Saturday, August 23, 2025
After months of dreaming, planning, and countless Pinterest saves, I finally touched down in Paris with my family, and it was everything I imagined and more. It was the perfect backdrop to spend quality time together and explore one of the most iconic cities in the world. We filled our days with unforgettable moments, from exploring art galleries and vintage shops in Le Marais to catching golden hour at the Eiffel Tower; every moment felt effortless and perfectly Parisian.
Of course, no trip to Paris is complete without a little outfit exploration. I packed pieces I knew would be versatile yet chic, perfect for everything from casual coffee runs to gallery-hopping. Think a classic little black dress paired with red ballet flats for a stroll through Montmartre, a Canadian tuxedo and white sneakers for a day at Disneyland Paris, and flowy maxi skirts styled with cute tops for easy outfits throughout the week. You can find more of what I wore & recs through my ShopMy collection, linked here.
All in all, stepping into my dream city was everything I hoped for, and yes, I may have brought a little Paris back with me in the outfits I wore, the cafés I loved, and the corners of the city I can’t stop thinking about. Below, I’m sharing a peek into what I wore, where I ate, and my favorite Parisian discoveries. Basically, a little guide to the style, flavors, and experiences that made this trip so unforgettable.
On warmer afternoons, I leaned on breezy maxi skirts paired with playful tops and sandals for uncomplicated styling. Each outfit was versatile enough to take me from an afternoon of exploring straight to dinner. I couldn’t resist ending the day at cozy spots like Bouillon Pigalle. It’s lively, affordable, and has all the French classics (their steak with fries and pepper sauce is a must-try!) For something more elevated, Maxim was a dream. Its ambience and timeless glamour made dinner feel like a true Parisian experience. And if you’re craving Italian in Paris (because yes, it’s a thing), Le Monteverdi is one of those cozy, always-packed favorites worth the hype. No matter what you’re craving, Paris truly has a table for every mood. Some other spots I enjoyed include:
- Madonna
- Gala food malatang/Gala Cantine (on 88 Rue Blanche in Paris; their braised beef noodle bowl and chicken fried dumplings were perfection)
- Le Bon Georges
- Chez Savy
- La Mère Catherine in Montmartre (you have to try the mussels!)
- Poulette
Le Marais is a dream for fashion lovers. I spent hours browsing vintage shops and small boutiques, picking up pieces that felt unique and fun. A few curated vintage stops I can’t recommend enough: Système Solère / Saint-Paul, Demain Rétro, and Vintage Désir. A must-visit for me was Smith and Son, where I also grabbed a few fashion magazines. I'm slowly building my international Vogue collection, one issue at a time. And of course, my sister and I couldn’t resist Amorino for gelato; it quickly became our go-to spot for a little sweet treat while exploring different areas. Other spots worth checking out for souvenirs, beauty staples, and cute clothes:
- Thanx God I’m a VIP
- Printemps Haussmann
- Louis Paris
- Chez Sarah
- The Parisian Vintage
- Palace Callas
- La Frange à l'envers
- Studio W
- Le Boudoir Vintage
- Mademoiselle Josephine
- Les Archives
- L'Officine Universelle Buly 1803
- Skat Vintage
- Erem
- Nuovo
- Marie Olive
- The Room
- Open Dressing
- Celia Darling
- Bobby
- Valois Vintage
- OFC Vintage
- goodJo luxury vintage
And naturally, you can’t explore Paris without discovering its cafés and bakeries along the way. Some of my favorites to recharge included Mamiche, Creamy Daily, Kura-ge, Ladurée, and Matcha Social Club, each perfect for coffee, pastries, or a little mid-day indulgence between exploring the city. For art lovers, I created a mini museum loop that was a must on our trip, which included the La Galerie Dior, perfect for fashion history, the Petit Palais (which is free entry), and the Musée d'Orsay. If you’re planning a visit, keep in mind that many museums in Paris are free on the first Sunday of the month (with advance registration), which makes it a great time to plan a gallery day. I also loved seeing the Colonnes de Buren installation and taking a moment to people-watch on the benches at the Jardin du Palais Royal. If you have a full day to spare, a trip out to Claude Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny is an unforgettable blend of art history and serene landscapes.
By the end of the trip, I realized a few staple pieces made exploring Paris effortless and stylish. Linen sets, flowy maxi skirts, a tailored denim jacket, classic button-down tops, and graphic tees became my go-to. They were all easy to mix, match, and layer depending on the day. You can find more of these picks in my ShopMy collection, linked here, for inspiration and styling ideas. More than anything, I hope these reflections offer a mix of inspiration and practical tips you can bring along on your own future trip to Paris.
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Being a medium-maintenance girl isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating space for rituals that feel good and habits that support your day-to-day. I truly believe that when you look good, you feel good, and an intentional routine can make all the difference in how you show up each day.
My beauty routine leans more into skincare that acts like makeup, a streamlined stack of everyday staples, and rituals that help me stay centered. I swear by my morning supplements, get my steps in on the walking pad, and never skip sunscreen (yes, even on gloomy days). I gua sha because it feels like a calming reset. I rotate my products like a capsule wardrobe. And I genuinely love the hunt for quality products, especially when it comes to skincare. You can explore my go-to products, from skincare to haircare staples, over on my ShopMy storefront. Everything I mention in this post is linked there for easy browsing.
Ahead, I’m breaking down the rituals that keep me feeling my best, from daily habits to weekly resets and monthly maintenance. Whether you're building your own routine or just looking for new ideas, consider this your guide to romanticizing your beauty and wellness rituals in a way that feels soft, sustainable, and fully you.
Confession #1: The Daily Non-Negotiables
Some of the things I do each day feel like anchors, consistent touchpoints that help me move through the rest of my day with more clarity and ease. My mornings usually begin quietly, with a prayer and a few minutes of journaling to check in with myself before the day fully begins. Movement typically comes next, whether it’s a walk paired with a Pilates session or a beginner-friendly ballet class. I’ll often have soft music playing or a show on in the background.
Currently, I keep a simple skincare routine rooted in hydration and skin barrier support. Double cleansing has truly changed my skin for the better. From there, I always reach for glow-enhancing serums, hydrating mists, lightweight facial oils, and rich creams that double as primer. My skin is always prepped and protected with SPF (yes, even on rainy days), and I always finish with a hydrating lip gloss or balm. Brushing my teeth morning and night without fail is just another part of the rhythm. And body care is just as important to me. Morning and night, I use a nourishing moisturizer, a body oil packed with antioxidants, and sunscreen. Most evenings, I pair a lightweight facial oil with my gua sha routine. And every other evening right before bed, I also apply castor oil to my lashes to maintain their health and length. As a way to slow down and enjoy the process as an act of self-care, I almost always light a candle while I get ready.
Supplements are another daily essential. After breakfast, I pair a glass of water or tea with a few go-to vitamins: Iron, Vitamin D3, Vitamin C, Lemme Glow for hair, skin, and nails, and Lemme Grow for hair growth and anti-shedding. They support my energy, mood, and overall glow from within. You can explore more of my wellness lineup here.
Confession #2: My Weekly Reset Rituals
There’s something so relaxing about having a few beauty rituals to come back to each week. I don’t do them all at once, but over the week, these are the habits that help me feel most like myself.
Twice a week, I’ll shave (including dermaplaning my face), exfoliate, and layer on a nourishing in-shower oil. It’s the kind of ritual that takes a little more time, but the combination is heaven-sent for soft skin that feels and smells so good. I also make time for a face mask once a week, usually something soothing or clarifying, depending on how my skin is feeling. I’ll also shape my brows twice a week to keep them looking defined, and I never skip washing my makeup brushes and sponges.
When it comes to nails, I usually keep up with my pedicure at home, which includes trimming, shaping, cuticle care, and a fresh coat of polish as part of a relaxed evening ritual. For my hands, I keep things simple with clean, short nails that I shape and maintain myself. I’ll occasionally opt for acrylics or gel for vacations, events, or special occasions when I want something a little more polished and long-lasting. And of course, I always work in a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask, especially if I’ve been heat styling or just want to give my hair a little extra love after so many slicked back hairstyles.
Confession #3: Monthly Maintenance Moments
One of my biggest high-effort but low-maintenance wins is braiding my own hair. My go-to style is French curl braids, sealed with a firm-hold hairspray and mousse for added shine. It takes time to do them myself, but once they’re done, it's a style that is easy to maintain throughout the month and makes getting ready feel so much easier.
I also take time to restock any skincare staples I’ve run low on, and seasonally, I’ll adjust my routine depending on what my skin needs. In the colder months, I introduce shea butter into my bodycare lineup and use coconut oil at night to help lock in moisture. These swaps keep my skin feeling smooth and soft, all season.
Confession #4: Products I’m Loyal To
When it comes to skincare, these are the products that always stay in rotation and have earned a permanent spot in my skincare bag or on the shelf. In the evening, I start with a double cleanse using Dermalogica’s Precleanse Oil to melt away makeup and buildup, followed by Rhode’s Pineapple Refresh Cleanser for a gentle, effective second cleanse. After cleansing, I reach for Byoma’s Hydrating Milky Toner, which feels incredibly soothing and gives my skin a plump, prepped base for the rest of my products. I follow that with the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, a lightweight, deeply soothing layer that supports my skin barrier. For glow, the Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum delivers a healthy, dewy complexion that lasts. I turn to Rhode’s Glazing Milk when I want added hydration and that glass skin finish. My moisturizer of choice tends to change seasonally, depending on what my skin needs. Throughout the day, the Caudalie Beauty Elixir Face Mist is my favorite for a quick, refreshing reset. No matter the season, I always finish with sunscreen SPF 30 or higher to keep my skin protected.
OLEHENRIKSEN’s Banana Bright+ Eye Crème is one of my top picks for targeted under-eye care, brightening and smoothing the area while also working beautifully under makeup. Similarly, their Pout Preserve Lip Treatment provides long-lasting hydration and a glossy finish I adore. I have also enjoyed incorporating Lemme Glow Gummies into my routine, as they continue to support the health of my hair, skin, and nails from the inside out. Their Sleep Gummies have also become the perfect addition to my evening rituals for more restful nights.
My approach to body care follows the same philosophy as skincare: thoughtful, consistent, and tailored to what my skin needs most. Shea butter and coconut oil are essentials in my body care routine during colder months when my skin craves added hydration. In warmer weather, I rely on Kopari’s Sun Shield Body Glow SPF 50, which not only offers reliable sun protection but also adds a gorgeous, radiant layer on my skin. I also swear by Nécessaire’s Multi-Peptide Body Lotion for its replenishing properties and lasting fragrance that complements my perfumes so well.
Confession #5: I Romanticize Everything
Most times, it’s the little luxuries and habits that transform a routine into a ritual. For me, that looks like lighting a candle while I get ready, slipping into a cozy robe before skincare, and playing soft music in the background to set the tone. I love sipping herbal tea or matcha while I move through my skincare steps, and some evenings, I’ll go for a warm cup of bone broth instead, especially when I want something soothing that supports both my skin and gut health.
It’s in these small details that I find space to slow down, enjoy the moment, and make everyday routines feel more elevated.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the blog!
Monday, July 7, 2025
Welcome back to The Dressing Room, your go-to space for effortless styling and seasonal inspiration, where we make the most of what’s already in your closet. This time, we’re diving into the ultimate summer style inspiration: The Hallie Parker Summer Edit. Think laid-back California cool girl with a modern twist. She's effortless, carefree, and always a little bit chic.
As always, the goal is to help you create those "I have nothing to wear" outfits without constantly refreshing your wardrobe with new items. But if you’re feeling inspired to update your closet this season, you can shop the collection here, featuring all the exact pieces from today’s post (and a few extras). Now, let’s get into the good stuff.
For the Hallie Parker Summer Edit, we’re blending nostalgia with a modern and elevated twist, revisiting those essential pieces that were signature to Hallie's outfitting in the movie. Think oversized striped shirts, relaxed denim shorts, and cute riding boots. Below, I’ve put together six inspired outfit formulas that take the guesswork out of getting dressed.
- Button-Down Shirt + Jeans: This is a classic combination that never goes out of style. For a polished look, fully tuck your shirt and add a leather belt to cinch the waist. Want something more relaxed? Try leaving a few buttons undone at the top, rolling the sleeves, or loosely tucking the shirt at the front. Complete the outfit with black loafers or white sneakers and gold hoop earrings for a refined, minimalist vibe.
- Denim Midi Dress + Riding Boots: Achieve a polished yet relaxed feel with a denim midi dress and sleek riding boots. To define the waist, add a leather belt, or leave the dress unbuttoned at the collar for a more laid-back look. Pair with a raffia tote and a gold pendant necklace to add an effortless charm to your final look.
- Oversized Denim Jacket + Slip Dress: This pairing strikes the perfect balance between soft and structured. Slip on an oversized denim jacket over a satin slip dress for an easy, laid-back look. Then, keep it casual with platform sandals and sporty sunglasses, or dress it up with kitten heels and bold earrings. For a more styled finish, you can drape the jacket over your shoulders or cuff the sleeves.
- White Ribbed Tank + High-Waisted Trousers: Tuck a white ribbed tank into high-waisted trousers for a clean, understated combo. Slip into sandals and add a silk scarf, draped around your neck or tied in your hair, for a soft, refined touch. Finish with a woven tote to bring the whole look together.
- Denim on Denim: Lean into the Canadian tuxedo by pairing a light-wash denim jacket or vest with a matching or similarly toned denim skirt. Then, go for a belted or cinched style to define the waist, or layer your jacket over a white tee for a casual base. Complete the look with classic sneakers and gold accents.
Want a more personalized touch? You can book a styling consult with me through my ShopMy page linked here. And be sure to check back often for more outfit recipes, styling guides, and creative ways to refresh your wardrobe with intention.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the blog!
Monday, May 19, 2025
I’ve always appreciated the idea of a denim jacket; they’re timeless, versatile, and show up on every spring trend list without fail. In theory, they have all the makings of a closet staple I should be reaching for on repeat. But in practice? They’ve been missing from my wardrobe for a while.
Every season, I’d see a fresh wave of styles hit the racks, from cropped to oversized, and I’d think maybe this is the moment to incorporate something new into my closet. But somehow, they never felt quite right. Then came spring, and while curating pieces ahead of a trip to Singapore, I came across this cinched-waist denim jacket from Abercrombie that instantly caught my eye. It felt like the kind of piece I’d reach for often, and without overthinking it, I knew it had a spot in my suitcase.
On one of my first mornings exploring the city, I paired it with a flowy black maxi skirt, one of my favorite packing choices for the trip, and it felt like the easiest outfit formula. Equal parts relaxed and refined, the jacket gave the look just enough shape without overwhelming it. And since then, this pairing has quietly become my spring uniform. That’s the beauty of a good denim jacket: it anchors lighter pieces, plays well with proportions, and works as an effortless layer during those in-between weather days. Whether you’re dressing up a basic tank or throwing it over a sundress, it has a way of pulling everything together without trying too hard. I’ve linked the exact pieces here so you can shop the full look and make it your own this spring.
When it comes to finishing the look, the shoes make all the difference. A pair of ballet flats or kitten heels leans into the feminine feel, while classic white sneakers are perfect for keeping things casual for all-day exploring. If you're heading somewhere warm, sandals add the perfect spring touch. However you style it, this combo is easy to make your own, and I’ve linked a few favorites here to help you get started.
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