birkenstock madrid

Back to Nature

August 18, 2016 by jessica 3 Comments

A few weeks ago, JORD reached out to me with the offer to try out one of their wood watches. I’m not opposed to wooden accessories. In fact, few things are more perfect for summer than a stack of wooded bangle bracelets or a necklace of wooden beads. But a wood watch? I was skeptical at first, but curiosity got the better of me and I picked out the Cora style with a rose gold face and koa wood. It turned out to be a versatile statement piece for summer, especially with a neutral outfit.

When placing an order, you’ll be asked to supply your wrist measurements in centimeters to ensure a comfortable fit. Despite this, my watch was a link too large when it arrived a few days later and off to the jeweler I went to have it resized. A few minutes later, the watch was ready for its debut. I was initially struck by how lightweight the watch is. The barely-there weight isn’t terribly surprising given that koa wood is known for its buoyancy. (In fact, ancient Hawaiians used to craft canoes and surfboards out of the material). Beyond that, it’s just an aesthetically beautiful timepiece with thoughtful details. I love that you can see the self-winding movement of the watch through the clear circle on the face and also through the transparent back of the watch. The face is dotted with Swarovski crystal markers and covered with strong, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass. Even the packaging is a showstopper with a tweed pillow nestled in a substantial wood box (containing extra links, of course) making it perfect for gift giving — even if it’s just for yourself! (No judgement here!)

Sweater: J.Crew
Shorts: Lou & Grey (go up a size; a bit sheer if they’re snug)
Watch: c/o JORD
Bag: Banana Republic (smaller similar style)
Sandals: Birkenstock
Sunglasses: Karen Walker c/o Shopbop
Bracelet: Hermes
Rings: c/o Julie Vos, Monica Vinader

Wooden Watch Review

Thanks to JORD for partnering on this post!

Comfort Zone

August 24, 2015 by jessica 20 Comments

Thanks to yesterday’s unseasonably chilly — and windy — weather, I had to abandon the idea of wearing my new dress and opt for a cozier Sunday Funday outfit. Even it wasn’t what I wanted to wear, it still gives me the excuse to talk about two recent additions to my wardrobe that I’m crazy about: J.Crew’s merino wool swing pullover and an astrology cuff by artist Julie Nolan.

First, the sweater. In grey, it’s basically a chicer take on your favorite sweatshirt. The heathering of the wool and the style of knit almost make it look striped up close. It’s thicker than a Tippi sweater and seems like it will hold up well. I’m wearing a small, which is my usual J.Crew size in sweaters. I also ordered an XS to try. The sleeves fit better in the XS, but I preferred the looser silhouette of the small. Given that I’ve already worn it twice the first week I’ve owned it, I can easily see it becoming a weekend go-to and a favorite for travel.

The astrology bracelet by artist Julie Nolan is another item I’ve had on repeat. It was gifted to me by UncommonGoods, a Brooklyn-based retailer that features unique designs and ethically made, handcrafted gifts. Bookmark ’em for the holidays, ladies, because there are hundreds of great gift-giving ideas. Start with the personalized gift section here to find unique items like etched glasses to celebrate a nuptial, throw pillows to commemorate a first home, and the understated Gemini cuff I’ve been wearing. There’s also a selection of gifts for women here and for men here. Each order also allows you to do something, well, uncommonly good. As part of its “Better to Give” program, the company will donate $1 to your choice of their not-for-profit partner organizations with every purchase. UncommonGood started the program 15 years ago and has since donated over one million dollars to charities around the world, including RAINN, American Forests, Women for Women International, and Reach Out and Read.

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linking with PinkSole, Sincerely Jenna Marie

Easy Breezy

June 29, 2015 by jessica 23 Comments

To be honest, I didn’t expect to love this Banana Republic blouse as much as I do, given my penchant for bright colors and patterns, but it’s already one of my favorite pieces of the season–and an example of where I see my closet headed in the coming months. I feel most like myself in outfits with an easy silhouette, a short hemline, a blank canvas for jewelry, and a pair of flat shoes. I could never shirk brights completely, but there’s something to be said for the simplicity of a monochromatic ensemble perked up by large pieces of jewelry. I’m tempted to pick up the blouse in “dark saffron” too. It looks like a pretty transitional color for fall. It’s on sale for $40 through the end of the day, but be sure to size down. I went with a small, which has plenty of room for my not-so-small hips.

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