light & shade [sandals & socks]

[Champion shirt, Club Monaco shorts, Richer Poorer athletic socks, Camper pelotas sandals, Warby Parker Evertt in Marine Slate, ONLY NY leatherback]

I'm not quite sure how, or when really, it happened. After a hiatus from any sort of open toed shoe, Summer or not, the idea of sandals isn't an easy one for me. But the minute I got these Camper sandals, I knew I had to find the perfect sock. Welp, Richer-Poorer seemingly read my mind and and even color coordinated for me! 

Photos by Madeleine Kathleen

the short of it [printed swim suits]

I've never been a fan of the board short--- EVER. I just can't get with a thin, sans-lining suit dragging below the knee as you get out from a swim (much less the cargo pockets typically found on the side and always filled with water- not the best look). Call me old fashioned, but I much prefer a shorter, slim cut a la the iconic Cary Grant in To Catch a Thief (below). 

After an amazing first weekend at the beach for Memorial Day, here are some of my favorite short swim options (in prints naturally) to dream of until the next beach day.

[From top left: Paul Smith, Richard James, Frescobol Carioca, Dolce & Gabbana, Dan Ward, Saturdays Surf NYC, Bluemint] 

M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I [film]

[Vintage Future Farmer's of America Cord jacket from Fox and Fawn, Vintage Dior shirt, Vintage collar bar, ASOS pants]

At last week's Timberland event, Kimi, from Tan Camera, was there capturing all the moments on Fuji Instax for the party goers to take with them. Naturally, I used this as an excuse for a mini photoshoot of my new favorite vintage piece from Madeleine's closet. 

Photos by Tan Camera

cosmic print

[French Connection Jets Sons Peach Pie Jacket, What Goes Around Comes Around vintage pocket tee, What Goes Around Comes Around vintage 501 Redlines, Richer Poorer socks, Adidas sambas]

I got 99 problems, but a print ain't one. The absolute latest and greatest of print game is most certainly the space print jacket from French Connection. While we already know I can't get enough of a good print, cartoon-y versions are always at the top of my list. Plus the jacket is the perfect weight for these chilly mornings here in NY. 

Photos by Madeleine Kathleen

clogs: my new summer shoe

[French Connection floral shirt, Levi's 510 denim, ASOS socks, Dansko Professional Oiled Leather, Warby Parker Everett in Marine Slate]

I'm not huge on what one might call a summer shoe. In my humble opinion, no self respecting person wears flip flops in NY (you might as well sleep on the sidewalk, right?). And while I haven't jumped on the Birkenstock trend (yet?), I see, and have lived, the negatives of wearing high tops and boots all Summer long.

This is where the clog enters. Open, but closed, utilitarian yet chic, the clog seems to be answering all my prayers.  Dansko has everything you need the clog department. I thinking all white is next.

Photos by Madeleine Kathleen

serious face care [groomed]

There's nothing quite like a warm shower followed by a standard skin regime. I've gotten serious about my skin recently, especially the skin on my face. While most of these products can be used day or night, I always use an SPF for day.

Duane Reade Vitamin E Oil | I start by applying Vitamin E Oil to any scars or scratches for a healthy dose of healing. (TIP: The higher the IU amount, the more concentrated the oil is, this one is 2,800 IU). 

 Baxter of California Oil Free Moisturizer | You can't believe everything you read, but this Baxter moisturizer truly leaves your skin feeling hydrated and soft but never oily. 

Lab Series Instant Skin Booster | Perfect for evening out pink and red tones, throw on a dab right before heading out the door. 

 Bach Rescue Cream |  Bach is one of my favorite brands for natural remedies. Their rescue cream can be applied to extremely dry patches, irritated skin or the temples for a quick rejuv.

Yon-Ka Men Under Eye Gel | Yon-Ka makes the finest in French skin care. The under eye gel is great for the end of the week when it's finally starting to catch up with you!

 Dr. Dewy Lip Cure | Obsessed with this lip cure! Apply before bed and wake up with the ideal kissable lips.

ice cream cones

[French Connection Ice Cream Cones Embroidered sweatshirt, Vintage shirt, Citizens of Humanity selvedge white denim, Nike Air Max 90s, Vintage rifle collar bar]

First thing's first- an embroidered array of pastel ice cream cones on a grey sweatshirt? YES!!! French Connection nailed it with their latest assortment of prints; ice cream cones, pineapples, florals and even a cosmic cartoon set, so naturally, I'm hooked. 

Photos by Madeleine Kathleen

leather and knits

[Warby Parker Everett in Marine Slate, Vintage Perfecto moto leather jacket, J. Crew Fisherman's sweater, Patrik Ervell pants, ASOS socks, Puma x Alexander McQueen Ruffien II]

The black leather is definitely a go-to in terms of New York Springs. Throw it on with your black denim and t-shirt for a sure-fire quick exit strategy that day. What I love even more though, is mixing leather with delicate and intricate patterns of knit. To start, I paired it with my favorite marled tweed slacks from Patrik Erevell, honestly my most prized pair of pants. And topped it all off it with a fisherman's sweater and black kicks. 

Photos by Madeleine Kathleen

John Varvatos & KISS

John Varvatos. You may know him as the go-to for modern rocker cool, but the menswear designer from Detroit got his start at Americana-loving Ralph Lauren before going to Calvin Klein before re-taking over Menswear at Ralph. In 1999, Varvatos went on to begin his own menswear collection. In the latest video from the brand, Varvatos invited 300 people to show without knowing who would perform, only to be greeted by KISS. I love how Varvatos mixed modern men's fashions with classic KISS styling and appearance for this behind the scenes look into the surprise performance.

Sponsored by John Varvatos

celebrity

[Beyonce for Out Magazine, Lil' Kim for Vice, Riccardo Tisci for Jonas Unger, Mariah Carey, Donatella & Beyonce by Mario Testino] 

Can't help but mixing throwbacks with some modern takes on the same subject.