There has been much said about New Orleans by many writers, travelers, spirit guides and designers. Because of this, I definitely had my preconceived notions of what was in store for me when I finally touched down in NOLA.
Armed with my best girlfriends and an armload of recommendations, I set off with my sights set on design inspiration and a list of many restaurants and cocktail bars. What awaited was so much more.
With homes and gardens delighting on every corner, the friendliest locals happy to share stories of the deep rooted history all while giving directions, and the smells of Creole cooking beckoning us, we trotted around the city in our cutest outfits and soaked it all in.
There was a definitive air of the macabre underlying almost everything, and a certain grit to parts of the city, balanced with high society and very formal southern ways. It was dark and moody balanced with light and airy. And while we avoided the overtly touristy and - yes I'll say it - maybe a little messy Bourbon street, we were still midnight revelers. We were just chasing a different ambiance.
New Orleans marries so well with our Elsie Green love of all things French in design and revelry, with a Cajun twist. Follow along for the places and spaces that filled my inspiration cup.
Where to Sleep
Where to Eat
Where To Drink
What to See
Where to Shop
What to Pack
Ray-Ban New Clubmaster Sunglasses
xo Sarah
For More Travel & Inspiration Guides From The EG Team >
Island Hopping | My Summer in Greece
Shop What's New at Elsie Green >
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Shop Gal Guide | February Edition
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The midi dress is our dress style of choice for spring.
]]>| image courtesy of @slipintostyle |
The midi dress is our dress style of choice for spring.
This classic cut is timeless and if chosen carefully, it can be worn for years. Paired perfectly with your favorite sneakers or a chic pair of sandals, this style will win you over with its versatility and ability to convey that effortlessly chic French girl style we're always striving to achieve. A worthy investment for any spring capsule wardrobe.
Keep scrolling for a few of our favorite inspiration photos as well as our selection of fifteen perfect midi dresses for spring and summer.
| image courtesy of Fashionista |
Take a peek at our round up of the best midi dresses for spring:
Read more thoughts on a spring fashion edit below:
]]>The French Manicure. Can you call it a comeback if it never went away?
]]>| image courtesy of The Zoe Report / photography by Emma Jackson |
This spring I feel like all eyes are on pared back, minimal French gal style. I can think of nothing that pairs better with a white button down, black blazer, denim and ballet flat than a minimalist and perfectly polished white tip french manicure. It could be said that it is the most classic manicure of all time.
In 2024 the white tip is thinner and the base polish is just barely there, to give it a restrained and simplistic update, reflecting a modern take on a classic.
The look is fresh, clean, healthy and chic. And while it is definitely having a moment, the question is...did the french manicure ever go away?
Follow along for tips on how to nail this quintessential French look at home.
| image courtesy of Joanna Rahier |
Supplies
Technique
You will want to start with very healthy nails, and neat cuticles. A short squoval is the shape du jour, so get those nail clippers and files ready for action. Once your desired shape has been acquired, use a nail buffer to make sure your nail surfaces are smooth. Then apply a strengthening base coat. Once your base is fully dry, your tips can be applied with a stamp or if you are feeling steady enough, you can use a liner brush to apply a thin white curved line. Keep some polish remover on hand, along with a cotton swab to clean up any blurred edges, or mistakes. 2024's French tip is a fairly naked look, so choose a barely there pink top coat color. Don't skip a protective top coat, you'll need this step to protect your hard work for as long as possible. Finally, gaze adoringly at your chic handiwork.
...and if all else fails, head to your trusted nail salon to make sure the tip is parfaite!
Bonne chance!
xo Sarah
I don't buy them all of course, but I do buy the most special examples and I always have the ideal setting in mind for each one. Read on for some of my favorites.
A collection of mid-century design icons (Eames and Baummann in this example) in a similar color turn a simple dining table into a design statement.
A simple industrial school chair fills an empty space between rooms.
|image courtesy of caitlin flemming design |
A dining chair is sometimes the perfect thing to bridge periods - a modern dining chair (Baumann again) with a rustic reclaimed wood dining table creates a very different vibe than a traditional dining room set.
An antique Flambeau drafting chair gives a rustic wood table an industrial flair.
Beautiful Breuer dining chairs stand in for extra seating in a small space.
A vintage Ercol Dining chair stands in for a bedside table.
]]>There is something about styling a dress with a pair of sneakers that makes us feel playful and flirty; our ideal aesthetic for the spring season.
Keep reading for a few of our favorite inspiration photos and a round up of the sneakers we're loving for spring.
| image courtesy of The Style Stalker |
Shop our favorite sneakers for spring:
Pair your sneakers with our favorite spring dresses >
Style your spring sneakers with a chic pair of wide leg trousers >
]]>You asked, we answered. Our favorite outfits for a long travel day.
]]>We're lucky to consider ourselves a well traveled group at Elsie Green and during a recent petite coffee break we excitedly discussed the upcoming trips we all have planned for the remainder of the year. This naturally transitioned into a conversation about travel attire preferences, and we all agreed: keep it cozy, but keep it chic. Keep reading for a few of our dos and don'ts and a petite round up of our favorite things to wear on a long travel day.
Elastic waist pants always. No jumpsuits EVER. If we opt for sweats, we always wear a matching set, preferably paired with leather loafers or ballet flats to add an element of put-togetherness. In general, matching sets are always a good choice. An oversized button down shirt with a pair of easy pants is a go-to look for many of us. Never forego a cozy layer. I personally try to avoid wearing white on a flight; this is the result of a hard learned lesson on a flight I took with Laurie to France where a petite mishap with a glass of red wine happened. Never again. The ultimate goal is to arrive at your destination comfortably without looking disheveled upon arrival.
The looks below nail the desired level of comfort and sophistication we're aiming to achieve with our travel attire.
| image courtesy of @donni |
Peruse our travel edit.
Tops:
Madewell Northside Vintage Tee
Bottoms:
Cozy Layers:
Read about our favorite travel bags here.
Read more travel tips and guides from EG
]]>| image courtesy of @home.at.the.rectory | photography by peas.in.my.pod |
| image courtesy of @home.at.the.rectory | photography by peas.in.my.pod |
More Elsie Green Photo Essays
]]>| photography by Sandra Semburg |
The temperatures remain cool in northern California and the days have been a bit wet, but we're looking forward to spring and the sunnier days that await us. Sooner than we know it, it will be time to tuck away our heavier winter coats and warm cashmere layers and instead reach for our favorite in-between seasons layer: the trench coat. Personally, I think there's nothing more more chic than a trench coat; its classic silhouette is timeless and a must-have for every capsule wardrobe.
Keep scrolling for a round up of some of our favorite inspiration photos and then take a peek at the trench coats we'll be adding to cart.
| image courtesy of Vogue Mexico |
Still looking for the perfect trench? These are our top picks:
Complete your capsule wardrobe.
]]>In the search for the perfect bag that includes fashion and function, we have returned to a classic stand-by in the shape of the bucket bag.
]]>| image courtesy of Fashionista / Photography by Imaxtree |
In the search for the perfect bag that includes fashion and function, I returned to a classic stand-by in the shape of the bucket bag. Travel plans are ramping up, and I want something that will be practical for flying with my laptop, and that will also perform that elusive trick of taking me from day to night when I am touring a city.
The bucket bag is such a throw back to the 80's and 90's, in all of the right ways. I remember my mother always had one in her arsenal, and no matter how many other bags and purses that came and went, she always returned to the old faithful silhouette of the bucket bag. One cannot tout the practicality of this accessory loudly enough. Through its simplistic shape and design it has remained a classic for good reason. It works with any outfit, looks impossibly chic in a 'just threw this look together' sort of way, and is incredibly practical. Form and style, just the way nature intended.
Some bucket bags are cinched, some are slouchy, some are structured, some are woven, some are petite, and some are large. Fashion is ever evolving, and it should speak to the classic appeal of the bucket bag that it is always included in the evolution, season after season. An item I see repeatedly over the shoulder of different generations, each with its own spin and identity.
Follow along to see the bucket bags that have me drooling, and shop my edit below.
| image courtesy of Who What Wear / Photography by Style Stalker |
| image courtesy of Who What Wear / Photography by Style Stalker |
Shop Sarah's Favorite Bucket Bags:
FOR MORE MUSINGS ABOUT FASHION AND STYLE FROM TEAM EG >
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image courtesy of @slow_roads
Stark white feels crisp and bright, but if you desire a warmer ambience that exudes calm, opt for a creamier tone.
]]>We love a pop of color when designing a space, but this summer we find ourselves leaning into neutrals.
We've been especially drawn to spaces and pieces that can be found in serene shades of cream. A true white feels crisp and bright, but if you desire a warmer ambience that exudes calm, opt for a creamier tone. This month's color crush plays nicely with our favorite shades of white but also serves as a suitable neutral that will complement pops of color as well.
| image courtesy of @jeanpalmerhome |
For additional inspiration head to our Pinterest where we have a board especially dedicated to our new favorite neutral.
Balancing neutrals and bright whites with one of our favorite accent colors: Noir.
]]>It's true, at Elsie Green we love bright, light and airy interiors, but we also love utilizing black to contrast bright whites and neutrals to add character and charm. We've rounded up a few pretty images for you where we think black was used in an impactful, but not overwhelming way.
| image courtesy of @nicolocastellinibaldissera |
Laurie's recommended black paint colors:
"Black Jack is my favorite black. Iron Mountain is a nice warm black. If you aren't ready to commit to a true black, go for Bittersweet Chocolate for a warmer take on a moody room. It is very nice for a bedroom or powder room."
For additional inspiration take a peek at our Pinterest board for this months color crush!
]]>You may not know this about me: for half my life I worked mostly for large companies with large inventories, large checkbooks, and sometimes I've sold things I wouldn't necessarily want to own. And in the process of developing merchandise for large companies, I've seen beautiful vintage pieces copied and watered down until there's nothing very special about them.
As we were crafting our vision for Elsie Green, we were looking for something we felt was missing: a collection of pretty, sustainable things for your home made with soul and artistry. A treasure chest of historical designs and techniques handed down through generations. Each piece a little work of art for your room. Not a lot of fanfare, just pretty things lovingly chosen by hand, and sold with an extraordinarily personal level of service.
Things we would have in our own home. And most of all, vintage pieces that retained their original heart and soul. Essentially, we wanted to build the shop that we would like to shop in. Or visit when we go to a new city and take a million photos. Or be excited to tell our friends about. Simple.
The centerpiece of our shop was to be a vintage collection. Each piece selected by hand to represent the casual, comfortable and eclectic way the French live. We started by hiring our very chic Parisian friend Philippine to scope out the French vintage scene. Philippine had no experience as a vintage scout or sourcing agent - she was (and still is) a freelance Creative Director by trade. But that was what made our choice such a good one - she wasn't limited by how that type of work was usually done. She had great taste, she was resourceful, and she knew how to build relationships - that's all we needed really. We'd figure out the rest as we went.
Since that first trip driving a petite van around the French countryside, running for trains, sleeping in a different Maison d'Hôte each night, we've somewhat perfected the process. But each trip (and each container) has its own personality, filled with unexpected inspiration from museums, restaurants and homes we visit. I still think about that 8' tall hand painted sign in a market in Montpelier that I just missed out on - it would have made an amazing headboard.
While other shoppers are dashing through the stalls, picking up this or that, we're chatting with dealers looking for that special nugget of information to bring a vintage piece to life. We're always looking for items with great stories - copper pieces from French hotels, Ercuis flatware (much more sought after by the French than Christofle), a series of white leather bound Nobel Prize winning books, a convent table with a drawer for each nun to store her plate and spoon. And Philippine always finds at least one surprise that makes the trip. On one trip it was the opportunity to shop artist Pierre Malbec's collection of hand made stone ware. On another it was finding a treasure trove of antique Thonet chairs in a dusty attic.
Dealers have become friends over the years, and they save special things for us that they hope we'll like.
We arrive at the hotel each night exhausted by a long day of driving, walking, and searching, but usually make the time for a late dinner. Because who knows where the next bit of inspiration will strike? Perhaps at Carmelo with a truffle pasta served in a petite copper pot.
While we've augmented the collection over the years with our Custom Reclaimed Wood Furniture collection, hand made ceramics from local makers and lovely linen bedding and hand made block printed pillow covers, the vintage pieces are still the heart and soul of Elsie Green. And each piece inevitably reveals a secret later that we didn't notice when we bought it - a hand written note inside a drawer, book-matched veneers where you'd least expect them, or in one case - a hidden drawer built into the back of an armoire to hide something special.
Each shopping trip fills us with excitement about what we found and how we're going to display and photograph each piece.
And each shopping trip fills us with gratitude for the life lessons that chasing beauty across the French countryside teaches us:
To have the courage to try something different and to make a few mistakes.
To appreciate the lustre and value that comes with age.
To treasure individuality and imperfection.
To always keep our eyes open - one never knows when or where inspiration will strike.
And most of all, to define success with measures other than money.
Thank you to all our customers who have visited us, shopped with us and supported us over the years. It's a lovely life and we're so lucky to be living it.
]]>Print and pattern for spring interiors.
]]>| image courtesy of @salvesengraham |
There's something about spring that nudges us toward patterned textiles, wallpaper, and other design elements for the home. By layering our spaces with a touch of pattern, our interiors bloom alongside the spring blossoms outside.
These spaces are a lovely example of pattern play executed to perfection; they don't feel overdone, and the use of pattern gives each room an eclectic and interesting feel.
| image courtesy of mad about the house |
Pretty, timeless things that you'll cherish always.
]]>| image courtesy of @j.hannah |
Over the years, i've considered myself lucky to be on the receiving end of some very beautiful pieces of jewelry. Some I inherited from my grandmothers, others sentimental pieces were gifted to me by my mom (I especially love a pair of tiny gold hoop earrings that she wore when she was young girl), and more recently I've added some newly made pieces to my collection that were gifted to me by my husband for birthdays and anniversaries. There isn't a single piece in my collection of jewelry that doesn't feel sentimental. The sentiment I tie to my treasures got me thinking about modern heirlooms.
There are certain jewelry pieces that feel quintessential; signet rings or simple lockets are timeless styles that may be passed from generation to generation. Some of my favorite jewelry designers have created modern interpretations of these classic styles while maintaining the timelessness at the heart of these designs. If you’re looking for a gift for yourself or someone you love, consider a special adornment that will evoke warm feelings of sentiment for many, many years.
shop our round up of modern heirlooms
Necklaces
Dezso Classic Carved Cowry with Gold Initial
Earrings
Kinn Pavé Hoop Huggie Earrings
Rings
Bracelets
Pandora ME Small-Link Chain Bracelet
| image courtesy of @j.hannah | photography by @drewescriva |
The Elsie Green gals have nicely curated collections of ballet slippers, but the style we find ourselves reaching for over and over again is the Mary Jane.
]]>Our NYFW market report indicates that the sweet Mary Jane ballet flat is here to stay, but we think this classic style has always been a wardrobe staple. The Elsie Green gals have nicely curated collections of ballet slippers, but the style we find ourselves reaching for over and over again is the Mary Jane.
During the spring and summer months, it's nice to have some options other than sneakers and sandals to pair with your shorts and sundresses. During fall and winter, style your Mary Janes with a pair of cashmere socks or sheer tights. We think Miss Mary Jane is the perfect pick for any season. Scroll through the photos below for some inspiration, and check out the styles we've had our eye on lately.
| image courtesy of @le.monde.beryl |
| image courtesy of @ceciliemoosgard |
| image courtesy of who what wear |
| image courtesy of Cut y Paste |
Our Favorite Mary Janes We're Currently Adding to Cart:
Looking for more ideas to complete your capsule wardrobe? Take a peek at these posts:
It's no secret that we're romantics at heart. We put together a playlist for February that we think you'll love regardless of what your Valentine's day vibe is.
Taking time for myself is one of my most cherished forms of self-care.
The value of alone time is always top of mind for me in February, when we're typically on the receiving end of a large number of messages from brands and companies about love and companionship. And while I would never dismiss the value of love practiced between lovers or friends, I think it's worth reminding ourselves that the self-love story is one worth exploring and investing time and energy in. I try to carve out time for myself once a week to do something that I love, something that grounds me, and I feel pretty lucky to have a partner who understands the value of this practice.
Keep reading for a few of my favorite things to do when the mood calls for a bit of me time.
I've found that one of the best ways to ground myself when my mind is running away from me is by spending time outdoors. A walk around my neighborhood is always lovely, but a hike among the redwoods or a walk along the beach is even better. It's incredibly humbling to be immersed in the magic and wonder of nature.
Read about our favorite hiking trails >
There is something really nice about enjoying a meal alone, especially when you're accustomed to sharing most of your meals with your partner, family, or friends. Every once in a while I like to take myself out for a glass of wine or cup of coffee and bite to eat, especially on a sunny day when I can sit outside and indulge in a bit of people watching.
A slow afternoon at the museum with my "Museum Music" playlist. The music guides me and I let my mind wander as I take in each exhibit. I had a very special experience at Musee l'Orangerie in Paris with Claude Monet's Water Lilies while listening to this playlist. I'll never forget it.
| image courtesy of @lesnympheas |
We're very lucky to live within walking distance of Golden Gate Park and I spend time in the park at least two to three times a week. In the spring and summer, I'll spend many afternoons among the flowers in front of the Conservatory of Flowers with a throw blanket and a book.
A bike ride through the city. This might be my favorite thing to do when I'm craving a solo adventure. My husband bought me a beautiful green bike from Tokyo Bike Club a few years ago and it quite literally changed my life. A childlike joy courses through me when I'm riding my bike around SF, listening to a playlist curated specifically for the ride. It's one of my favorite ways to see the city. Pure bliss.
Get our Spring Equinox playlist on Spotify >
These are just a few of the ways that I like to spend my sacred "alone time." Most often, my self-love practice guides me outside, but there are days when all I want to do is start slow with a cup of coffee and my book in bed. There's no right or wrong way to practice self-love, but as the season of renewal and growth approaches, I encourage you to begin your practice.
For more thoughts on self care, take a peek at these posts >
]]>February is a month for celebrating epic love stories. We've been rereading old favorites, finally checking off classics, and discovering some new romantic page turners.
]]>It's no secret that at Elsie Green, we are all about a book club. Crowded around the packing table with some sweet treats, we love to share what we're reading. This month, with Valentine's Day coming up, we're all loving romance novels.
| image courtesy of evergreenfilm |
February is a month for celebrating epic love stories. We've been rereading old favorites, finally checking off some classics, and discovering some new romantic page turners.
| image courtesy of our mindful life |
Read on for our best romance recommendations, best consumed with a glass of wine and a pint of ice cream.
| image courtesy of vogue / photography by joseph leombruno & jack bodi |
Classics
Pride & Prejudice
Little Women
Anna Karenina
Emma
Romeo & Juliet
| photography by harold feinstein |
Young Love
Red White & Royal Blue
Call Me By Your Name
Normal People
The Notebook
To All the Boys I've Loved Before
| image courtesy of la chinoise by jean-luc godard |
Tearjerkers
Lie With Me
Atonement
Me Before You
The Year of Magical Thinking
|image courtesy of the telegraph / photography by richard miller |
Modern Favorites
Beach Read
The Flatshare
Bel Canto
One Day in December
The Bridgerton Series
Brooklyn
Less
An American Marriage
One Day
If you'd like to find these books at your local library, read our post on Libby, the public library app.
If you'd like to find these books at your local bookstore, check out Bookshop.org.
I've been searching for a well-made leather belt over the last few months and while I didn't expect my search to take as long as it did, I am glad that I was patient and didn't press the "purchase" button until I found exactly what I was looking for. I've been really enjoying this practice in patience that i've applied to my shopping habits over the last few years; it's naturally resulted in less impulse purchases and more thoughtful acquisitions.
When it comes to rounding out a capsule wardrobe, accessories can be easily overlooked. Beyond a well appointed shoe and chic bag(which we've discussed here, here, and here), I'd recommend prioritizing belts. A well chosen belt can make an astonishing impact on a simple look. An accessory that is uniquely capable of making even the simplest of outfits seemingly more put together and thoughtful is an accessory that is worth carefully considering.
Take a peek at some of the inspiration we've saved to Pinterest and then shop our belt edit below.
| image courtesy of @asiatypek |
| image courtesy of @stylestalker | photography by Syzmon Brzóska |
Shop the edit.
Black Silver Buckle Belts
ANDERSONS's Woven Leather Belt
Black Gold Buckle Belts
Brown Belts
Complete your capsule wardrobe >
Capsule Wardrobe | The Button-Down Shirt
Capsule Wardrobe | The Penny Loafer
Capsule Wardrobe | The Tote Bag
]]>
I have had the good fortune to travel the globe with my family, on solo trips, and trips with friends. I have been to amazing far flung places, and each and every journey has been an adventure for the books. In short: I live for travel. I strive to see the world and experience all of the culture, beauty, food and humanity that I can soak up.
Having said all that, there are always those elusive locales that get dreamt about, and lusted after, but the trip never seems to come to fruition for one reason or another. Greece, and particularly the Greek Cyclades Islands, was one of those places for my family and I. Varying circumstances kept it a trip we were putting off, citing budget, having babies, and a pandemic being the top of the list that kept us from going.
This past year the stars seems to align and we added another country to the list our children have not only loved, but they have talked about non stop since. They immediately started plotting ways to go back to Greece, and truthfully so did I. I may or may not have looked up vacation homes as soon as we arrived home.
While we did start and end the trip in inspiring Athens, the trip for us was all about the Cyclades Islands, and 3 Islands in particular. With the time we had, we certainly could have added more to the list, but we really wanted to familiarize ourselves in each spot, and not feel like we were racing from one spot to another, even with the luxury and convenience of the speed ferries.
Milos was the first island in the Cyclades that we stayed on, and it was truly out of this world spectacular. Honestly, it felt like we were on the moon in some spots, with the unique rock formations, and cliffs. This made for an incredible time out on the crystalline ocean water, exploring caves on our boat and stopping in some private swimming holes. The beaches were sandy and warm and filled with locals and tourists alike. The food was fresh, the people were warm and filled with pride, and children (and cats!) are treated like kings.
Santorini seems to be the Island that still tops most travelers lists, and while you cannot fault the amount of tourists flocking there for the unique cliffside cave homes and incredible sunset views, the crowds there were definitely the low point of our stay. We did stay in the most amazing cave home right in the middle of the bustle which had the most incredible views - most memorably being the full moon rising up over the iconic city of Oia. We ate Mediterranean food with gusto, and interacted with amazing people...but the best part of our stay on Santorini was a day we chartered a sailboat and sailed around the island.
We saved the best for last, and though I am hesitant to talk about Antiparos too much, I would be remiss to not shout from the rooftops just how incredibly special Antiparos is. We took the speed ferry over to Paros from Santorini and enjoyed a gorgeous day eating and drinking while wandering the maze of streets of Parikia, before taking a 7 minute ferry across to the smaller sister island of Antiparos.
Antiparos will live on in memory of being the place we found the clearest water, the most beautiful community of people, the best food and the greatest selection of artisan shops. We slowed down, we had time to connect as a family, and we let the day decide when we would head to the beach. The hunt for the best greek salad consumed us, and we decided that each of them was the winner. We followed cats down alleyways that led us to the best ice cream shops, and we ate fresh seafood at the waters edge while watching the sunsets. I truly can't think of any time I have ever been so happy. Antiparos feels the like the quietly cool sister to bigger neighboring Island Paros, and it was the exact pace we needed.
Taverna Klimataria - Antiparos
Despotiko - Antiparos
More Than This - Antiparos
Agrilia Estate Olive Grove - Antiparos
Bon Voyage!
xo Sarah
We're big believers in making a good first impression.
We've rounded up an inspiring collection of entryways that will have you thinking about how to give this space a fresh update in your own home.
| image courtesy of Farrow & Ball |
Shop our collection of Elsie Green entryway must-haves >
Shop Moroccan baskets, a chic solution for organization in your entryway >
Even though I live in California, I still find myself searching for all the tips and tricks in the winter to keep my skin hydrated. But my skin is also finicky - whatever I choose can't be too oily, over perfumed or harsh.
Here's a petite round up of my MVPs and a few tips I swear by to get my skin through the coldest of days.
Moisturizing Tips I Live By For Winter.
During winter, it's crucial to upgrade your moisturizer to a richer formula. Look for ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, and ceramides that provide deep hydration. Apply your moisturizer immediately after cleansing to lock in moisture.
Treat your skin to a weekly hydrating mask to replenish lost moisture. Ingredients like aloe vera, honey, and hyaluronic acid can work wonders in restoring your skin's natural hydration levels.
Even in winter, UV rays can be harsh on your skin. Don't skimp on sunscreen, especially if you're hitting the slopes for some winter fun. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from sun damage.
I love this one by Goop.
Remember to hydrate from the inside out. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Herbal teas and infused water can be delightful alternatives to plain water during the colder months. Grab your emotional support water bottle and get sipping.
Indoor heating systems can strip the air of moisture, leading to dry skin. Combat this by using a humidifier in your living space. Adding moisture to the air can prevent your skin from drying out.
Winter may be synonymous with chilly winds and snow-covered landscapes, but that doesn't mean your skin has to suffer. Incorporate moisturizing tips into your routine for skin that radiates all winter long.
Take a peek at our cold weather cure round up.
LIP HYDRATION
Laneige lip mask - I am addicted to this. You'll never catch me without it in the winter months.
DAY TIME
Summer Fridays jet lag mask - not just for when you're traveling.
Glossier priming moisturizer - I've been using this moisturizer for years!
NIGHT TIME
Cera Ve skin renewing night cream - this is my go-to after all of my skin care is done.
Vaseline stick - the trendy girlies on Tik Tok turned me on to "slugging" and now I can't get enough. Don't ask me why it is called that because I have no idea but it couldn't be simpler. In short - before I get in bed for the night I put a thin layer of vaseline all over my face (to keep in all of the lotions and potions of my skin care routine). I wake up with my face feeling nice and dewy.
Keep it Simple | Our Favorite Multi-Use Beauty Products
Our Favorite French Beauty Brands
Swap Your Powder for These Cream Blushes
When the temperature drops and you still want to look put together, it's time to embrace the cozy style of a sweater dress.
]]>| image courtesy of Vogue France / Photography by Sandra Semburg |
When the temperature drops and you still want to look put together, it's time to embrace the cozy style of a sweater dress. The combo of the comfort of a sweater with the sophistication of a dress make it the perfect choice for any occasion from autumn through spring. Whether you're heading to the office, meeting friends for brunch, or going on a date night, a sweater dress will keep you warm and stylish.
The sweater dress is not just a practical choice for colder weather, it offers a new opportunity to make a statement. Often times a sweater dress will hug your body in all of the right places, and is the perfect piece under a long overcoat and paired with sexy tights. Think of it as wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, but instead of staying on the sofa, you are heading out on the town.
There are many ways to make this one perfect piece a total look. Simply pair a black or ivory sweater dress with sneakers, or under a chic overcoat with a knee high boot. Or pair a patterned sweater dress with a contrasting patterned shoe or boot. The option are limitless, but the effect stays the same. Minimal effort with maximum outcome.
Scroll through for the sweater dresses that inspired me, and shop my edit below.
| image courtesy of WhoWhatWear / photography by Coco Bassey |
Shop Sarah's Sweater Dress Edit
Free People Wanda Sweater Dress
More fashion and style musings from the Elsie Green gals >
We love a good list. We all have notes in our phones of all the shops that we have heard about that we want to visit or that are tried and true staples for us.
This month our shop gals are curating everything they'll need to get organized in 2024.
If anything, we hope these monthly round-ups of some of the things our shop girls have been obsessing over serves as a reminder to slow down, be present and enjoy the beauty in the simple things.
Shop Gal Guide | December Edition
Shop Gal Guide | November Edition
Shop Gal Guide | October Edition
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When Andie and I part, we always like to have our next rendezvous in the calendar. So when I left Hudson in August, we decided to do a quick weekend in the city in December, as I’d never been in New York at Christmas time.
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The Editor’s Guide to What to Do When You Can’t Do It All
When Andie and I part, we always like to have our next rendezvous in the calendar. So when I left Hudson in August, we decided to do a quick weekend in the city in December, as I’d never been in New York at Christmas time. I arrived on a Thursday night and left on Sunday afternoon, so we had to figure out how to cover maximum ground without stressing ourselves out. Our goal was to eat well, drink well, learn something new, and come away inspired.
We arrived at Freehand, dropped our bags and headed to The Broken Shaker for a quick drink and some of their home made bread and salted butter before rushing to The Drunk Shakespeare Society for their early show. Hilarious. Highly recommend.
In the rapid fire spirit of our trip, the rest of our itinerary went something like this
Our favorite shops were
The French bookstore Albertine
Our favorite restaurants were
The Smith for brunch
La Pizza & La Pasta at Eataly
The Shake Shack in Madison Square Park
Dowling's at The Carlyle
Our favorite bars were
Danté with its monogrammed ice cubes
Our favorite event was Gutenberg! The Musical and the halal cart outside the James Earl Jones Theatre.
Our favorite Christmas market was in Bryant Park.
Our favorite afternoon was spent walking through Central Park, ending at The Plaza.
Our favorite exhibit was Ruth Asawa Through Line at the Whitney
]]>I’m headed to Kona today. My friend Clay has invited me to visit him in his remote island house many times over the years, and I’ve never found the time. But in recent years I’ve learned that finding the time doesn’t always mean finding long stretches of time. Sometimes it can mean finding minutes, hours, or a few days.
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I’m headed to Kona today. My friend Clay has invited me to visit him in his remote island house many times over the years, and I’ve never found the time. But in recent years I’ve learned that finding the time doesn’t always mean finding long stretches of time. Sometimes it can mean finding minutes, hours, or a few days.
Last summer Katie and I engineered a seven hour road trip to have lunch with my favorite uncle and it reminded me - spending some time is better than spending no time at all. So I coordinated a three day trip in December with all the kids to see NYC at Christmas. I must admit there was not a lot of time for free play, but we had the time of our lives chasing Christmas trees, eating bagels and shopping the Christmas markets. We all departed on Sunday full of cheer and happy we’d made the effort. Read 72 Hours in NYC for our quick trip itinerary.
And now I’m on a plane bound for Kona for four days including my arrival and departure days. Clay very graciously agreed to my itinerary, given that it’s a two hour drive between two volcanos to come fetch me from the airport. Thank you Clay. I am looking forward to two lovely days with my friends, and while I wish it was more, I feel so lucky.
My next mini-break is not yet planned, but that’s the beauty of a quick trip - there’s always time.
Read our itineraries from some of our favorite quick trips
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