Finally, a return of the classics

And even better that Friends & Family sale season has arrived for us to have some fun

As I scroll through my favorite photos and social media screenshots of style inspiration over the last 30 days and brainstorm common themes, the first thing I think is, “gosh this is all so boring…but SO GOOD!” Ok, so perhaps boring can be a bit misleading, so for attempt number 2, I’m going to say that the common threads are high-quality basics, classic pieces that you can wear for years to come, and monochromatic palettes. All I seem to want right now are soft gray sweaters, pearls, and loafers. And let’s keep any logos at bay because we’re still in our quiet luxury era, darling. Though my comment about logos is less about flaunting a label and more about rejecting visual clutter. What’s so great about this combination of pieces is that even if the aforementioned phrases aren’t typically part of your style words, you can still use these items in your wardrobe and mix and match in any way you see fit. Perhaps you like your looks more oversized and casual or maybe you’re someone who likes to dress with an edge. These silhouettes are still perfectly addressable and not trendy, which means you’re buying investment pieces - a nice $ per wear ratio.

As I write down my thoughts in the notes app of my phone, I’m sitting in the back of an Uber at LAX (moving what feels like 5 feet every 3 minutes, so it’s excellent for people watching) and admiring a woman in a lightweight, perfectly fitted gray sweater and black pants with a bob haircut roll her luggage past my window. So chic! As I crane my neck to check out her footwear, I spot her black patent loafers - nailed it! She’s a reminder of exactly why I wanted to share this entry with you all. There’s nothing particularly special or unique about any one piece that she’s wearing. It’s more about the combination of items and the way they fit.

Here are the timeless, sweater weather moments I’ve bookmarked in September that I wanted to share with you all.

This photo posted by Martha Stewart stopped me dead in my scroll because this combination of people is legendary and for a moment I thought that Carmy got a perm. That would truly be a “vintage classics” moment. But secondly, how good is his gray sweater!?

Here’s Jessie Bush wearing a transitional J.Crew cashmere sweater shell and the combination of her belt, khakis, and gold jewelry is great for the office or a weekend hang.

Eva Chen is in Milan for fashion week and wearing this Prada ensemble at a local grocery store - casual.

Here are some gray sweater options currently at the top of my list.

I’m partial to the J.Crew sweater shell on Jessie above, but if you’re looking for something more budget friendly, the Madewell gray sweater vest may be the one. It’s currently 25% off - this is the season for many fall “friends & family” sales.

Theory is also having a 25% off sale right now. I love this very lightweight Crewneck sweater in Regal Wool - it’s a lovely price - especially with the discount. I tried it on in store and would recommend sizing up for a more loose fit that is easier to layer. I don’t think that the picture below does it justice. You can also find the same sweater in a short sleeve and v-neck versions among other Theory options.

The La Ligne Solid Marin sweater is 100% cashmere and slightly oversized. I love the weave around the collar. Jenna Lyons, America’s favorite Creative Director and Housewife, has been wearing the striped version of this all over Paris.

Vince is also doing a 25% off sale and this thicker v-neck wool and cashmere drop shoulder option is so soft and sumptuous.

I was on the phone with a friend last week who had just returned from a trip to Paris.  Naturally, we had to take some time to chat about the latest fashion trends and true to what we’re seeing across the internet, she mentioned pearls. Pearls everywhere - on jewelry, on shoes, bags, denim, you name it. Pearls are timeless investments you can hold onto for years to come.  As I write this, I’m wearing the pearl earrings my parents gave me for my college graduation many years ago.  Pearls always know how to soften a look and add some subtle femininity. Right now, I’ve been leaning into the more organic shapes of freshwater pearls. I love how no two are the same, adding more visual interest.

I’m still a sucker for anything Agmes + pearls. I shared some of my favorites previously in this post, but here are some more.

The Agmes Sherri earrings are oversized without being overwhelming and add some nice length.

Agmes’ Freshwater pearl studs are also a beautiful option.

These Mejuri freshwater Pearl Sculptural Drop Earrings are especially gorgeous with silver and a good excuse to take advantage of the brand’s new loyalty program.

I’m drawn to the unpredictable alternating pattern of the smaller and larger pearls in Ariel Gordon’s Pearl Sundry necklace.

This Legente Amato necklace comes in 2 different lengths. The brand was started by 2 Italians who are now based in Prague and the price points are more attractive.

This June 20” pearl necklace from Donni is a beautiful statement that adds beautiful length especially over a crewneck sweater.

And as an investment piece or for a special occasion, I saw this Form Inlay Ring II during a J.Hannah sample sale and have been thinking about it ever since. I’m just dying at how gorgeous it is. It also comes in a smaller size via the Form Inlay Ring I.

Loafies! - as we call them in our household; my love for this style runs deep.  They are clearly here to stay after featuring prominently on multiple runways for the past many years.  The most wondering thing about these shoes is the simplicity.  They leave room for you to accessorize (or not) any way your choose.  The sock options these days are fire and every time I open up social media I discover another inspiring image. 

Net-a-Porter posted this photo on instagram a few weeks ago and I loved it immediately. Why are loafers just so pretty?!

Then J.Crew’s Creative Director and Head of Design posted this snap with the most amazing organza socks. I haven’t been able to find them, so please share if you find this pair. I love the barely there look and the way the organza folds in all the right places. Olympia is wearing J.Crew’s Coin Loafers.

Freda Salvador is currently doing a 20% off sale and their Elba loafers that come in multiple colors options are included.

And here are my all time favorite loafers that I have been wearing non-stop for the past 2 years.

Cheers to the classics.

x jz

P.S. I saw this in a parking garage 48 hours after publishing this post. Perfect timing! :)

Images | 1 | @b.g.mckay, styled by me | 2 | Martha Stewart instagram | 3 | Jessie Bush instagram | 4 | Eva Chen instagram | 5 | Madewell | 6 | Theory | 7 | La Ligne | 8 | Vince | 9 - 10 | Agmes | 11 | Mejuri | 12 | Ariel Gordon Jewelry | 13 | Legente | 14 | Donni | 15 | J.Hannah | 16 | Netaporter instagram | 17 | Olympia Gayot instagram | 18 | Freda Salvador | 19 - 20 | me

Note: I do not get paid for nor make money off of this post. All opinions are my own.