ON TO THE NEXT PAGE

As we move into May, my guest post from La Dolce Vita blog feels more relevant than ever. Let’s move on to the next chapter of 2020! 

During the initial weeks of the stay-at-home mandate, I went into hibernation. I embraced a hunkered down state of mind with a list of books, shows, and projects to fill the days. I cleaned, organized, read and slept like never before. Dressing up simply meant shifting from workout clothes to sweats or jeans. But now, I feel like there’s a distant light at the end of the tunnel. It may be wishful thinking however I do sense a tone of optimism.

I’ve decided to divide the stay-at-home period into two phases. I’ll call the first several weeks described above survival mode. But now, I’m antsy for change. Still obediently tucked in my home, phase two is a time to turn the page and embrace the present. I have to remind myself it’s April. It’s time to switch gears and that will be best achieved by freshening up the house and dressing in a lighter, crisp palette.

I’ll start by welcoming the outdoors in with foliage from the yard or flowers from market runs and bundle them in vases to scatter around the house. The woodsy candles I associate with the winter months are being swapped for scents that mimic the season – jasmine, lilac, citrus. Same with hand soaps. Doesn’t grapefruit, freesia, or the fragrance of tulip fields sound heavenly? Tired dishtowels will be replaced with stacks that are fresh and clean. That’s a good start. I basically want the environment I spend so much time in to be a place of comfort and beauty while reflecting the current season.

Because the last few weeks felt unsettling and a bit dark, I’m anxious to put it behind me. The pureness of white is more appealing than ever (see the current issue of Vogue Italia) and I’d like to inject as much of it as possible in my wardrobe. Wearing crisp poplin shirts, jeans, and cozy sweaters in white symbolize a more positive, hopeful mindset. I think we can all agree we’re ready for that.

And lastly, our new norm will most likely include face masks. I imagine there will be an abundance of stylish, non-medical options in the future, but for now, I’ve ordered styles from Hedley and Bennett, Citizens of Humanity, and Just Masks for myself, family and friends.

photo: shearling slide, face mask, hand sanitizer, shirt, jeans, candle, match strike, Vogue Italia