Loved this, Hillary! I’m actually one of those people that switches between a maximum of three colours at the nail salon - classic red, burgundy or black, with perhaps a coral in the summer. I thought I was really boring - but actually, you make me realise that I just know my own taste! so thanks so much.
For me, I grew up in Alex Chung / WAGs / waif era, so I think it was always skewed. Nowadays, what’s chic to me?
• Silk blouses, tailored trousers at work - perennially chic
• A bag that doesn’t break my lower back by wearing it on the crook of my lower elbow (looking at you mulberry Bayswater)
• short nails (I used to love long but it means I cannot change my jewellery, due to my nails, which drives me absolutely ballistic)
• not blindly following trends and looking like everyone else - own your style! (if I see one more person in a trench, leggings, white sports socks to their ankles and chunky trainers…)
• wearing what we want, even if it’s “out of style” (I know skinny jeans is meant to be out, but I’m 5 foot one & curvy, and I’ve not found a jean that makes me feel as good)
• being unapologetic about who I am (I met a new friend last week, and she was like oh are you an outdoor girl? Can we go hiking together? and my immediate reaction was to lie, and pretend I am - but actually, I took a deep breath and said - “nope can’t think of anything worse” and laughed. and it was actually so refreshing to be open and honest to completely myself! I’m 36 and time is helping with this!)
Actually I was going to ask, and I think you’d be the perfect person to ask this-I’ve bought bags in the past that I thought would last to be classics, but they’ve really severely dated (such as the Mulberry Bayswater). I really like the Loewe puzzle but I think that will date as well. Do you think there really are any bags out there that are classic and won’t take us immediately back to a certain timeframe? obviously I think I know the answer is Chanel or a Birkin, but that’s a bit out of my price range…
Love a pointy pump, but I have wide feet and they’re just too narrow in the toes for me 🥲
First of all, I love all of this thank you so much! As a fellow indoor cat, I appreciate the feeling of wanting to be outdoorsy but knowing the reality which is I am not.
For bags that don't date themselves to an era, I would say: No logos, no significant hardware, no unusual design elements, and yes to standard proportions. Toteme gets a lot of this right!
I’d say most of the Savette bags are perfect for people who like classics. They’re spendy but much less than a branded bag. I also prefer how restrained they are - even Strathberry can feel a bit much to me with the hardware/chains.
On that note - if you have any thoughts about Metier bags Hillary I would love to hear them! I am debating stopping into the store next time I’m in London but if it’s not worth the trip that’s good to know!
I have wide feet and have several pairs of Gianvito Rossi heels-- they are so comfortable and one of the few designer brands that don't run super narrow imo!
Emily, we have so many overlaps in what we perceive to be chic! For the bag, I have a RL bag (the Ricky) that is a workhorse and also classic. I get so many compliments. It works as my work bag because it fits my laptop but also looks chic (IMO) and is classic looking. I also wear it on my arm but should it be heavy, there’s a shoulder strap. It fits what Hillary said about no logos, standard proportions and minimal hardware. And to your nail polish point, I found my shade of red and it’s been my only nail polish color is over three years. I’ve become known for it - unbeknownst to me until recently 🤭
My nail polish is OPI redvival city. Should they ever discontinue, I’m screwed. And then I learned that Gucci Westman’s suede lipstick in le rouge is the exact same shade of red. So that also cannot get discounted lol
Chic: remembering peoples’ names, the names of their spouses and kids and pets and parents. Knowing your friend’s coffee order. Monochrome dressing. Shoes that have been lovingly repaired. Mended clothing. Katharine Hepburn. Aging gracefully. Physical thank you notes. Oversized button downs. Tuxedo trousers. Tennis skirts or any mini skirt. Being unselfconscious. Statement coats. Red swimsuits. Being an easy laugh.
Can you ask your travel friend about any destinations in Northwestern Italy or southeastern France that would be friendly to little kids yet still luxe/enjoyable for parents?
Hi Kelly! The biggest draw in SE France is Biarritz & surrounds however this is on the Atlantic where waves can be especially big/rough. For little kids especially I'd proceed with caution. I'm a pretty confident ocean swimmer and even I got overwhelmed one day in Anglet. There is one long stretch of beach in Biarritz that is more chill and great for learning to surf but again, this is not my personal go-to recco for families with young kids.
NW Italy - Liguria - is a dream for authentic Italian vibes and calm Mediterranean waters. The entire stretch from San Remo to Genoa has heaps of great little holiday towns.
After dragging our feet for planning a big overseas trip this year we’ve decided to do some travel in the states. Can we get some feedback on some fun domestic travel locations? We are thinking either a luxury ranch or Maine / New England in early September. Thank you!!
Hi Ash! I'm really into all things Auberge - take a look at Stanly Ranch (where I sent Hillary and family 2 summers ago) or the Lodge at Blue Sky. I'm going to speak more about my domestic favorites soon in an upcoming newsletter - watch this space!
Amazing! I just got back from an auberge property this weekend (Vanderbilt in Newport RI) it was a dream! We went to Mattei’s tavern a few years ago when they first opened and it was not the best experience but this stay at Vanderbilt has me back to being excited about the collection!
Brand new hotels can be hit or miss, especially when it comes to service. Food and bev can sometimes need time to work out kinks based on guest feedback. The upside is you’ll typically get the best possible ‘deal’ as hotels know this and should set rates accordingly. You’ll also often see promotions during the first few months of a hotel’s existence.
I’m so happy you loved Vanderbilt! A sleeper Auberge property IMO is Mayflower Inn. Just wonderful!
Ahh omg love this! This is sooo on point. The person who brings nail polish to the salon one is SO very specific yet SO very true. I don’t know how you always think of wonderful topics, but this makes me want to think of my own list as well! It would be so interesting if we recorded every ten years what we thought was chic. I’m sure the answers would change immensely.
Took my engagement photos in a grey tee and ball gown skirt!! Haha!
Also, double tap for the Hermès nail polish. My fav nail polish of all time was RGB’s “Coral” (iykyk) and Hermès’ “46 Rouge Exotique” is the closest I’ve found. And I’ll always find a red manicure on short nails incredibly chic.
Oddly, also find it very chic—and maybe this is on par with knowing what you like—when a person has a standard coffee or cocktail order. Also, writing thoughtful thank you cards. So chic.
Thank you, love this list! On the topic of chic slicked back buns, how does one do this hairstyle?! Can we get a tutorial please Hillary? Asking as a new mom who'd far prefer to sport a chic slicked back bun providing it's something that can be done in not too toooo much more time than the default ponytail. TYSM
So here's the funny thing: I have never and would never wear this! It doesn't suit me in the slightest, but I love it on other people. I feel like this is a question for Jen Atkin, as OUAI makes such great styling products.
For next week’s interview with Rebecca Bullen, if she has any great suggestions on where to go and stay when traveling with a 3-5 month old that would be amazing!! (Very new mom here dreaming of my next vacation!) thank you!!
Yes! And how to find reputable childcare services while traveling. I’ve never tried the ‘sitter concierge’ type offerings for a night out but have wanted to.
Hi Jennifer! Puglia is great and there's something here for everyone. For families/fancy I Borgo Egnazia is great, and a real crowd pleaser. There are really special Masseria (farmhouse) accommodations up and down the region. Most folks don't realize when they ask for 'Puglia' that the region is 3.5h driving top to bottom, so location is really key when choosing a place to stay. I also book a lot of homes and villas in Puglia for this reason.
Omg who could forget the grey v neck from American apparel! Related to this whole essay so hard.
For me It definitely went: hot in teens/early 20’s; cool in mid 20’s to mid 30’s and now neither matter to me anymore but 100% clothes that fit! I’d add natural fibers and really on point accessories to my What’s Chic List.
Things I find chic- shades of white and cream mixed in one outfit, mostly because I am accident prone and would wind up with a stain of some sort, so view the women who can pull it off as goddesses.
A friend posted a chopped salad this morning that looks like it was shaped into a cylinder by a very tall cookie cutter, and I commented that it was the chicest salad I’d ever seen.
Loved this, Hillary! I’m actually one of those people that switches between a maximum of three colours at the nail salon - classic red, burgundy or black, with perhaps a coral in the summer. I thought I was really boring - but actually, you make me realise that I just know my own taste! so thanks so much.
For me, I grew up in Alex Chung / WAGs / waif era, so I think it was always skewed. Nowadays, what’s chic to me?
• Silk blouses, tailored trousers at work - perennially chic
• A bag that doesn’t break my lower back by wearing it on the crook of my lower elbow (looking at you mulberry Bayswater)
• short nails (I used to love long but it means I cannot change my jewellery, due to my nails, which drives me absolutely ballistic)
• not blindly following trends and looking like everyone else - own your style! (if I see one more person in a trench, leggings, white sports socks to their ankles and chunky trainers…)
• wearing what we want, even if it’s “out of style” (I know skinny jeans is meant to be out, but I’m 5 foot one & curvy, and I’ve not found a jean that makes me feel as good)
• being unapologetic about who I am (I met a new friend last week, and she was like oh are you an outdoor girl? Can we go hiking together? and my immediate reaction was to lie, and pretend I am - but actually, I took a deep breath and said - “nope can’t think of anything worse” and laughed. and it was actually so refreshing to be open and honest to completely myself! I’m 36 and time is helping with this!)
Actually I was going to ask, and I think you’d be the perfect person to ask this-I’ve bought bags in the past that I thought would last to be classics, but they’ve really severely dated (such as the Mulberry Bayswater). I really like the Loewe puzzle but I think that will date as well. Do you think there really are any bags out there that are classic and won’t take us immediately back to a certain timeframe? obviously I think I know the answer is Chanel or a Birkin, but that’s a bit out of my price range…
Love a pointy pump, but I have wide feet and they’re just too narrow in the toes for me 🥲
First of all, I love all of this thank you so much! As a fellow indoor cat, I appreciate the feeling of wanting to be outdoorsy but knowing the reality which is I am not.
For bags that don't date themselves to an era, I would say: No logos, no significant hardware, no unusual design elements, and yes to standard proportions. Toteme gets a lot of this right!
Ooo will check them out, thanks!
I’d say most of the Savette bags are perfect for people who like classics. They’re spendy but much less than a branded bag. I also prefer how restrained they are - even Strathberry can feel a bit much to me with the hardware/chains.
Oo will check it out - I’ve not heard of them! Thanks!
On that note - if you have any thoughts about Metier bags Hillary I would love to hear them! I am debating stopping into the store next time I’m in London but if it’s not worth the trip that’s good to know!
I would absolutely go! They're lovely!!!!
Agree worth finding the store and touching the butter soft leather. Staff is also very helpful.
I have wide feet and have several pairs of Gianvito Rossi heels-- they are so comfortable and one of the few designer brands that don't run super narrow imo!
Oooo ok thank you! Good to know!
Yes yes yes yes!!!!
Emily, we have so many overlaps in what we perceive to be chic! For the bag, I have a RL bag (the Ricky) that is a workhorse and also classic. I get so many compliments. It works as my work bag because it fits my laptop but also looks chic (IMO) and is classic looking. I also wear it on my arm but should it be heavy, there’s a shoulder strap. It fits what Hillary said about no logos, standard proportions and minimal hardware. And to your nail polish point, I found my shade of red and it’s been my only nail polish color is over three years. I’ve become known for it - unbeknownst to me until recently 🤭
Ooooh Terena I love it! Thanks for the bag rec, I’ll check it out!
What’s the red shade? I love it!!
My nail polish is OPI redvival city. Should they ever discontinue, I’m screwed. And then I learned that Gucci Westman’s suede lipstick in le rouge is the exact same shade of red. So that also cannot get discounted lol
Chic: remembering peoples’ names, the names of their spouses and kids and pets and parents. Knowing your friend’s coffee order. Monochrome dressing. Shoes that have been lovingly repaired. Mended clothing. Katharine Hepburn. Aging gracefully. Physical thank you notes. Oversized button downs. Tuxedo trousers. Tennis skirts or any mini skirt. Being unselfconscious. Statement coats. Red swimsuits. Being an easy laugh.
Can you ask your travel friend about any destinations in Northwestern Italy or southeastern France that would be friendly to little kids yet still luxe/enjoyable for parents?
Hi Kelly! The biggest draw in SE France is Biarritz & surrounds however this is on the Atlantic where waves can be especially big/rough. For little kids especially I'd proceed with caution. I'm a pretty confident ocean swimmer and even I got overwhelmed one day in Anglet. There is one long stretch of beach in Biarritz that is more chill and great for learning to surf but again, this is not my personal go-to recco for families with young kids.
NW Italy - Liguria - is a dream for authentic Italian vibes and calm Mediterranean waters. The entire stretch from San Remo to Genoa has heaps of great little holiday towns.
Love this list!
As a reformed hot girl myself, I just love this! 🥰🥰🥰 I have 7 The Great tees now and can’t live without them so thanks!
Ahahahahahah chasing hotness seems like a rite of passage.
Much like dating bad/unavailable boys.
You influence me!!!
adore you so much, Katie! Also reading your book this week!!!
AHHH excited to hear what you think!!!!!!
After dragging our feet for planning a big overseas trip this year we’ve decided to do some travel in the states. Can we get some feedback on some fun domestic travel locations? We are thinking either a luxury ranch or Maine / New England in early September. Thank you!!
Hi Ash! I'm really into all things Auberge - take a look at Stanly Ranch (where I sent Hillary and family 2 summers ago) or the Lodge at Blue Sky. I'm going to speak more about my domestic favorites soon in an upcoming newsletter - watch this space!
Amazing! I just got back from an auberge property this weekend (Vanderbilt in Newport RI) it was a dream! We went to Mattei’s tavern a few years ago when they first opened and it was not the best experience but this stay at Vanderbilt has me back to being excited about the collection!
Brand new hotels can be hit or miss, especially when it comes to service. Food and bev can sometimes need time to work out kinks based on guest feedback. The upside is you’ll typically get the best possible ‘deal’ as hotels know this and should set rates accordingly. You’ll also often see promotions during the first few months of a hotel’s existence.
I’m so happy you loved Vanderbilt! A sleeper Auberge property IMO is Mayflower Inn. Just wonderful!
Ahh omg love this! This is sooo on point. The person who brings nail polish to the salon one is SO very specific yet SO very true. I don’t know how you always think of wonderful topics, but this makes me want to think of my own list as well! It would be so interesting if we recorded every ten years what we thought was chic. I’m sure the answers would change immensely.
Absolutely know my list would change! And that's okay!
Took my engagement photos in a grey tee and ball gown skirt!! Haha!
Also, double tap for the Hermès nail polish. My fav nail polish of all time was RGB’s “Coral” (iykyk) and Hermès’ “46 Rouge Exotique” is the closest I’ve found. And I’ll always find a red manicure on short nails incredibly chic.
Oddly, also find it very chic—and maybe this is on par with knowing what you like—when a person has a standard coffee or cocktail order. Also, writing thoughtful thank you cards. So chic.
Gray tee + ball gown skirt = perfection. Oh I loved RGB!!! Also I used to love OPI Cajun Shrimp but the formula/color has changed. I hate that. 🫠
YES on the cocktail shorts! Tibi does these sometimes, and that Khaite pair is gorgeous!
TBH I don't own shorts, cocktail or otherwise, but there is something so chic about the women who wear them.
Thank you, love this list! On the topic of chic slicked back buns, how does one do this hairstyle?! Can we get a tutorial please Hillary? Asking as a new mom who'd far prefer to sport a chic slicked back bun providing it's something that can be done in not too toooo much more time than the default ponytail. TYSM
So here's the funny thing: I have never and would never wear this! It doesn't suit me in the slightest, but I love it on other people. I feel like this is a question for Jen Atkin, as OUAI makes such great styling products.
Molly Sims does a great tutorial on this!
Watch Sophia Richie's tutorials on this!
Love this! Agree with you 100% about the Hermes nail polish! Once you try it, there is nothing else that’s better! 😊
I hate that's it's excellent but alas!!!
For next week’s interview with Rebecca Bullen, if she has any great suggestions on where to go and stay when traveling with a 3-5 month old that would be amazing!! (Very new mom here dreaming of my next vacation!) thank you!!
Yes to this! Anything about traveling with a family - renting a house vs. adjoining rooms, family friendly destinations/accommodations, etc.
Yes! And how to find reputable childcare services while traveling. I’ve never tried the ‘sitter concierge’ type offerings for a night out but have wanted to.
I'm on the case and shall pop into the upcoming interview.
Love all your articles and insights. Love the nod to nail polish! Can you ask your travel advisor friend to give more insight to Puglia? Thank you!
Hi Jennifer! Puglia is great and there's something here for everyone. For families/fancy I Borgo Egnazia is great, and a real crowd pleaser. There are really special Masseria (farmhouse) accommodations up and down the region. Most folks don't realize when they ask for 'Puglia' that the region is 3.5h driving top to bottom, so location is really key when choosing a place to stay. I also book a lot of homes and villas in Puglia for this reason.
Good am. I missed your last Sunday article on April 6th. Is everything ok?
yep, just on spring break!
Omg who could forget the grey v neck from American apparel! Related to this whole essay so hard.
For me It definitely went: hot in teens/early 20’s; cool in mid 20’s to mid 30’s and now neither matter to me anymore but 100% clothes that fit! I’d add natural fibers and really on point accessories to my What’s Chic List.
Natural fibers >
I was also sick last week! Ugh. Glad you’re better. I love this list!!
❤️❤️❤️❤️
Things I find chic- shades of white and cream mixed in one outfit, mostly because I am accident prone and would wind up with a stain of some sort, so view the women who can pull it off as goddesses.
A friend posted a chopped salad this morning that looks like it was shaped into a cylinder by a very tall cookie cutter, and I commented that it was the chicest salad I’d ever seen.
I, too, am no friend of cream/white for the same reason! I'm so spilly.