Either/Or The Fisher Heel

I’ve known about Either/Or for a minute, they’re a small, women owned company with ties to the PNW that features handmade shoes that are produced in small batches. They focus on practical styles with a modern twist, whether it’s a perfectly contoured woven slide, a new take on the classic cowboy boot, a high vamp ballet flat with a softly squared toe, or the fisherman sandals above.

If you’ve been following me on IG, you know I’m living in cut offs and a button down this summer. Boring? Maybe. But it’s just the right combination of polish and ease when I’m spending most of my time schlepping kids, making meals, and breaking up fights. I’m usually reaching flip flops, dark strappy sandals*, my white studded fisherman sandals*, or my white flats, depending on the level of polish I’m going for.

These leopard sandals (and it’s a good leopard print) are the perfect mix of delicate, substantial, and funky that can stand up to denim, pair perfectly with shorts, or add a little bit of edge to a dress.

Left on Friday Retreat Suit

You know I’ve been a Left on Friday fan since the early days, having first discovered the brand via IG in 2019.1 So much so that I still wear my first two suits, and the the three I’ve bought since then, regularly. They are one of my top three swimwear brands for fit, fabric, and longevity; I’m happy to say those first two suits are over seven years old and still going strong.

As much as I give fewer fucks now that I’m in my 40’s, I do love a little compression and a higher neckline balanced out by a very high cut leg. The Retreat suit has been on my radar for a while - I’ve loved seeing style it not only as swimwear but as a bodysuit - and I’m waffling between black (boring, I know, but classic for a reason) and brown. Because I spend so much of my summer poolside with my kids, I usually buy a suit or two each year to replenish the ones that are past their prime, and after the Great Closet Clean Out of 2026, I’m definitely due.

Based on my experience with the brand, I’ll likely order a tall and a regular and see which fits best2 but whichever I end up with, I know I’ll reach for it just as often as my other LoF pieces.

Haaland Jersey

I love a bandwagon to jump on, even if it’s sports related, and no one has been more charming, terrifying, unserious, or entertaining to watch this World Cup than Erling Haaland. His team may be out of the tournament, but he’ll live in my heart and closet forever. It doesn’t hurt that he looks like my oldest child’s distant cousin, who I may or may not be trying to convince to undercut his long blond hair for (American) football season.

Lucca House 7x1 Bookshelf

Full disclosure, I already own one of these shelves. I found Lucca’s Grid System as I do a lot of things - on Instagram, duh - and knew they would be a perfect fit for the playroom. The space is a bit awkward, with a huge brick fireplace, low ceilings, large windows that sit just over a foot off the ground, not to mention the fact that I had what turned out to be the wrong wall wired for the TV3, plus the 100 or so4 bins of lego pieces that have been acquired over the last 13 years, which makes for a serious storage conundrum.

The modular system is made out of maple plywood, can be customized to nearly any dimension, and is made in his workshop in the Berkshires, by what I can only assume is a very small team. After a few very friendly and helpful emails with Lucca to choose the correct size and trim color, and a slight delay in pressing purchase thanks to our dog’s ACL surgery that put all fun and functional purchases on hold for a minute, the 6x1 (with a top) shelf arrived. It was easy to assemble, think of it sort of like Lincoln Logs if you’re old enough to know what those are, fit perfectly under the window, and the blue trim is both cheerful and cheeky. I knew that once budget allowed, I’d be ordering the 7x1 to go under the two windows along the other wall.

The shelves, paired with this rug*, this couch, my dad’s very old and beat up Restoration Hardware leather chair, a vintage table from my grandparents, and some good art are making the room start to finally feel put together. Next up is to mount the TV on the correct wall, a project I’m truly dreading.

L.L.Bean Zip Top Boat and Tote

“But Fanny”, you might be asking, “don’t you have like, 400 Boat and Totes?” And I’d answer, “yes, but not this one”. My two large size totes, one with a zipper and one without, have gotten exceptionally beat up having been used as a carry on, tennis bag, and emergency checked bag for many, many years. I have no plans to get rid of either of them, but they’ve been relegated to schlepping and road trips at this point.

Until my family gets the hint and buys me an all white, open top with MOM monogrammed on the front, I’ll be updating my day to day/weekender bag with the monochrome style above, in size large, complete with zipper and front pocket.

Jamie Haller Painted Slouch Jean

A girl can and should have a few wishlist items, no matter how silly or expensive they may seem to other people, and these Jamie Haller jeans are currently at the top of mine. I’ve been lucky enough to receive a pair of Jamie Haller jeans in trade for some work I did, and boy oh boy, are they good. The price is steep, no doubt about it, but her denim is so soft with great structure, the details are special, and they’re usually offered from size 23 through 36, and this pair is no exception.

I think it’s the color of the paint splatters that make these particular jeans, composed of -ish colors that aren’t too bright, adding texture more than pattern. And please don’t come for me with “you can totally make those.” I totally could, I even know which vintage Levi’s I’d sacrifice, and I’m confident they’d look cool, but I also know probably won’t get around to it, let alone finish the project at this point in time.

Sizes are limited both on the JH website and NAP, this combined with a tight summer budget means these jeans will likely be added to the list of the ones that got away, but these are an excellent alternative at a fraction of the price.

That’s everything that’s I’m currently eyeing, not necessarily buying. What would you pick from the list above? Anything been sitting in your cart for a while??? Let me know in the comments, let’s commiserate.

Talk soon and see you Sunday,
xx FANNY

You can see all the items mentioned in in this newsletter here. I use affiliate links when applicable and gather all my links on ShopMy, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Gifted items are marked with an asterisk.

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I invite you to follow me on Instagram, shop what I’m wearing, eyeing and buying, and explore my personal styling services.

On time or not, today I’m sharing my favorite purchases of Q2, after the resounding success of my Q1 roundup. These aren’t necessarily most worn or used items but they add depth, value, and that something something to my wardrobe and/or life. Zero regrets purchases so to speak, and as I’ve said before my rules are loose and generally based on vibes:

Did I love it? Did I wear it? Did I wear it often? Did I love wearing it? Did it make me feel fantastic? Did I happily recommend it here? To friends? To clients? Not every item on the list was worn often, I don’t think that’s a dealbreaker to make the final list, but I definitely wore them, loved them, and they sure as hell made me feel fantastic.

All of this, followed by my favorite gifted items that I would 100% buy with my own money, and in some cases, already have.

Okay, now that that’s out of the way, let’s get to the fun stuff.

10 Best Things I Bought:

James Street Co. Peri Cardigan

This James Street Co. sweater should come as a surprise to no one as I’ve worn it multiple times a week since purchasing it from Superette in April. It’s 100% cotton, slightly cropped, as well as a little chunkier and boxier than it’s Alex Mill counterpart. The heavier weight gives the sweater longevity beyond summer, especially for my readers, clients, and friends who are sensitive to wool. I sized up to a large for some added length and i’ve worn it over tees, alone as a top, and tossed over my shoulders.

Comme Si La Shirt Classica

Another piece that you probably saw coming as it was a star of my white shirt round up, but I couldn’t not include my Comme Si La Shirt Classica in white. Do I already own a striped version of this shirt? Yes. Did I include that one in the 2025 10 Best list? I did. Does it make this one any less fantastic? No.

I think I’ve said it before, but Comme Si just nails it with the fabric. The Italian cotton poplin washes and irons like a dream, maintaining a beautiful hand feel that’s crisp, soft, and smooth. It has the pointiest collar out there (a detail I just love), and because it’s unisex has nice long sleeves for all the tall and tall-ish girls out there.

Vintage Brass Clutch

I’ve dipped my toe back into the occasional estate sale, mostly to fill in some missing pieces around my house, but I can’t not look at a table full of accessories, no matter how impractical. This vintage brass clutch fits a credit card, ID, lip gloss, chapstick, maybe a hair claw, and nothing else, and I had to have it. When I wore it recently, I alternated between carrying my phone and sticking it in my sister’s bag, which was only slightly annoying. Anything for the look, you know?

When it’s not in use, the clutch now lives on the bookshelf in my office so I can admire it, a place of honor for a new-to-me treasure.

This, this, this, and this have similar vibes and will fit an iPhone, this one (in the shape of a tomato!) is gorge but tiny, and this vintage number is both surprisingly roomy and iPhone friendly.

New Headshots

I think it was who wisely noted the importance of investing in ourselves when she recently bought a new work computer. I channeled Ariane when I scheduled a new round of headshots only a year after my last batch. In that time I’d moved, cut off approximately 12 inches of hair, my business and subscriber count had grown, my confidence has grown, and my style had evolved. I wanted fresh pictures and a woman behind the camera to represent my personal and professional growth, a worthy investment if there ever was one.

Leset Kyoto Shorts

Let me preface this by saying I’m in no way a Leset super fan. I like and admire the brand, have tried on and liked various styles, but I’m not anxiously awaiting restocks or new drops. That being said, I knew I had to try these Kyoto shorts when I saw the color; it’s the perfect, punchy, true red. I sized up to a large because I wanted more length and volume à la the summer Jams of yore (IYKYK), but could have easily taken my true size (medium). The fabric is structured yet the elastic waistband is narrow and soft, making them an excellent summer short.

The red is currently sold out on their website with no signs of a restock but the blue is an excellent alternative, and these, these, and these all have similar vibes.

Hulken Rolling Tote Bag

Shout out to the reader who suggested the Hulken Rolling Tote Bag in the comments of a recent post. I’d previously been made aware of the bag by a fellow stylist, but hadn’t pulled the trigger on one for myself for whatever reason. I waited for a restock of the large in green - team colors, obvs - because apparently the bags are having a viral moment over on the TikTok Shop, and it was worth the wait.

The large is large, proof that I play fast and loose with measurements, but it fits everything including snacks, activities for my youngest, multiple layers for every member of the family, and an oversized umbrella for baseball games. The wheels are a bit unwieldy so don’t let go on an incline, but it packs flat when not in use and I’m not sure how I survived for so long without it.

Apiece Apart Asma Blazer Top via Poshmark

I’ve been back on my Poshmark bullshit, or Poshmark Roulette as I’ve heard some creators call it, where I make lowball offers before bed and hope to wake up to a offer accepted email the next morning. The Apiece Apart Asma Blazer was a style I’d been eyeing throughout a series of markdowns, and because I tend to leave things in my cart for a minute before hitting purchase, it was sold from under me. I was happy to find it NWT, albeit a little wrinkled over on Poshmark. If you’re a size 6, there’s currently two more listings here and here, as well as limited sizes on the Apiece Apart website.

We all know I love an Apiece Apart blazer, and this one is no exception. It’s the perfect blend of blazer and top that makes getting dressed super easy, and I’ve mostly worn it with distressed denim or long cut offs and flat sandals, but I’d happily pair it with a silk skirt or throw it over a simple silk dress.

Sin Trio Rack

You’ve seen this rack before, but it’s worth revisiting. A year into living in the “new” house, we’re filling in bits and bobs and a few pieces of furniture with very specific measurements. I’ve found the hooks, drawer pulls, and small details the hardest to nail down, because despite their size, they’re often front and center.

The towel rack, well technically a coat rack, ticked all the boxes for the primary bathroom. It’s beautiful, if not a little weird, totally functional, and best of all, my husband didn’t make a peep about it. I’m also very much loving not waking in the middle of the night to the sound of our shower curtain rod crashing to the ground from the weight of our damp towels.

Gap Striped Poplin Big Shirt

Oh look, another Good Button Up. But let me tell you what’s so good about this specific Good Button Up. This is the Gap Poplin Big Shirt, which I’ve featured here many many times before, but it’s not the same as the ones I’ve mentioned previously. This one is striped, duh, but what makes it special is rather than a Medium Tall, I ordered a Large Tall, and Reader, I’ll never look back.

The sleeves are long and I don’t even have to unbutton the cuff to push the sleeves up above my elbow, once there, it creates a dramatic and voluminous silhouette that still feels easy and relaxed. The shirt almost long enough to wear as a dress, but I bet you could if you have shorter legs or are 5’7” or shorter. It is long enough to function as a pool coverup, but I love wearing it with Bermuda shorts or pants with a little volume. Best of all, it costs under $80 and is often on sale.

Marni Bermuda Shorts

I’ve been obsessing over the Chan Luu taffeta shorts, specifically this style, for many months. And while the pink has my heart, I would likely go with the black if I were to buy them as an upgrade to my Uniqlo black pleated shorts, and don’t get me started on the polyester of it all.

Lucky for me, after a recent lunch of salad, wine, and coffee with , I spotted the pink pair above at Rodeo. After Katelyn passed on the pair, I tried them on and you would have had to pry them from my cold, dead hands at that point. They’re a silk/cotton blend that verge on a culotte rather than a Bermuda short, and are the stuff dreams are made of. I have yet to wear them, as they’re one of the more recent and very specific additions to my closet, but stay tuned because their day is coming. These are basically the exact same shorts, these have a similar feel, and these are a great alternative too.

I’ve had a lot of good luck shopping resale recently and am happy that the percentage of my second hand purchases keeps increasing1, that I almost feel like it warrants it’s own newsletter. What do you think? Let me know in the comments.

10 Best Gifts I Would Buy:

Loeffler Randall Estelle Dress*

Loeffler Randall has long been on my list of dream collaborators; I’ve been wearing their shoes since the early days and I still own my first pair that I bought twenty years ago, I’m a victim of nostalgia, what can I say. can attest to just how thirsty I was for a message from them, and she was the first person I texted when the email came in.

I was obviously thrilled about the sandals*, but upon arrival, the dress took my breath away. It’s a style I would not have sought out for myself - I have a troubled relationship with a drop waist - but the smocking is snug not bulky, the skirt is full not heavy, and light blue check is cheerful not twee; the dress is basically summer incarnate. I love to pair it with funky or chunky sandals with a shirt tied around my waist and I can’t wait to wear it many more times before the summer season is over.

AYR The Bud Jeans*

Technically this gifting offer came in at the end of March, but I didn’t get my hands on them until early April, so I’m squeezing them in. I’ve known about and followed AYR for many years, but never tried any pieces for myself before now for no discernable reason other than I was very much in my Rigid Jeans Era. Reader, I’m sold, so much so that I basically shouted in into the comments section over on ’s substack, which prompted a very generous feature on long legged jeans there.

But back to the jeans. Despite what others may tell you, I took my typical size and I’m so happy I did; the mid rise style has structure and ease but also just enough stretch that they’re comfortable while making your butt look as good as it does in a pair of unicorn vintage Levi’s. The Bud* comes in multiple lengths - I took a tall but a regular would hit me perfectly at my ankles - with sizes ranging from 24 to 34.

Negative Sieve Demi Bra*

Another quarter, another Negative bra* made the short list. This bra is supportive while the mesh - there is zero lining in this guy - gives a natural shape and looks great under tees, sweaters, and button ups alike. In fact, it gives me the shape I wish I had without a bra, but my weird boobs could never, not even before kids. Unlike Negative bralettes, this one uses standard sizes so I suggest taking your regular size.

Spanx Full Length Leggings*

I’m embarrassed to admit that I don’t exercise much beyond my weekly Pilates session and my tennis clinic that’s on summer hiatus. I want to do more, I need to do more, my mental health is begging for it, not to mention my buns. Until I can get my executive function, I mean calendar, in order to squeeze in another workout or two, I’ve got these leggings*. They do everything that Spanx tells you they will (compression, lift, highlight, blah, blah, blah) and unlike their undergarments, the leggings are super comfortable.

The leggings my go-to for the occasional dog or beach walk, and my Thursday Pilates, so much so that I’ve been known to dig them out of the laundry basket. I have yet to do any sort of HIIT workout in them, but I’m sure they’d manage my buckets of sweat just fine.

PMD Lifting Massage Band*

Don’t get me wrong, I love my red light mask* and the Ziip* is pretty great too, but I love this funny little device*. I’ve mentioned it before, but my jawline is one of my biggest insecurities and I’ll try anything to tighten it up, including but not limited to starting to save for a lower face lift, if I don’t find enlightenment first. So I jumped at the chance to try something that claims to “lift, sculpt, and define” at zero cost to me.

Unlike my other devices, and to my kids’ utter horror, I can wear it while I do stuff, like make breakfast, switch out the laundry, drive my kids to camp, take out the compost, or write this post. And because I tend to only skim any instructions that are put in front of me, I’ve only recently learned I can turn it way way up and make those micro currents really work. I don’t think it hurts, even at full blast, but it does make your cheeks and chin jump around a bit, I assume that’s how you know it’s working! The treatment works best when your skin is still dewy from skincare, but before you put on your sunscreen, and best of all my jawline does feel lifted after the 10 minute program.

Margaux Deia Sandals*

Margaux is another brand that I’ve admired from afar before lucking out with a message from them on ShopMy. Their shoes are known for comfort, multiple widths, and most importantly, a padded instep. As a flats and loafers girlie, a padded insole is as close to an orthopedic shoe as I’m likely going to get at this point. The Deia sandal, in woven chocolate brown leather, are a 90’s dream come true. They look fantastic with jeans, shorts, or dresses, and other than my Havaianas and my Soeur Bala flats, are probably my most worn this season.

Something worth noting: the size chart says to go half a size up but I found those to be too big, and the team at Margaux made it super easy to exchange them for my true size (40).

Skinfix Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream*

was the first person to turn me onto Skinfix right around the time the brand reached out to me, and damn, do I wish I’d found it even sooner. As I’ve been battling perioral dermatitis these past few months, most creams, no matter how much they claim to repair your skin barrier, led to more flare ups and worsened the problem.

The Skinfix Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream* is one of the few creams or ointments that I’ve tried - and I’ve tried many - that helped calm the crazy flare ups. Bonus points that a full size jar runs you under $60 and it has one of those press down dispensers that make any product feel one thousand times fancier. I’ve recently run out, and as you can probably assume from the wear on the jar above, I’ve already ordered another.

Sézane Maia Basket Bag*

My favorite basket bag, bought for under twenty euros in a supermarket in Spain a few years ago, was a victim of my move last summer. I wish I could blame the movers, or myself, but it was my cat who decided to punish me for ruining her life by peeing all over my go-to summer bag.

Despite my husband declaring a ban on anymore basket bags2, I’ve been on the hunt for a replacement ever since. I’ve been eyeing the selection at Sezane for a while, and when the opportunity arose to get one of my own, I knew I wanted the chocolate brown. The Maia Bag* goes in and out of stock, but I managed to snag it after an alert, and it’s even better in person. The basket is structured enough to stand up on it’s own, but soft enough to mold to your body, the straps are long enough to wear over your shoulders, but not so long it drags on the ground if you hold it in your hands, it fits all my essentials, plus a book, flip flops, an extra pair of sunnies*, a swimsuit, and a hat.

Le Bop x Mally K Goldman Mally Jacket*

I refused to fall victim to the resurgence of the green Millennial military jacket, it had it’s time, I wore it often, and I said goodbye. But this one* by and Le Bop, this one is different. It’s more shacket than jacket, without the defined waist and patch pockets of the military inspired style. The Mally Jacket is 100% cotton, lightweight, and unlined. It’s oversized enough to throw over team swag at a baseball game, but soft enough to wear as a third piece over a t-shirt or a tank with a sweater thrown on top of your shoulders.

If you follow me on IG, you know it’s one of my most worn pieces of Q2, taking me from baseball to client visits, and everything in between; one of those perfectly versatile pieces for the in-between times.

Squigs Shampoo* and Conditioner*

I’ll be honest, I haven’t tried either of these products myself, but my youngest, who’s got a great fucking head of hair that is fine and wavy, prone to rat’s nests and tangles that lead to arguments and meltdowns, has an aversion to haircuts let alone a hairbrush, with an uncanny resemblance to Animal from the Muppets, has been using it regularly since it’s arrival. And let me tell you, these products have been a total game changer. Orson’s hair is still prone to tangles, but it’s smoother, softer, easier to brush, and for the first time in a very long time (maybe ever??) he washes, conditions, and brushes his hair with minimal drama and zero tears. It’s so dang good that I felt compelled to email the Squigs about it, because I know it’s as meaningful to them, a small brand, as it is to me, an exhausted mom.

I wanted to share a few thoughts on gifting before we wrap up. Gifted items are a true luxury to me, and something I didn’t imagine having access to a couple of years ago. They’re often pieces I don’t have the budget for otherwise, and I’ll admit I get a little thrill every time I open a package. These items are also a helpful tool when it comes time to shop for my clients; the brands and designers that work for me may not work for them so it’s important that I know what’s out there. I accept gifted items both because I’m excited to wear and style them for myself, but also because it allows me to test the quality and cut of something IRL before I recommend them to clients, friends, and to you, my readers and subscribers. I am diligent about marking gifted items with asterisk, but I’m sure I’ve missed a few here and there. If you ever have questions about gifted items I’ve shared, specific brands or designers, ShopMy, or how it all works (I’m very much still learning myself), send me a DM. I’m always happy to chat.

As expected, I’ve got a few items on my wishlist, a running list of open tabs and carts with pieces I haven’t quite committed to that I’m planning to share here on Thursday.

I’ve made a few updates to my website with the headshots mentioned above, and despite spacing limitations that come with Squarespace, I’m pretty happy with my handy work. While you’re there, take a peek at my styling services, I know summer is crazy and as much as I hate to say it, it’s almost time to start thinking about fall. Let’s get you sorted with a Closet Edit, or styled for the upcoming season with a Seasonal Capsule, or we can get the ball rolling with a Virtual 1:1. Still have questions? No prob, let’s chat.

And because I’m trying to lead by example, I’m wrapping up a Closet Edit of my own. When we moved last year I did a huge purge, but a lot of pieces came to the new house that probably shouldn’t have. If you’ve moved recently, you know sometimes it’s easier to just bring the stuff. I’ve also been lucky enough to acquire quite a few new pieces (see above) and it was more than time to practice what I preach. I’ll be sharing the details of the Great Closet Clean Out of 2026 in an upcoming newsletter, and will finally be uploading my closet to Indyx thanks to the hard work of my 12 year old, whom I paid a small fortune3 to photograph every. last. piece.

ICYMI, I was so so so pleased to feature for my most recent edition of WIMB (catch up on one, two, three, and four), and she makes a great case for the Boat and Tote as work bag and a cute little errands bag. If you or someone you know wants to be featured in an upcoming issue, send me a DM, I’m working on the fall lineup now.

Talk soon,
xx FANNY

You can see all the items mentioned in in this newsletter here. I use affiliate links when applicable and gather all my links on ShopMy, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Gifted items are marked with an asterisk.

Thank you for subscribing, liking, and sharing! Consider upgrading your subscription to paid to support the many hours I put into this newsletter.

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I invite you to follow me on Instagram, shop what I’m wearing, eyeing and buying, and explore my personal styling services.

Today, I’m thrilled to feature of Brands and Bobs, who very bravely sent me a DM2 to put her bag in the ring.3 She’s a brand and marketing strategist, mom, and all around good time, who writes thoughtfully about shopping, trends, emerging brands, founder’s stories, books, and “gives a voice to those of us who never saw ourselves reflected in the mainstream.” Her words, not mine.

I feel like I know Charu a little better now that I’ve seen what’s in her bag(s), and I hope you enjoy the little glimpse into her life as well.

I’ll let Charu take it from here.

What’s In My Bag

I am obsessed with WIMB content. Video or written with photos, I am just here for it in so many ways. I feel like you learn so much about a person by knowing what’s in their bag, and also all the tips and tricks of what helps someone actually get out the door.

I have always been bag obsessed. Went from a bag girl to a bag lady. I am never not pining over a bag. Even last week I asked my friend to de-influence me because I was lusting after The Row 90s bag (I already have the basic Gap version so I really don’t need it, but a girl can want).

And like a mentor once told me, sometimes you only get things if you ask for them. So I reached out to Fanny and said hey, can I be on this because I am OBSESSED with this type of content, and she seemed genuinely thrilled, so here we are. Ed note: If you know me, you know I’m easily excitable and very enthusiastic.

Like , I have three bags on rotation at any given point. Work bag, errands bag, and fun bag. I don’t have a dedicated diaper bag anymore, thank the lord. When I leave the house with my kid, I’ll just throw snacks and a water bottle into whatever random tote is lying around. But if my husband takes her out, he grabs her old Dagne Dover diaper backpack, which we have used and abused and still looks good. It has spare clothes, a toilet seat, some snacks and wipes. Most of the time it just lives in our car.

But onto the fun stuff.

Bag 1: My Work Bag

I went back to the corporate world after 2.5 years of freelancing. It was a wild change, because the last time I was in an office was pre kid and pregnant, and now it’s with a 3.5 year old. Juggling work and school is a beast, just given how the hours for both make you do calculus to figure out if this is even feasible.

Since I take public transport to work, I like the idea of having a washable bag (if you don’t know, I am obsessed with being able to wash things. I have always been a little scared of germs, and covid definitely did a number on me). My current, and foreseeable future, work bag is an LL Bean tote. Medium size, long straps, zipper, all white. It has been through the washing machine and come out looking new. I love this bag. It’s an everything and nothing bag. What do I mean by that? It’s everything in the sense that it’s OG and well recognized, but it’s also a nothing bag because it has no logo, and my version has no color or bells and whistles. Which means it goes with all my outfits. I never have to think about whether it matches what I’m wearing, because it just does. It’s so freeing in a weird way. Even though it’s canvas, it’s coated canvas (I think), so it has structure and everything isn’t flopping around inside. I also wanted the bag itself to be sturdy because I carry a bulky laptop and need to protect my poor shoulder. I bought this bag last year kind of as a joke, to see if I could make my own basic version of the Tibi one I found super cool but absurdly priced. Since then I’ve even taken off the black belt and just wear it plain.

Let’s break down what’s inside. Inside the bag I have a small old Rothy’s pouch I’ve been using since I worked for the company, and a Left on Friday pouch that came with some swimwear and has taken such a beating it’s splitting at the seams. I also throw in my keys and wallet for easy access and clip my badge to the zipper so I know it’s always there.

Rothy’s Small pouch (OLD | SIMILAR)

• Bandage

• Essential oil nose pin (critical for someone like me who can throw up from a weird smell)

• Blotting sheets

• Spare contacts

• Travel eyelash curler from Muji

• Perfume vial from Maison Louis Marie (always get complimented on every scent from this brand)

• Eye drops

• Tiny comb

• Ibuprofen | Imodium

• Bag hanging thingy

• Four lip products I refuse to live without: Soshe lip liner and lip balm in Kismet*, GWS lip sun gloss SPF 30, and AORA color changing balm in Rosa 2

Rothy’s Large pouch (OLD | SIMILAR)

• Hand sanitizers, a nearly empty Touchland and a Paume (I love this scent and how cute the size is, bonus points for being refillable, because I feel real guilt tossing out the Touchland ones)

• Hair clip and hair tie

• Tampons and pads

• Sidia hand cream

• A pair of headphones that are audio only now because I dropped them in coffee and killed the mic

• AirPods

• A Form protein bar for emergencies that’s been in there for months

• Arm band cuffs

• A daily pill box

• A pencil (I avoid pens because I’m terrified of them leaking and staining everything)

Things that just float around in the bag:

• Laptop

• Notebook

• My 14 year old Prada wallet that I will use until it literally falls apart

• A baby Baggu bag for reasons unknown even to me

• Work ID badge

• Eyeglasses I love and get complimented on

• Sunglasses I’m currently loving

• Phone and keys

None of this really changes. I don’t carry a water bottle or much else. My laptop is so heavy I’m constantly trying to think of what I can cut, but the only thing I have in excess is my four lip products, and honestly, I want them all. They don’t weigh anything anyway.

Bag 2: Errands Bag

This is the bag I dump things into when I’m running to dance class, pottery studio, grocery shopping, doing bits and bobs, so to speak.

Right now that bag Faba bag from Lindquist. It’s just the smallest, cutest size. I’ve had it since 2023 and I just find that it ages really well. Love that I can take the belt out and use it as clutch and with the belt, it’s long enough to wear crossbody.

What I throw inside when I leave the house:

• Wallet

• Keys

• Some random lip balm that’s lying around

• Sunglasses

• AirPods

• Phone

If I have jacket pockets or pockets in my jeans, I’ll just throw things in there and skip the bag entirely.

Bag 3: Going Somewhere Fun Bag

This one changes based on what I’m feeling in the moment. I will literally plan outfits around the bag I’m itching to take out. Last year, for many months, it was The Row Marlo. Since May this year, it’s been my Celine Trio. OMG I love this bag. It has no hardware besides the button, and I love bags without chunky hardware (hence my love for the Marlo too). The three pouches keep me so organized. Even if I stuff it a little, it never looks terrible. The straps are also adjustable, so it works as a clutch, a shoulder bag, or a crossbody. Love it.

What I take inside depends on where I’m going, but most often it’s:

• Kindle (if I think I’ll have down time or want to make some)

• My current lipstick + case

• Blotting sheets (love it for the blotting powder and the mirror inside)

• Wallet

• Sunglasses if it’s daytime

• Touchland

• A couple of tissues I throw in as I leave the house (weird habit, I know)

• AirPods, since I’m either listening to a podcast or reading with some classic tunes in the background

• Almost always, a random gift for a friend. Recent example, a face primer I’ve been loving and wanted to pass along

Thanks for letting me nerd out about this Fanny, I could talk bags all day.

Charu! Thank you, thank you, thank you! This was so fun, and so thorough! I need you to share your Boat and Tote cleaning tips, mine are dirty and destroyed but I use them anyway. If you don’t already, subscribe to Brands and Bobs and give a follow over on IG, she’s lots of fun. And this is your reminder to be like more like Charu, and send me a DM if you’d like to be featured in an upcoming issue of WIMB!

Next month I’m so excited to have share what’s in her bag. Her loafer collection lives rent free in my head, and I just know she’s going to have some fun bits in her bag.

Thanks for hanging out while I took last Sunday off, I promise to just build it into my publishing schedule - if you can even call it that - next year. I’ve got a fan favorite coming on Sunday (I promise it’s actually coming) with my round up of the best things I bought and was gifted in Q2. You can read the Q1 faves in the meantime.

Talk soon and I’ll see you Sunday,
xx FANNY

This post contains affiliate links. Gifted items are marked with an asterisk.

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I plan on repeating them again and again in the near future.

In case you think this is super boring (I hope you don’t) not to worry, the next installment won’t be published ‘till early August. Otherwise, let’s get into it!

June 2:

Since I couldn’t be at Roland Garros myself, I channeled the French Open with the Brut Archives tee I brought back for my oldest from my recent trip to Paris. I found it tags on, in the laundry basket, so I took that as my sign he wasn’t going to wear it any time soon, and stuck it in my closet. I’m currently paying him to digitize my wardrobe by photographing every last piece1, so I expect him to take it back very soon.

I sort of refuse to pay a lot for tennis skirts - been there, done that - and I’m not playing as frequently as I used to, so I’ve found some very inexpensive gems from Old Navy. They fit great and wash well, but do run on the sort side, so be prepared to show a little cheek from time to time. I have dreams of a Spence skirt or two, but these will do just fine for now.

After tennis, I showered and changed to WFH then, you guessed it, another baseball game. The weather was hot and muggy, so shorts and a button up were the outfit of choice, and I’m fairly certain my summer uniform has been unlocked with this combo. I wore a green baseball cap to show my team spirit, but I’ll admit I was running low on it, so that’s the best I could do.

Orson and I left the game early to make dinner and get started on his birthday cake, a multistep ice cream cake complete with from-scratch chocolate cake, homemade marshmallow fluff, and the fanciest chocolate ice cream I can find in the freezer section.

June 3:

My youngest turned nine on June 3rd, somehow he’s still very much a baby in my eyes, but I know our days are numbered. He goes into 4th grade in the fall, which is the beginning of the end of being little; growth spurts, glimpses of adolescent attitudes, and homework you really do have to turn in are in our future. It’s wild to think that I’ve been a parent long enough that my baby (he’s just a baby!) is entering the second half of elementary school. Sob!!!

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Let me set the scene, it’s 80+ degrees, you need to look profesh on screen, navigate the unpredictable AC situations at a variety of appointments, and survive afternoon camp pick up that always seems to lack any significant shade. Maybe you’re headed to the pool at some point, or out to an easy dinner al fresco later, but it’s too hot to try too hard and the outfit needs to do it all.

There are a few more steps between dress and door, small details that will keep you feeling polished and put together while temperatures soar, but I promise they’re easy. So as we enter the most sweltering season, I’m going to ignore that it’s currently raining in Portland, let’s embrace the simplicity of summer with the one and done dressing and get dressed!

If Nothing Else, Add Jewelry:

When it’s really that hot, just grab your most delicate dress and layer on some of your best jewelry. Nothing too chunky or oversized that will make you regret your decision the minute you get out the door, but a few delicate necklaces - three really is the perfect number - your favorite gold hoops, a bangle, and no watch.

The jewelry, plus a leather bag and elevated sandals (pick something other than rubber flip flops here) will keep the dress from leaning into nightgown territory.

I love a low contrast look, so I went for shades of black, navy, and brown to let the gold jewelry shine. If your dress is white or off-white, consider lighter colored accessories, in brown, nude, and gold.

Tone on Tone:

Speaking of low contrast, when it’s too hot to think, pick a color or two and go all in. Shades of brown and green in cotton poplin, tortoise shell, leather, woven raffia, and brocade create an outfit that has depth and friction with minimal effort.

Variations on a single color and an abundance of texture adds interest, while the outfit remains quite simple, letting the dress do the talking. Balance your mini by picking a style with a loose silhouette and sleeves - volume is your friend when the temps are high - ballet flats, and an oversized bag.

Recently, I was texting with one of my besties about what to wear under short and/or sheer sundresses, and although I’ve come to the conclusion that I really don’t mind showing some cheek - I’ve worked hard for it and will only be this young once2 - not everyone feels that way. So I suggested these boyshorts* that are lightweight, comfy, and work perfectly under a mini or sheer dress.

Sporty Spice:

There’s a rule that says the shorter the dress, the flatter the shoe. We all know how I feel about rules over here, but there’s something to be said about a teeny tiny dress paired with a paired with a flat shoe, especially a pair of sneakers. Nothing too bulky, but a slim sneaker that’s just a little weird is unexpected yet delightful when paired with a feminine dress.

Take it a step further and combine bright colors and bold pattern, whether it’s your dress or your sneaker that have the pattern or the color. Red + leopard is basically red + brown after all. Embrace the quirky combo with a bucket hat, retro inspired sunnies, cheerful jewelry, and an understated canvas tote. You’ll be the cutest girl at the farmers market (or camp pick up).

Reader, I misplaced my favorite black sunglasses, and let me tell you it ruined my life for weeks. Lucky for me, while on my brief sojourn to Whistler, I remembered what blazer pocket I’d stashed them in, and was thrilled to find them there upon my return. So do me a favor and imagine the outfit above with those instead.

A Good Button Up:

Are you sick of me telling you to tie things around your waist? Good, me neither. It’s not only a functional layer when the AC is too much, but a shirt (or sweater) tied around your waist adds a sense of ease, while creating drama, shape, and contrast. A win-win (win-win-win), IMO.

Pro Tip: when tying a shirt or sweater around your waist, fold the top of the garment towards the outside, i.e. you can see the collar, so it doesn’t add lumps or bulk. If you’re using a button up shirt, you can adjust the number of buttons secured to control the volume and add structure.

Embrace Americana:

In a free healthcare for all, women’s rights are human rights, and fund our public schools not illegal wars sort of way, obviously. Maybe it’s the World Cup, or maybe it’s just summer, but I only find myself drawn to the combo of red, white, and blue during the months of June through August.

There’s an abundance of blue and white dresses on the market, in gingham, paisley, tropical florals, and stripes, but you can likely achieve the vibe with items in your closet. Spice up your favorite LWD with red sandals and a beaded necklace* in shades of blue and white.

Layered pearl necklaces and mixed metal bangles contrast the casual pattern of the dress and give the outfit a sense of elegant insouciance, red sunglasses add a touch of funk, silver flats are practical but pretty, and a denim bag gives that extra bit of Americana. A wedge espadrille or kitten heel sandal would dress it up a bit further, or a funky, chunky flat and a larger basket bag would add some edge and dress it down.

Not a dress person? No problem, consider a set, or simply create the illusion of a dress with a tonal separates. Pick a tank or top - woven is best here - and pair it with a skirt - maxi or mini, you decide - in a similar color, tone, and texture.

This week was a real doozy. It started off strong with drinks and table fries with , who kindly rallied to hang after a 3:30 am wakeup to catch an early morning flight to Portland. But as I was loading her suitcase into my car to drop her off at her hotel, we noticed my front bumper had been torn off. Luckily, a bystander and good Samaritan filled us in with what had happened only twenty minutes prior while we were in the restaurant. Evonne, a true gem of a friend, kindly kept me company while I stumbled through my call with insurance and waited for the tow truck, both of us mumbling WTF more than once.

The following day, after I had a quick and lovely chat with , I filled a police report, made a Reel about it (if I don’t laugh. I’ll cry), then I drove with my oldest an hour and a half to Tillamook, so his team could play a qualifying play-in game for the championship tournament. The hometown advantage is real, and I’m not sure what they feed those boys, but they made my very tall 12 year old look shrimpy. As we drove home, my son asked if it was weird that he was both sad how the season ended but relieved it was over. I told him both things can be true, and was in awe, as I often am, at his emotional intelligence.

I had an inspiring and productive virtual styling session on Wednesday for a client with a tightly curated wardrobe. She was looking for fresh ways to style what she already has to get through the sweltering summer ahead. We styled shorts, dresses, skirts, and played around all the ways to style a Good Button Up. My calendar is open through August with limited summer hours, and I am taking on new clients. Consider a Rapid Fire styling session or Virtual 1:1 to dip your toe, or jump in with a Closet Edit or Seasonal Capsule. I’d love to work with you.

Thursday was a blur, but I shared a month’s worth of outfits in a reboot of my OWI (Outfits in the Wild) series, that I plan to publish monthly. Since June is nearly over, I’ll be sharing those outfits next week, for some back-to-back IRL outfit inspiration. Because of the baseball loss mentioned above, I didn’t have to cancel my weekly Pilates session, and thank gawd, because this girl needed those endorphins. Exercise hasn’t been a priority over the last year or so as I battle an injury and kids that seem to catch every virus under the sun, but I realized I may need to implement ’s STS’s into my daily routine.

And because it’s weeks like these where I don’t want to get dressed at all, I relied on the summer version of my Emotional Support Outfit. I also took the time to get ready each morning, shower, hair wash (I’m currently using this shampoo* and conditioner*), makeup (I’m loving this sunblock* followed by this tinted serum* and glow drops* and all the bronzer and blush*), and all. Groundbreaking? Of course not. But I felt good despite the chaos.

As of publication, I’m diving into a closet edit of my own - don’t worry, I will be talking about it here - my car is in the shop waiting on insurance, and I’ve promised Evonne a redo of our night, complete with dinner and very strong drinks at my house next month.

Talk soon,
xx FANNY

You can see all the items mentioned in in this newsletter here. I use affiliate links when applicable, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Gifted items are marked with an asterisk.

Thank you for subscribing, liking, and sharing! Consider upgrading your subscription to paid to support the many hours I put into this newsletter.

Subscribe now

I invite you to follow me on Instagram, shop what I’m wearing, eyeing and buying, and explore my personal styling services.

You may not know this, or maybe you do, but I often style outfits specifically for these newsletters, pulling pieces from my closet and creating looks to better expand upon the theme of the week. Sometimes the outfits make it out of the house, sometimes they get added to my mental Pinterest board to wear in the future. But here’s the twist, I’m going to put these behind a paywall, i.e. it’s a paid subscriber exclusive.

If you follow me on IG, you’ve probably seen a few of them, but below you’ll find the outfits that I’ve worn recently for work, play, and real life, plus the thought behind them, links, details, and styling notes.

As always, I’m falling back on my tried and true outfit formulas and Hero Pieces, so many of these may look familiar, but that’s real life for you! And since this is the first in the new iteration of the series, I’ve made sure it’s stacked with a month’s worth of outfits, spanning most of May.

May 1:

As much as I like to wear soft pants and a button up for a WFH day, I’ve found it’s helpful to be wearing jeans and a tee with a button up nearby, just in case I need to demonstrate any tucking, cuffing, or styling strategies while on a client call. A sweater is essential because my office is essentially lined with concrete, and it migrates between my body, my waist, and my shoulders throughout the call, then I like to put on real shoes to feel like I’m really dressed.

The split neck tee was a gift from the Mally K. Goldman x Le Bop collab, and has a neckline reminiscent of the Flore Flore Iman tee. The Le Bop version lacks the same structure as the FF fabric, but it’s still a great alternative to a plain white tee.

May 3:

My oldest and I had a dreamy weekend at home while my husband and youngest went to the beach. It was a reminder to divide and conquer not just for obligations (youth sports and doctor’s appointments) but for fun. In the absence of the rest of our family, my oldest and I decided to invite my mom to the Cinco de Mayo themed dinner we were headed to, and I chose to dress on theme, natch.

Few things make me happier than the instant outfit a set provides; minimal effort with maximum results. Just add accessories. In all honesty, I’m not wearing the knit set I bought in Madrid as much as I promised myself I would, but I’ve since gotten another wear or two out of it and plan to reach for the pants as an alternative to the poplin pull on pants that I’m telling myself I don’t need.

May 4:

My day started with a trip to the sports medicine doctor, where I get to lie face down, ass up in a dark room with acupuncture needles sticking out of my butt. I usually have to come home and go to back to bed to recover, so sweats are the only acceptable thing to wear. The only thing more humiliating than that is being alone with my thoughts for thirty minutes while the doctor lets the needles do the work.

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As I creep my way up in subscribers and followers, I realize that some of you are jumping into my styling content without much context, while some of you have been here since the beginning, which makes me a little teary TBH. Whenever and however you ended up here, thank you, and please allow me to (re)introduce myself.

Hi, I’m Fanny. I’m a personal stylist, creative consultant, and now, writer. But what do all of those titles even mean? As a personal stylist, I work with clients, both in-person and virtually, culling and curating their wardrobes. It’s less about shopping and more about fine tuning their point of view, assessing what works and doesn’t work for their life and body right now, establishing their Hero Pieces, ensuring they’re maximizing their wardrobe, and most importantly, that they feel great. I also work with small businesses, designers, and brands as a creative consultant, which can be anything from creating content or a branded newsletter, co-hosting events, or advising on marketing strategy. And, since November 2024 when I first hit publish, I write about style, shopping, and travel here on Substack.

My mom is an artist and my dad was a serial entrepreneur, both of whom held a deep appreciation for the arts. Because of this, I was encouraged to pursue my interest in fashion and a creative degree. Midway through art school, I realized I did not want to be a fashion designer, but rather than change schools and essentially start over (studio credits are notoriously hard to transfer) I decided to power through and get my BFA. I spent most of my twenties working on sets in LA as a wardrobe stylist, dressing everyone from extras in car commercials to John Mayer and other musicians for their music videos.

My dad died three years ago and it altered the course of my career, and probably my brain chemistry. Rather than work for someone else, I decided it was time to pursue my long held desire to be a personal stylist. I took everything I’d learned from my years of working in fashion, retail, marketing, and production and applied it to building the bones of my business. While I refined my client offerings, I started sharing my outfits and styling tips Instagram and TikTok, and established a regular publishing cadence with Always Overdressed. The growth can be painfully slow at times, but when you’ve experienced profound loss and grief, it makes sharing your ideas on the internet or starting a business from scratch seem far less scary.

Above all of those titles, I’m a mom. I have two boys, ages 9 and almost 13, which means I spend a lot of time at youth sports (reluctantly). I’ve known I wanted to be a mom since I was old enough to toddle around with my baby doll, and I spent my entire adolescence and a large part of college babysitting, nannying, and working in childcare. Does that make me a better mom? Probably not. But it’s a good reminder when shit is literally hitting the fan, and I’m questioning what I’m doing raising children, let alone my own. They are funny, weird, and so so kind, and despite their age gap, I’m fairly certain they’re best friends. They don’t like to take pictures - not even for me - so I’m currently in a photo desert, and you'll have to take my word for it that they have great hair, silly smiles, and that my oldest is 5’11” despite being the youngest in his grade.

I grew up in Portland, where I now live with my husband and children. Despite my PNW upbringing, I’m a self proclaimed indoor cat, so please don’t ask for my favorite outdoor activities, because besides tennis and laying by the pool while my kids swim, I don’t have any. I live for summer afternoons spent by the pool with my kids, eating french fries, drinking spritzes, and rating the splash of their cannon balls or weekends at the beach with my mom, my sister, and our families, walking to the candy store, cooking meals for 9, and watching the kids play catch on the beach. I trudge through winter with the best of them, knowing few things beat July through September in Portland.

Last August, my family and I moved into our 1950’s daylight ranch, less than a mile from the house where I grew up and where my mom still lives. It was a three year renovation project that likely took twice that off my life, and a year in, I feel like we’ve lived here both forever and no time at all. For better or for worse, I didn’t hire a designer and relied solely on my architect, contractor, and my gut to make every decision on the house. I’m happy to say the house, like my preppy-ish personal style, feels like a true representation of me. My only regret from the project, other than my window treatments, is that my dad, who was instrumental in navigating the purchase of the down-to-the-studs-fixer didn’t get to see the final product.

I’m loud, direct, and a bit of a control freak - just ask my husband - but I’m also hilarious, thoughtful, and a pretty good cook. Most of all I aim to lead with kindness and show up authentically with everything I do; I’d like to think that what you see here, is what you get when you meet me in real life.

Did I miss anything? Ask me your questions in the comments or the chat. But most of all thank you being here, for reading, liking, sharing, subscribing, sending the DMs and emails, following on IG, and booking the styling sessions.

Last week’s newsletter seems to have flown under the radar, maybe you’re not all as color obsessed as me??? If you haven’t yet, please read my ode to red and brown, a color pairing that is practically perfect for summer.

published an encyclopedic round up of the best stores, brands, and designers to shop in the US, and I was thrilled to be included. This one is just as helpful for US residents as it is for those living abroad, you won’t want to miss it.

I’ll be back Thursday with a special newsletter for the paid subs, I’m excited about this one and plan to make it a monthly series.

Talk soon,
xx FANNY

You can see all the items mentioned in in this newsletter here. I use affiliate links when applicable, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Gifted items are marked with an asterisk.

Thank you for subscribing, liking, and sharing! Consider upgrading your subscription to paid to support the many hours I put into this newsletter.

Subscribe now

I invite you to follow me on Instagram, shop what I’m wearing, eyeing and buying, and explore my personal styling services.

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