Savoring simple daily pleasures

We may have a closet utterly stuffed with clothes- but nothing to wear. Or we may have an abundance of pants, but none that fit quite right or that are flattering, practical, or the right fabric, colour... You get the idea.

Your wardrobe isn't the clothes you own; your wardrobe is what you wear regularly, those pieces you reach for regularly. And if we are taking it to the next level- the skill of continuously evaluating and editing out pieces which no long reserve us for whatever reason. 

Your wardrobe doesn't make you stylish, per se. Style is an attitude, confidence, and ora. Style is a mindset, not an outfit. 

While purchasing a certain garment may temporarily empower us, it's the wearer who brings it to life. We can purchase the latest technology in running shoes and look the part, but unless we use them to run, they do not make us run. They may enable us to run better. They help us on a journey we have already embarked on. Buying a hammer won't build you a house. 

Below is a completely unedited and un-beautified look at the week that was in my outfit choices- from sweaty post workout to work from from home to the office. 

Monday- 5am home gym. strength workout in older workout wear but it is functional and I still feel strong and capable in it.

This is a two-piece from ODE at Stylerunner. The pants were too long, so my lovely Mother hemmed them for me. When I purchased them (On sale), I was pretty sure they were out of my comfort zone, but I thought I'd experiment- planning to use the pieces separately if together was too much. Funnily enough, I had several compliments during the day I wore this, but I just didn't feel me, and honestly, I'm disappointed with the quality. The waistband is twisted and won't sit flush, there are no pockets, and it creases rather badly. I found the shirt a little boxy and the pants very underwhelming, so, despite my poor Mamas efforts, I think this outfit will be donated to passed on. It's important to be honest with yourself and true to your style. If you don't feel good in it, listen to that feeling. I'm glad to have worn it this week and took this photograph as for me, it seals the deal. It's got to go. 

The retro Reeboks, however, LOVE. 

5am treadmill run. Under Armour and Lorna Jane and fave ON cloud running shoes.

I admit, I forgot to snap a pic until I was already walking to work. Its cooler in the mornings, but by mid-morning its seriously heating up. SO I wore this thicker Zara capped sleeve tee over a Federation pleated skirt and my Alfie & Evie super comfortable platform sandals. Tote bag with laptop, smoothie and salad!

5.30am strength session- I love this olive colour.

Love this easy-to-wear Country Road shirt dress. Subtle taupe pinstripe and super soft lined cotton. Paired with my new Hillfiger sandals from Melbourne I purchased on sale from David Jones, and an elasticated belt with tan leather buckle. 

I felt pulled together and light and easy. It was warm and overcast so this provided enough cool layering. 

Sportscraft knitted polo. I like this for the between seasons weight as its lighter than a sweater but heavier than a tee, but its a rather clunky fit that widens at the hem- not flattering on hips. 

Button-up denim skirt- one of my daughter's offs and a fave pair of mules from Rollie. A unique feather detail in the leather adds a little texture and interest. 

Pointed Mule Embossed Black – Rollie Nation

It was just chilly enough and drizzly enough to warrant pulling out a blazer today. I have many blazers and find them so versatile and such a classic finish. This one is from MAX, the pants are silk, from Lilysilk, the striped nautical tee is from Sportscraft and shell detail belt. The Flats are a pair I wish I'd bought in multiples of- hindsight is a wonderful thing. They are soft Italian leather from Everlane. It's one of their Day Gloves, but they no longer sell this particular style with the lower scoop and front seam. I can walk MILES in these. 

I've linked something similar here from them

The Day Glove Tan – Everlane

So there you have it, an honest snippet of my week. These outfits were not chosen for this post - They are a genuine representation of what I picked out depending on the weather and what the day had in store for me. Ive learned from this too!

Dressing well doesn't have to mean dressing up- if you only make an effort when you're going somewhere, what you're really saying to yourself is that style is for other people not for yourself. 

 Savouring Simple Daily Pleasures

"It is the silence that provides clarity and precision.  Creativity arises from stillness and when there are too many thoughts in our minds that create confusion. It is actually the silence around the thoughts that creates the clarity- that creates the focus" Andy Puddicombe

Savoring simple daily pleasures- while the absolute ethos and core of the blog, and I shall always be someone who notices the little details and takes huge pleasure from daily life, savoring the seemingly mundane and appreciating the ordinary magic in our lives.

 I have come to truly realize over quite some time and many walks- to sort my thoughts and give space to creativity, that I derive so much pleasure from dressing, daily. Putting outfits together, being creative- not necessarily shopping but pulling from what I have. Trying new combinations or investing in a new style or cut and adapting current pieces with it. Using clothing to channel my mood, how I carry myself in a particular outfit or style, and setting an intentional trajectory for the day or event. Its an intrinsic and really important part of my day- and I believe so firmly that there is a big difference between an outfit and just putting on clothes- letting the clothes wear you, instead of finding and rejoicing in your true style and all the joy and knock on feelings, emotions and confidence that comes with that. Its empowering, fundamental, and a prerequisite to a day of productivity and composure- to live your best life. Everyday. 

I am a busy working Mum of two teenage girls. We don't eat out a huge amount, we attend a handful of functions and special dinners or events a year, and similarly, with outings to the Ballet or theatre, and generally we entertain at home with friends or casual dinners around town. I walk to my place of work, (even tho I have a car I love to drive too) and we travel overseas a few times a year and have regular beach vacations within New Zealand. But I'm pretty ordinary, with a pretty average income and lifestyle. My life and my daily tasks and objectives would resonate with countless women of a similar age around the world no doubt. I don't often need to dust off the ball gowns, stilettos or power fitted two-piece suit. 

I derive so much joy and creativity from planning my wardrobe, my daily outfits, and dressing each day. Choosing to put together and wear outfits rather than just clothes. The finer details, the unexpected accessories, and the seasonal changes, while remaining faithful to my true personal style. Having a little fun!

I'm not swayed by current trends easily- and it may take me a year or more to experiment with a new style - from skinny jeans to barrel leg for example. I LOVE to shop, hence my conscious pullback last year with my NO BUY YEAR. And I love a good deal- who doesn't!? Picking up a quality timeless piece for a fraction of its original cost- on sale, consignment or secondhand, gives me a little frisson of excitement and a rush of those endorphins we shoppers like. 

When you get to a point when you know what you really like to wear, give yourself permission to invest in quality pieces in the confidence you'll wear them often. I'm not suggesting you go into debt or spend what you don't have ( Eh humm....been there) but make a list and know what you're looking for, keep an eye out for bargains, and be prepared to wait. Constantly edit pieces you no longer like, use or require or that are ill-fitting or scratchy- or that you simply don't feel good in. And when you make your list be precise- list honestly your Needs, wants and Nice to haves.  If you have the money and the right piece crops up- do it. But be mindful to purchase or acquire items that you will wear- Be very mindful of how you spend your wardrobe dollars- spend them in the area you spend most time. If you keep buying cocktail dresses but never go to formal events, yet spend 95% of your time in tatty athleisure and sloppy tees.... it might be time to re-look at your priorities when it comes to new purchases. 

 I am currently on the hunt for a timeless trench- I realize they are very a la mode right now, but I have worn trenches for years and I'm just looking to replace and update my current tired one. Which, I hasten to add, I got during a ClothesSchwap when my girls were babies. I also have a cropped one purchased second-hand at least 10 years ago but sometimes cropped just won't cut it. pun intended!

At the tender age of 18 I saved my money up from my Saturday job (In a clothing store- my first department was the shoes....it stuck) and I purchased a classic trench coat, a traditional umbrella in a muted plaid with a wooden hook handle, and buttery soft chocolate brown kid leather gloves for my darling Mama who was turning 50. This year shes turns 80- and she still wears and enjoys all three of those quality purchases. 

So my style and love of clothing isn't about the latest trends or fast fashion- its about presenting yourself well, expressing your true style, and above all, making you feel good. 

I am reaching my late forties (!) and I think the more years I have behind me the more relaxed I am about being judged and confirming- I am by no means wild in my style sense, and generally and fairly neutral and classic, with the odd bold color or print thrown in- and always room for leopard. But I remember the angst of teens and early twenties where if it was exactly as we were told it should be, it was so wrong it was cringe-worthy. Stuff and nonsense to that I now say with alacrity! 

While I believe there are some rules or guidelines we'd be wise to stick to in terms of body shape, age, lifestyle, and geographical positioning- I believe if you feel good in what you are wearing you naturally project that- you look good too. Own it. 

So its quite likely for the next little while this blog may take a slightly different path and focus a little more on style, wardrobe staples, and clothing choices. Its a topic I never get tired of and feel I have much to offer as well as much to discover. 

I still firmly stand by my "savoring simple daily pleasures" motto, as the perfect coffee, a cracking fire or dressing well are all equally pleasurable to me in my everyday. 

This encompasses everything from grooming to undergarments, handbags, accessories, and shoes to nightwear. 

Just as if you have had a great workout or a run, you are more inclined to reach for the green juice or protein-packed breakfast, so too if you are in attire that speaks volumes about how you wish your day to go. Even when I am sick- I feel better showering and dressing in something presentable but comfy, with maybe a little makeup or none but clean hair and always a spritz of fragrance. During lockdowns I still showered, dressed, styled my hair and put a little makeup and perfume on every day- without fail. This was as much for me as my family's benefit. We still had jobs to do-all be it from home, school classes to attend online, and each other to be there for. 

Getting dressed is something we (Hopefully) all do every day. So why not enjoy and savor it. Appreciate and be grateful for our clothes and our wardrobes, look after our garments, seek to buy quality over quantity and be open to new styles and possibilities. 

This week I will post my daily outfits on my Instagram, and we'll check back in next week. Thanks for stopping by. 

 Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures

A brief post today reflecting on several experiences while shopping on our recent trip to Melbourne. 

Here in New Zealand, I actually tend to do most of my clothing shopping on line or sporadically. Being often time pour and living out of the city, I prioritize my limited down time and weekends with walks, time out, family and other interests- so its unusual for me to just go shopping on a whim or without a specific requirement. Even my groceries are usually done on line with a brief top-up stop at a quaint little local supermarket.

Therefore, I am quite possibly a little behind in my discovery of how technology has gained some serious traction in high street retail shopping. Taking into account also that NZ isn't quite as advanced as Australia in these fields mostly as we just don't have the customer base- or population- to warrant these changes yet. 

I am familiar with self checkouts at the grocery stores- although i still find them frustrating when i usually get beeped at for my straw bags or some such- and giant retailers like K-Mart (Shudder) also implement a self check out system. 

But over the course of our week in Melbourne, we experience at least 2 restaurants where ordering was though a QR code on your table- now these weren't fine dining- but they were proper eating establishments, which required booking and a certain amount of dress code and etiquette and fairly substantial bills at the end of our meals. 

At the airport- I went to purchase fragrance and again it was self-check out- including scanning your boarding card, and again at WHSmith for tissues and light reading material. 

What really blew me away was shopping in Zara with my youngest- we purchased a dress for her and a basic tee for me- having tried it on and been warmly greeted by sales staff in the fitting room- we went to pay. What I can only describe as a line on long while butlers sink size troughs lined a wall with screens above them. When I placed the items into the "Basket" ready to commence scanning a bar code or similar and removing hangers- the machine read automatically what our purchases were from the hidden scanner in the "basket" and appeared as pictures and the prices on the tablet. Quite extra ordinary. 

We then had to select a bag, remove the hangers and place them on a rack under the counter and pay on the pin pad. so, from the fitting room to exiting the store we were entirely left to our own devices!

What if I'd had a question about sizes or returns or stock availability? And like wise with our food orders- at one establishment we had too many wait staff check in on us while we ate which was almos comical, having had no help or attention while ordering off the QR code, in the other restaurant even the Maitre D was absent as we arrived to be shown to our booked table, and we had to search several time though out our meal to find wait staff to assist. 

As a teen and in my early 20's I worked in several clothing retails stores and several mid to high end restaurants, then later in an interiors boutique. I loved my various jobs. And what made them all enjoyable and special was the rapport with the clientele! Whether that was pulling a pint of beer and having a little bar banter, or uncorking an expensive bottle of champagne and serving to a table of special guests as silver service, or carefully wrapping someone's new garment in tissue before placing it in a big glossy bag, or giftwrapping a gorgeous piece of home decor- such as Lalique crystal, in thick cream paper and a taupe satin ribbon while chatting with the client. 

Is this a dying art? I do so hope not! Fir me it is part of the experience. In a nice restaurant I value the waiters or sommeliers opinion and recommendations. IN a beautiful boutique I want to talk to the sales assistant, check about size and fit, explain my requirements- in case they can assure me or suggest an alternative. 

It makes me chuckle to myself to think of my Beloved grandmothers reaction to all this if she was still alive today- shed hoot with laughter at the absurdity of it. In her day - even the fish monger would engage in conversation and offer expert advice and tips while carefully Packinging up your dinner. The hardware shop would be a font of knowledge and would know precisely where to find and meet your exact needs. A simple tea shop would take your order and serve you- to have to ask for a teaspoon or napkin would be unthinkable! 

The joy I felt in the more unique shops and boutiques where I was greeted on entry, encouraged to browse, helped when requested and the chatter and glimpse of another person's day and personality is what added the sparkle and individual touch to the experience. 

Dont you agree?

I sincerely hope this doesn't catch on quickly. I know you cant stop progress, and nor should we, but we can encourage service and customer care- face to face. 

 Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures

Now, I'm well aware we are all about less is more, timeless style, and quality over quantity here—but oh my! It has been quite some time since I have spent some time in a city with fabulous architecture, food, coffee, and high-end stores literally on the doorstep!

The public transport, and especially the trams here is fantastic, but I do so enjoy walking to get my bearings and really experience a city or town. And despite its impressive size and population, Melbourne is remarkably easy to navigate and traverse. 

Having completed my no-buy- year in 2024 (No entirely without hiccoughs) I felt a frisson of excitement here when I walked into the expansive retail area closest to our apartment. Not only were there the iconic Australian Department stores of Myers and David Jones, but also countless boutique-style stores or shops only available in Australia. Add to that a TK MAX (don't knock it till you've tried it) which for those who don't know is a huge consignment chain where if you have the patience to trawl through the many racks, you can find really wonderful deals on high quality pieces- a 100% cashmere tank for example marked down to AUD$60. I didn't go crazy, but I thoroughly enjoyed a good investigative browse! 

The items I have purchased have nearly all been from a rough list I compiled at home to help keep me on track and reduce impulse buying- and they are all pieces I required to fill gaps or replace worn-out pieces in my current wardrobe. And absolutely everything I have purchased has- happily- been heavily discounted - sometimes by over a $100!

My husband is NOT a shopper (Our girls have better stamina) so the brief stints of shopping have been interspersed among lots of walking, sightseeing, cycling, The Grand Prix excitement, and exploring as a family. 

Below is a list of the items I have purchased  (so far...wink wink)

A leather, leopard print Belt- to replace a favorite that has certainly seen better days (Less than $40 on sale)

Barel Leg Jeans- for the changing seasons- a step away from my old faithful skinny jeans and a shape reminiscent of the old Twisted Levis of the 90's- remember those?  ($35 on sale reduced from over $200)

100% fine Merino wool sleeveless turtle neck in camel for cooler months and under blazers. ($49, down from $225)

Ralph Lauren Leather shoulder bag with gold hardware. (Could not believe this deal- under $100, down from over $800!!!!)

2 novels from a large bookstore- down to $9.99 each

2 pairs of sandals, one Tommy Hilfiger, one DUNE London. one pair to replace some well and truly thrashed faithful Sam Edelman GiGi T staps in almond patent - my third pair of these incredibly versatile and comfy summer sandals. And the other, as I have a black pair similar and have been searching for a neutral equivalent. One pair was $80 something, and the other was $60, both reduced from their original prices of over $200. 

Pair of Tommy Bahamahs cigarette-style pants in black ($29 from almost $200) 

I also bought a pair of taupe casual 3/4 pants from a brand I'm not familiar with. They were only $25, and I thought they'd be good for travel, weekends, and maybe even golf. 

We have one more giant mall to explore next week and the only items I'll keep an eye out for are a trench coat- I've been searching for a replacement one of high quality for some time and I'm prepared to wait for the right one at the right price....plus there's only so much a girl can fit in a suitcase!

And lastly, a pair of camel and black two-toned pointed ballet flats to replace my rather worn ones back home. I'm wondering about Vivaia. Has anyone had any experience with the brand? I like that they are washable and sure to be comfy for my commute. 

So, moving on from the (Fabulous) shopping, It has been wonderful to experience being in the thick of a thriving, bustling city once more. The diversity of its residents, along with the scope of activities, cultures and architecture, makes it a unique and vibrant city. We are fortunate enough to have a large balcony at our rented apartment, which has been a treat for sunrise yoga, morning coffee, and generally watching the city busy below us at all hours of the day and night. So, even when we are back at the apartment for a little pause as I am now- with the air conditioning on inside as it's a very warm 32 degrees- we still feel like we are absorbing the atmosphere and part of the city. 

My walk this morning took me on a 7km loop up to some of the grand old buildings near Parliament - steeped in relatively recent history, and at the early hour I was out on a Saturday morning, I had the place practically to myself. I am saddened by our home city's past disregard for many of its historical architecture and buildings- even the once grand and imposing in Auckland are vastly overshadowed by their modern neighbours or in heartbreaking disrepair. Here, they seem to marry ultramodern and architecturally staggering feats while still respecting and glorifying the old bluestone colonial buildings and the terraces with Victorian filigree balconies and decorative elements. The Flinders Street station, with its magnificent dome and ornate ballroom, are an absolute testament to this. The Cathedral, which was peeling out the bells last evening, is a stone's throw from our accommodation and is one of the oldest buildings here, built in 1839. Just across the park from St. James is Cook's cottage- in theory slightly older and transported brick by brick from England!

I am reading a historical fiction currently set in Tasmania and have read several based around Sydney and Melbourne previously. It's pretty thought-provoking to pause and consider who laid these bricks and who crafted these cities, and who was here before them, and whose ancestral lands they were. 

As arresting and captivating as it is, and despite all this richness, I yearn for the peace and tranquility of our home, going to bed to no other sounds than the moreporks (NZ Owl-like nocturnal birds) and cicadas, or the rain hitting the roof, or the breeze in the trees. I've come to realise that while the buzz and chaos of a city is exciting and vibrant, I can only enjoy it in short bursts. 

I am so grateful to be fortunate to experience these places and travel, but even more deeply grateful for the calmness, quietude, and surrounding nature of our home. Something I will savor even more deeply when I return. How truly sublime to be so utterly content with our home and our everyday lives that while it's a treat to experience new things and different places, it's just as lovely to return home again to our sanctuary. 

Yep. That's me on a tandem wth my husband! 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

The title of this post is a direct quote from a very wise man, who has quickly become an important influence and even a role model lately, Robin Sharma, The quote is taken from his latest book, "The Wealth Money Cant Buy"

I have been devouring the paperback edition and enjoying the ritual of finding a quiet nook, putting on my reading glasses and being fully present to absorb the next installment of his wisdom. The pages are all marked up and folded over so that I can go back and refer and re-read the gems that speak to me. 

What he speaks to throughout the book (And he has penned many others I am yet to read) strikes such a chord and draws so many parallels to the ethos and culture and aspirations of the very essence of what this Blog and my writing are all about. 

That tiny daily triumphs count, and they all gather and compound into making a life you wish to lead.

All the micro tasks, rituals and seemingly small details you choose to ensure are observed and appreciated in your everyday. 

"To lead your richest life, you also need to nourish the wealth of your mind, guard the wellness of your emotional universe, and regularly and carefully feed your spiritual life. So you consistently feel happy and profoundly peaceful." Robin Sharma

And as he suggests many times throughout his work- read that quote again, slowly. It's powerful stuff. 

Probably a year ago now, I wrote a post on this blog about the universe's magical way of whispering to you until you tune in and listen. While I have been preoccupied dealing with and working through a bumpy patch of health issues (Pretty much all hormone related- see last week's post!) I have become aware of a persistent message reaching out to me through many channels, such as the book "The Wealth Money Cant Buy" along with several conversations with friends, colleagues, and healthcare professionals, podcasts I've happened upon, and books I've been recommended. All of them have buoyed me in some valuable way. 

Either to help fine tune the direction I wish to take my professional life, take a look with fresh eyes at my beautiful family and the life we are creating together, and sprur me on with renewed passion and viggor to achieve the life of contentment I am striving for and working on every day- in a holistic way encompassing my health, wellness, home life, writing, and continually learning and educating myself. 

On my walk this afternoon, I began to listen to the Audio book of Mell Robins 'the Let Them theory' It was as if the final piece of the puzzle fell into palce and brought with it such clarity and focus on what direction I wish to take my life, what I dream of acomplishing and how I would like to continue to be as a wife, mother, daughter, friend, and writer. It was as if a light turned on, and I could feel a plan and timeline forming in my head, working towards things I wish to accomplish and achieve. And as though the fog cleared, I can see it forming now. I have the clarity I've been searching for. Like a huge sigh of relief and a deep, long breath inwards. 

It's so important to honor your true self and show up every day with gratitude, an open mind, and an open heart to receive. Keeping your goals in your sights yet treading gently along the path to them, so that we can appreciate all the beauty, gifts and lessons along the way. 

Because your daily behaviour always reflects your deepest beliefs. It's easy to get a little off track, swayed, and lose focus. But if we are mindful and consistent and continue to search for the joy in all the little things, appreciate all we have and the abundance of the world around us, we'll get there. 

I'll leave you with this last powerful quote from Robin Sharma:

Remember, you're stronger than you know, you're more talented than you're giving yourself credit for and you future has deep magic in store for you. trust yourself, believe in you (especially when no one else does) and keep moving ahead. Always.