Cheryl Shops

I feel like my wardrobe is on the brink of a major transformation. It’s something that’s been brewing for awhile, thanks to ongoing Kondo-ing of my closet, but I think it’s about to come to fruition. I started a new job a few months ago; it’s creative, but in a corporate environment, and I’m now at a level where I’m feeling like I need a certain level of polish. It’s not necessarily dressiness; it’s more dressing to align with the authority of my position. I’ve found that I’m gravitating more toward a blazer-blouse-jeans combination, and when I wear skirts, midi suits me better. I’m not going to ditch all of my beloved minis, but I definitely need to pare down my collection, and probably confine them to the weekend. That is a rather lengthy lead-in to this post, but it sets the direction that my outfit posts will be moving toward. I never want to be the person to say what you should and shouldn’t wear at a certain age; I always say wear what makes you feel good—and at this point in my life, I’m feeling good in more tailored, polished things.




Like this silk blouse. The fabric feels amazing on the body and drapes in such a beautiful way. Wearing it makes me feel like a classy lady. This is Everlane’s oversized silk shirt, and it’s currently on sale; while I have a black silk shirt that I love, I’m contemplating buying this one in white too. It runs big—I’m in a size 4 and probably could’ve gone down to a 2—but that’s something I’ll never complain about.





I will, however, complain about how hard it is to find a good pair of white jeans. I’ve tried a bunch in the last year (including these, which have since gone to a resale shop) but finally found this pair on the recommendation of another blogger. They’re Old Navy’s High-Rise Secret Slim Pockets Power Straight Ankle jeans (say that 10 times fast), and they are inexplicably only $45—usually less with Old Navy’s ubiquitous discounts. The denim is nice and thick (e.g. not see-through) but there’s enough stretch to hold you in—or accommodate that pasta dinner you just ate. I also personally prefer a straight-leg cut—it’s the most flattering on me. These run true to size; I’m in a 28.




Is Free People a brand I should be phasing out? Maybe, but pieces like this jacket (last seen with a FP skirt) manage to look cool and pulled together at the same time. We shot these photos on the weekend, but this is totally an outfit that fits in with my new work vibe—I want to feel polished, but not at the risk of becoming boring. I wish this jacket were just a bit more fitted, however, so I may take it in for a little nip and tuck with my tailor.




I’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to introduce my new bag—I bought it at a supercool boutique called Audette when I was in Mexico City, and it’s quickly eclipsing my other bags as my summertime go-to. I love how unique the shape and color are; it actually holds a lot more than you’d expect, thanks to its structure. It’s also one of the few crossbody bags I own that doesn’t hurt my back. Audette bags are really reasonably priced for their incredibly high-quality Italian leather (and for the minimal vibe that I love), and for those of you who’d rather shop in person, their bags will be in MoMA stores later this year!




When it comes to looking polished, pointy-toe pumps are always a good idea. You’ve seen me wear these Calla pumps before, also with jeans— there’s just something about the combination of heels and jeans that dresses down the former and dresses up the latter. It’s like perfect wardrobe equilibrium! These run a half size big, and they’re the most comfortable pumps I own.




We shot these photos in Hayes Valley, one of my favorite neighborhoods to shop (and dine in) in San Francisco. Since it’s mostly flat and has a bunch of tiny, short streets, it’s also a great neighborhood to shoot in!



OUTFIT DETAILS: Free People jacket | Everlane silk blouse | Old Navy Power Straight jeans | Audette Coffret bag | Calla Ava shoes (c/o)