great piece.

My sixth scarf is another vintage Ralph Lauren that I also purchased on Etsy for a very reasonable price. This scarf, which has a lovely floral pattern is one of my favorites. The last of my medium sized scarves is another lightweight chiffon option from Etsy that features the loveliest nautical print - I found a similar one here. Beyond just the incredible nautical pattern, I love the vibrant but classic shades of red, green, white and blue.  

4 Large Square Silk Scarves  

For large silk scarves I have four options that I love. The first, is a classic olive green shade with timeless chainlink pattern (note: I recommend starting with a neutral colored, chainlink patterned scarf if you're just beginning your foray into silk scarves). I purchased this scarf from the now closed C.Wonder and have been incredibly pleased with the quality and design. Unfortunately, C.Wonder shuttered a bit ago and after making the move to QVC, their scarves are now made from polyester. That said, I encourage you to scour eBay if you're looking for one of their original iterations.

My next large scarf is by Tiffany and is one I purchased from TheRealReal.com - a wonderful online retailer of second-hand and vintage goods. Beyond their incredible array of inventory, TheRealReal also does a phenomenal job of vetting their goods and guaranteeing authenticity - which I love because it removes the burden from the seller.  

Next up, is another Etsy buy and scarf that I wear constantly. This scarf (the "La Promenade De Longchamps") was my first Hermes purchase and has the most beautiful blue, gold, brown and green equestrian print. When I first became interested in silk scarves Hermes was unsurprisingly a brand that came up time and time again as the leader of the block and their scarves are undeniably gorgeous and well made.

That said though, Hermes scarves purchased at retail can be quite a bit of money to fork over for an accessory so I encourage you to shop second-hand. For this particular scarf I shopped eBay and was careful to purchase from a trusted seller and then authenticate the scarf myself before buying. I'm working on a post and video about how I second-hand and vintage shop so I'll stop there for now, but can't emphasize enough the importance of authenticating any designer purchase you make before you buy.

My last large silk scarf is also by Hermes (it's the "Le Jardin de Leila") and is another that I purchased from TheRealReal.com. As you can see in the picture above, this scarf features varying shades of blue on a white background. The final effect is the perfect amount of color for a neutral look and if you're looking for a scarf that you can wear with the most items I would recommend that you look for one with 1-2 main colors. That way, you can easily mix-and-match it until you become more comfortable with pattern and color mixing.

That's everything! Those are the 11 scarves that I'm lucky enough to have in my personal collection. If you're interested, I've also filmed a corresponding video which shows each scarf in more detail that you can view below. Also, I have linked some of my favorite silk scarves available now in case you're on the hunt for a great option to gift someone special or add to your own collection.  

Before I go, I'd love to know if you have any silk scarves and what they look like. What are some of your favorite ways to wear them? Let me know in the comments down below and thank you for stopping by! 

Until next time,

Audrey

Winter Capsule Wardrobe Planning and Inspiration

It's that time again - capsule wardrobe planning! Even though the official first day of winter is December 21st, I always wait until after the holidays to change out any pieces I want to add or remove for the winter season. One of the main reasons being that I like to alleviate as much stress as possible during the busy holiday season, and adding a closet change to my plate just seems unnecessary.

Instead, I'd rather spend the holidays focused on the things and people I love the most. Plus, by waiting until after the holidays I'm able to score some items on sale - which is always a good thing.

With this approach in mind, today's post is all about the things I've either already purchased for the new season or the items I'm planning on purchasing. Also, I've included some things that are inspiring my capsule this season as well as a beauty update I'm planning to make.

- The Inspiration & Color Palette -

Before I jump into the items I'm hoping to purchase, let's start with my goal, color palette and inspiration this season. Since moving I've been working hard to streamline my wardrobe even more than it already is. With our minimized closet space (similar to what we had in NY), and more mild winters, I've had a strong urge to reduce my closet even further. I've already cleaned out and sold/donated a good portion but hope to do even more in the coming weeks. 

When it comes to what's inspiring me this season, it's all about minimal, classic looks that can really take me the distance. From Emanuel Alt to Sophia Coppola I'm loving simple, monochromatic looks that draw on classic separates for maximum impact.

To translate this into my wardrobe and make this approach my own, I will be relying on a few beauty tweaks, blazers, shoes and accessories to elevate my closet of classic basics.

As I do each season, I've been pinning up a storm in preparation for my closet change and have linked a few of my favorite pics below. If you're interested in seeing more of what I'm loving you can pop on over on my Pinterest for all things classic and timeless.

Beyond updating my basics with great accessories, I love to make beauty tweaks when I want a change without needing to spend a ton of money. This season, I hope to transition my go-to blush for a deeper, winter shade like this one, experiment more with rich brown eyeshadow and make a chop to my locks that are getting too long. Below, are some of my hair muses for the upcoming season and I'll definitely let you know how my haircut turns out. 

- Color Palette -

My color palette this upcoming season is based in neutrals with some staple accents to tie it all together. By working with a base of classic staples in black, navy, white, ivory and grey, my accessories will serve as the perfect addition to an otherwise neutral palette.

Plus, I want this capsule to serve as the perfect example of just how essential accessories are to changing up a look. 

- The Items -

Now that I've shared my inspiration and though process behind this season's capsules I'm excited to share the pieces I'm coveting.

1. First up,is this gorgeous pair of earrings from Baublebar. Not only are these earrings the perfect blend of classic and trendy but the colors will work beautifully with my closet.

2. Even though I technically have a black jacket that could pass for tweed, this new J.Crew release is too gorgeous to pass up - plus the price seems right for a jacket of such beautiful quality and construction. That said, I'm likely going to wait until after the holidays to see if it goes on sale at all for an even better deal.

3. While I love my everyday eyeshadow palette, I've recently become interested in this gorgeous little number. I've tried other NARS products and really liked them, but haven't tried any of the shadows yet. If you have, I'd love to know what you think in the comments below.

4. When it comes to jeans, you know that I prefer darker wash, ankle grazing denim that can be dressed up or down. That said, I've recently grown tired of the super skinny jeans that have become a mainstay for many brands. Case in point are my lovely LOFT skinny jeans that I have worn so much that they have lost there shape (not completely surprising given their lower price point). For the upcoming season I'm looking for a pair that can replace my LOFT jeans but won't offer the standard super skinny fit so I have my eye on this relatively new release from Levi's. 

5. Next up isn't a fashion buy per-se, but I included it because it's over $100 and something that I have been thinking about for a long time. At the moment I'm using a lovely but very small makeup bag that doesn't quite fit my daily essentials. To amend this, I have my eye on this beautiful travel set that has received rave reviews. I've ordered it as my Christmas gift this year and I'll definitely let you know what I think. 

6. As you know, I love cashmere sweaters and I love Everlane. I currently have a plain black and navy option but have decided to add a grey one to my collection as well. The one pictured above is from J. Crew but I think I'm going to go with Everlane again because I've been incredibly happy with both the quality and fit of their sweaters.

7. In line with my beauty updates for this season I have my eye on Hourglass for a deeper hued blush. As the moment I use a gorgeous, naturally rosey shade but am excited to try a darker shade this season.

8. It should come as no surprise that I LOVE striped shirts so I have to practice real constraint when it comes to not buying every single one I come across. That said, at the moment I have one slim fit striped tee that I love, but I often find myself longing for a looser fitting option so I have my eye on this great one from J. Crew.

9. Another purchase on the beauty front is this beautiful blush brush from Sigma. Since I'm in the market for a new blush brush, I think I'll give this beautiful blush brush from Sigma a try. Also, I'm planning an everyday makeup video and post soon so I'll be sure to include this Sigma option if it makes the final cut. 

10. To accompany my new haircut I have my eye on this texture spray that has some of the best reviews I've ever read. If I make the plunge and add it to my haircare routine I'll be sure to let you know what I think.

11. My go-to ankle boots have recently worn out so I'm excited to upgrade soon. To fit the bill I have my eye on this gorgeous pair from Marc Fisher that have amazing reviews.    

12. Last but certainly not least is a new silk scarf with rich winter hues. This lovely number from Ann Taylor seems to fit the bill and I'm excited to pop into a shop sometime soon to see it in person.

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That's a wrap! That's everything I have in mind for the coming winter season but I'd love to know what you're planning to add to your own wardrobes. Let me know in the comments down below and I hope you have a wonderful Friday.

Until next time,

Audrey 

 

Gift Guide For Her: Under $150

For my next gift guide I've rounded up my favorite goodies under $150. From a beautiful cookbook that transports you to the French countryside to a chic statement necklace, these gifts are perfect if you have a higher budget in mind. Not only are each of these gifts timeless, but they're sure to delight for years to come.   

1. First up is the newest cookbook from food blogger Mimi Thorisson. If you aren't familiar with Mimi yet, I can't recommend her lovely blog or two cookbooks enough. From the incredible photography (all done by her husband and former professional food photographer) to delectable recipes, Mimi has an incredible ability to transport you to the French countryside with every word. 

2. If you're searching for the perfect gift for the jet-set beauty lover in your life, this travel set from Cuyana is amazing. Beyond the gorgeous leather, this travel set is customizable and you can add a monogram for a personalized touch.  

3. Nothing says the holidays like crystals and these earrings are the perfect blend of classic and festive. Plus, J. Crew's fantastic jewelry comes ready to gift in a lovely travel pouch.

4. For the makeup lover in your life, this Chantecaille eyeshadow palette makes the loveliest gift. Not only are the shades in this palette perfectly wearable, but it's also cruelty-free and a portion of the proceeds go towards TRAFFIC's wild plant conservation work.

5. Another classic gift option is a perfect pair of ballet flats. This cognac brown pair is beautifully made and features a classic design that rivals many high end options.  

6. Another great jewelry option is this tortoise shell necklace that will make a beautiful addition to any collection. The classic construction and gorgeous color combination is sure to suit anyone's wardrobe.

7. Last but not least is perfect for anyone you want to pamper this holiday season. This lovely gift box comes fully stocked with top of the line, luxurious treats for a gift that keeps on giving.

Until next time,

Audrey  

Fall Capsule Wardrobe OOTD - How To Style A Cashmere Sweater

Today's OOTD features a few of my favorite things - ballet flats, trousers, cashmere sweater and silk scarf. Separate or together these basics make up a critical cornerstone of my wardrobe and I wear them constantly. While I've touched on each of these pieces before, today I want to focus on the cashmere sweater. 

Now that the weather has cooled down, I find myself reaching for a cashmere sweater almost daily. Not only is this closet staple perfect for nearly every occasion, but the gorgeous texture serves as the perfect, cozy, layering piece for the cooler weather.

I pair mine (always in a neutral color) with everything from jeans to skirts and trousers and love to dress it up or down with silk scarves, statement jewelry and blazers and coats. Recently, I paired my cream, cableknit cashmere sweater with structured, navy pants and my favorite fall themed silk scarf.

In addition to the neutrality of a look like this, I love how it can easily carry me throughout all the cooler months with just the addition of layers and alternate footwear. For example, this same base can be layered over a basic collared blouse and paired with ankle booties for a warmer look.

Alternatively, I have worn this look with pumps, a statement necklace for a more formal look. 

Below, I've linked the exact or similar items that I am wearing in this look in case your curious. What's your favorite way to wear a classic sweater? Do you have a no-fail combo that you wear constantly during the cooler weather? I'd love to know in the comments down below and I hope you're all having a great week! 

Capsule Pieces: Cashmere Cableknit Sweater, Zara Pants

Accessories: Dooney & Bourke Satchel, Vintage Silk Scarf 

Shoes: Chanel Ballet Flats

Until next time,

Audrey