Latest Posts

the best shoes for travel – minimalist double strap sandals by OTBT shoes

If you’re looking for one pair of shoes that you can wear while you travel and for just about every occasion on your trip, these double strap platform sandals by OTBT are it.

best shoes for travel by otbt - double strap velcro sandals. wear with athleisure travel outfit

Working for a shoe company, I currently possess an unspeakable amount of shoes. Finding the perfect pair for travel that’s comfy and sleek enough to go with everything – not an easy ask.

Unlike other sportswear brands, OTBT is a brand of women’s travel shoes that starts with design and the uses of the shoes, and then works in the functional features required for hours of walking time.

But don’t just take my word for it, other traveler’s have the same review of OTBT travel shoes.

best shoes for travel by otbt - double strap velcro sandals in white

That means they don’t look like track shoes or gym sneakers. They look like cool platform sandals and fashion sneakers – the kind you can wear with just about anything in your wardrobe. Which leads me to introduce my new favorite pair of sandals for traveling.

I literally don’t leave my house without the best travel sandals, Assimilate by OTBT. They’re the most comfortable pair of sandals I own, and the minimalist double-strap design with low platform makes them the perfect compliment with anything from travel sportswear to poplin dresses.

best shoes for travel by otbt - double strap velcro sandals with square toe

The best travel sandals

These triple Velcro sandals have accompanied me on literally every trip since they launch, and are by are the best sandals I’ve ever had for travel. Assimilate has a sleek, minimalist design that you can pair with literally anything, and works especially well with travel loungewear and athleisure styles. It also has just over an inch platform and a square toe, which gives the shoe a distinctly fashion forward look.

best shoes for travel by otbt - double strap velcro sandals with three adjustable straps

But beyond the style, it’s the functionality that makes this shoe perfect for road trips and air travel alike.

Key features of these travel sandals by OTBT

  • 3 adjustable velcro straps make the shoe incredibly comfortable with a personalized fit
  • Velcro makes the shoes easy to slip on and off if you like shedding your shoes in the car or need to take them off for airport security
  • Extra padding and lightweight design make the shoe super comfy even after hours on your feet, which means you can sightsee straight from transit and they’re easy to pack
  • Minimalist design is modern and chic, which makes the style versatile to wear throughout your trip on various excursions when you don’t want to pack a ton of shoes

The difference, they’re super lightweight, and streamlined with adjustable Velcro closures so you can get in and out and on the road. They have extra padding and a padded footbed, so you can pull over to take in the view and a trek around for hours. And, you can just as easily wear them to casual brunch or market runs when you still want to feel like yourself.

best shoes for travel by otbt - double strap velcro sandals with platform

The double strap platform silhouette even pairs well with summer dresses and suiting for a modern athleisure twist that’s effortlessly sophisticated.

I’ve taken more than a few of the shoes out for a test run. After 10 years working for the brand, that’s just what you do. But this year, I’m more excited than ever for these new two-strap sandals that check all the boxes in what you need for every every trip.

I’ve traveled around a dozen countries and been on countless adventures from the remote beaches of Goa to the Swiss Alps, Egypt and India. All I can say is I wish I had these travel sandals then… and they’ll definitely be accompanying me for my next adventures.

best shoes for travel by otbt - double strap velcro sandals in black and white

Oh yeah and also, they come in black and white. So they’re literally the only travel sandal you’ll ever need. Want to check them out for yourself? Shop the whole collection of travel sandals at otbtshoes.com

5 sophisticated summer maternity outfit combos for the minimalist 

Mix and match your wardrobe staples with these easy go-to “outfit recipes”, and you’ll have endless maternity outfit options with pieces you probably already have in your wardrobe. 

sophisticated maternity outfit ideas graphic tee and knit pants

Image cred: @dayinmydreams

Trying to find your maternity style that doesn’t include traditional cotton band jeans and awkward fitting tops? Yes, it is possible to be pregnant and maintain your sense of style, even for a minimalist. 

These sophisticated maternity outfit ideas cover every occasion, offering you enough variety and versatility that you can wear them all summer long.

sophisticated maternity outfit ideas dress and blazer

Image cred: Pinterest (unknown original), Karolina Kurkova via dailymail.co.uk, Chrissy Teigen via mirror.co.uk

Fitted dress and a blazer: great combination for the office when you want to be comfy but still need to look professional

Choose a maxi or fitted midi dress for a flattering bump fit and pair with a blazer. This is a great maternity outfit for the office! Cropped or oversized, there are countless ways to wear this look. Going somewhere after the office? Shed your blazer for an evening-ready occasion look. Swap the blazer for a cardigan for a look that’s a bit more relaxed.

sophisticated maternity outfit ideas button down and elastic shorts

Image cred: Pinterest (unknown original), @dayinmydreams

Oversized button down and coordinating elastic shorts: surprisingly sophisticated, a wear-everywhere look that’s super comfy and good in most weather

White blouse white shorts, so resort-ready with raffia sandals. Luxury quality black shirt on black, easy to transition from business casual to daytime and even evening wear. Wear with mules to dress it up or sandals for off duty hours. This is also a great look to add in some color with brighter monochrome pieces. Want to mix this look up? Swap the elastic shirt for biker shorts for a look that’s more casual.

sophisticated maternity outfit ideas oversized graphic tee and shorts

Image cred: Pinterest (unknown original), @dayinmydreams, Pinterest (unknown original)

Oversized t-shirt and elastic shorts: a go-to everyday casual look

An oversized t-shirt and elastic shorts is comfy and great for that awkward not quite showing bump stage through full term pregnancy. Wear with sporty sandals for around the house or quick errands and outdoor activities. Layer on a crewneck sweatshirt for chilly nights.

sophisticated maternity outfit ideas knit set and knit dress

Image cred: @dayinmydreams

Knit sets and knit dresses: stretchy (aka comfy) and sophisticated. Great for office and everyday casual

Knit pants and a coordinating knit top is chic enough to wear to work, and comfy enough to lounge in. So is a knit dress, which can also be dressed up with a pair of comfortable mules for the office or an evening out. 

You can shop knit sets at your staple department stores like MACY’S – Email sign up in Macys, get 25% off for your first order.

sophisticated maternity outfit ideas poplin dress

Image cred: Pinterest (unknown original), @dayinmydreams, Phoebe Burgess via dailymail.co.uk

Poplin dress: easy one-piece outfit for office and outings

Poplin dresses are a key staple for every woman. This look is easy, breathable and looks a bit more formal if you have brunch on your calendar. Any length works with this trendy summer maternity outfit that will show your bump and exude effortless femininity. 

sophisticated maternity outfit ideas slip dress

Image cred: @dayinmydreams

Rotate these looks for sophisticated maternity outfits you can wear literally all summer long. Pregnant with baby number two, it’s a cheat code list I’ve relied on and come to trust for comfy maternity outfits I know I can wear literally anywhere and still maintain my sense of style. 

Each combination has so many variations you can wear with simple swaps like changing your t-shirt and shoes or picking a different blazer. 

Pregnancy is a blessing, and dressing it should be fun! I hope this list of sophisticated maternity outfit ideas helps spark your imagination and gives you plenty of outfit “recipes” to keep you comfy and stylish all summer long. 

the Anne Fontaine spring and summer collection exudes hyper-feminine luxury

Bold prints, lavish embellishments and all-over lace – the SS23 Anne Fontaine release has arrived, and it’s dripping in hyper-feminine luxury.  If you’re looking for a statement piece that exudes your sense of sophisticated style, it’s time to review the new Anne Fontaine collection. 

In spirit, it’s a collection that lavishly celebrates a bold sense of pride in being a woman. Feminine frills and a bright color palette litter the collection of suiting, blouses, occasion wear, and of course this season’s new collection of Anne Fontaine white shirts

The prints are stunning, not overly done while making a strong statement. Micro florals to mural prints afford a wide range of personalities to suit. 

Want the inside scoop? Here’s my Anne Fontaine review featuring several of my favorite pieces from the ss23 collection.  

A masterpiece of art and design, my first select was the Clay white blouse. The muted floral print, French cuffs and full sleeves of the Clay shirt scream high fashion. The ghosted floral mural wraps around the front and back of the blouse. The strokes of each flower so delicate and beautiful one might feel they’ve just stepped out of an art gallery; a work of art come to life. 

Paired with leather shots and lace up boots, the look is high fashion and sophisticated with a bit of an edge – just my style. 

As always the embellishments and details set Anne Fontaine apart.

That’s what drew me to my second white shirt select. The boxy cut and embellished collar make the Bastide blouse a playful mix of structure and casual sophistication. A polished choice for business and weekend wear. 

From first site, I had envisioned this all white look paired with an Anne Fontaine white suit jacket and a simple mini. It was the perfect weekend attire for a girls brunch in Charleston. 

On the flip side, I’d also pair it with denim and even cute jogging shorts and sandals for a variety of more casual looks. 

I paired the dressier suit with a bag from the Anne Fontaine new arrivals. The Roseau handbag is one of those pieces you see and instantly fall in love with. It truly makes the outfit. Putting off a playful yet sophisticated high summer vibe.

For footwear, comfortable mules by Naked Feet were a must for Charleston’s walkways, and the bright yellow pedi added a splash of color in line with spring fashion trends. If color is your favorite statement for this summer, you could swap the Roseau handbag with Anne Fontaine’s signature mini in bold yellow.

The Violeta dress is pure elegance in head-to-toe lace, the perfect dress for a memorable special occasion. 

“Dripping in luxury” is a phrase that comes to mind when sporting something so exquisite. I opted to leave the last half of the front buttons undone to show a modern geometric mule by Mavette that completed the look. Accessorized with a signature cocktail bag courtesy of Farrah + Sloane.

Want more? Browse my extended wishlist at Anne Fontaine for more sophisticated essentials and occasion wear worth the view.

3 summer loafer outfits for the minimalist

Wondering what to wear with loafers? Timeless and sophisticated, it’s no wonder why loafers have made such a strong reappearance on the fashion scene. If you’ve been scanning for minimalist outfit inspo, or are looking for ideas on what to wear to work, here are 3 fresh ways to style loafers this summer.

Summer loafer outfit for the minimalist - knit set

A casual weekend loafer outfit you can wear literally anywhere

The beauty of this fashion era, freedom reins. Challenge tradition and wear your loafers with a knit set or knit dress for a look that’s effortlessly sophisticated, and elevates your weekend errand style. 

This look is not only minimalist chic, it’s also super comfy, making it a great Saturday morning outfit when you’re not quite sure what the day ahead will bring. Versatile and categorically undefined, you’ll be dressed and ready for anything from a walk through the park to rooftop mimosas.

Looking for knit set options? Try proven luxury retailers that feature all the hottest trends, like FARFETCH – Get 10% OFF Your First Order by Signing up for Farfetch

Summer loafer outfit for the minimalist - poplin cutout dress

Wear a dress with your loafers for brunch and day-to-night occasions

Loafers don’t need to look strictly business professional or masculine. For your next brunch date, pair your loafers with a summer poplin dress for a look that’s feminine and fashion forward. 

This combo is a fun way to play of the summer’s hottest trends by incorporating all you new dress wear in a way that’s casual enough to wear on a weekday. It’s also a great day-to-night style if you’re planning on outings straight from the office. 

Summer loafer outfit for the minimalist - classing suit set

Wear loafers with traditional suiting for a look that never goes out of style

Suiting is still dominating fashion. If you’re a sucker for traditional style, pair your loafers with your closet of suiting for a killer office look that will literally never go out of style.

For daytime pair with light colored suiting for a look that’s tailored and professional, or pair with dark suiting in boxy silhouettes or slinky materials for a look that can also easily transition from day-to-night. 

Looking for loafers with a little bit of edge? Shop Naked Feet’s chic and super comfortable loafers for women featured in the looks above.

Looking for more options? Try the footwear-centric luxury retailer FLANNELS – This is new luxury.

backstage at the Liberty University’s 2023 “Fashion Speaks” fashion show, designers boldly demand God be represented on the fashion scene

Thought the fashion scene in Lynchburg, VA was non-existent? It’s time to take another look. Behind the scenes at the 2023 “Fashion Speaks” fashion show, I was newly inspired as the Liberty University FACS department prepared to unveil their collections, with much more than just fashion on their lips. 

Models for Christ representative Loni Mbele behind the scenes at the Liberty University Fashion Speaks fashion show

The journey begins with a two-semester elective course, that ends center stage on the runway in the Concert Hall of Liberty University. I received a backstage pass as Creative Director of Naked Feet shoes, a comfortable women’s fashion footwear brand that sponsored the event (and looked stunning on the runway!)

The energy was electric. Aspiring designers and models littered the floors backstage as they let out the last pre-show jitters in an excited buzz. 

Naked Feet shoes and staff behind the scenes at the Liberty University Fashion Speaks fashion show

The passion for fashion was evident. But, as I was able to talk with a few of the designers, there was something even more exciting that seemed to be unanimous amongst the budding talent – a demand that God be represented on the fashion scene.

Liberty University’s FACS team each expressed a desire to impact the fashion world with a bold stance for representing God and their faith in an industry that often lacks even common dignity. 

Budding fashion designer at the Liberty University Fashion Speaks fashion show

It was truly refreshing, having spent enough time on the fashion scene to know it can be critical, self-indulgent, and blatantly unrighteous from many standpoints. 

Their approach, each unique. Many students desired to represent God through fashion itself – modest attire, fashion forward silhouettes that uphold the individuality of genders – others hope to be a light, showing God’s love and character in an industry that’s in dire need. 

Lani Mbele presenting at the Liberty University Fashion Speaks fashion show

Liberty University supports the students in their mission, and brought on a partnership to help inspire students and the audience of this year’s event. 

“The fashion major at Liberty is about more than just strutting down a catwalk or designing trendy outfits. Liberty University’s Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) Department partnered with Models for Christ, a non-profit fashion ministry, to highlight how Christians can participate in the fashion industry and live out their dreams while being a witness for Christ.”Rachel Auld, Liberty Champion

I had the opportunity to chat with guest speaker Loni Mbele in the dressing room, who was the spokeswoman for Models for Christ and is founder of Not Just Sunday. She encouraged the students behind the scenes, gave them some pro tips and asking the question “why not” in being open with sharing your testimony with others, no matter where else life takes you. 

Naked Feet shoes and staff behind the scenes at the Liberty University Fashion Speaks fashion show

Why not is right! Here’s to the boldening of our youth and budding talent on the fashion scene. A reminder that no matter your job, location or industry – there is ample opportunity to be a light for Christ. 

Read more coverage on the event on Liberty’s official newspaper >

this summer’s 5 key fashion grabs for the minimalist wardrobe 

Key fashion essentials that will elevate your spring and summer style, without taking over your wardrobe. 

The debate of quality versus quantity continues as we face a world of economical unrest. While one part of society is still grabbing up fast fashion for immediate gratification, another has refined their sense of style into a capsule that both exudes personal expression while being functional and versatile within one’s daily lifestyle. 

These minimalist summer fashion essentials are the 5 key pieces that will update your wardrobe of quality essentials  with a notable nod to luxury fashion trends that extend beyond the season to come.

Pop color mules 

The most efficient way to update your essentials is with a statement accessory. Grab a pair of mules in this season’s most fashion forward color trends, opting for a bright pastel you can offset your wardrobe of neutrals. Mules are not only one of the hottest silhouettes of the season, they’re also a functional design that’s easy to slip on, and often more comfortable than you average heel. It’s also a perennial style that comes back season after season, so you’ll be sure to get the most of them if you invest in a quality pair. 

Shop pop color mules:

Image cred: Vogue

Statement mini bag

Just like bold footwear, a single statement bag is an effortless way to update every outfit. Elongated 90’s bags are in, and a bit more practical than a micro bag that doesn’t fit your phone. Pop color bags are in, but you’re choosing to invest in a statement bag, opt for a neutral color and make your statement with the silhouette to ensure you can continue to use the bag for seasons to come. 

Shop statement mini bags:

Image cred: @haileybieber

Bright color manicure

Looking for a $10 update you can wear everyday? Pick up a couple bottles of polish in this season’s trending saturated pastels. Bright pink, chartreuse, and sky blue are vivid hues that have the power to transform even a white tee and jeans into fashion forward attire. Need convincing? Check out Hailey Bieber’s latest mani.

Shop best pop colors for spring:

Image cred: Pinterest

Playful vintage tee

A reminder we shouldn’t take ourselves too seriously, grab a playful tee that says more than “I’m basic.” Because that’s not what minimalism is about. A fun graphic print with interesting Typography, shapes or colors can be worn with your favorite denim, layered with suiting, paired with athleisure essentials, or worn as a swim cover for summer days in the sun. You’ll get your wear out of an investment tee in just one summer if you do it right. 

Shop vintage tees:

Image cred: Pinterest

Mock neck tank 

Sophisticated and sexy, a fitted mock neck tank also translates well from office to evening wear – versatility that’s key in a minimalists wardrobe. Wear with pleated trousers and suiting in the office, and a low rise maxi skirt for a night out. Casual Fridays? This silhouette also complements vintage high rise jeans when tucked in at the waistline. 

Shop mock neck tanks:

For those that believe fashion must work for you, not against you, and for those that value quality essentials that will serve you confidence and style for seasons to come – these few fashion grabs are all you need to update every outfit for summer. 

the perfect mix of artsy and essential, the new Tory Burch SS23 release is a must see

Surprising pops of chartruese, asymmetrical accessories, and a distinctly vintage aesthetic… Tory is that you? The most artful drop yet, Tory Buch new arrivals are a sensory delight that inspire dreams and imagination – all in a super tasteful, sophisticated package of course. 

I’ve been keeping myself on a strict “everyday essentials” fashion diet, and I’ve already convinced myself these are just that.

If you’re starting to imagine your wardrobe refresh for 2023, you’re going to want to check this collection out. Here for your preview, a list of my absolute favorites from their latest drop that are just basic enough to be everyday essentials, yet edgy enough to make an artful statement. 

Sporty sophisticated drawstring skirt

Props for being different. Let’s start with my first surprise in the collection, the silk linen skirt. No, the slip isn’t showing. This artful piece is delicately layered to show a soft gathered parachute with adjustable drawcord. Sporty and sophisticated, this skirt gets a freshness award for design outside the box that doesn’t go too far.

Essential cashmere knit

It’s the fit. Quality knits are an essential in very wardrobe, and I love the modern silhouette of this mock neck cashmere knit. It’s the perfect update to a timeless classic.

Chartruese mules

I would wear these with everything to make the outfit. Honestly, I just can’t stop looking at the color. These chartruese asymmetrical mules are so chic. The moderate height, block heel, slip on design makes this style extremely versatile. You can pair them with any of the pieces in this list, your casual denim or dress wear for a fresh pop of color that will define your attire.

Wool high wasted trousers

I’ve been on the hunt (still) for the perfect pair of black, high waisted trousers. What’s nice about this pair – they’re not overly pleated, but they still have a tailored shape. The tapered leg and high waist seem to have a flattering fit, and it’s easy to image countless outfits with this essential in your wardrobe.

Collar necklace

Tory Burch does a really nice logo translation into their accessories that’s both notable, but not too in your face. This twisted T collar necklace is a beautiful necklace with just the right amount of edge. 

Pavé ballet flats

I’m not a flats girl, but these velvet, rhinestone encrusted pavé ballet flats are too luxurious not to mention. In fact, I’d like to think I’d wear them myself on the right occasion. They’re a great style to transition from house slipper to errand with a touch of decadence. 

Jumbo mismatched earrings

Just too cool. I’m a sucker for a pair of mismatched earrings, and these artful asymmetrical earrings have been stuck in my head ever since I laid eyes on them. I selected the model photo so you can see the larger-than-imaged scale of the marbled beading over a curved abstract hoop. I think I’m in love. One piece to modernize your entire look.

Statement bag

It’s the color and the gloss. In the spirit of chartruese, I had to include this statement pop color bag. Honestly, the featured image sold me, somewhere between the fresh hue and high gloss finish.

Light wash high waisted jeans

I have yet to try a pair of Tory Burch’s denim, but this pair has me itching to give them a try. Light wash, vintage high waisted jeans are a wardrobe staple. I have a couple pairs I love, but still on the hunt for “that perfect pair.” The crop length and vintage denim hue have me thinking this just might be the pair. 

Heart locket earrings

I just like them. Perhaps it’s the 90’s child in me, but I find something about these heart locket earrings absolutely charming. Plus, it’s two in one. The locket detaches to reveal double pavé Ts. They are inspired by victorian coach earrings, and would pair well with preppy fashion pieces, nostalgic vintage favorites and everyday basics.

White platform court sneakers

I’d wear these every week. Sticking with wardrobe essentials, the ladybug platform court sneakers that just arrived to the Tory Burch collection are a great investment if you’ve yet to select your go-to pair of white kicks. The lightly embossed bubble platform and butterscotch details give this sneaker just the right amount of character, while still being basic enough to wear with literally everything in your wardrobe from suiting to vintage denim. 

The only problem, which ones to choose for this season’s new essentials. Nothing like writing a luxury fashion blog to curb that shopping addition, eh? 

Want to check out the rest of the collection >>

Shop Sale Handbags, Clothing, Shoes, Accessories and More

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, this post is in collaboration with Shoplooks. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!

the only 5 jewelry essentials you need to accessorize every outfit

We live in a world of access. And, striving to live a more minimalist life has taught me access actually creates stress, instead of reducing it as we sometimes believe.

If you’re working on cutting back and investing only on high quality essentials, you’ve come to the right place.

Here are the only 5 jewelry pieces you really need to outfit every look in your wardrobe.

#1 Stackable gold rings

I have probably 100 rings in my possession, very few of which I frequently wear. When it comes to everyday style, I have found a few (3-5) high quality gold rings get the most wear, and are truly the best for styling 95% of outfits.

For simple, casual and minimal looks, wear 1-2. For bold power-play energy, layer all of them on one hand.

#2 Ear cuffs

Since receiving several pairs courtesy of Maison Miru, ear cuffs have been a daily essential. They modernize every look with a subtle edge that’s still feminine.

#3 A collar length necklace (or two)

Whether you opt for a statement chain or a dainty herringbone, a pendant or charms – what makes all of these necklace styles every on trend is the collar bone length.

It’s universally flattering, and compliments every neckline from crewneck sweatshirt to a low V. If you’re looking for a new favorite, I have a few of my personal favorite gold chains available in my shop.

#4 Gold hoops

From sporty athleisure looks to sleek evening wear, a pair of gold hoops somehow seamlessly suit the occasion. Opt for larger hoops if you want them to make a statement, or huggies if you prefer subtle intrigue.

If you’re not exclusively limiting yourself to a certain number of essentials in the jewelry department, this is a good item to have in a couple of sizes.

#5 Personality pair of earrings

No jewelry collection is complete without something fun that really captures your personality. Express your personality with a pair of earrings that are really you. The great thing about statement earrings is that they don’t have to take over your entire outfit, but still make a notable statement so near your face.

My current go-to pick: duo styles with a black lightning bolt on one side and a gold pearl drop on the other. Because why not express a couple moods for the same occasion.

Some jewelry shops have even started offering single-pair earrings to customize your look.

Jewelry has the power to transform your looks with a glimmering layer of extra thought.

Whether you’re on a budget or just looking ways to reduce your access, selecting a few essentials over impulse buying can help define your style and reduce clutter.

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, the featured post is in collaboration with Responsival. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!

worthwhile luxury candles – Replica sweetens unwind time

I get it. You can get a scented candle for less. But before you turn up your nose (literally and figuratively), here’s why a designer candle brand like Replica might be the most worthwhile luxury purchase of all.

review of replica's best candle scents

Picture this. You arrive home from the office, an overcast day with dusk setting in. Bags returned to their nook, shoes back in the closet, you begin trifling through your home picking up yesterday’s “lived in” items strewn about. Dinner preparations begin – hearty beef stew and homemade artisanal bread. The floors need polishing… there’s laundry to fold. 

It’s 7pm. Your work is done, and you realize you have a precious hour of un-appointed time. For that, the value is priceless. 

review of luxury home candles by replica
luxury home fragrances by maison margiela replica

The satisfying sound of matchstick against box, the slight smell of sulphur and smoke – a flickering light and a pool of hot wax melting into an aromatic escape as you release the burdens of your day.

With Replica, you can enjoy that moment 40 times, with 40 hours of un-acquitted burning time – indulging in olfactory bliss and sweetening your indulgent moments of escape.  

In that light, the value of just the right scent is worth so much more.

best replica candle review

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing a few of Replica’s luxury candles as well as reviewing nearly every Replica perfume ever released. If you’d like a guide to selecting a candle that’s just your vibe, here’s what I can tell you.

by the fireplace replica candle review

By the Fireplace Replica candle review – put it by your gas fireplace for a real vibe

By the Fireplace is my all-time favorite aroma from Replica – both in perfume and candle mediums. While the perfume is perfect for late night rooftop cocktails by a fire…

Replica’s By the Fireplace candle transforms my propane fireplace into a romanticized winter cabin experience. The scent is just smoky enough, with a heartwarming, enveloping fragrance that feels like memories being made fireside. 

by the fireplace replica candle review and packaging
matcha meditation replica candle review and packaging

Matcha Meditation Replica candle review – have it on the coffee table for your next charcuterie night

Sweet and fragrant without being overpowering, try Replica’s Matcha Meditation. With a delightfully pale green hue, this tea time inspired fragrance has a refreshing “light green” with sweet overtones that make it delightfully soothing.

I’ve tried the perfume as well, and it’s another my husband has been stealing. It’s more soft than pungent, and a soothing delicious scent that you want that second breath of.

matcha meditation replica candle review
bubble bath replica candle review
bubble bath replica candle review

Bubble Bath Candle review – keep it in your guest bath

If I had to describe the Bubble Bath candle by Replica other than by its name itself, I’d say it has a sort of fresh laundry scent. Clean and crisp, it’s the perfect scent to keep in your guest bathroom for that “I’m winning at life at home” vibe.

Want a more descriptive review on this scent? You can check out my full Bubble Bath by Replica review.

luxury home with replica candle

Ready to elevate your unwind time? Start with a fragrance that grants you a truly luxurious experience.

If you love Replica’s perfumes, why not grant yourself the same pleasure through the aura of your home. In the meantime, you’ll find me fireside, enjoying a vibe of my own. You can shop Maison Margiela’s Replica fragrances and candles online. Thanks for reading.

best luxury candle review

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, the featured perfume was gifted to me by Maison Margiela Replica. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!

Anne Fontaine’s fall collection boldly celebrates feminine style

The rain pattered gently, just loud enough to be heard softly through the double pained glass. The birds sang lightly through the weather, not ready to give up their morning posts.

The chill in the corridors was undeniable. Fall is here. And with it, a new season of luxury with Anne Fontaine.

Readily equipped for the darker days that lie ahead, Anne Fontaine has just released their FW22 collection.

Bolstered with strong details, this drop faces the season in unrequited resolve. Padded full-length jackets, crepe utility cargos designed with a more elegant consumer in mind – it’s just what you’d hope for from the bold, darkly romantic brand of luxury.

The fall collection is edgier than ever, with high contrast pieces that exude ferocity while not withholding Anne Fontaine’s signature celebration of feminine style.

Beyond the seasons statement pieces, ruffled blouses, elegant knitwear and new additions to Anne Fontaine’s signature white shirt collection.

My seasonal selects, a padded jacket, crepe cargos and some classic Anne Fontaine workwear pieces.

The full length, reversible padded jacket is an evolution of utilitarian style – a crisp golden hue on one side and classic black on the other.

Undeniably a statement piece, there is a notable eastern influence and intricate details that scream cultured luxury.

Paired with boots and an all-black ensemble, it’s only a shame fashion week has already come and past.

In the spirit of versatility, the look can easily transcend from fall to winter with a flip of the jacket and a footwear change. Or, take off a layer to show this season’s sophisticated new cargos.

Anne Fontaine’s new Ballade cargos maximize utilitarian street style trends with side pockets and silver hardware while maintaining a sense of elegance with feminine details.

But the real star of this re-imagined silhouette is the surprising material that differentiates the style. Crafted with a beautiful, heavy-duty crepe, the Ballade pants drape in the utmost elegance, making these cargos a sort of trouser hybrid that’s clearly made to navigate office to street style in effortless sophistication.

Of course, I could not review Anne Fontaine’s fall collection without mentioning their classic white shirt and workwear essentials.

This season I selected a striped blouse and classic black trousers that bolster my wardrobe of timeless classics. I’ve been forever a cult consumer of Anne Fontaine’s white shirts, so the subtle print felt like a nice evolution to mix up my staples in a silhouette and crisp poplin fabric that I already knew I loved.

While working in a business casual environment lends me to some freedoms in weekday dressing, my position also calls for a professional presentation – which Anne Fontaine suits with both grace and style.

This combo lends itself well to a comfortable ensemble that can go from everyday Monday to impromptu board meeting.

As always, it’s the details and quality fabrics that make the Anne Fontaine collection a notable player in the luxury fashion market.

The crepe trousers are easy to keep wrinkle free with a timeless straight-to-wide leg silhouette and elegantly welted pockets.

The new collection pinstripe white blouse features an optional “pussy bow” at the collar and french pointed cuffs. As is standard for the Anne Fontaine collection, the cuffs allow for cufflinks if you should decide to dress up beyond the pearled button set that’s included.

Want more? Shop the entire FW22 collection online, or browse my edit including the pieces styled in this post and more essentials with a luxury fashion, capsule wardrobe in mind.

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, the featured post is in collaboration with Anne Fontaine. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!