Founded in 2024
Shed. Renew. Edit. Curate.
As I look back at the discoveries I've made this year, the theme seems to be finding something that works well or making what I love have last longer.
Sauna-ing My new sport/hobby could not be better aligned with my sedentary nature. Plus it's right next to the indoor pool I've been swimming in daily for years! Not sure why it took me so long, but I'm sold on its benefits: detoxification, increased metabolism, increased blood circulation, pain reduction, anti-aging, skin rejuvenation, improved cardiovascular function, improved immune function, improved sleep, stress management, and relaxation.
Unique by Ruth: No, I haven't transformed my grandmother's chiffonier into a high gloss fuchsia bar. But I wish I'd saved an antique piece of furniture so Ruth could do her magic on it. She's amazing!
Topologie: Ok, no big deal you're thinking. But I take my hydration seriously and do not like the six-tiny-water-bottles-strapped-to-a-bum-bag look. With this Bottle Sacoche (even the name sounds chic) water sling bag, I can take a hike along the C&O Canal and pop into a Georgetown café while maintaining my signature minimal all black urban look.
The Seam: This UK-based firm offers garment care & repair services for individuals and businesses. Fabulous work done on much-loved designer items. From moth holes to scuffs and stains, The Seam is the ultimate fixer.
Minoxidil: I've tried every product targeted for hair loss for decades, Minoxidil in pill form really works. Started in 2023 and have seen marked hair growth this year.
Piper Heidsieck: Because we all need a 'house' champagne and this is my new favorite. Their signature cuvée is 'seductive and bright with notes of pear, apple and citrus, closed by a delightful nuttiness.' Santé!
Mother of Pearl: After watching Fashion Reimagined and discovering Amy Powney, sustainable fashion designer of Mother of Pearl, I hosted a fashion swap party and vowed to be more thoughtful with future purchases. In addition to enjoying friends delight in my unused clothes, I discovered that most of them weren't even in my season.
Francesca Cairns: Yes, seasons are a real thing. And thanks to Image Consultant Francesca Cairns, I now know the right palette for Warm Autumn. But what to do with a closet full of black to anthracite apparel?!
S.N.S. Herning: Not exactly discovered this year, but I did manage to find the matching scarf to their original fisherman's sweater. As a kid I wanted to visit the Guernsey Islands for the sole purpose of seeing real live men wearing sweaters like the ones I knitted. Almost every country has a version, but I especially adore this Danish company that has been selling (and I'm wearing) the same one they designed in 1931 with its chunky “bubble” construction developed to help protect wearers from the elements.
