Ask Me Anything...
A recap from Instagram with additional commentary.
I receive a lot of specific questions in my Instagram DMs and think the answers would be of interest to a broader audience so I posted an Ask Me Anything over the weekend. Because I realize not all of you are active on Instagram, I’m sharing some of the highlights with additional commentary here.
~What’s one of your favorite places you’ve traveled to in the last two years?
~Easy. The Dolomites. One of my favorite places on earth. I rarely repeat traveling to a place especially in back to back years, but the Dolomites are special. The scenery, the food, the culture, and activities make for a perfect vacation. I’ve only experienced two regions and there’s still so much more to see. The links to the trips are saved here (2025) and here (2024). A detailed post is in the works.
~What’s your favorite perfume?
~From Regime des Fleurs, Little Flower done in collaboration with Chloe Sevigny. It’s an interesting, layered, beautiful floral. Unique and special. I originally heard about it from Melissa Coleman on Mrs. Derm in 2024 and it’s been my go-to ever since.
~What’s your most comfortable travel sneaker that doesn’t look athletic?
~The Ecco Soft 60 Aeon Sneaker. Comfortable right out of the box. Numerous readers who have purchased (I’ve recommended these several times before) all agree.
~They work with a variety of pant lengths or skirts. I’m planning on purchasing them in tan (currently 40% off).
~What 100% cotton sweaters do you love? Looking for a shorter length.
~I love La Ligne sweaters. They’re well made, comfortable and reasonably priced. The Mini Marin sweater is my favorite and comes in a variety of colors. Jenni Kayne is up there too. Look at the Cameron Crewneck and the Cruise Cocoon.
~Can you do a post on layering necklaces?
~Yes. In the works, I always receive questions about how to layer, where to buy, etc. If you have any other questions about jewelry, ask and I’ll try and cover it in that post.
~Need my first proper loafers, what’s your rec for the most all-purpose pair?
~ I would invest in a classic, like the Gucci 1953 Horsebit loafer. It’s been around since 1953 and never goes out of style. I have several pair collected over the years and they all wear beautifully and are in great shape. A little age on them actually makes them interesting.
~For something without hardware, these are beautiful. I like the moccasin style toe and the high tongue. From Banana Republic in dark brown or taupe.
~What are the best style shoes to wear with wide leg cropped pants or jeans?
~ I like a stylish flat to ground the proportion of the pant silhouette. From there, it’s personal choice - a Mary Jane, ballet, slipper, loafer, etc. From top left: Leopard Velvet Slip-On; Square-Toe Suede Ballet with Bow; The Phoebe strapped ballet in Burgundy Nappa; Jasper Square-toe Suede Loafer Also, not shown - Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina in black leather and Khaite Billy Suede Loafer.
~Can you show us or write about how you organize your closet?
~I’ve been meaning to do this and will build a post around my process. For now, I’ll just mention that I edit frequently. I keep a small bag in my closet and if I put something on, and it doesn’t work, it goes straight in the bag. No looking back. This little step makes the full edit less daunting.
~If you could purchase one designer bag, what would it be?
~I would focus on a wearable classic. An icon or a signature style from one of the brands I really love. Right now that would be the Campana from Bottega Veneta in Nocciola (small) or Fondant (large-above). A beauty! For something smaller in scale, try the Dustbag in any color.
~The Celine Teen Honorine is another favorite for a more structured bag. It’s elegant, classic, and polished and would work well across a spectrum of looks - from denim to tailoring.
~I’m a fan of the Gucci Horsebit across the board…shoes, bags, belts, etc. I have the structured Gucci Horsebit bag but don’t wear it that often anymore. It’s a little stiff. The introduction of the Aura - a softer version immediately caught my eye. It fits in more with a casual wardrobe. In white, burgundy, or black.
~The Dior Bobby Bag is also really nice and quite easy to style. I prefer the grained leather to the smooth calfskin. It adds a more sporty, utilitarian vibe to the bag. I have it in black. Interestingly, the price point has remained steady for several years while other brands are skyrocketing. The quality is excellent too. There are quite a few on TRR if interested in pre-owned.
~ Suggestions for a navy (mostly) wool peacoat?
~I’ll start with this from S’Max Mara. It’s a classic fit in a beautiful shade of navy. I like the dark buttons and pocket placement. I have a couple S’Max Mara jackets similar to this style and appreciate the partial silk lining (sleeves only). It slips on easily and doesn’t add bulk. Perfect for California or warmer climates. The tab back is a great detail. Also available here.
~ From La Ligne, a price-friendly option in a lightweight, soft felted wool.It has a slight cocoon shape which I think gives it a forward feel.
~On sale and deeply discounted, I love the boxy, shorter length and the sleeve detail on the Max Mara Laveno Coat. Also, here.
~From Fleurette, a sharp six-button, lightly sculpted fit in 100% wool. It comes in a range of sizes including petite and is currently on sale.
~ What is the best style of jeans for a short person?
~ I think anyone can wear any style regardless of height. It’s how you style them that matters. The Frame The Borrowed has been my go-to style for the last several months and is universally flattering. Also, take a look at a denim brand’s offerings in petite sizes. That would give you a good idea of what styles sell best for petites. A reader (who said she’s 5’3”) chimed in and mentioned Le Sleek from the “Pixie” selection on Frame as being a good one.
~ Can you recommend a couple of women’s tuxedos, and will I be a caricature if I wear one?
~ Ha. No, you won’t be a caricature! It’s all in how you style it and the fit you go with. My personal preference is to wear the jacket with a camisole. Showing skin keeps it feminine and is the opportunity to add personality with jewelry. It doesn’t get much better than the Co Textured Tuxedo Blazer.
~ I also like a cropped length for an element of surprise. You wouldn’t feel like you’re being swallowed up in a full suit and it looks fabulous with a high waist trouser, which would give the illusion of height. The Me+Em Forever Crop Tux Jacket is a great example.
~ And, don’t overlook the versatility you’ll have with a tuxedo jacket. I love playing down the dressed up element and pairing it with faded denim and a special flat.
~I like a cropped trouser too. It’s less predictable and looks great with flats. If going for a cropped option, choose either a jacket or pant. I don’t think the proportions work well worn together.
~Suggestions for chic footwear for wet weather abroad.
~ Definitely, a lug-sole boot like. Even better if they’re water resistant. If not, spray on your own water-resistant treatment. I use this. The West Chelsea Boot is already water-resistant and constructed with a durable lug sole for extra grip on slippery cobblestones. The friendly price point, variety of widths, and nice selection of colors makes this a top boot for consideration. The sandstone and cedar suede are both really nice.
~ The process of traveling (getting there) is arduous. How do you do it?
~ Agree! I do a ton of research. It’s a process. Traveling is an investment in time and money so thoughtful planning really matters to me. I wish it was easier, but I’m very obsessed with the details. Maybe, a future post would describe my process for those interested.