Weekend Reading 01.31.26
Everyone is heading south to avoid ice, snow, and cold weather, so we hopped on a flight north. Why follow the crowd…which is increasingly becoming my motto while shopping.

The weather here is rainy, blustery, and much colder than I’m used to, so I’m thrilled I thought to bring this coat. I’m surprised to see that January is in the books, but of course, that means full steam ahead for milder weather.
This week was very active on the blog with more discussion than I ever remember. You seem to be enjoying more honest discussions about personal style, which, as a personal stylist, is one of my favorite topics.
Reader favorites this week: What you loved most:
- These fun, low-profile Veronica Beard retro sneakers were a major bestseller last week. The black is selling out fast, but they also come in lots of other great colors.
- This Talbots Embroidered Denim Jacket is a switch from the ordinary and was very popular with readers this week.
- These Chico’s Tapered Trouser jeans were very popular this week. I have to admit, I’m tempted by their polished look and a subtle take on the barrel trend.
- Many of you also ordered this Pressed Skin Care Powder, which I’m obsessed with. Many pressed powders mattify my sunscreen, but this pink one adds a beautiful glow without collecting in my lines.
- This amazing Vince Cabled Cardigan, which is marked way down.
Highlights from the weekend sales and what I spotted:
FRANK & EILEEN has a large sale section with styles or colors they’re discontinuing. They’re final sale so I’m zeroing in on their oversized pieces that leave wiggle room for fit like these:
- I found and ordered this gorgous light purple Cotton Super Luxe shirt. It’s almost half off and the color is so yummy.
- I’m very tempted by these pull-on linen pants for the summer.
CHICO’S has all denim starting at $69 and 25% off new tops, plus but one get 50% off on jewelry…which we know includes lots of unique pieces.
- this polka dot shirt is on the short list for me. There seems to be a resurgence of polka dots this season…possibly as an homage to Diane Keaton, and I’m hear for it.
- this polka dot tee makes a great layering piece.
- and these earrings are so unique, giving polka dot vibes
TALBOTS has an extra 60% off markdowns.
- The Gray Leopard jacket is marked way, way down. It was one of my favorites from my try-on this winter. It’s gone from $229 to $68!
- This fun Quilted Jacket is part of the sale and has a unique, Chanel type vibe.
NORDSTROM’S sale section is full of great deals!
- These Naturalizer Platform Boots are marked down in the porcelain shade and are water repellent.
- This pearl necklace looks just like the way I style my pendant and chain…and the price is great.
In case you missed it:
Have a fabulous weekend. Stay warm, stay hydrated, and wear what makes you feel confident.

I would like travel packing and luggage tips as well since we are taking our first Viking River Cruise in April. All these luggage dimensions for checked, carry-on, plus a personal item are quite varied and confusing, especially when there are airport transfers from the US within Europe.
Enjoy Vancouver and seeing your lovely daughter. I have switched to my puffer coat for our walks everyday. That wind really drops the temperature especially just after the sun sets behind the mountains to our southwest. Our days for a few hours are in the fifties but drop very quickly with the sun. I’m wearing merino wool and cotton blend socks from Amazon the you recommended before Christmas and I love them! They are the perfect weight to keep my toes cozy without having to buy larger shoes.
Glad to see you can still travel with a carryon suitcase. My last trip, I had so much trouble lifting mine above my head that I decided I’m going to check mine from now on. Just one more “ugh” moment that comes with getting older. Hope you had a good trip and stay warm up there!
I always particularly enjoy your packing and travel posts. You’d fairly recently mentioned the Away bag, but the shopping link to today’s outfit shows an Antler bag. I’m contemplating purchasing a new travel bag and would appreciate your insights on both, and recommendations! Thanks for your lovely, always thoughtful material!
The Away handheld is larger floppier. The Antler is new to me and I love it! I think they do make a larger version. The Antler is soft like the Away but more structured. It also has more padding and compartments which I prefer. This was my first flight either it and I’m very pleased with it. The squareness means it holds a lot!
I have that long puffer in the dark gray and it has been a lifesaver! I kinda want the Aritiza one…stay warm!
This is awesome! I wanted the Aritzia one that’s waterproof but they were sold out of my size.
Enjoy your site and travels! Could you do a post on great travel luggage (various sizes) that you have found to be the best and would recommend (if you have not already done). Thanks!
I will! This new handheld is so beautifully organized and compact. It also holds a lot so it’s my current favorite. Well padded too.
Please photo yourself in your Quince puffer coat and tell us what size you own. My body and size is very similar to yours.
Do you feel the coat gives you a “Michelin man” look?
Also, love your scarf. Looked at the Etsy one you designate, but it doesn’t seem the same and I don’t know your size or fabric choice. Please help!
Okay I will. It probably does have a Michelin Man vibe but I don’t care if I’m freezing. My exact scarf is by an artist called Sabina Savage in London.
I’ve thoroughly enjoy reading your posts. Especially the other day when I clicked to read your blog you were wearing a floral cardigan. It reminded me that spring is around the corner. They are inspiring. Enjoy your weekend.
Polka dots? Yes!!!!