The Up Next Edit, Vol. 5

I always love seeing Carly’s picks. She’s typically a step ahead of me so it generally means that in a few months, I’ll want it too. You can read the last one here if you want more.

The Up Next Edit, Vol. 5

I feel like I’ve finally come to my senses when it comes to my style, and have found myself genuinely reinvigorated by getting dressed again. There’s something to be said about downsizing—both in space and in wardrobe—and the way it forces you to take stock of what you already have and how to best make use of it. I’ve become far more attentive to the gaps that exist in my closet, and even more thoughtful about what ultimately earns a place within it.

This roundup is admittedly a bit more splurge-worthy, and perhaps leans more trend-conscious than some of my previous ones, at least in terms of the brands represented. That said, I’ve never been particularly interested in existing within the confines of quiet luxury. While I have no desire to disappear into the churn of fast fashion, I also think there’s something exciting about embracing a trend or two—as we all know, they inevitably find their way back around. The magic has always been in making a trend feel like an extension of your personal style, rather than molding yourself to fit whatever happens to be circulating that season.

A few things in particular . . .

• I’ve been working really hard lately, and have always had a tendency to view investment pieces as a reward for the long hours and occasional all-nighter. So when my friend Skye sent me a link to these antiqued Prada flats, it felt as though the devil himself had perched on my shoulder, gently encouraging me toward the add-to-cart button. Just know that if you happen to spot them in my closet a few weeks from now, they were hard-earned. In a world of Phoebe Philo flats, go for the Prada!
• During a recent visit to Charleston, the ever-fashionable Kelly Klein arrived at dinner with this stunning leopard-print bag in tow. I think we can all agree that animal print qualifies as a neutral at this point? What I love most about this bag is its versatility: the size, the functionality, and its ability to make a statement without ever feeling overdone. It effortlessly folds into your everyday wardrobe—equally suited for daytime errands as it is for dinner reservations—and one I can’t imagine growing tired of seeing slung over my shoulder.
• With the amount of work that’s landed on my plate lately, I’m doing my best to carve out time for friends and hobbies wherever I can. Getting back on the tennis court has been such a welcome reprieve, and with it has come the temptation to invest in a few on-and-off-court essentials. One of my favorite things about Charleston-based brand Spence is that while their pieces are designed to perform on the court, they feel just as at home in everyday life. This crinkle-fabric mini is a perfect example—something I could easily wear to my next match, then throw on over a swimsuit for an afternoon spent poolside.

Disclosure: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature things I truly love here. Thanks for your support.