Summer Bucket List

+ Recent Outfits and other random thoughts

Hi Friends,

I’ve been talking a lot about summer style over the last few weeks, but the other thing I’ve been thinking about is my annual “summer bucket list.” It’s not an official thing, but it is something I do informally because summer in Chicago is THE BEST, but it flies by so I like to try to be (at least a little bit) intentional.

So here’s what’s on my list right now:

• Outdoor music/ shows (Ravinia, Millennium Park movies/concerts)

• Cubs games

• Read outside on our balcony or in the park or on the beach. I’ve been out of my reading routine and I’m looking forward to getting back into it.

• Golf - this is something my whole family enjoys doing, so it’s a great way to spend time together. It’s also something Tom and I love doing just the two of us. :)

• Bake something with fresh fruit, like strawberries or peaches.

• While on the subject of food - master a few new summer salads like this one

• Windows open, less AC

• Sign up for an art class - not sure if this one is feasible, but I’m putting it out there

• Play pickleball

• Happy hours on the River Walk - the most beautiful setting at the most beautiful time of day

• Take Tom to MI/WI to get out of the city and show him around a bit (maybe Lake Geneva or New Buffalo area)

• Laying down. In the grass, on the sand, or on the couch. Staring at the ceiling or sky. Feeling the summer breeze. No screens, no music, no headphones. Just rest and being in the moment.

Recent Outfits

Clearly I have a “uniform” lately - denim and a button up. It’s the easiest way for me to feel comfortable and put together at the same time. We also launched our new Midi Sling Bags on ABBY ALLEY this week, so I’ve been wearing and styling them a lot lately. I love these colors for summer!

I loved this look: the base is these wide leg white denim and this blue and white wider striped button up. The white on both of these pieces is true, crisp white. I then decided to add a creamy sweater over the shoulders for an extra layer and chose the Ivory Croco Midi Sling to pull it all together. The Birk Clogs are my go-to when it’s not quite sandal weather.

I wore this outfit on our warmest day yet. Simple, but repeatable. Denim is old from Mara Hoffman, tee is Vincent James, and I love the sneakers I ordered last week - perfect for summer. The French Blue Midi Sling just gives the outfit a little something special. I could have done a Black or Oyster…but I thin the blue is so good with summer denim.

Back in the same white denim, but this time with this button up. It’s a little more of a subtle blue and a thinner stripe. I feel like it’s a little more casual than the RL one too. The Latte Midi Sling here is a great vibe with the taupe Birks and I love adding brown to this outfit to give the color palette some depth.

This was a double bag day - I had so much work to do at the studio, so I knew I needed to bring breakfast and some snacks. When this happens I try to keep work stuff in my Tote Bag and personal things in my Everyday Bucket Bag. This button up has become like a security blanket - it’s a current favorite.

This was probably my favorite outfit recently. These are the jeans I grabbed during the MDW sale at Moda Operandi (they are still on sale btw). Love them. With this linen top and my Oyster Midi Sling Bag. I love a button up untucked, but with the pleats, tucking it in felt right. Since the denim is light - the whole look almost gives off a tonal feel.

Some Random Thoughts

1. I just watched Sirens on Netflix. I really was enjoying it while watching, but when the 5th episode wrapped, I was kind of left wanting. Anyone else? I guess I didn’t realize it was such a short series. Loved the cast though!

2. We also finished Friends & Neighbors on Apple TV. Another one I really enjoyed - not an A+, but totally worth it and another great cast. Side note - I love Amanda Peet and I admire the way she is choosing to age. I have no idea if she’s had any work done, but she looks very natural and she looks her age…which is so refreshing. I personally think she’s stunning. She, Pamela Anderson, Kate Winslet, Helen Mirren (there are probably others as well) really inspire me.

3. On the same topic, this was a really interesting read about aging and beauty. It’s not easy being a woman, that’s for sure.

   I Feel Sad About Anne Hathaway's Eyebrows

   4. If anyone is looking for a tablecloth for an outdoor table, I came across this one. It’s perfect for that Mediterranean, easy but chic look.

That’s all for now. Happy June!

xo,

Abby

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