The Best Lunch Spots in Fairfield County, CT

Top 5 Favorites

Arden’s Norwalk

Grace Farms New Canaan

Greens on the Go Darien and New Canaan *closed on weekends

The Mercantile at Gray Barns Norwalk

Norwalk Art Space Cafe Norwalk

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Best Of

Miyuki New Canaan Poké bowl, chicken sandwich, and incredible fresh baked COOKIES

The Organic Market Westport A family owned organic market with a cafe in the back. Best green juice and homemade sandwiches.

Crepes Choupette Darien Best crepes.

Meli Melo Greenwich Most family friendly for large groups. Crepes, juices, smoothies, sorbet. ALL homemade.

Raphael’s Bakery Greenwich Iced coffee, croissants, and the best French sandwiches on-the-go. Don’t skip the chocolate cookie!

Greenology New Canaan Vegan, great smoothies and GF/DF breakfast and lunch options.

Sweet Peas Old Greenwich Best iced tea (Harney & Sons Paris) and the most delicious GF banana muffins

I’ve visited every place on this list with kids and would consider them all family friendly!

A SPRING HOLIDAY CAPSULE

I love a neutral capsule for many reasons but mainly because it makes it so easy to pack light, mix and match. I purchased this set two summers ago when I was pregnant and it quickly became a wardrobe workhorse for me. Last summer it made for the perfect postpartum nursing top and it will absolutely be joining me in Florida next month. A few styling ideas: the top unbuttoned over this bathing suit or bikini OR tucked into this perfect pair of denim shorts and heels.

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect wedding guest dress (or even better a destination wedding guest dress) I absolutely love this one. The color is so versatile and easy to pair back to gold, silver, or nude accessories. It’s also just a beautiful dress to wear out to dinner on vacation.

xx

S

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MY GUIDE TO PARIS

P A R I S

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Lunch

Lou Lou - The location (Louvre), ambiance, and decor, puts this spot at the top of my list. If you love iced tea, theirs is Mariage Freres and it’s delicious. I liked the green striped ashtrays so much I asked if I could buy one…they let me!

Girafe – Beautiful view of the Eiffel tower by day. If you can’t get an evening reservation, this spot is equally beautiful during the day.

Le Poulbot – Incredible little café in Montmartre.

Chez Alain Miam Miam - Located in the Sunday market in Marché des Enfants Rougesis. Holy moly this was the most incredible sandwich ever. We waited online for it for nearly an hour and it was all worth it. The freshest ingredients and the prosciutto and cheese are sliced right there.  

Coffee

Café Kitsuné - The best matcha and people watching in Palais Royale. We started almost every morning here.

Verlet - The sweetest cafe, tea house, delicious croissants and the best fruit salad I’ve ever had. I was so excited to stumble on this gem one morning while walking down Rue Saint-Honoré. I’ve been three times since and it remains the loveliest little spot for breakfast.

Breizh Café - For the best crepe. For a little apres shopping snack in Le Marais.

The Ritz - Afternoon tea

Bakery

Poilâne - The only name you need to know. This world famous boulangerie also offers packaged cookies and breads that you can sneak home in your suitcase. I bought the most gorgeous felted placemats on our last trip. The Rue du Cherche-Midi is the location you want to visit!

Dinner

Allard - Traditional bistro dating back to 1932. Michelin rated.

Chez Georges

Girafe - Exquisite views of the Eiffel Tower. I recommend a late reservation here - 10pm. Trust me!

Chez Janou - A true locals spot for authentic Parisian cuisine and atmosphere. It’s nearly impossible to get a reservation so you can ask your concierge for help OR go and wait on a gorgeous evening. The bar here is also a great vibe for dinner. Top of my restaurant list for dinner!

Chez Paul - Traditional French bistro that blew our minds. The food was so authentic and delicious it felt like we had a home cooked meal.

Fontaine de la Mars – The famous red napkins. A traditional French bistro - one of my favorite casual dinner spots.

Lapérouse

Le Petit Lutetia – A traditional brasserie. Request and wait for a table outside on the sidewalk. We stayed for four hours. The food, the ambiance, everything was perfect.

Drinks

Hotel Costes - Romantic and moody.

Cheval Blanc – Rooftop drinks with a stunning view of the city.

Stay

Alfred Sommier - This hotel is absolutely gorgeous. The moment you walk through the archway you're greeted by the courtyard of a 19th century mansion turned 5-star hotel. Just a short walk from Place de la Concorde, I found it to be the perfect location. Breakfast is not to be missed (even if you’re not staying here I recommend making a reservation). The rooms were the least impressive part of our stay and felt like they needed some upgrading but I would still highly recommend based on location, food, and stunning atmosphere.

Hotel Costes

Experience

Sainte Chapelle chamber orchestra concert - This was one of the most memorable moments of my life. It was Vivaldi and I cried almost the entire time. Don’t miss this opportunity.

Luxury boat ride on the Seine - This was an incredible experience. I recommend going around 5pm. The two hour ride takes you up and down the river and comes with champagne and light bites. The boat is gorgeous and Lawrence and her first mate are the epitome of French chic. You can find more info here.

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SPRING CLASSICS

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This Spring really feels like a fresh start for me. Last March I was still deeply intrenched in a postpartum fog, not really sure where to go next. I found myself struggling with getting dressed for the first time in a long time and honestly felt pretty lost. I lived in these sweats, my favorite tees, and this cardigan every.single.day. Not exaggerating.

It wasn’t until about a month ago that I started to feel a shift. I don’t want to say back to my old self but my body finally felt familiar. I felt inspired again and wanted to get dressed. “Thank god” I thought! It had been over a year since I had Margaux and I was wondering when and if I would ever get this feeling back again. If you’ve ever felt like this or are in a bit of a rut, give yourself time and grace and hopefully you’ll feel comfort in knowing you’re not the only one :)

xx

S

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continue scrolling for more

THE LIST - Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Matches

30% off private sale (at checkout) & extra 10% off sale with code extra10

NET-A-PORTER

Extra 15% off sale

DEAR KEATON

20% off site wide

BA&SH

use code THEGIRLGUIDE for an extra 10% off sale

Shopbop

25% off with code holiday

SSENSE

up to 50% off

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invest in the best

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At Home With Sixpenny

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Jasmine rice

the sectional // the slipcover

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The single most important piece of furniture in our home is our family room sofa. I searched for years for the right fit for us with two requirements: comfort and durability. The Sixpenny Gabriel offers both. I went with the down-filled for that sunken-in feeling and opted for two slipcovers, a beautiful gray linen called Jasmine Rice and a washed cotton linen in a fun pop of color called Nectarine Dream. For over a year we’ve used the Nectarine Dream exclusively and it has really been just that - a dream. With two rambunctious boys and a new baby it has seen its share of activity and stains and you would never know. I’ve spot treated and machine washed on delicate countless times with no issues. Lay flat to dry, press and voila!

A few weeks ago we switched to the Jasmine Rice and the fabric is absolutely gorgeous. The color is so beautiful and I love how luxurious it feels. Swapping out the covers is a breeze and takes less than 15 minutes. Because it’s 100% linen I will likely dry-clean this one. Stains are inevitable in our house and it's so nice to know it won’t mean the end of our investment!

Another feature I love about the Gabriel is the moveable ottoman. I looked at so many sectionals before finding this one and could never commit to a “side”. I love the idea of being able to put your feet up but traditional sectionals never looked elevated to me. The versatility is a huge bonus! Scroll down to see design inspiration for both colors as well as our family room progress so far.

xx

S

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Nectarine Dream

THE SECTIONAL

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Our Family Room Paint Color

farrow & ball shaded white

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thank you to sixpenny for sponsoring this post

FALL FAVORITES WITH VARLEY

GET THE LOOK

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Clothes for every season of life. My first post with Varley was last year around this time when I was 8 months pregnant with Margaux. When your 8 months pregnant and standing in front of your closet the goal is feeling put together, but the priority is comfort. Ever since then, Varley has been my answer to both. Postpartum I found myself living in coordinating sets like this half-zip sweatshirt and relaxed pant, soft leggings, and down outerwear. Everything I needed for weekend activities with the kids, a morning walk with a friend, or a trip to the city (and of course, many, many days spent at home!).

This season I’m so excited to be partnering with Varley again to share my favorite looks from their F/W collections.

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GET THE LOOK

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FALL FAVORITES

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thank you Varley for sponsoring this post

SPRING UNIFORM WITH VARLEY

GET THE LOOK

Hands down the softest piece of clothing in my closet! Varley’s Double Soft fabric is so luxurious and comfortable making it easy to achieve an elevated athleisure look. This month they launched a shorter version of my favorite high-rise short called the Keely. If you’re looking for a longer version I also have and love the Alder in color ivory marl. Both styles look great paired with a sweatshirt like this short-sleeved version or with a half-zip. Sharing a few more of my favorites for Spring below!

A note on sizing: I find that Varley runs one size larger than my typical size and suggest sizing down one when ordering! This has been consistent for the last year and across the board for all silhouettes. During pregnancy I ordered my TTS.

xx

Steph

SPRING FAVORITES

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THANK YOU VARLEY FOR SPONSORING THIS POST

BUILDING A CLASSIC SPRING WARDROBE

T i m e l e s s F a v o r i t e s

If you’re like me — always searching for and investing in classic pieces that stand the tests of time and trend — you will want to visit MYTHERESA this Spring. Their curation of European designers always inspires me and overall, their online experience and customer service are best in class. Here are the pieces I’ve had my eye on this season and some still on my wishlist from ones..xx S

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“Style is very personal. It has nothing to do with fashion. Fashion is over quickly. Style is forever.”- Ralph Lauren

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NEWBORN MUST HAVES

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feeding

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nursing

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THE BEST STAIN REMOVER

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SLEEP

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BATH TIME

ENDING THE YEAR WITH MYTHERESA

MY MYTHERESA WISHLIST

I was joking with my best friend yesterday that there is nothing more dangerous than a postpartum mom up in the middle of the night, on her cell phone, during the last two weeks in December… *Insert flying money emoji here!*

This past year MYTHERESA easily became one of my favorite places to shop. They always offer the most competitive prices on the European brands I love, free and expedited shipping (I always receive my order within 2-3 days), and the easiest 30-day return policy. Recently I discovered their children’s assortment and last week stocked up for the boys and Margaux :) I rounded up all my favorites on sale and my Winter wishlist below!

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TOTEME PRIVATE SALE

for three days only

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for baby

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FOR THE BOYS

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FOR THE GIRLS

THANK YOU MYTHERESA FOR SPONSORING THIS POST

MY LUXURY SALE WISHLIST

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t h e l u x u r y e d i t

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This is one of the best sales of the month if you’re shopping for beautiful investment pieces to add to your Fall and Winter wardrobe. It’s also the perfect time to send a hint to someone special shopping for you or get started on your own lists. I love these Toteme beanies (here in black) - they would make a great gift for a friend, mother, or sister-in-law.

A few weeks ago we were in the city and I popped in the Toteme boutique for the first time. There are so many pieces from the brand I’ve been eying this season and wanted to try a few things on. I was immediately drawn to this sweater. The color is the most gorgeous shade of cream, it’s incredibly soft, and I love the slightly wider sleeve. I recently did a huge closet clean out and sold/donated sweaters that I was no longer wearing so when I saw that this was available on Mytheresa and included in the sale I knew I had to get it. I’m saving it for postpartum (probably after Christmas) so I took my usual size in the brand which is one size down in their sweaters.

Other pieces I’m eyeing: this gorgeous Khaite tote. I have the raffia version from summer (also included in the sale) and used it everyday well into September. The leather would make a great work/travel bag! This brand is new to me but they have some beautiful knits including this olive striped on which is under $300 with the sale. Lastly if you’re looking for the perfect party dress this holiday season, THIS IS IT. My sister just wore it to a masquerade ball last weekend and it is stunning (and so fun). Very black swan!

xx

S

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T H E E V E N I N G E D I T

TOWN & COUNTRY WITH VARLEY

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I first discovered Varley last Spring when I was looking for sweaters and skirts to elevate my tennis look. I was instantly attracted to the brand's casually cool style set in a chic neutral palette and decided to give one of their sweaters a try. It quickly became one of my most worn pieces last spring and into summer! Varley really has it all: an athleisure sensibility that’s both stylish and insanely comfortable. Two things I always look for in a brand but especially as I enter this postpartum period. Their F/W collection is filled with pieces that can take you anywhere you want to go from lounging at home, a morning stroll with a friend, or a trip to the city.

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V A R L E Y S I Z I N G

COAT - XS (SIZE DOWN)

SWEATER - SMALL (TTS)

LEGGINGS - SMALL (True to Size NON-MATERNITY, ONE SIZE UP FOR MATERNITY)

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V A R L E Y S I Z I N G

COAT - XS (SIZE DOWN)

SWEATER - SMALL (TTS)

LEGGINGS - MEDIUM (True To Size NON-MATERNITY, ONE SIZE UP FOR MATERNITY)

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V A R L E Y S I Z I N G

COAT - SMALL (TTS)

SWEATER - SMALL (TTS)

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Thank you Varley for sponsoring this post

FALL'S COZIEST KNITS

D R E A M Y K N I T S

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Every year around this time I love to find the sweater (or two) that I know I’ll reach for until March. I’ve been doing this for the last few F/W seasons and the result is a collection of knits I’m still excited to pull out year after year. It’s no secret I love Toteme. Founded by one of the original Scandi cool girls Elin Kling. I remember meeting her for the first time 8+ years ago during NYFW at a Ralph Lauren show and completely embarrassing myself as I stumbled over greet her and tripped just at her feet. Not my coolest moment! Back then I read her blog “Style By Kling” religiously and she was one of the main reasons why I started The Girl Guide. Anyway…it’s no surprise that her line Toteme is killing it and season after season she continues to set trends and reinvent the classics in this effortlessly cool yet chic and sophisticated way. Who wouldn’t want to be all that?! My favorite place to shop Toteme (and Khaite) is MYTHERESA. Not only do they have the best assortment, they also have the best pricing (significantly less than US sites), and their complimentary expedited shipping is an unexpected luxury.

This alpaca knit feels like you’re wrapped in a teddy bear. It is incredibly soft and the richest shade of brown. I love it styled casually but it also looks great with a black slip skirt and a kitten heeled sandal. I hemmed and hawed over this striped one all last year and finally went for it last month. I love that its a modern twist on a classic striped sweater - the wide sleeves, side slits, and overall roomy fit - I know I’ll have it for years. Both sweater styles run on the bigger size so I recommend sizing down. Sharing a few other pieces i’ve been eyeing below in a MYTHERESA edit…

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mytheresa

e d i t

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thank you mytheresa for sponsoring this post

MATERNITY STYLE

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My first pregnancy related post since I announced we’re expecting! Honestly I still can’t believe it. I will definitely put together a post on our journey but for now I’m really excited to share some of my favorite maternity style tips for Fall and beyond. Its been 6 years since I last dressed a bump and in so many ways this pregnancy has felt like the first time all over again. You forget things! My biggest piece of advice is not to go out and spend a ton of money on maternity. The most important piece of the puzzle is to starts with the right basics : t-shirts, tanks, and denim, and then build from there. Once you have your foundation do as much as you can with non-maternity wear and then fill in the gaps with brands like Hatch. I’ll be updating this post throughout the next few months with ideas for evening and events but for now I wanted to focus on where to begin!

xx

S

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m a t e r n i t y b a s i c s

My go-to for maternity basics has always been H&M. The pieces I purchased when I was pregnant with Luke 8 years ago are still in great shape (and in style) today. They have the best t-shirt packs (neutral one here, black and white here) and coordinating sets for lounging like this ribbed pant and matching t-shirt. It’s my best kept secret! I can’t tell you how many clients I styled during their pregnancies that were blown away. Don’t spend $$$ on these items! Instead invest in items that will take you beyond birth and into fourth trimester. A few other great basics: this 5-pack of nursing tanks, this Calvin Klein nursing bra, this lace nursing bra (I’ve already started wearing and so comfortable!), and this t-shirt and legging set for all those lounge-y days around the house.

One place I will say it’s worth it to spend is on a great pair of denim. Right now that style I’m reaching for most (in general) is a more casual mom jean silhouette that is slightly cropped at the ankle. I got this pair from Paige and love them (more sizes here). I really love this wash and they feel just like my non-maternity denim.

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s w e a t s h i r t s & s l i p s k i r t s

I’ve always loved the combination of a sweater or sweatshirt layered over a slip skirt or dress for Fall. It’s so feminine and chic and looks great paired with your favorite sneakers or berks for a casual look or with a pair of suede flats for a bit more modern elegance. I love the idea of a slightly oversized sweatshirt but you can also style with a chunky knit like this one (use stephanieT15 to save).

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e a s y d r e s s e s

My goal for this Fall is to continue to wear the oversized knits and open cardigans that I love and layer them over maternity basics. This cardigan is basically a 3 season piece where we live. I reach for it multiple times a week and its been a great staple in my closet. If you’re looking for a lighter weight this cotton cable is perfection!

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t h e s t r i p e d s w e a t e r

There is nothing more classic than a striped sweater for Fall. One of my favorite brands, Toteme makes a beautiful turtleneck style in two color ways: black with an ivory stripe and ivory with a black stripe. The slightly oversized silhouette is perfect for a growing bump and looks great styled back to a pair of leggings or denim. Under $150 version here and here. If your third trimester lands during the winter months like mine here’s the look: throw a trench on and pair with sneakers and a classic handbag.

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S T Y L E I T W I T H

image sources: Pinterest

The ba&sh Paris Summer Sale

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t r a n s i t i o n a l b l a z e r s

use code “thegirlguide” for an additional 10% off your sale purchase

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c r o c h e t d r e s s

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N O W A N D L A T E R

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WHAT TO PACK - SUMMER VACATION STYLE

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f o r h i m

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f o r h e r

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v a c a t i o n s t y l e

thank you MYTHERESA for sponsoring this post

THE SUNDAY SECTION - 5.15.22

t h e s u n d a y s e c t i o n

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w h o

Forbes - 40 Previously Unseen Slim Aarons Photos, to Conjure the Vacation You Wish You Were On. Go poolside in these archival images from the photographer-king of warm-weather leisure.

WSJ - The Best Carry-On Travel Bag Is Nearly 80 Years Old. L.L. Bean’s iconic ‘Boat and Tote’ tote has survived the test of time—and countless airline bins.

House & Gardens - A sprawling English country house revived with a creative American spirit. Keith Johnson and Glen Senk’s search for a retreat from Florida’s heat took them to a Grade II-listed house in south west England, which, after restoration and redecoration, is a refreshing amalgamation of creative American spirit and English country ideals.

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W O R E

MYTHERESA is offering 10% off your purchase this weekend over $700! While that’s not a small amount if you’ve had your eye on a special item or a few summer staples, now is the time!

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w h a t

order - I was in the city this week and discovered Bonberi - and all-vegan market. I mean…I was in heaven! I bought a GF/DF cookie from a new to me bakery Knead Love and OMG so good. When I shared it on IG so many of you messaged me about their bagels! I immediately placed an order for everything bagels, cinnamon raisin bread, and the PMS cookies (trust me you need these!).

watch - Recently watched and loved. Outer Range: It’s like X Files meets Yellowstone. A touch slow in the beginning as they build the story but by the third episode I was fully invested. Now I’m impatiently awaiting a second season!

home - My favorite melamine plates are finally back in stock! I’m not kidding when I say these were unavailable for 6+ months. Snag them for all your kid-friendly meals and outdoor entertaining this summer. We have the olive but they’re also available in green, red, and blue.

make - Curry Chicken Salad Summer Rolls with Mango Chutney. These are so delicious! If you don’t have time to make the rolls just use the chicken salad recipe and toss on top of a bed of fresh greens. Yum!

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W H E R E

Paris!

We’re heading to Paris next month and I’m so excited! The first few days for work and then Frank is meeting me for the weekend and we’re celebrating our 10 year anniversary. Just started putting together some style Inso and thought id share! More here :)

Spring Break with Mytheresa

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I have always approached my wardrobe with a “quality over quantity” mentality and focused on investing in pieces that aren’t just of the moment or on trend. Mytheresa has always set the standard in luxury online shopping and I’m thrilled to be partnering with them on today’s post!

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S P R I N G C A P S U L E

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R A F F I A B A G S

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S U N G L A S S E S

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S A N D A L S

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THE SUNDAY SECTION - 4.10.22

t h e s u n d a y s e c t i o n

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W H O

Architectural Digest - Zaha Hadid Architects’ New Net-Zero Project Took Nine Years to Complete—But It Was Worth the Wait. Located in the UAE, BEEAH Group’s headquarters fuses technology and sustainability with inimitable design.

Harper’s Bazaar - 30 Famous Hotels From Movies and TV Shows You Can Actually Visit. BRB, booking a room at the White Lotus resort ASAP.

GQ - The Best Crewneck Sweatshirts for Men Are Verified Wardrobe Essentials. They go with everything, and every guy looks good wearing one. Here are the best of 'em to buy right now.

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W O R E

currently loving: sandals

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W H A T

home - This new Zara Home collection Tuscan Villa is stunning. I’ve always wanted to try a jute rug like this one. Love the look of the squares. Maybe in our next house! Seems perfect for a dining room.

listen - What can Florida’s boom teach the rest of America? This podcast from The Economist is a great listen. The mass migration to this southern state has been fascinating to watch and you wonder what’s next for the sunshine state. Luxury retailers are flocking there, CEO’s are moving their young families. Florida is no longer the retirement state.

cook - Brunch with Babs’ cookbook releases this Tuesday! Not only is it the best Mother’s day gift ever - it truly is a heart-warming compilation of one woman’s life through food. It’s about family, friends, and the unbreakable bonds we make around the table. Mrs. Williams Peanut Bars are insanely good. You’re welcome!

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W H E R E

cruisin’