37 Comments

We lived in New England for decades, and my seasonal affective disorder was in full swing by this time of year. I found an infrared sauna place in our town that I'd go and sit in a few times a week - and it really helped. Now we live in LA, and while it's a little lonely trying to start fresh in my 40s, at least the sun shines most days! Hard to have it all. Wishing you well and sending you warmth!

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Thank you so much for the tip, Ashleigh! A sauna is something I really should add to my routine. Wishing you all the best and cheers to new beginnings! What’s that phrase I’ve heard before, “you can ‘have it all’, just not at the same time” 🥴

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Ashleigh & Irene, just empathizing with you here...I grew up in New England, lived there for decades, too. After multiple moves over the years, we now live in Santa Barbara. I'm rounding towards 50, and like you, feel lonely trying to start anew, and it's tough to live so far from anyone who I'm truly close to (besides my husband), but boy, does that sunshine feel good. Irene, if I could box up some sunshine for you, I would ship it off in a heartbeat. I struggle with dysthymia and depression, too. Hugs to you, Sister.

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Thank you, Lisa. And a big warm hug back to you! The sun is out today against a clear blue sky, hallelujah!

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Hallelujah!!

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What does TTS mean?

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True to size, ie I took my usual size even though they look slouchy and sit on my hips!

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Thank you! Love your posts :)

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Thank you for reading :).

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So good. I resonate with your elegance word choice. Your outfits even in the freezing are perfect!

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Aww thank you, Grace!

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I cannot wait for the “Do Not Buy” section to come out. I think this is where I need the most help.

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If you haven’t already, I encourage you to read Tiia’s article and the comments!

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Hi Irene, I'm in Vermont, where it's also so grey and so cold 🫠. Your posts (and the aforementioned climate) have convinced me I need a balaclava. How does the Wira one from Cil (https://www.cashmereinlove.com/products/wira-balaclava-1) compare to the Dakin hood (https://janessaleone.com/collections/beanies-hoods/products/dakin)? I'm leaning toward the Wira but want to make sure it's worth the price. Thanks so much.

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The CIL one feels more sporty to me because of the colours, stripes, and the pompom, whereas the JL feels more city. Also the CIL is cashmere vs JL is wool. I think JL is more versatile for me, but get whatever you love and will wear most!

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Update: I got the JL one and absolutely love it and get tons of of compliments on it. I'm officially ABC - A Balaclava Convert. Thanks again!

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lol! Amazing!! Thanks for coming back and letting me know :). I’m loving mine too!

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Thank you! ❄️

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I am wishing you light! Come on, Sun! And grateful for you as always.

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And for you, friend!

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Really looking forward to hearing about what's on your "Do not buy" list!

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Rachel posted a note about it and I wrote someone of mine in response, but I’ve slowly mentally adding more....like sneakers!

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Hi Irene, I love both of those boots on you - Tibi Bronson and Khaite Volos - and it's definitely a gap in my wardrobe. I'm just wondering how do they compare. Are they both TTS, comfortable to walk in, etc. If you could only buy one, which one would you choose!! Thanks a million Paula

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Hi again Paula 🤣. Both are tts and comfortable to walk in. I can walk all day in both. In my Most Versatile Boot article I said I would go with the tallest boot you can. Since I’m a skirt wearer I find the Khaite more versatile and can wear under my shorter skirts. If you’re predominantly a pant wearer the Bronson will be fine. And the Bronson is tall enough you could wear it most midi skirts anyway!

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Thanks Irene - super helpful!!

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You're welcome, Paula!

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Can’t wait for Part 3! Hope you are feeling a a bit better. X

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Thank you, Paula. One day at a time 💪🏻

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I’m sure you have tried a happy light? I got one for my dad who lives where the sun hides all winter too and he says it’s helping!

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I’ve looked into lamps but there are so many on the market and I don’t know what to choose!

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I'm going to give this a try!

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There are soooo many

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Dear Irene, could you please add links to the IG reels that you mention before sharing your stills? 🙏🏻😚

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Loved this post so much, and how much you share with all of us, Irene. Hope you got some of that brilliant Toronto sunshine this past weekend. I had forgotten how much I missed it! ☀️

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That CdG skirt is a dream!

I hear you re: seasonal affective disorder. The days are finally getting longer here but the darkness just seems neverending. Everything is a blur and it's so hard to feel motivated. May we see some sun soon!

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