conscious closet: the perfect fall dress

After finally paying attention to the horrors of clothing production a few years back, I decided to start shopping as ethically and sustainably as I possible could. While not always an easy task, it's rewarding when I find a piece of clothing that I both love to wear and feel good purchasing. Everlane has a radical transparency policy that fits my ethical clothing standards, and their styles are simple and timeless. I want my purchases to be good for the planet and the people in it and shopping at Everlane is a step in that direction.

This number arrived in the mail the other day in all its soft cashmere glory. I wore it to work the next day with my favorite mules. It's the perfect dress for cold mornings, when staying under billowy covers is much more appealing than, welp, anything. It's a dress that I can easily slip into without any hassle or fuss, which means that I can hit the snooze button one last time before rolling out of bed. This isn't a sponsored post, I just love this dress! In case you're interested, you can find it here. :)

the art of sundays: week 2

Pajamas until after noon. Pancakes. Sticky fingers. Sipping earl grey on the porch. Cat cuddles. Leisurely walks in the autumn sun. A stop to the farmers market. And a green smoothie for dinner. That was my Sunday. What'd you do on yours?

a little something funny

My friend posted this on facebook, and I had to share. Hilarious. A great pick up line for those of who live in cold climates. Who's gonna give it a go? ;)

grape picker

I stumbled upon this portrait, Grape Picker, by Prikle Jones today at work at the museum. There's something about his expression, those ernest eyes, the embrace of the tangled vines. Mmm. I'd like to hang a copy above the kitchen sink as a little reminder of all the workmen who help put the food on the table.

Have you seen any art recently that calls to you?

the art of sundays: week 1

Happy Sunday evening, friends. This is a new series (the first series on this blog, in fact!) that I'm starting with the intention to capture the beauty of Sundays. The meandering strolls around town. Farmers markets. Scrumptious brunches. Leisurely time well spent.

Sunday this week came in the form of writing letters to old friends, windows wide open, chai in hand.  Sampling twenty types of apples at the farmers market. Long walks in Rock Creek Park followed by the most delicious mulling spices tea on a cafe patio. And on my walk home, I met the kindest neighbors who invited me in to chat and share a drink. The neighborhood is starting to feel like my neighborhood.

What did you do this weekend?

xx,
A

[Photo source: unknown]

have wheels, will travel

I just started biking around DC and I absolutely love it. The wind in my hair. Saying hello to fellow bikers and passersby. It's quick, it's fun, it's exercise, and it's a great way to see a city. This morning, I biked to my new favorite study spot, Big Bear Cafe. I sat outside, tangled grape vines overhead, moroccan mint iced tea in hand, listening to the sound of leaves crunching against the sidewalk as people walked by. It was marvelous. And then, I hopped on bike to return home.

What's your favorite way to get around your town?

xx,
A

exploring the national museum of african american history and culture

I got the chance to go to the new National Museum of African American History and Culture last week, and boy was it incredible. The exhibits are deeply moving. The architecture is stunning. The whole experience is just amazing. DC friends, have you gone yet? 

dinnertime magic

There's something magical about eating at outdoor cafes for dinner this time of year. The setting sun. Witnessing the beautiful darkness begin to cover the city. Twinkling lights over head. The laughter of a table nearby. The crisp feeling in the air. Watching humanity walk by. Mmm. This is what autumn evenings were made for.

lazy weekends

Happy Saturday! What are you up to this weekend? I've been fairly lazy, which is just what I needed after a long week. There's been a steady drizzle over DC for the past few days, so I upped the coziness factor today and got coffee with a friend, followed by a trip to one of my favorite bookstores.

Wishing you a relaxing few days.

xo,
A

window shopping

Yesterday I took a walk around Georgetown with the aim of getting a cupcake at Baked & Wired, of DC cupcake fame, but got a liiiittle distracted by all the new autumnal clothes in the shop windows. Walking around Georgetown is dangerous if you're in the shopping mood. I tried on this number, and am still dreaming about it. Wouldn't it be beautiful to wear for an evening event? You can find the dress here, if you're curious.

xo,
A

fun fall print

Isn't the fall print from Rifle Paper Co. sweet? I love dreaming about NYC in the fall, and this perfectly captures the season. Don't you think? I have it propped against the wall on top of my dresser right now. It adds a nice pop of color to my otherwise neutral bedroom.

You can find the print here.

a garden stroll

The weather is finally starting to cool in the DC area. Crisp breezes great me as I leave my apartment in the morning. Pumpkins and gourds of all shapes and sizes have made their way to the farmer's markets. And, when taking a walk, I am beginning to hear the satisfying sound of leaves crunching on the pavement.

Needless to say, the changing of the seasons (at least the very first few days of it) has been delightful. I decided to take a garden walk around the Hillwood Estate to enjoy the new chill in the air. This somewhat secluded estate felt as though it was tucked into the mountains, far away from any city. What a treat. Plus, they have a hilarious and wonderful whimsical exhibit opening soon...the first photo gives you a glimpse.

Are you feeling the changes of the seasons wherever you live? What are you doing to celebrate?

a new neighborhood

I'm living in Washington, D.C. for the fall semester of this school year, which means that there are new neighborhoods to be explored, restaurants to try, bookstores to browse. So far, I am smitten with the Capital Hill area, home to Capital Hill books, Eastern Market, and Rose's Luxury (previously rated the best restaurant in America).

Have you spent much time in DC? What are favorite spots?

italy in bloom

When I was in Italy this summer, every street seemed to have a least one blooming vine beautifully creeping up the burnt orange walls of shops and apartments. Rome, Venice, Capri. Each city's blooms brought a certain summer spirit to the sidewalks. Flowers are always a welcome sight. 

ciao, bella

I just returned to the US after 2 weeks exploring Italy by train. 5 towns, 14 days. It was quite the adventure. While in Rome, I stayed at the most beautiful little apartment hidden on a quiet, crooked, cobblestone street near Piazza del Popolo. I was inspired by the simple, yet elegant decor, pictured above. White walls, wood furniture, crystal accents. Simple and sweet.

What's been catching your eyes lately?

xo,
A

sunshine and rose chai lattes

I took a little afternoon stroll in Greenwich Village the other day as I passed through Manhattan for a few days, and boy did it feel like summer. Sunshine pouring in. A gentle breeze in the air. General good cheer. I picked up this rose chai latte at Nourish Kitchen + Table to fuel my afternoon walk, and then I was off for a day of meandering crooked streets and peaking into gardens for a glimpse of some pretty blooms.

What're you up to these day?

love

Transforming Power

Lau Tzu

Your love contains the power
Of a thousand suns.
It unfolds as naturally and effortlessly
As does a flower,
And graces the world with its blooming.
Its beauty radiates a transforming energy
That enlivens all who see it.
Because of you, compassion and joy
Are added to the world.
That is why the stars sing together
Because of your love.

lately

Tap, tap, tap...is this thing on? It's been ages since I last posted, so I thought I'd share some pictures of how spring is shaping up here in Western Mass. Blooms everywhere. Sweet smells. Gentles breezes. Of course, then it snowed and went back to winter. But for now, let's just enjoy daydreams of flowers and sunshine.

All of the right spring things. 

xo