Fashion, Travel & Lifestyle. – Page 236 – As told by Jessica Steele. Based in NYC.

June 13, 2013March 7, 2015

Back to Basics.

(H&M Sunglasses; Madewell Cardigan – similar here; American Apparel Bodysuit – similar here; Urban Outfitters shorts – similar here; Vintage Bag; Steve Madden Wedges – similar here)

After a few weeks of going really bright with my wardrobe choices, I was craving exactly the opposite for an afternoon spent in the park overlooking downtown Los Angeles…
For me, back to basics means keeping the color palette neutral but still adding a bit of interest by mixing textures and patterns. I always forget about this striped zip up bodysuit, but it’s such a great layering piece and served as the perfect building block for my “basic” look. This bodysuit also happens to remind me of the original Barbie’s black and white striped ensemble, so I played up the retro mood and added a pair of high waisted black shorts (one of my Top 20 Summer Essentials), neutral platform wedges and a high ponytail. Then topped it off with my favorite colorblocked cardigan (last seen here) and a patterned vintage bag.

p.s. Do you recognize this park? It’s called Angel’s Knoll and sits atop a steep heel overlooking a piece of downtown LA – and was most notably featured in the movie 500 Days of Summer (I admit to asking myself WWZD – What Would Zooey (Deschanel) Do? when getting dressed this particular morning…). If you haven’t already seen it, I highly recommend it!

June 11, 2013March 7, 2015

Island Hop.

(Denim Jacket – similar here; Urban Outfitters Vest; Tulle Dress; Target Sneakers; Leather Backpack via TJ Maxx – similar here)

Our trip to Catalina Island this past weekend was the type of tropical getaway that usually costs thousands and requires a very long flight. Luckily we were able to fit our entire island exploration into one long day trip via ferry….

Dressing for a day trip like this one presents a few challenges. Since we had to carry everything for the day, I wanted to pack light and keep my hands free (this leather backpack – originally purchased for our cross country road trip last year, once again proved handy). And because we left early in the morning with overcast skies, but the forecast called for sun by the afternoon I needed light layers (this vest, last seen here, is one of my favorite multi functional pieces) that I could shed throughout the day. And finally, I needed something that was presentable enough for breakfast at a local island restaurant and window shopping in town, but forgiving enough for a day filled with walking and exploring. I found a balance with an easy lightweight dress (a simple shape and elastic waist make this particular piece super comfortable but the print and color dress it up a bit), my trusty denim jacket layered under this utility vest and a simple pair of sneakers. As for the island, it didn’t disappoint. These pictures barely do the beauty of secluded nature, historic monuments and vivid oceanfront scenery justice.

June 10, 2013March 7, 2015

Thanks Dad.

(1. Furbish Studio Pillow; 2. Fossil Iphone 5 Case; 3. West Elm Whiskey Stones)

In a wonderful coincidence, my trip home this upcoming weekend falls on Father’s Day so I’ll get the chance to see my Dad in person for only the second time in the past 6 months. While this may almost be gift enough for him, in case you’re still looking for a small way to say Thanks to your own Dad here are a few options…

I always try to go for something useful but just a little bit special when it comes to gift giving for my Dad (anything frivolous or flashy just won’t do). So if you have a father anything like mine – well first of all count yourself lucky – and then take my advice and get a gift that would make his everyday just a little more enjoyable.

Nest: Does your Dad have a favorite recliner, or maybe an office chair that’s always causing his back to ache? I love the statement this pillow makes – exactly the kind of sage advice a Dad would give. Plus it’s just the sort of bare bones decor that a man wouldn’t lump in with their usual hatred of “throw pillows”.

Dressed: Okay, okay, you can’t exactly wear this – but it’s something your phone wears and I didn’t want to suggest that you buy your Dad another tie, so cut me some slack. There is nothing more sleek and masculine in the world of tech accessories to me than a nice leather iPhone case. And aren’t Dads always reminding you to take care of your things?

The Rest: Somehow extravagant and also perfectly practical, whiskey stones keep drinks cold and undiluted. Whiskey aficionados or juice lovers, I can’t imagine anyone not liking the functionality of these.

June 10, 2013March 7, 2015

Weekend Flashback.

This weekend was like a mini vacation packed into 48 hours. In honor of the boy’s upcoming birthday we spent Friday night indulging in burgers and beers and playing mini golf (sometimes the cheapest dates are the most fun, am I right?). The big surprise adventure that I hinted at here was our trip to Catalina Island on Saturday – just an hour’s boat ride from mainland California, but what felt like a world away. We hiked, had a private little island picnic, and took in the sights of a place that felt entirely different than our day to day life (I’ll be sharing more pictures from our trip this week). And to end the weekend, we headed into Downtown LA to explore Grand Central Market and also to spend some time relaxing in Angel’s Knoll Park (recognize this bench? It’s where they filmed those park scenes in 500 Days of Summer). Southern California never ceases to amaze me with all that it can offer in just 2 days time.

June 7, 2013March 7, 2015

Ready for Adventure.

While I can’t say exactly where (shh.. it’s part of a birthday surprise for the boy) – I will say that I’ve got an exciting little adventure planned for this weekend. And while we may not dance in our underwear on the coast a la Moonrise Kingdom, I’m still pretty excited to share the next couple of days making some new memories with my favorite travel partner. Where are you off to this weekend? Happy Friday!