i bought two more pieces from the row

The Row at Just One Eye

What I love about the weekends: I can unplug from work emails, sleep in just a bit longer, and spend a little more time putting together looks I want to wear that day.

Usually, my M-F work outfit consists of:

• a white tee

• fitted pullover

• straight or wide legged Levi’s

• socks. always socks

• mules or loafers

• on chillier days, I reach for a suede shirt jacket or a cotton chore jacket.

To avoid repetitiveness, when I shop, I opt for textures that feel soft and cozy, but also chic and timeless. I prefer styles I know I will love that look flattering on me instead of letting my emotions take over and buying something that is trending. I’ve done the latter and believe me, it’s one of the worst mistakes I’ve ever made; just because it looks good on IG on a particular person doesn’t mean it will look as good on me. More importantly, if it doesn’t fit my lifestyle, I am better off not spending the money because there is a high chance I will not reach for it in the long-term.

feeling brave while online shopping

Since I’ve turned 40, I’ve been feeling a little more courageous than I usually do as I’m shopping online. Of course, I still prefer looking in person (I love feeling the fabric between my fingers, reading the tag on how to care for the item, trying it on), but there are days when I find good treasure online, thanks to Substack and IG.

another trip to The Row

I’ve been seeing this incredibly beautiful bag lately all over TT and IG:

Alaia Le Teckel Shoulder Bag

I think east west bags are edgy, chic and elegant. Speaking of east-west bags, when I googled this term + the row, I found this one:

The Row EW Margaux Bag

I love the EW Margaux, but considering the cost, I wish I could make it work with how it could fit into my professional life and personal style. Though one day I would love to own a Margaux (my eye is on one in a size 15 with pebbled black leather), luckily I was able to carve out some time to take another trip to The Row in L.A. After my first trip to this boutique, I was eager to go back.

I am still working on feeling comfortable in front of a camera when sneaking in a selfie or two.

the park n/s tote and (a very brief mention of) the ophelia sweater

So going back to east-west bags; I did want one but ultimately I decided on the Park N/S tote in black pebbled leather in the size large. I adore the bucket shape, and the chic, sloppy slouch.

The bag corner in my bedroom

I recently learned that the Park N/S tote debuted back in 2020 for their Spring 2021 collection. I never imagined the Park tote to be part of a Spring collection, and I feel all the more excited for it.

The slouch when it’s worn on the shoulder was something I had to get used to, but this tote really goes well with everything I own.

The caveat is that this bag is quite heavy; especially when you are an overpacker for the office, you can feel the weight. The leather is way more durable than the Bindle 3 (made of nappa leather with a raw suede interior), which is another bag I own as mentioned here. The Bindle and the Park are both oversized but entirely different, with totally contrasting looks.

Go big or go home: I love a good oversized fit, especially when I wear the Park N/S with my cotton skirt and oversized denim jacket. The quirk here are the split toe boots and cut outs (so good for ventilation on warmer days).

Since the bag is still quite new I will share more details when compared with the Bindle. I did mention the Ophelia sweater, which I also bought in gray. I’ve been holding out on a quality gray sweater for quite some time, vacillating between the Ophelia and Jenni Kayne’s Amelia. Both pieces are very pretty, with an oversized fit; but while the Amelia is 100% cashmere, the Ophelia is a wool-cashmere blend (65% wool, 35% cashmere).

My favorite details: the ribbed neckline, cuffs and hem

I can’t say much yet about the Ophelia because I haven’t worn it out yet, but I am very excited to reach for this one as soon as it gets cold again.

what I am thinking about:

• Casual crossbody: The Row Slouchy Banana Bag Two in Nylon (Black)

• Perfect oversized crisp white button down: The Row Luka Shirt (White)

• Deconstructed beauty: Yohji Yamamoto Linen Cloth L Round Hem Skirt

what I am reading:

I heard divided opinions about this book, so after a week, I finally sat down to read it. Only 12 pages in so it’s still early. When it comes to books that go viral, I am a little hesitant when it comes to expectations. But I have to be honest; the book cover is what ultimately influenced me to buy it.