Worn on: January 24 | Weather: Cloudy, 45-50°F
At this point in the week, I’m feeling a little overstimulated. I keep compulsively checking my phone for no good reason, my shoulders are tight, and I feel like I can’t shut off my brain.
A shift is in order.
Today, I’m consciously softening. I cocooned myself in easy, low-key clothes — including a sweatshirt that has the vibe I’m going for spelled out, literally. Peace and quiet. I’m letting myself move a little slower and I’m keeping my phone in my bag instead of in my hand. Later tonight, I’m going to treat myself to a hot bath with epsom salts and a good long stretch session.
Are you feeling similarly? How can you soften a little today?
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OUTFIT DETAILS
(If you see something you like, you can shop it and support my blog at the same time by using the affiliate links below)
Museum of Peace and Quiet Sweatshirt (old) | Similar: Museum of Peace and Quiet Sweatshirt & Cotton On Graphic Sweatshirt
Aritzia Alpha Tee | Similar: Men’s Everlane Premium Weight Long Sleeve Tee (I’d size up one or two to get a similar fit)
Abercrombie Mid Rise Straight Jeans
James Avery Foxtail Chain Necklace (wearing 18in)
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Take extra good care of yourself today. Thanks so much for being here and reading my blog. <3
Love the look of the Aritzia tee, re. the length etc. but it is completely sold out. Any other recommended options that would provide the looseness and length?
Yes! Thank you for pointing this out — I just updated the post too. Check out the Men’s Everlane Premium Weight Long Sleeve Crew. I’d size up one or two to get a similar fit.
https://rstyle.me/+J3CpEiLJRA-dNPIUv9cWqA
Ugh, same. I’m going to pick a cozy outfit and hide my phone. Good ideas!!
I totally get this. Mine is more of an overall pattern of softening–my work environment is chronically toxic, and I am seeing how much it has hardened me over the past year–tight shoulders, clenched jaw, don’t-mess-with-me hairstyle and wardrobe. It has been exhausting, and it doesn’t suit me. So I am softening: bringing in some texture like a tweed blazer, some merino wool crewnecks, a simple pearl necklace. Increasing the time I spend meditating, walking, and practicing yoga. Trying to be extra-kind and to laugh more.
Honestly, I think these days, so many people feel how you described–not assuming or projecting a reason onto you, just acknowledging that we are living in an especially fraught time in the world, and that’s on top of our own individual life challenges. Sharing your conscious choice to soften up and be tender with yourself is revolutionary. Thank you for putting this out there today. It helps.
Thank you for sharing so openly Jen — it’s difficult to not let things harden us over time. You sharing about your don’t-mess-with-me wardrobe really resonates — I did the exact same thing last year in a season of grief without even realizing I was doing it. I’m only just now starting to come out of that a bit. Feels good to begin incorporating color, soft shapes, and playful touches back into my wardrobe. It sounds like you’re doing a great job at being kind to yourself and giving yourself room to feel. I’m glad today’s post helped a little. <3 Sending love.
Sending love back to you, Caroline. Thank you for sharing your experience. Here’s to our continued kindness toward ourselevs and others. ❤️
Hi Caroline. I don’t mean to sound rude or critical with this comment, but where do you go when you wear these outfits? Do you WFH? Is this blog your “job.” Do you work for a startup with a super lax dress code so you can wear these “easy low-key clothes”? I love all your normal styling notes, but without the added context, the posts start to feel kinda… clinical. It would be nice for your readers to be able to get to know more of who you are instead of just what you wear and how your wardrobe makes you feel.
I do understand that’s not the point of a fashion blog, and safety/privacy concerns are probably part of the equation, but I also know there’s more to you than your clothes. And I’m sure many other newer readers would appreciate some more personal commentary on occasion. This isn’t coming from a place of censure – just genuine curiosity. XO
I totally hear you Sophia, and I appreciate the vote to share more. Over the years, sometimes I’ve shared more of my personal life, sometimes less, but it always comes down to what I’m comfortable sharing in that moment. I’ve been in a phase of not wanting to share much, but I think that might be shifting, which is nice. As far as where I wear these outfits, blogging is my job (no quotation marks needed ;)) and I wear these outfits for my daily life — which right now looks like working up at a coffee shop, running errands, and spending time with friends or family.