On Wednesdays, I share a list of things I’m seeing, liking, thinking about, etc. This is my weekly bulletin board!
ANYTHING GOES: As soon as I landed in New York, my tour guide ushered me up to my new apartment, and after setting down my things, we walked around the village, stopping into local coffee shops and restaurants, shaking hands with owners and behind-the-counter workers. Mid intersection, she leaned in and said, “In New York City, anything goes.” I grew up in the suburban Midwest — specifically, Ohio. I now live in the south. In these two regions, everything does not go. I was raised very aware that people care. But over the past few days, I have been repeating this to myself — “no one cares, anything goes.” It’s given me courage as I sit alone at empty bars, work among tech bros, and film myself on the street. It has given me the latitude to try! To be myself — to try on different realities, to ask for help, to introduce myself. No one cares!!!!! So you might as well be yourself and take up more space today.
SHOE SALE: This seems like the chic city walker shoe of choice. Plus, the annual sale is happening now. I love this classic flat, or this square-toed version. Comfortable platform heels, or heeled sandal (love the denim!). Strappy gold sandals or some good for walking many blocks.
IT’S ART, BUT IT’S ALSO AUDACITY: I have worked very hard (with a long way to go) to live with as much audacity as I can muster. I am not a naturally audacious person. I never raised my hand in school. As a kid, I was so shy. I don’t like being seen. BUT along the way, I’ve realized that usually everything I want is on the other side of closing my eyes and just doing it. It’s part creativity, other parts embracing serious cringe. Another thing I repeat to myself is, “It’s art, but it’s also audacity.” It has helped me. At the end of the day, action always matters more. It’s a currency that adds up over time.
AN IMAGE OF PARTNERSHIP: I recently found this video of Jon Batiste and his wife, Suleika, giving a tour of their Brooklyn home. It has been sticking with me — I love the image of their back-and-forth love, shared creativity, and support. I love how he describes the pink paint in their kitchen as “human.” I have rewatched many times — something truly magical about them.
HILL HOUSE SALE: Also a notable annual sale happening here! Love this nap dress with extra smocking, or this green-and-white number. Bright plaid mini in my cart. This would be cute styled for the fourth!
GIVING IN: I recently shared this poem I scribbled down while dining at a pizza place. It’s the summer of sway — and also giving into life.
GIVING IN
to one more slice / a too-late goodnight / doubling texting / laying in the sunshine / a midday glass of wine / a joyful purchase / eavesdropping / canceled plans / playing hooky / dancing / for what were my defenses up against? / living!?
STORES I’VE LIKED: I’ve been here for like four days and have yet to take a serious shopping trip. But so far, a few stores I liked in my neighborhood — Big Night, John Derian (true art!!!), Airmail. More to come! Open to any recs.
BAG BLISS: So excited about this birthday gift. Comes in many colors and has a crossbody strap!
NYC WARDOBE: Loving this little black summer dress that can be styled in endless ways. I can’t go anywhere without this sweater. A low-profile, colorful tennis shoe with a crew sock adds some contrast to a look and makes walking painless. People treat their corded headphones like a cool girl accessory.
Sending love!
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I really love this idea of living with audacity. I'm very ambitious and I feel like I need to pair that with more audacity to bring my dreams to life. I really enjoyed the video you shared of Sulieka and Jon. Such a beautiful home and relationship! Thank you for sharing this piece, Caroline!
Love my girl!!!!