TOP TEN

A stand on its own item that also blends seamlessly into my wardrobe is a winner in my book. This week’s picks are up to the task.

dress, leather bag, shirt, skirt, sandals, COS, candle, bracelet, sweater, ring

Starting with a black dress to wear day to dusk. I go back and forth on sleeveless numbers. But occasionally the silhouette of the rest of the dress makes it work. I like the shape of the Proenza Schouler Cotton Poplin Dress and would style it as if it were a slim top with a full skirt – meaning I’d top it with something fitted and cropped…a cardigan tied snugly at the waist or one of my shrunken schoolboy blazers from The Row. A belt is an optional addition

Kendall Conrad’s Bonita Crossbody Bag is the one I’ve been hunting for. It’s big enough to carry what I need, yet small enough to not over power a look. I love it in saddle brown and will probably add a white one this summer. Beautiful quality, super soft leather, great detailing…it’s a winner.

In the last couple of years, I’ve realized the shirts I reach for again and again are striped poplins. The problem is most of them are variations on blue.  Toteme’s Signature Shirt in a sand and white stripe is fresh. I can’t wait to wear it with my white jeans (and the Kendall Conrad bag!).

A denim skirt that steers clear of distressing and faded tidbits is hard to find. Thank you G. Label by Goop for styling one that’s clean and sophisticated. I’d wear it as if it were a classic pencil skirt with a crisp white poplin (or stripe). Chloe’s Buckled Sandal would make a nice pairing.

Years ago I had lots of platforms but they’re now long gone. I loved the height they added without feeling like I was wearing heels. I’m circling back this season. I’d like something very clean and simple, no hardware or logos. Ancient Greek Sandals may have answered the call.

The leather trimmed basket bag from COS includes a handy drawstring cotton pouch to keep contents contained. The price is friendly too. Also in all black.

I’m looking for a new summer scent for the home. I’ll admit I was sold on the packaging (and perhaps the exquisite name) on the Cire Trudon x Tseng L’Esprit De L’Eau candle before I discovered the scent. How to describe the fragrance? I can’t beat what Moda Operandi writes: “The ‘L’Esprit De L’Eau’ (or ‘The Spirit of Water’) candle combines a mineral accord, that of clear water gliding over mountain rocks, with woody notes of cedar and cypress, as well as spicy notes of pepper and juniper berry.” Sold.

I don’t travel with a lot of jewelry. I’ll wear the same low profile pieces for an entire trip. But, I’ll layer on a bold piece for dinner or when an outfit calls for a little splash. A wrist wrapped in baroque pearls would make the cut. I also like this double strand. From Cult Gaia and Completed Works.

An elegant silhouette gives By Malene Birger’s Cardigan five stars. A beautiful shade of soft beige is the perfect complement. I’d toss on over all white, jeans, neutrals, etc.

Back to discreet jewelry and travel. The State Property Marmara Gold Ring may appear simple but on closer inspection is detailed with textural ribbing and a pair of half-moon diamonds. So very chic. It would certainly be a welcome travel companion.