July means summer is finally coming to San Francisco, which means I have about two months (August and September) to cycle through all the sleeveless pieces in my closet. Having an efficient HVAC system is necessary—what if the ac unit not spinning outside? If the AC unit’s fan outside is not spinning, start by checking the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If the breaker is fine, consider hiring an efficient air conditioning repair service to inspect potential issues with the capacitor or the fan motor.

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This dress has been sitting in my closet for a while. And by a while, I mean years. I had bought it at a whim from Juicy Couture of all places (and no, I have never owned those velour pajama pants), but unlike some other pieces I have purchased without thought, this one is a piece that I have always loved but deemed too “dressy” to wear for every day. So it sat in my closet, untouched.

That is, until I accidentally found this light wash denim jacket at Anthropologie. I was looking for something else at the store when I spied it on the sales rack. It was the only one left, in my size, and at a heavy discount. Sometimes you know things are meant to be.

A denim jacket, I have discovered, is an easy way to dress down pieces. Add some boots (which are my every day shoe), and you’ve got an effortless outfit that is both stylish and comfortable. Who says they can’t both go hand in hand?

By the way, this may be my favorite blog photo series ever. I did a photography shoot with San Francisco photographer Maggie Beadle recently and couldn’t be more pleased. She made me feel really comfortable in front of the camera, and I think it shows in these pictures!

All photos in this post by Maggie Beadle Photography

What is something that you love but has been sitting in your closet, untouched?

BUT FIRST, COFFEE

Even if you don’t drink much coffee, no visit to Portland is complete without a cup of joe. Stumptown is the household name, but one of our friends (and Portland local) persuaded us to try Coava and we were glad we did. Visit the spacious location on SE Grand Ave (also its flagship) for a pastry and a honey latte. Heart Coffee is another one that came highly recommended but I haven’t tried it yet.

WHAT TO EAT

Blue Star Donuts
There’s no need to make a special trek to a specific location because they’re all over Portland, including the airport. The Cointreau Creme Brûlée and the Raspberry Rosemary Buttermilk are my favorites. And yes, it’s far superior to Voodoo Donuts, unless cereal flavors and penis donuts are your thing.

Pine Street Biscuits
They have several locations, but go to the one on Alberta St or Division St for ample seating and a peek into the kitchen. Either way, expect a line. The Reggie Deluxe with Egg is the breakfast sandwich of champions.

Pok Pok
THE Thai place in Portland. I’ve only been to the one on Division St (the original location), but they don’t take reservations for parties of less than 6. The Pok Pok NW location takes reservations for all party sizes, but I hear it’s not the same so the decision is yours. They are known for their fried chicken wings but try the Kai Yaang dish with sticky rice (this was sold out on my last visit and I was so bummed!).

Nong’s Khao Man Gai
Another Thai place, but this one only serves chicken and rice (and chicken hearts. And chicken livers). Some people love it, some people don’t get it, but even at 4pm they manage to have a long line by selling only one dish. Good for a quick lunch or take out.

Le Pigeon
Highly acclaimed French restaurant, which I dined at with some friends on a previous trip. The space is actually quite small, so I don’t recommend it for a large party. The food was tasty but also on the heavy side (as most French food are). We enjoyed the hamburger and grilled pigeon dishes.

The Hairy Lobster
We discovered this place almost by accident, as it was located a few blocks from our hotel in the Pearl District. What a wonderful find! They have amazing desserts and a creative cocktail list. If you want to splurge on a meal, I highly recommend this one.

Salt & Straw
No visit is complete without waiting in line at this ice cream shop known for its famous savory flavors. Unless you’re from San Francisco…then I’d suggest waiting in line back at home.

Oh, and if pubs are your thing, don’t leave Portland without visiting a brewery. We went to Hopworks on our most recent visit, but there are plenty in downtown worth checking out as well.

WHERE TO SHOP

In my opinion, the thing to do in Portland is to grab some coffee, eat, do some tax-free shopping (unless you’re already from another tax-free shopping state then never mind), eat again, admire the lush greenery around you, check out some cute shops, eat, then drink. I’ve laid out some of the top shopping neighborhoods and streets for you below.

Downtown
This area has most of your usual chain stores (J.Crew, GAP) dotted with high end department stores like Nordstrom. But for a unique experience, a visit to Powell’s is a must. The location in downtown claims to be the largest bookstore in the world, housing over a million books. Even Mr. Wonderful, who rarely reads books, spent an hour there.

Division/Clinton neighborhood
This area is hipster/foodie land where you could easily spend half a day. Some of my favorite stores are Adorn (chic clothing boutique with the nicest sales reps) and Little Otsu (cute stationary store with another location in SF).

NW 23^rd (part of the Northwest District)
This street is a nice way to spend a couple of hours in the afternoon. There’s less gourmet places to eat compared to Division/Clinton, but more shops. I like Sloan boutique for its minimalist women’s clothing, Tender Loving Empire for local handmade goods, and The Meadow for local specialty food items (I came home with a set of bitters and fancy simple syrups).

Alberta Arts District
I haven’t had time to thoroughly enjoy this area, although it feels similar to NW 23^rd but with more art galleries and vintage shops. Worth coming if you have the extra time.

THINGS TO DO IN OUTER PORTLAND (AND BEYOND)

Washington Park
Technically still in Portland, but on the outskirts of the city. Take an hour or two out of your day and wander around the large park. Be sure to check out The International Rose Test Garden which is particularly beautiful in the summer.

Forest Park
If you’re itching to do some hiking, Forest Park has miles of trails waiting for you to explore. And if hiking isn’t your thing, you can drive up to Pittock Mansion and admire the pretty view of Portland from its backyard.

Multnomah Falls
This gorgeous waterfall can be seen from the parking lot, but the six mile hike is worth doing. Unfortunately the trails are still closed from the fire in 2017, though the viewing platform has been reopened.

Willamette Valley
Oregon’s wine country, and so affordable compared to Napa. Sokol Blosser is a crowd favorite, though we personally preferred Domaine Drouhin (delicious Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris) and Domaine Serene (about 5 minutes up the road).

Have you been to Portland? If so, please leave some of your personal favorites in the comments below!

I have never been much of a Bohemian girl, but the flowy shift dress (some call it a swing or trapeze dress) became my friend when I was pregnant with Little V. Stylish yet comfortable, they’re easy to pair with everything from sandals to boots. Plus they cover your stomach whether you’re pregnant or full from a big dinner (a constant problem). I’ve been wearing this old Urban Outfitters piece on repeat the last three years, and figured it was time for an update. I loved the idea of a feminine lacy white dress in contrast with my go-to brown boot, so I’ve been on the hunt for such a piece.

The key to the swing dress is that it should be properly fitted in the shoulders and arms to prevent a baggy, frumpy look. And to balance the loose silhouette, it’s best to find one that ends above the knee. For those who hate their legs, you can still wear this style by adding on leggings and tall boots (though it would then be more appropriate for the fall season).

I ordered a few cheaper options from ASOS (the Broderie Trapeze dress and the Tiered Trapeze Mini) before landing on this Speechless piece from Nordstrom (the same one is also at Target for $15 less! Grr). The ones from ASOS all ran large overall, which made me feel like I was wearing a large lace bag. Although I’m not totally in love with the Speechless one (the lace looks a bit cheap to me), it does fit well and I have already worn it many times. My favorite combination is with a light blue denim jacket, but I have also paired it with this green cargo jacket and a gray cardigan. When the weather warms up, you can’t beat the ease of throwing on a dress and shoes.

As a side note, I also tried on this white eyelet dress from J.Crew. It’s cut very strangely – The “waist” of the dress sat uncomfortably on the widest part of my rib cage and I have a short torso to begin with. Other online reviewers seem to agree. I’m not sure who this would fit!

Do you have a little white dress? What is your go-to outfit for the spring/summer season?

Speechless Lace Shift dress | Pilcro Denim Jacket (new version) | Madewell Simple Crossbody Bag (black on sale here) | Rockport Cobb Hill Bethany boots

You guys. I can wear olive again.

After it made me nauseous during my pregnancy (crazy, right?), I got rid of everything related to my previously favorite neutral including my beloved cargo jacket. It used to be my almost everyday go-to, and it’s something I tell my clients they should have in their closet whether they’re 16 or 60. Add some jeans and a white blouse or tee and you’re good to go. I’ve been without one for the last 2.5 years, and it’s a staple that I’ve never found a comparable replacement for. While I love my faux leather jacket (edgy) and khaki trench (classic), a utility jacket is that effortless casual piece you can throw on over anything and call it a day.

So you can imagine my excitement when I reached for this parka on my latest visit to H&M, closed my eyes as I shrugged it over my shoulders and opened my eyes expecting my hormones to tell me this was a bad idea. Nothing. I waited for a wave of nausea. Nothing.

Could it be possible? Could I wear olive again? After I wore this jacket around the store for another 10 minutes (and picked out this adorable skirt for Little V from Michelle Morin’s kids collaboration), I decided it was a done deal. This jacket also fit me better than my old Aritzia Trooper, so I would definitely recommend it for petite frames. The H&M size 2 runs more fitted than Aritzia’s XXS with a more flattering cropped hem. I wish the sleeves were a little shorter and the quality could be better (the zipper feels cheap), but the price is also more affordable than others I’ve seen.

Do you own a cargo jacket? Which brand do you own?

H&M Short Parka with Hood | H&M skinny jeans, old (similar) | Madewell The Simple crossbody bag | Rockport Cobb Hill Bethany boots

I know “best” is one of those terms that’s often casually tossed around, but I have finally found a pair of boots that are more comfortable than nearly every other sneaker I’ve tried. And let’s be honest, they’re a lot more attractive!

My physical therapist had long recommended that if I could find comfortable lace-up boots, it would be better for my weak ankles than sneakers. Laces allow a customized fit and therefore additional stability. Wanting to find a pair of non-athletic shoes I could wear, I spent the last year scouring forums and reading hundreds of Zappos reviews trying to find one that could work. I bought a pair of Timberlands that people swore they could hike all day in, but I couldn’t even make it down the block before I hobbled home. Cute ankle booties were out of the question, as most of them were too wide for me in the ankle and the buckle straps are usually more decorative than useful.

I finally landed on this pair by Rockport, which not only has adjustable laces but a slight platform and heel that gives it a cushioned feel. Best of all, it has a classic look despite the brand’s comfort shoe aesthetic. The almond leather color goes surprisingly well with everything from skinny jeans to shift dresses, and I am beyond thrilled I can have an easier time putting cute outfits together again. I only wish they would come out with a black leather version without the contrast stitching.

With my orthotics, these are nearly as comfortable as the Vongo sneakers I previously posted about. I’ve worn these boots out for an entire day with only minimal pain. If you’re in the market for some comfortable boots, I highly suggest giving these a try. They do run a touch wide in the toe box compared to the average shoe, but I think that’s also what makes them so comfortable for me.

Do you have any shoes that you swear are more comfortable than sneakers?

Rockport Cobb Hill Bethany boots, MTLA fleece leggings (from Stitch Fix), Cuyana Leather Backpack

]]> http://www.lifeunrefined.com/the-best-boots-for-chronic-foot-pain/feed/ 8 http://www.lifeunrefined.com/new-years-eve-outfit-in-lace-and-ruffle/ http://www.lifeunrefined.com/new-years-eve-outfit-in-lace-and-ruffle/#comments Fri, 29 Dec 2017 23:48:18 +0000 http://www.lifeunrefined.com/?p=1350

Can you believe 2018 is only a couple of days away? Though I’ll likely be in sweatpants (or asleep) when the ball drops, I thought this beautiful Slate & Willow top I recently rented from Rent the Runway would have also made a great option for the big night. Both its ruffle detail and lace sleeves give it a unique look I haven’t seen anywhere else.

Since I can’t wear heels anymore, I paired the top with wide leg pants, which mostly covered my sneakers. I must have tried on nearly two dozen pairs this past season, in search of one that didn’t dwarf my petite 5’2” frame or make me feel frumpy. How I miss the days when slipping on a pair of pumps would immediately elongate my figure by two or three inches! I finally landed on Bailey44’s Boardroom Pants, which have a high waist to create the illusion of longer legs. I wasn’t sure if the elastic waist would make it look too much like yoga pants, but it ended up being very flattering. The waist band keeps the silhouette streamlined, without the annoying gape that comes from pants with a button or hook and eye closure. I didn’t have any bunching issue that another reviewer complained about.

I finished the look with an old Zara necklace. I’m typically not a statement jewelry type person, but I found this piece in a jewelry shop and it was too beautiful to pass up. The white beads contrast nicely against the black fabric, but any color will do. Those who love collecting antique jewellery Sydney may visit the shop of Kalmar Antiques.

When it comes to your hair, you may want to use hair care products for scalp treatment to make your hair healthier and easier to style.

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! How will you be ringing in 2018?

Christmas came early for my husband this year, in the form of his first Stitch Fix box. This guy dislikes shopping so much that I can only drag him to the mall if he finds a Pokemon worth catching. He buys maybe a few new pieces a year, so I thought having his own personal stylist *wink* would be a positive experience for him.

One of the ongoing challenges for Mr. Wonderful is that long-sleeve shirts are usually too long for him in both the sleeves and the overall length. At 5’8″ he has a shorter torso and it can be frustrating that brands such as Banana Republic don’t better cater to his proportion. Two of the shirts from Stitch Fix clearly show this issue:

It was no surprise, then, that he loved the next shirt he tried on. For once, a shirt fit him just right!

His absolute favorite though, was this Pieter dobby shirt by Scotch & Soda. He loved the soft feel and the unique print, though not the price ($125). It fit very nicely along the torso, although the shirt and sleeves were once again on the long side.

For reference, I thought I’d compare the sleeve lengths of three of the shirts. Definitely a significant difference between the chambray and the dobby!

This pullover fleece by Tavik was a keeper. Mr. Wonderful kept commenting on how soft it was, and ended up keeping it on (and wore it again the next day).

We ended up purchasing three of the five pieces, which is actually more than I expected given Mr. Wonderful’s pickiness. If you’re interested, sign up through this referral link to get your first $20 styling fee waived! Works for both men and women. Doesn’t hurt to take a risk when it’s free, right?

Have you tried Stitch Fix? What do you think of the service?

But let me back up. I am not a runner. I had a labral tear in my right hip over five years ago, and after surgery I was told I should stay away from running if I wanted to prevent another visit to the operating room.

Despite following these instructions, I’ve had one foot issue after another, some of which I shared in this old post. I’ve gone through a dozen sneakers in the last year and a half, in an attempt to find something I could comfortably walk in. Sneakerhead I am not, though I’ve learned so much about sneaker technology that sometimes I wonder if I should make a new career out of it.

Over the summer, I was checking out the latest inventory at a local sports store when the sales associate recommended these New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo V2. It is not an overstatement to say these have been the best shoes for my feet and a mini miracle in my life. On good days, they allow me to walk a couple of miles around the city. In comparison, I can barely walk one block in flats nowadays.

Nearly six months later, I still have not found another pair of sneakers better than these. Now granted everybody’s foot, walking gait, and physical needs are different (for example, I tend to overpronate, have weak ankles, and need stability shoes), but if you’re in the market for new running shoes, these are worth checking out. I’m also glad they come in non-neon colors as well.

Someone recently asked me what I was thankful for. I responded, “Family, friends, good food, and these sneakers!”

Do you have a pair of sneakers you love?

Athleta Vortex Jacket, Carbon38 Takara Leggings, New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo V.2

Zara Check Bow Dress (so cute with black leggings and this red coat)

Zara – 30% off all clothing, which is a rare deal for this retailer.

Top Picks: Panels Shirt with Pom Poms, Gingham Shirt with Bows, Contrast Frilled Dress, Pom Poms Dress, Metallic Maryjane

Janie & Jack – 30% off everything. This normally expensive retailer has some great deals today!

Top Picks: Horse Print Top, Bow Top, Peplum Vest, Sweater Cape, Petal Pink Trench Coat

Gap – 50% off everything, don’t miss their $9 sleepwear sale with code BLKFRIDAY

Top Picks: Plaid Flannel Ruffle Shirt, Tiered Long-Sleeve Top, Shimmer Bow Headband, Glitter Hi-Top Trainers, Cozy Fleece (great boy options, too!)

Old Navy – 50% off everything, a great place to stock up on basics

Top Picks: Printed Thermal Top ($5!), Pintuck Baby Doll Top, Flannel Tunic, Cowl-Neck poncho, Milk & Cookies Pajamas (Little V’s favorite!)

J.Crew – 40% off everything

Top Picks: Sequin Heart Tee, Max the Monster sweater, Sequin Tulle Skirt

Plus, Target is running a special where if you spend $50 today, you’ll get 20% off a future purchase. Time to stockpile on household goods or get a head start on Christmas shopping!

One of the best parts about being a stylist is constantly discovering new designers I would have overlooked otherwise. Yumi Kim has been around for over a decade, but it was only recently that I noticed her line of moody floral dresses that are just perfect for fall. Plus she offers sizes in XXS, which is rare for a designer brand! I ended up ordering this dress recently, which I wore on a recent trip to New York City. I had long been looking for a sleeved maxi dress that also had a higher neckline (is it just me, or are plunging necklines everywhere this season?), but its sheer sleeves and skirt bottom balanced the conservative look accordingly. I was surprised at how well this dress fit my short torso, though I did have to get the length hemmed by several inches.

If you’re someone who appreciates modest yet fashionable options in your wardrobe, exploring collections from a reputable modest dress company could be a delightful revelation. These companies often specialize in designs that prioritize elegance and coverage without compromising on style. Picture finding the perfect sleeved maxi dress with a higher neckline, catering to those seeking a more conservative look. A modest dress company might just be the go-to for discovering such gems, ensuring a wardrobe that aligns with your style preferences. The attention to detail in design and sizing considerations, like those offered by Yumi Kim in XXS, exemplifies the commitment of certain designers to cater to a diverse range of tastes and body types, making fashion an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all.

Just about every woman wears florals in the spring, but the darker colors of the dress make it a print that can be worn year-round. Wear it with heels for a special event or casually with a denim jacket. Currently, my go-to style pairing is with a black leather jacket.

I also thought I’d share a few of my favorite new spots in New York, in case you’re planning a trip in the coming months:

Gabriel Kreuther

If you’re wanting to dine at a high-end, Michelin star restaurant but don’t want to pay the exorbitant prices, GK is a great spot for lunch. The $68, two-course lunch menu may still feel steep, but they don’t charge a supplement for the foie gras appetizer, which arrives in a generous portion. My friend’s squab entree was my personal favorite, though I did enjoy my pork dish as well. The Ambrosial dessert is worth the extra $19 if you want to end on a sweet note.

Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog

A confusing name, but all you need to know is this – it’s been voted the world’s best bar. I’ll confess I don’t know much about cocktails despite the fact I took classes and technically have a bartending certificate (whatever that means, right?), but the foodie friend I went with gave her approval for its claim. All I know is the drink I had was very, very good and I loved its chill environment. And seeing that people are willing to wait for a seat at its upstairs Parlor room, I’m not alone in saying it’s worth checking out, grabbing a drink and having a few oysters. The menu is a comic book, need I say more?

Lilia Restaurant and Cafe

Maybe I’m getting old, but I’m starting to prefer the vibe of Brooklyn over Manhattan. In fact, the crowd favorite on this trip was Lilia, an Italian restaurant that is located in what was formerly an auto-body shop. You would never have known it otherwise, with its wall-to-wall glass windows and modern interior. Their most recent menu listed grilled blowfish tails which was beautifully moist and flavorful. I also recommend the Bagna Cauda plate and pasta dishes.

Yumi Kim dress (same print as a top), New Balance Fresh Foam Gobi