Easy Staples + Some Questions.

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Hi – and happy Monday! I have the day off which is such a treat… so I am having a little “me day…” avoiding work as much as I can + having a little spa day… going for a facial and a massage later today.

I’m wearing a few faves today. I bought this shearling scarf three years ago and am still surprised by how often I wear it. It’s fun for parties or going out at night, but equally lovely during the day as an extra layer to stay warm. People always think it’s a vest or attached to my coat, but it’s just a scarf. I get asked about it all the time and this is the closest I’ve been able to find, but it’s very expensive  (albeit on sale, for $450 from $1250.) A much more affordable way to get the look is this Topshop Fur Scarf – you could wear it the same way.

My top is from a new-to-me line called Cooper & Ella. I really, really love their pieces as they incorporate cool, special details – a mesh panel here, a cut-out there… a special trim, etc. This one is a favorite (it comes in white, too!)

Shop the Post: Loro Piana Coat (similar options here + here) // Karl Donoghue Shearling Scarf (very old but love this or this snood) // Cooper & Ella Top (c/o) // J. Brand Jeans // Henri Bendel Satchel // Manolo Blahnik Suede Pumps // Dolce Gabbana Lipstick in Real Red

Annnyway, today’s outfit is a little bit different as Hallie challenged me to answer some of the questions in this NY Times Article (such a good read, if you haven’t read it already!)

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Would you like to be famous? In what way?

While I would like my site and my work to be well known, I personally would never want to be recognizably famous. To be honest, I’m really shy. I get anxious in big crowds if I don’t know the majority of the people there, and I get nervous + quiet around people I don’t know very well. So no. I do not want to be famous. Getting approached on the street, paparazzi, always having to be “on” and not being able to just not wear makeup and all of that… no!

Before making a telephone call, do you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why?

Sometimes… but to be honest I avoid the phone as much as I can. Whenever possible I stick to email/texting. I have to use the phone from time to time at work, but on a personal level the only person I really talk to on the phone is my mom; and I know she wishes I called more!

What would constitute a “perfect” day for you?

My perfect day would involve getting a lot of sleep. I know as you grow older, you are supposed to require less sleep, but sleeping in still remains one of my most favorite indulgences. I’d go to bed around midnight, and stay in bed til eleven or twelve. Note that I never actually get to do it, but getting a solid twelve hours in bed sounds like the most decadent thing in the world. I say in bed vs. sleeping because part of this time would be spent watching a show or reading. From there, I’d get up, stretch, make a big mug of coffee with almond milk, and play with Tyrion. I’d meet a friend for Soul Cycle or Barre and a green juice after, and then maybe go for a massage or a facial (hey, we’re talking perfect day here, right!?) Then I’d go home, take a nap, work on the blog a little, and meet girlfriends for a low key dinner at a cute wine bar. I’d come home, have some tea, and curl up in bed with a movie or a good book. I feel relaxed just writing this! And actually, today is sort of my perfect day, now that I think about it.

If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?

I’m going to take the high road and say my mind. But the bod would be nice.

For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

My family, 100%. Hallie said this quite nicely in her post, but I feel so lucky to have two sisters and be so close with them. Built in best friends. And to have parents that raised me to be strong and hard working. They’ve always been so incredibly supportive of my dreams and taught me that I can do (almost) anything, if I put my mind to it… I’m so grateful for that.

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If you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be?

Oh there are so many things! But off the top of my head, I wish I were more analytical. I’m fine at math, but I wish I were one of those people who could look at a spreadsheet and crunch a few numbers and walk away with brilliant insights. I say this because I was in a meeting the other day for my day job with our co-founder and was blown away by how quickly she digested the information and the insights she had – immediately. I’m working harder at being more analytical but it’s not something that comes naturally to me. I also wish I were more coordinated. And a better public speaker. I often say that I can write well but am really rather bad at talking. Ha.

Is there something that you’ve dreamed of doing for a long time? Why haven’t you done it?

Traveling for a prolonged period of time. I haven’t done it because there’s always been something holding me back – work, finances, etc. I want to change that in the next couple years.

If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you are now living? Why?

I would quit my job and travel the world – Asia, South America, Africa. Australia, all the places I haven’t been to yet. I would see all of the things and do all of the things. And also eat all of the things. And make sure all of the people closest to me knew how much I love them.

What does friendship mean to you?

Friendship means a lot of things, but a big one to me is being there for the people in your life when they need you most. And checking in on them. A friend and I discussed this… how when something goes wrong in your life, the moment something goes wrong everyone is there, asking you how you are, and so on and so forth. But its the friends who still check in weeks later that are the most helpful. Another big thing for me is loyalty. When I was younger, I remember my friends badmouthing each other, or disguising gossip as a concern. I was guilty of it too, but I stopped years ago. I think it’s a factor of having fewer (but better friends) as I get older, and also we’re too busy for it! It’s refreshing… we have each other. Lastly, friendship to me means being able to be honest with each other – even if it isn’t necessarily what the friend wants to hear.

Alternate sharing something you consider a positive characteristic of your partner. Share a total of five items.

Trust-worthy, fun-loving, independent, intelligent… and a shallow one: tall. 🙂

How close and warm is your family? Do you feel your childhood was happier than most other people’s?

We are very close. I wish we all lived closer together, but I see my sister Becca all the time. I had a very happy childhood, though as the oldest child, I admit to terrorizing my younger sisters quite a bit.

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Complete this sentence: “I wish I had someone with whom I could share … “

I wish I had someone with whom I could share my life. Yep – know that’s cheesy. I often worry that I am going to die alone simply because I am so content being alone. I have a pretty awesome life. I have an amazing family and the best girlfriends in the world. I can buy myself pretty things and take myself on trips when I want to. I really want for nothing (except for maybe more hours in the day.) But a boyfriend would be nice. Dating in your thirties is tough. I have a clearer sense of self (and a clearer sense of what I’m looking for) but the pool is so small. I’ll keep at it though. Two close friends who are also in their thirties have met their serious boyfriends on Tinder (of all places), which gives me hope!

When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself?

I last cried in front of my sister when I was home over Christmas break. I was working in my family restaurant and was so tired (and very hungry) and my dad and I got in a fight. It started as watery eyes and turned into an avalanche – the tears just kept coming. Christmas was a little rough this year with my mom’s accident… we were all a little more emotional. I don’t usually cry very much.

Your house, containing everything you own, catches fire. After saving your loved ones and pets, you have time to safely make a final dash to save any one item. What would it be? Why?

Well I was going to say Tyrion, but then I reread the question and realized he’d been saved already (whew!) My laptop – I’d be lost without it. Or my mini Chanel purse, I love it so much – and it’s vintage so it would be harder to replace.

So there you have it! If you’ve answered these on your own blog, be sure to tell me so in the comments – I’d love to read your answers!

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photography by Lydia Hudgens.

Leave a Comment

Leave a Comment

38 Comments

  1. Kimberly:

    Love that scarf and really enjoyed reading all your answers here – thanks for being vulnerable enough to share more of yourself with us! xo

    http://www.pennypincherfashion.com

    1.19.15 Reply
  2. Cathleen:

    I think these Q&A’s are great. It’s nice to hear other people’s thoughts and goals. I love that scarf of yours. It’s beautiful.

    1.19.15 Reply
  3. Caitlin:

    Love this outfit Grace! Such a great look. And I loved reading your answers and getting to know more about you! Enjoy your day off!
    Xo, Caitlin
    http://thesolcompass.com

    1.19.15 Reply
  4. Cathy, your Poor Little It Girl:

    Love that furry little scarf! Easy update to any look!

    xoxo
    Cathy, your Poor Little It Girl
    http://poorlittleitgirl.com

    1.19.15 Reply
  5. Jackie (York Avenue):

    Great post, Grace! I can’t believe you know two people who met their significant others on Tinder. It seems the last place to meet anyone decent, but like you said, it gives a little hope! I guess I should give it another try (*shudder*) 🙂

    1.19.15 Reply
    • graceatwood:

      Haha yes. The number of times I’ve deleted + re-added the app is a little crazy 😉

      1.19.15 Reply
  6. Tierney:

    I know what you mean about wanting to be more analytical. I think I’m like you in that if someone were to give us a spreadsheet, we’ll have great insights and be able to understand the information, but not necessarily immediately. We need to think it out a little. I wish I could be one of those people who could do that faster too! Maybe it’s just me being too hesitant? Maybe my initial instincts are right; I just need to have more faith in myself! Thoughts?

    1.19.15 Reply
    • graceatwood:

      Yeah, I think you are right. Sometimes I think I’m too hesitant as well. I am very intuitive and my instincts are right, but I don’t want to be one of those people who only goes on instinct.. I want to be able to back my points up with statistics and data. 🙂

      1.19.15 Reply
  7. VelvetCrate:

    The outfit is killer! Also, love the questions from the NY Times. Have you heard of TableTopics? They are fun sets of intriguing questions to spark conversation (we included them in our Fall collection). Enjoy your day of relaxation!

    1.19.15 Reply
    • graceatwood:

      No – I haven’t heard of them! I love the idea though and am going to check them outttt! xx

      1.19.15 Reply
  8. alyson:

    so fun and interesting to read your answers, Grace. Relate and agree with so much of your position on things, including your dream day (which is why I’m a bit envious of your day today!). 🙂 By the way, completely on board with your friendships. I found it so interesting years ago the people who were with me when I got so sick — whether people I didn’t expect or close friends who stood by me. But it’s the friends who are still there as I’m working my ass off that demonstrate to me who I want in my life for the long haul. I only hope I can be half as good of a friend to those that have given so much to me. Thanks for sharing so much of yourself today (and ps: looking adorbs as always!).

    alyson
    http://www.theaveragegirlsguide.com

    1.19.15 Reply
  9. Jess Zimlich:

    I love your answers! Your perfect day sounds….perfect haha. I answered a few of the questions on my blog Friday. It’s so nice to be able to relate to each other on a different level 🙂 Happy Monday, Grace!

    1.19.15 Reply
    • graceatwood:

      Loved reading your answers Jess!! It sounds like we have a lot in common 🙂

      1.19.15 Reply
  10. Agoprime:

    VERY CUTE THIS LOOK!
    http://www.agoprime.it

    1.19.15 Reply
  11. Merritt:

    that vest is AMAZING…. looks great with your distressed skinny jeans and basic black pumps!

    The Style Scribe

    1.19.15 Reply
  12. Rebecca {at} Preppy Panache:

    I loved reading your answers and would love it if you stopped by and checked out mine.

    http://preppypanache.com/2015/01/everyone-wants-to-fall-in-love/

    1.19.15 Reply
    • graceatwood:

      Loved reading yours, Rebecca! xx

      1.19.15 Reply
  13. Franziska:

    I really really loved reading your answers Grace! It was great to see a more personal side, and I bet it wasn’t easy to put all of that out there. Thank you for sharing 🙂

    1.19.15 Reply
  14. Olivia - Baubles to Bubbles:

    I loved reading your answers, Grace! It’s great getting insight into other people’s thoughts. Also, love the scarf!

    1.19.15 Reply
  15. Vanessa:

    Such a good post! I was really intrigued by the article, and I love that you used the questions to let us get to know you a bit better. I also love the dainty little necklaces you have layered here. By the way, I’m one of those people who met my serious boyfriend on Tinder… which was so unexpected, and I sometimes wish we had met in another way, but I know we never would have met without it. I had deleted it + re-added it maybe 10 times in a year before we met, so you never know!

    1.19.15 Reply
    • graceatwood:

      thank you on both counts! Highly recommend checking out BaubleBar’s delicate necklaces (full disclosure – I work for them… but, I’ve seen our design team make amazing strides in developing our delicates… the quality is so good for the price!) And that is reassuring to hear that you met your guy on Tinder. You never know. I say own it… the way we meet these days has changed so much, it’s practically the norm now! xx

      1.19.15 Reply
      • Vanessa:

        I’ve actually never ordered from BaubleBar before, because I’m in Canada. I looked into it, and they do international shipping, but sometimes taxes/duties can be so steep with certain shipping companies that it’s not really worth it. I’d be super interested in hearing from other Canadian’s who’ve ordered from there though!

        1.20.15 Reply
  16. Becca:

    I love the outfit! Also so fun to read your answers.
    xx

    1.19.15 Reply
  17. Katie:

    Hi Grace!

    I LOVED reading your answers + getting to know you better. You seem like a real gem, and I am sure Mr. Right will come along before you know it. I also loved hearing about your relationship with your sisters – reminds me of mine own :].

    I shared my answers to Hallie’s challenge here!

    http://www.atouchofteal.com/ny-times-study-36-questions-how-to-fall-in-love/

    1.19.15 Reply
  18. Lindsay Ava:

    Your perfect day is literally my perfect day! 🙂 I love reading these type of posts 🙂

    1.19.15 Reply
  19. Francesca:

    If I want it, I buy it; if I want to visit it, I travel there; if I want to do it, I’m all in! Being content being alone is a more recent conclusion I came to that made me both confident in & curious about myself–you hit the nail on the head! Also, just look at Tinder as the modern day version of Joe Fox & Kathleen Kelly’s “Over 30 Chatroom” & it seems a little less terrifying–leave it to Nora Ephron to make Tinder appealing, posthumously! Happy Monday! xxoo

    1.19.15 Reply
  20. Anne:

    I read the Modern Love article a few days ago, and I really enjoyed your responses to their questions. I also have to share the New Yorker spoof: so funny.

    http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2015/01/26/fall-love

    Enjoy!

    1.19.15 Reply
    • graceatwood:

      Oh my gosh I just saw that today – hilarious! x

      1.19.15 Reply
  21. LoveCompassionateLee:

    I enjoyed reading this post! Your responses on family & friendship were my favorite. Life is meaningless without loved ones to share it with…Happy Monday, Grace 🙂 I love the new site design.
    http://www.lovecompassionatelee.com/thinkoutloud/2015/1/19/11915

    1.19.15 Reply
  22. Caroline:

    Love the touch of the scarf!
    We have a common friend -Melissa Brignola

    Caroline

    http://chiccaroline.com

    1.19.15 Reply
    • graceatwood:

      no way!!! I haven’t seen Briggy in forever – she’s the sweetest!

      1.19.15 Reply
  23. Katherine - Engineering In Style:

    Loved reading your answers! I feel you on the dating pool thing. Even though I’m only 25, I feel a century older than most guys my age, which makes dating stressful and highly disastrous.

    1.19.15 Reply
  24. Noe:

    These answers confirm that you’re a really nice person, I would like to have a friend like you!

    1.20.15 Reply
  25. Alexandra:

    Fun survey! I definitely relate to you in a lot of ways – no wonder I’m a constant reader 🙂

    Warm Regards,
    Alexandra
    http://www.littlewildheart.com

    1.20.15 Reply
  26. Cori Schwabe:

    I love your honesty. Thank you so much for sharing!

    1.20.15 Reply
  27. Emily&Elizabeth:

    OMG that coat! So amazing! This is a great post!
    xo Emily
    http://www.fashioncolumntwins.com

    1.21.15 Reply
  28. Christina @ Hair Romance:

    a late comment but I really like this post Grace. Your perfect day sounds a lot like mine and I’d definitely save my laptop next after my loved ones xx

    1.31.15 Reply