We love a pop-up! At least I know I do. Clare V. is popping up in Boston. And when a brand I love hosts another brand I love, it just doesn’t get much better.
Clare V. the brand of some of my absolute favorite bags is popping up at La Ligne the brand of the sweater I practically wore all through spring. This Thursday, June 4th and Friday, June 5th over on Newbury Street.
While I don’t know exactly what this pop-up will entail, I for sure plan to pop in and check it out. I mean not that I need an excuse to check out La Ligne and see their new collection in person, but having one certainly doesn’t hurt!
And of course while I’m on Newbury, I have a long list of other stores I want to stop in, like Anine Bing and MZ Wallace(I love my micro crossbody bag, and might need it in another color).
It’s been a bit since I walked Newbury Street, so if I see any new noteworthy stores, you can expect to hear about it.
If you don’t know who BTS is at this point, I don’t know what to tell you. Your loss, I guess. But there’s a reason they are the American Music Awards Artist of the Year. And they are bringing the BTS World Tour: Arirang to Boston! Well, Foxborough at Gillette Stadium. And honestly, for me, that is the best case scenario. My Army Bomb BTS Official Lightstick is SO ready.
Whether you’re going to the concert or just a big time BTS fan, also known as Army, you probably want the one of the Arirang Tour Member Jerseys. I did, but the idea of waiting in line at an ungodly hour to maybe not even get one isn’t for me (I did it once for Labubus and never again). So unless I decide to buy from a reseller at a huge markup, I won’t be getting one. However, through the power of social media I got an idea. That is, if you want to style a jersey for the tour, and are okay with it not being that jersey.
At the Vegas stop, some of the members donned this black NFL jersey with their name and birth year on it. And you can too!
I’m no Las Vegas Raiders fan (GO PATS), and chances are you aren’t either (I think maybe my nephew still is, because he liked their colors). But you can customize a team jersey by selecting a number and name. So for my favorite BTS member, or my bias, I would enter 97 and Jung Kook. And BOOM!
Now by no means is this a proper dupe for the tour jersey, but it is a respectable alternative that I thought of and immediately had to share.
Pair it with baggy denim shorts and you’ve got the perfect Arirang Tour concert outfit. What do you think?
If you decided to do this, please let me know. I’d love to see how you style it!
I mentioned festival season in my previous blog post, and then realized that I lied on a podcast. I said that one of my most popular blog posts was what to bring to Boston Calling Musical Festival, and recently realized that was an Instagram post that never actually made it to the blog.
Even though this year Boston Calling Music Festival won’t be taking place, Coachella and Breakaway, as well as other music festivals will be. And honestly for the year, this season starts concert season for me regardless.
I attended my first concert of the season with Andrew, and we loved it. My life had been missing live music for sure. Twice was a much needed fix and while I don’t currently have anything lined up, I still already can’t wait for whatever my next concert will be.
That said, here are my music festival and concert must haves.
What to Bring
Above anything else, you need the right size bag. This will very much so be dependent on the venue, so you HAVE to make sure to do your research first. For example TD Garden doesn’t have to be clear, but must not exceed 6″ x 4″ x 1.5″ which is essentially a wristlet. While Gillette Stadium is 12″ x 12″ x 6″ but must be clear.
If the bag policy allows, here is what I almost always try to make sure to bring, especially for outdoor venues.
You will not catch me with a dead phone. I will never not have a portable phone charger. Sometimes I pack my usb charge cord as well (just in case, some festivals have charging stations).
I myself rarely use these, but the one time I didn’t pack them, Andrew asked for them and I felt terrible. You don’t realize how loud it is until your ears are ringing the entire way home. Also good to have if you get overstimulated easily, there is a lot going on and earplugs can help.
Depending on the bag policy, I’ll bring flip flops. You can also clip them to a smaller bag if really needed. The amount of times I’ve worn boots and regretted life but had to suck it up going home because I didn’t have a change of shoes? Never again. Bare foot is an option, just not for me.
Trends to Try
Concerts and music festivals are kind of like cosplay. Hear me out, you can wear something that you love the look of, but might feel out of place wearing it in any other context. This makes it the perfect opportunity to try a fashion trend you may not be so sure of.
I previously mentioned a matching set that I’d picked up after seeing it in store. I failed to mention that the set was crochet, so if you didn’t click through the link to check it out, you might have missed that detail. I have yet to wear it, but know the top would be cute for let’s say the Bruno Mars concert later this summer. Yes, this is my not so subtle attempt to try and manifest it.
Admittedly, I can be a bit reluctant to jump on trends that are nostalgic. Growing up I often dressed in a way that got me called weird. So seeing things being loved that I was picked on for, doesn’t exactly sit well with me. For example, crocs. It took me a bit to fall back in love with them, but now that I have, I’m happy I got over myself. On that same wave length, jelly shoes have been making a major comeback and this time around I will be embracing them early instead of denying my inner child of her happiness.
I got a clear pair from Melissa Shoes that I’ll be trying out. Once I do, I will make sure and report back. Since ordering them, I learned that they also have a collaboration with Dr. Scholl’s. As an elder millennial, that is something worth giving a try just for comfort purposes. If you’ve never been to a music festival or concert before, there is a lot of walking and standing involved. So comfort is key. Especially with these knees and this back.
Comfortable footwear for me, often looks like sneakers. Specifically Adidas Sambas are my shoe of choice. If trying trends isn’t something you’re really into, you can always go with a classic sneaker with a bit of a twist. Like adding little charms to your shoe laces, or swapping out your shoe laces for ones in a bright color or lace material. There’s also options, including embroidered shoes or metallic ones.
Fanny Packs in my opinion are never going anywhere, they’re the best bag for running errands and are great when you don’t need to carry too much. Plus they just look cool. I’ve done a blog post just on fanny packs, and I know I not the only one who loves them.
I personally love the ones I currently own, but do have my heart set on the Clare V. Grande Fanny, I just need to pick which one.
Again, I must reiterate, please please please triple check the bag policy of your venue. If you don’t, you won’t be able to bring your bag in and may have to rent a locker or worse…
Could this have been two separate blog posts? Yes. Should it have been? Probably. But I was feeling chatty and up for a challenge. So, you’re welcome. I hope.
Mother’s Day is this weekend and you probably already have purchased any gifts that you may need. But on the chance that you haven’t or really just need a gift idea for any future upcoming events or holidays, I always recommend the Our Place Always Pan. Like always, for everything. I have their pan, pot, bakeware set, and even some of their tableware!
And if you do need a last minute Mother’s Day gift, you can always get a gift card.
During my quick trip to LA, I may have stopped into the Our Place store by Glossier on Melrose (Glossier post potentially coming soon…) and learn even more about their offerings and deepened my love for the brand.
The Our Place Always Pan. I don’t love to cook, but after cooking the last thing I want to do is scrub dirty dishes. The Aways Pan is dishwasher safe. Need I say more?
Short Night + Day Glasses. Sometimes it’s the simple things and the fact that this glasses are stackable is just something that can’t be overlooked or undervalued. Especially if you live in a tiny apartment with little to no cabinet space.
The Bakeware Set. Specifically the included oven mat. In addition to being dishwasher safe, this eliminates the need for foil and I’m here for that kind of sustainability.
Appliances. Now this is new territory for me, as I didn’t know Our Place made appliances. But apparently they have options from a blender to a 6-in-1 air fryer/toaster oven. My mind was blown!
Titanium. New to the Always Pan collection is the Titanium Always Pan Pro, which is nonstick and coating-free. I really just loved how pretty and professional it looked. And you can also get it in a bundle.
AND Our Place is currently having their annual Spring Sale! Get up to 40% off sitewide! You are welcome.
Like any other fashion trend handbag trends will for sure come and go. I often reach for bags that are more functional and practical, over the latest most popular ones. That said, belt bags (or fanny packs) are now back in a big way!
There’s a reason you see this bag on everyone from celebrities to street style fashionistas, and why it sells out so quickly after it’s back in stock. If you’re looking for a designer everyday handbag, I can’t recommend the Louis Vuitton Monogram Bumbag enough! Shop it secondhand via Fashionphile.
I almost hate how much everyone everywhere loves this bag. But I cant, because I absolutely get it. The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is the perfect on the go bag for when all you really need are the basic essentials.
This is another belt bag on my radar thanks to Instagram. I use the Calpak packing cubes when I travel and their Luka Belt Bag looks perfect to add to my travel essentials.
The Dagne Dover Ace Fanny is my favorite of these belt bags picks for the minimalist. It comes in 6 different core colors, and has enough pockets to stay organized.
Are you here for the return of the fanny pack trend? Which belt bag best suits you? Let me know in the comments!
Dressing for unseasonal or transition weather can be tricky. There are several jackets and vests that I own that make spring outerwear a breeze.
Here are the five that I find to be the best, I’m not exactly sure what to wear—
Puffer Vest
Puffer vests are my favorite for the hard to dress for seasons. This is in part due to the fact that as warm as they don’t have sleeves, making them the perfect for layering. Alternatively, if it’s cooler, puffer jackets work as well.
Trench Coat
Trench coats aren’t exactly my go-to, however, they do make the perfect spring outerwear piece. This is especially so, if you’re in an office or professional setting at all. And I’d be lying to myself if I said they weren’t the epitome of chic.
Shacket
It doesn’t matter what you call them, shirt jackets will never not be practical. I grab my favorite one for running errands and going to the movies, over everything. If you’re going for casual or cool, this is the spring jacket you want.
Coatigan
I love my coatigan, it’s a cardigan that’s thick enough to wear when a coat would be otherwise too heavy. This is something that I’ve had for years, and when my dog ruined the first one I owned, I immediately replaced it, because that’s how good it is to have. Honestly even though it’s recommended for fall, I love it year round.
Aviator Jacket
The newest addition to my cold weather outerwear collection is a cropped aviator jacket. I wanted something stylish and trendy that was also a classic piece that could withstand the test of time and this foot the bill in the best possible way! You can fully expect to see it on my throughout the winter and well into the spring.
Sharing my Free People favorites because no matter what fashion trends come and go, my personal style will always be just a little bit boho. And seeing as how Free People was my best selling brand of 2022, I’d say you probably have some of their pieces that you love as well!
Long Ruby
My Long Ruby shirt jacket is one of the things I reach for most, especially during those tricky transitional months. It’s hard to come by now, but I did find it here and there’s a shorter version as well.
Skyline Midi Skirt
I’m guilty of buying the same thing in multiple colors. The Skyline Midi Skirt is probably the one thing I own in not two, not three, but four different colors! And to be completely honest, I might even get one or two more.
Tapered Baggy Boyfriend
Jeans are my jam, so naturally, I had to include one pair of We the Free jeans and finding this pair on sale and under $100 is just too good not to share!
Ottoman Slouchy Tunic
My favorite piece by far, is the Ottoman Slouchy Tunic. It’s so versatile! I’ve worn it with jeans, leggings, skirts, you name it. It can even be worn as a dress with over-the-knee boots!
Lennox Jumpsuit
Who doesn’t love a compliment? I have yet to wear the Lennox Jumpsuit and not receive several polite comments or requests for where I got it.
Don’t be at all surprised if there’s a part two to this post! What are some of your favorites from Free People?
In addition to my Free People favorites, I recently added some new pieces to my closet that I’m looking forward to styling and sharing with you over the next few weeks or so. I’ve also included a few that are on my running wishlist, you can shop them and this post here—
Fall is far from my favorite season, however, there is so much to do in Boston this fall that I’ve been looking forward to!
Sure there’s apple picking and pumpkin patches, and trips to Salem. But one of my favorite things to do in the fall is to visit King Richard’s Faire.
If you’ve never been, here are some things to look forward to, in addition to their themed days–
Costumes
As the fashion lover that I am, one thing I love most about going to King Richard’s Faire is seeing all of the outfits and costumes that people wear. Don’t do cosplay or have anything to wear? You can rent a costume for the day from Seams Like a Dream located right by the entrance!
Food
The chicken tenders, fries and ice cream are always a hit with my niece and nephew, but if you really want to get into the Renaissance Faire spirit, I can’t recommend the turkey leg enough.
Shows
Are you a theater kid at heart? I know I am, so I make sure to catch at least one musical performance on the King’s Stage. You’re sure to recognize a melody or two…
Jousting
Perhaps the most memorable experience is the jousting, a joust to the death and so much blood! But all in good fun, of course.
Rides
A medieval amusement park, if you will! The swings were a favorite and worth waiting in line to ride several times.
Shopping
My personal favorite part is the shopping. We walked around with the queen of the faire herself, and learned about all things fashion and costuming. I will for sure have my own dress from Moresca Clothing & Costume, boots from Son of Sandlar and chainmaile or jewelry from Mardigan’s Maile to wear next year! And if you’re ever not sure of what to get for a gift for someone you know who happens to be into LARPing or role playing games, you’ll absolutely want to check out Dragonfly’s Realm and Dragon’s Den Candles.
Have you ever been to a Renaissance Faire? Sad you missed out on going to King Richard’s Faire with me this year? Well there’s still time! AND EVEN BETTER, I’m partnering with King Richard’s Faire to give one of you the chance to win four (4) tickets to their Fantasy Finale Weekend! To enter, leave a comment on this blog post sharing what you’re most looking forward to at King Richard’s Faire, along with your email address (so that I can contact you if you win). One (1) lucky winner will be selected and notified Monday, October 17, 2022.
And make sure to check out my Instagram for even more photos from the faire!
The weather in New England can be pretty unpredictable, especially in the fall. The key to being prepared for the changing of seasons is lightweight fall staple pieces that you can layer differently throughout the day.
The number one lightweight fall piece that I love for transitional dressing is a fleece. Dick’s Sporting Goods has so many great options in this category, including my personal favorite, which is The North Face Denali Fleece.
Not only do fleeces make the perfect jacket for this time of year, they look great with everything from a tank top to a turtleneck. And if you have a thin enough jacket or vest, you can layer one under your fleece as well.
Shop fleeces—
In addition to lightweight layering pieces, another way that I like to adjust to the dropping temperatures is to switch up my footwear.
Plus with the holidays just around the corner, it’s worth noting that these cold weather accessories also make great gifts! Dick’s Sporting Goods has blankets, tumblers, and whatever else you might need for your next adventure.
