CONSIDER YOURSELF A TRAVELER #04: WHAT I PACKED FOR AN IMPROMPTU TRIP UPSTATE
I share with you what I packed for a quick upstate getaway
Happy Sunday! I come bearing good news: today's letter is open to everyone, no paid subscription required! Hooray! The post originally scheduled for today will now grace your inbox on Wednesday, and trust me, you won't want to miss it. Wednesday’s post will feature a conversation between Neada Deters, Elizabeth Hand,
and Sara Larson about the world of skincare/beauty. If you do not want to miss out on the wisdom they’ll be sharing, perhaps consider becoming a paid subscriber. :)In this week's letter, I share with you all the items I brought up with me for a weekend trip upstate, and how I plan on wearing them. I also give you all a peek into my vainty bag. This year marked a significant change for Nick and me. Nick landed a new job that required him to relocate upstate, while I opted to remain in the city, a decision that made more sense for my life. The silver lining? I now have access to two closets!!!!
With this in mind, I packed just two outerwear pieces and two pairs of shoes for this trip. Knowing I have options at his place alleviates the need to bring my entire wardrobe when visiting him. However, for the purpose of this letter, I've limited myself to the items I packed, which you'll see repeated throughout. It's a test of packing efficiency—how many outfits can you create with a limited selection?
HERE’S WHAT I PACKED
LOOK 1: TRAIN TO DINNER
Featured in this look:
Leset t-shirt dress
Rene Barnes gold nugget necklace
Renato Cipullo earrings, enamel ring & sapphire signet ring
Lizzie Fortunato fish ring
VTG crystal bangle (look at this one from Etsy)
I chose to wear this Leset dress on the train because I wanted something that was both comfort and versatility—it needed to effortlessly transition from casual travel attire to a suitable dinner ensemble. I got this dress in a large because I wanted it to fit a bit more oversized, and I even give the sleeves a tug each time I wear it, in hopes of stretching it out even more (it somewhat reminds me of this one from The Row, for a fraction of the price). I want to feel enveloped in a sea of black cotton. And speaking of t-shirt dresses, there's this option from Armarium that is S.E.X.Y!!!!
Now, onto the plastic bag in the photo—quite the unexpected accessory, isn't it? Last weekend, I went to Happier Grocery for the first time, and it was quite divine I must say.
With all the glistening chrome and industrial shelving, it looked like a blend between Alex Forrest’s brutalist apartment in Fatal Attraction and the grocery store of the future. Upon making a few purchases, they packed everything in nifty plastic bags that look too good to throw away. They instantly brought to mind those elusive plastic Celine bags and the trendy mesh bags from the likes of Proenza Schouler, not to mention those that graced the runway at Undercover. With all this in mind, I decided to nestle my bag inside the plastic one as I boarded the Empire Line.
Not only is this dress incredibly comfortable, but it also serves as the perfect canvas for showcasing my collection of jewelry. I've taken to layering multiple pieces atop each other, creating a captivating tableau if you will. When it comes to stacking jewelry, I believe in incorporating a mix of elements: something gold or silver, something sparkling (like diamonds or rhinestones), and something whimsical (such as charms or colorful stones). This combination not only draws the eye but also allows me to craft a narrative about myself through each carefully curated stack. It's a stylish way to express my personality and add intrigue to any ensemble.
When it comes to stacking my rings, I tend to take a slightly different approach. I typically stick to gold, I enjoy mixing up the textures and silhouettes to create visual interest. However, with this particular stack, I decided to embrace the color blue. I incorporated the Renato Cipullo enamel ring and the sapphire ring to add a touch of elegance, while injecting some whimsy with the playful Lizzie Fortuano fish ring. It's all about striking a balance between sophistication and quirky charm.
LOOK 2: CHALLENGERS COSPLAY?
Featured in this look:
Polo Ralph Lauren windbreaker
Everlane Cashmere sweater
Celine (Phoebe Philo era RIP, but try these one from Cos that look very similar)
Martiniano glove flats (Mansur Gavriel also has a great option)
Cesta Collective straw bag
The Row x Oliver Peoples Sunglasses
Regarding the look above, I'm considering wearing it to see Challengers. Is it a bit on the nose with the polo and windbreaker? Perhaps?
I believe the key to enhancing the versatility of your packed outfits lies in the accessories you choose. With the right bag and a sprinkling of diamonds, you can effortlessly transform a daytime look into evening elegance—case in point, the ensemble above. The Cesta Collective bag features a black velvet ribbon that adds a touch of delicacy and softness to the look. And let's be honest, who can resist the timeless allure of diamonds? Moreover, if I'm wearing this outfit to see the Challengers, wouldn't it almost be sacrilege to not wear a tennis bracelet?
LOOK 3: THE FASHIONABLE HIKER
Featured in this look:
Alex Mill storm trench
VTG flannel shirt (look at this one on Ebay)
Muji turtle neck sweater (alternative from Alex Mill)
VTG Levi’s 501 (I also run errands in Dickies work pants)
Salomon trainers
Hermes knapsack
Naomi Nomi scarf
Before you question the legitimacy of my claim regarding wearing white pants for hiking, I'd like to direct your attention to this post. For the past few years, I've chosen to wear white pants for running errands, and yes, even hiking. In the case of hiking, I find that wearing white brings me a sense of safety. Should, gosh forbid, Nick lose sight of me, I'll be easier to spot (I think?). This may sound a bit naughty, but I have a soft spot for a well-worn pair of white pants. It all began a few years ago when I stumbled upon a pair of Dickies adorned with paint splatters and scuffs. These pants hold sentimental value for me because they remind me of my grandparents' painting whites they wore as contractors. I also enjoy seeing my white pants get scuffed up; it feels like they're embodying the essence of a life well-lived.
As for the shoes, one simply cannot go wrong with a pair of Salomons. I'll confess, I was influenced to purchase them after seeing a photo of Mary-Kate Olsen rushing out of a Parisian hotel, swathed in scarves and a coat, and hitting the pavement in her trainers. Imagine my delight when I took them hiking a few years ago and found they performed admirably. They provided excellent traction, and allow me to navigate from one rock to the next with confidence. Since Nick is now up here full-time and has access to the trails whenever he pleases, I gifted him a pair of Keens . They are priced lower than the Salomon, but they perform just as well. Nick's reaction upon opening the shoe box was,"Ah, these look like the shoes all the dads wore in the '90s." His second comment was about how comfortable they were. ( They also make me think of the pair Chris Pine wore in a recent red carpet photo—a look that's sure to go down in history as one of the greatest to grace the carpet!)
Underneath the jacket, I'm cozily clad in a cotton turtleneck sweater from Muji and a flannel I snagged for a mere $1 during my time in Virginia. While flannel season may be drawing to a close, there are still hidden treasures to discover, and I've developed a particular fondness for this gem from Wythe. My first visit to their store was a delightful experience! Its ambiance exuded a beautifully weathered charm, and makes you feel like you’re in a mom-and-pop general store nestled on the plains of Oklahoma. Wythe's brand ethos resonates with the vintage Americana feel reminiscent of a Ralph Lauren. Alongside the flannel, I really liked their tencel shirting, footwear, and outerwear. While we may be weary of our coats by now, this is the perfect opportunity to invest in quality coats!
Look 4: A LOOK THAT’S EASY LIKE SUNDAY MORNING AND PERFECT FOR PICKING UP BISCUITS
Featured in this look:
Front Street General Store heavy white t-shirt
J.Crew GIANT chinos
Maximum Henry belt
Tom Ford sunglasses
Renato Cipullo chain, letter pendant, and zodiac pendant
Yali Milano hat
Nick lives directly across from a bakery named Shandaken Bakery, and let me tell you, it's positively sinful! Craig Thompson's creations are simply divine, but my absolute favorite indulgence is his unique take on biscuits—which tastes like a blend of a biscuit and a scone. Yet, the true star of the show is the assortment of condiments that accompany these delectable treats: butter, honey, and a tantalizing lemon curd whose sweetness lingers with each bite. YUM!!!!
Now, onto the outfit—it's a tad more refined than my usual attire for a quick biscuit run. Typically, you'd find me in my cozy Brooks Brothers pajamas, bundled up in a big coat, sunglasses, a hat, and slip-on shoes. However, for the sake of this letter, let's imagine I managed to step out in something a touch more polished. I believe this ensemble strikes the perfect balance between being presentable without feeling too formal. Since my excursion will be over in mere seconds, warmth isn't a concern; I simply need something to ward off the chill, hence the snug cashmere sweater.
While denim is often considered as the go-to for casual attire, I find the chino is more my speed when it comes to casual dressing. Despite their somewhat structured appearance, I often find my oversized J.Crew chinos to be more comfortable than even my most broken-in denim jeans (including my beloved 501s with the sizable rip near my derriere that I still need to mend).
Of course, no outfit of mine would be complete without a touch of jewelry. While I typically keep it minimal in the morning, I just stick with the jewelry I sleep in which are tiny gold hoops, and my pearl pendant necklace. For this look, I decided to elevate it with my tennis bracelet and the Renato Cipullo pieces.
THE VAINTY BAG
When it comes to skincare and beauty, I'll readily admit that I'm not an expert. While I know the basics of a routine, I'm constantly discovering new things about the skincare world and, more importantly, about my own skin! The only constants in my routine are my moisturizer (I've been loyal to Cetaphil since high school) and a variety of cleansers that I rotate through (which includes IS Clinical Cleansing Complex, Dr. Barbara Strum Darker Tones Foam Cleanser, Klur Gentle Matter Cleanser, and I used to use a Tata Harper oil cleanser that I'm considering reintroducing). Everything else in my routine is subject to change. While I do have some brand loyalty, I'm open to switching up my routine every couple of months, and with Wednesday’s letter , which focuses on skincare/beauty, I know I'll be inspired to make some changes :).
I have a tendency to overpack my toiletries, especially when I'm not restricted by airline liquid measurements. When traveling by train, I usually prefer to bring my full-size products instead of buying travel-sized versions or dealing with squeezing products into those pesky travel-friendly bottles you find in drugstores. When I travel, I believe it's important to try to make my environment as comfortable and homey as possible. Yes, I may not be at home, but why should I give up the comforts of home? The Away toiletry bag provides ample room, making packing standard-size products seamless. Plus, being somewhat logical, I've purchased a few products in travel-sized versions that are staples in my routine.
I've been absolutely hooked on Everyday Oil ever since Nick introduced it to me when we first started dating. I've experimented with other dry oils, such as the Nuxe oil, but none seemed to provide the level of moisture my skin craved. Despite trying various application methods, like applying it to wet skin or layering it over another moisturizer, my skin still felt parched. With Everyday Oil, however, I can rest assured that my skin will stay hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
Before applying my oils and even before stepping into the shower, I make sure to dry brush. I first learned about dry brushing during my sophomore year of college while lamenting to a classmate about my winter itchiness. They suggested it might be due to dry skin in need of exfoliation. Dry brushing also serves as a fantastic way to invigorate the body, so I make a point of incorporating it into my morning routine.
As for shaving creams and toners, I like to switch things up regularly. Regarding toners, I have a few favorites, but like Goldilocks, I'm on the hunt for the perfect one. While Yves Rocher does the job adequately, it doesn't have the transformative effect of, say, Biologique Recherche’s P50 .
In my mid-week letter, I shared my recent splurge on a shaving cream as a symbol of maturity. I've only used it once, but so far, so good. Previously, I typically opted for drugstore shaving creams formulated for sensitive skin. However, lately, I'd resorted to using conditioner instead due to sheer laziness. After a week of slathering myself in conditioner, I realized it was time to act like an adult and invest in proper shaving cream.
As you may remember from a previous letter, I'm absolutely obsessed with eye cream. In fact, I apply it to several areas of my face and neck! I've been using the Yves Rocher eye cream for a few months now, and I'm quite pleased with it. I genuinely believe it helps me appear more awake, so I religiously apply it both morning and night.
Another product I've been using religiously is the Topicals Ingrown Hair Tonic. This product has truly been a game-changer for me. As I've gotten older, I've noticed the need to shave more frequently, which led to increased ingrown hairs. Due to my hair texture, I'm particularly prone to them, and they've caused quite a bit of dissatisfaction with my appearance due to discoloration and scarring. However, this tonic has significantly reduced the occurrence of ingrown hairs when shaving, not only on my face but also on my legs.
Another solution that has helped me combat ingrown hairs is the Soft Services Buffing Bar, which I use every time I shave and especially after hitting the gym to prevent any post-workout pimples from forming. Additionally, the Soft Services Smoothing Solutions has been a recent addition to my routine, aiding in evening out my skin tone. Furthermore, the Elta MD sunscreen has been a game-changer for me. It's the best sunscreen I've ever used, containing zinc to prevent hyperpigmentation and boasting water resistance. Plus, I never experience a white cast when using it!
The IS Clinical Active Serum has been instrumental in addressing my hyperpigmentation. Surprisingly, I've also found it effective as an aftershave, although that wasn't its intended purpose. It has certainly helped minimize the occurrence of ingrown hairs for me as well. Additionally, vitamin C has been a key player in my battle against hyperpigmentation. I'm a big fan of the Skinceuticals C E Ferulic serum, and though it is rather pricey, I think it is worth it. However, I'm always on the lookout for alternatives, and when I run out, I take it as the perfect opportunity to experiment with new products. This month, I'm giving the UBeauty Resurfacing Compound a try, paired with the UBeauty Super Hydrator, and so far, I'm impressed! One thing I've noticed is that they don't feel as sticky as the Skinceuticals serum, and both the Compound and Hydrator dry down quickly to a matte finish. I still layer my Cetaphil moisturizer on top because I find the Hydrator alone isn't moisturizing enough for me. Instead, I view it as the initial step in my moisturizing routine, and I enhance it further with oil serums like the Yves Rocher Recovery Night Serum for added moisture.
See you all mid-week for the next round of “Cultural Recommendations!”
Until then!
XX
JJ
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I loved this! Every outfit. The fact that you sleep in pearls. But also the little hints we get about your beautiful relationship. XO.