In Spades

Style... in abundance

Pajama Jam

Why hello, 2017.

With the start of each new year I normally feel crazy inspired and jump into a mile long to-do list of things I want to accomplish.  Perhaps I’m getting older, but something about the turning of the clock on January 1 this year felt markedly different.  I didn’t go into overdrive, feel like I was already behind or completely stress out.  I moved into 2017 with a zen feeling and the acknowledgement that what is meant to be related to my goals and ambitions, will be.

I won’t lie to you.  Blogging can be tough and produce a lot of self-doubt.  I’ve done my fair share of second guessing my abilities.  Why I am not growing faster?  Are people even reading this?  Are they inspired?  Is my photography good enough?  My writing?  I started 2017 recognizing that all of that is just noise.  I am so thankful for what I do have – all of YOU and the amazing support and encouragement you’ve given me the past three years.  So let me begin 2017 not only with a zen feeling in my heart, but a big dose of gratitude to everyone who has supported me on this amazing, chaotic, colorful journey.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I wanted my first OOTD of 2017 to be symbolic, and what signifies a relaxed, zen outlook more than… pajamas. Of course I had to add a dose of flair, because one thing you can count on with me, is that there is always going to be at least one weird element.  One little off-kilter detail that makes me the proverbial Dark Horse. I don’t ever want to blend in.

When we shot this look, I got a lot of feedback… negative feedback.  Bottom line, I don’t think people understood it.  But for me, it’s makes perfect sense.  Here’s to starting the year doing what makes sense for you, fulfills your heart, enriches your mind and makes you smile.  The rest will all fall into place.

Sleepy Jones pajama top and pants // Stuart Weitzman Nudist sandals // Free Press faux fur stole

Shop the Look

Year-End Sales

If you’ve been following me on Instagram (@inspadesblog) you know I’ve been sharing my favorite looks from 2016.  One of the things you may not know, is that that majority of my wardrobe is purchased within the last few weeks of the year (this amazing technicolor coat included!).  The end of December and early January is truly the best time to invest in statement pieces and high quality designer items.  I like to keep a running list throughout the season of pieces I’m swooning over so when the time hits, I can take advantage of these amazing deals without getting distracted by the rest of the sale noise.  Raise your hand if you’ve ever bought something just because it was “on sale”.

Unlike Anniversary sales or Friends & Family where the focus tends to be on lower priced basics (and buying up as much as you can), year end sales are more about finding treasures (designer items that typically never go on sale).  Now is the best time to invest in a winter coat, chic booties or a statement handbag.  I’ve linked 40 items that are not only conversation starters, but high quality pieces that will last.