By: Jen Shoop

We are still waiting on spring’s full bloom — the blossoms on our backyard trees are just coming into themselves and the daffodils that line the walkway to our door are up but not open — yet I’m deep into my spring self already. I am wearing too-thin clothes for the still-cold weather, sorting my children’s rooms, re-organizing the medicine cabinet. I find myself wanting to put everything into a bin. Cord bin, shoe bin, especially the donate bin. One thing I learned observing my parents as they downsized from their house in NW DC to their condo in Bethesda: get rid of things periodically. They’ve actually always been good about this, but even with my Dad’s purge mentality, there were still duplicate knife sets they’d never needed, and old clothing my mother had hung onto from her childhood. I find myself applying new rubrics. It’s not just: do I need this / would I realistically use this in the next year, but — would I want to give this to someone in 5, 10, 30 years if I hang onto it? And would it better to give it away now? An excess mini food processor is better to shed today than in 15 years when it’s deprecated. Mainly this leads me to donate a lot of things, which is good.

This springtime urge for more blank space has also led me to re-evaluate my current organization systems. I realized we needed a second drying rack (less expensive option here) for the laundry room — I was forever filling our wall-mounted one and then draping excess items over baskets and on cupboard handles. And our basement storage room had piles of boxes and luggage on one side that often barred full entry to the space. My husband ordered additional storage units that matched the ones we already had in there and — wow. It feels so luxurious to have everything put away, and not heaped on the floor. I discovered that certain beauty items I reach for every day — contacts, these makeup removing wipes, retainer cleaner — were in the back of the cabinet, behind things I don’t use daily. I moved those to the front and decanted into containers to make them easy-to-grab. In the kitchen, I am forever in pursuit of a pair of scissors, a box cutter, and a pen, all items that appear to sprout feet and wander away over the course of a day. I bought extras (and then some) of each and stowed them in a specified bin. I also don’t know how it took me until this week to realize that my process for organizing my clothes and the various items brands send me to test was woefully ineffectual. I had piles of things everywhere. Neat piles, to be fair, but it always felt like I was shuffling small clusters of items from one area to the next without giving them a proper home. (Another surprise of getting older: how much time you spend putting things away.) I devised a new solution, with garment racks on the top floor, and a tiered cart with designated areas for products I want to test, products I want to write about, and products I want to give away. These tiny improvements somehow make me feel like I’ve closed seventy open tabs. The systems suit — even simplify — the work. (How had I not noticed the poor fit prior?)

I also find myself changing my work process–yet again. I am now in the midst of a few bigger projects (stay tuned!) that require chunkier blocks of maker’s time. My previous, more intuitive approach of mainly writing in the morning and mainly doing lighter creative work and admin (like collages, and product reviews, and emails) in the afternoon no longer pencils out. I have to “X” out entire half-days (sometimes full days) to really get into things and make material progress. My adaptability to this shift has surprised me. I guess all that writing and thinking about being fluid, accepting change with grace, and especially the mantra: “Actually, life is beautiful and I do have the time” are paying off. But mainly the work has made clear its demands, and I am dutifully carrying them out.

All of these movements are perfectly suited to springtime anyway. It’s the season to clear out the dead leaves, shed the layers, make room for what’s coming. It’s time to let the fresh in.

Sunday Shopping.

All the items I own or am currently eyeing in this spring headspace:

BEADBOARD DRYING RACK (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // DRAWER ORGANIZERS // RATTAN TIERED STORAGE // SORBUS CLEAR BINS // BEACHCOMBER BASKET // PASTEL DOCUMENT ENVELOPES //SCISSORS // THE BEST PENS // STACKABLE CLEAR DRAWERS // LUCITE HANGERS // MINI LABEL MAKER // GOLD GARMENT RACK

And! A few other more general shopping bits and bobs:

PATTERNED PANTS AND TOP // RAFFIA BAG // STRAPPY SANDALS // BRODERIE ANGLAISE TOP AND PANTS

+Banana Republic launched a 40% off promo this morning. Use code BRSHIP. Love this top and the matching pants! And this bag and this dress! And so much more.

THE JSH HOME COLLECTION

+Just discovered the most gorgeous collection of home accessories — paper products, pillow covers, candles, and more. I’ll take one of everything.

+I ordered my kids the cutest new bedding — this clamshell motif for my daughter and this alligator motif for my son. All of it is 25% off with code  ROOMREFRESH25.

+I couldn’t resist treating myself to this Bottega-inspired mini clutch! (Compare with the real deal — $9,000 — here.). Will go perfectly with my Julia Amory dress (now available!)

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links above, I may receive compensation.

By: Jen Shoop

+PORTRAITS OF MOTHERHOOD: My friend Riley Sheehey illustrated the most gorgeous book on motherhood; it launches on the 25th, but you can pre-order here. (And pre-orders are a big deal for authors! A great way to support an author you admire/love.) Each page is like a Delft tile — delicate, charming, and narrative-oriented. I absolutely loved her post on the publication journey, including the mini bottle of champagne she purchased for herself when she signed the contract. It’s so beautiful to see the process behind the product — all the blood, sweat, tears! A well-formed sentence (or well-drawn line) is no accident. My favorite page depicts a mother holding a dandelion for her daughter to “make a wish on.” It felt kismet, as I just finished writing about dandelions, which are extraordinary plants, but commonly considered unwanted weeds. Riley’s portrait of that vignette reminded me that — in addition to being self-propagating, resilient, and medicinal — dandelions carry the wishes of children all over the world. How sweet? Bravo, Riley! I think this book would be a sweet addition to a baby shower gift, or a gift for a new mother, or a gift for your own mother.

+ANOTHER REASON TO EMBRACE THE ADMIN: I wrote recently about my mantra, when it comes to chores, admin, anything that doesn’t feel like “the heart of the matter” — “this, too, is the job.” Meaning: stop resisting, stop dismissing those activities as “filler” or “interruptions” or “extraneous” because they are in fact a big part of the job of running a home, being a mother, participating in a workplace. Anyway – I was just thinking this week that a lot of these repetitive tasks, like folding laundry and putting away groceries, even running to some extent, are frequent sites of creativity for me. It’s like I’m focusing my lens on one specific detail, and this rich tapestry of thought is forming almost without me knowing it in the bokeh. (How many of you have also come up with a great idea while in the shower?) Just another reason to accept, even embrace, those tasks. A lot comes out in the wash, you know?

+A PANT TO WORK IN: OK, these $59 pants are beyond incredible. I wore them all day to write in and they have such a great amount of stretch — sit and move with you so well — but look very polished at the same time. I dressed them up below to demonstrate how great they’d be for a meeting / in a work environment. The color is a fun switch-up from black/navy but reads like a neutral. They’re $59…! Lots more colors available. I got them in the pale spinach hue. Run TTS. Styled with a SoldOut NYC button down (they make THE BEST SHIRTING — it’s so luxe in handfeel and silhouette; could pass for Oscar or Ralph prestige labels! Use my code MAGPIE15 for 15% off; all my favorites from that brand here) and my beloved Veronica Beard denim vest, which I’ve worn sooo many different ways already.

+TIMOTHEE CHALAMET SPEAKING FRENCH: IDK who needs to see this, but here is Timothee Chalamet being charming in French. And, I shared this via my newsletter yesterday (sign up here!), but this video of a man reviewing his family’s “performance” shopping at Target made me laugh out loud. (“We’ll review the footage, we’ll get better, and we’ll move on from there” — lol.)

+BESTSELLERS: This dress, again! A bestseller for a reason.

01. BEST POLISHED DAYTIME DRESS FOR ANYTHING // 02. CHICEST REVERSIBLE QUILTED PULLOVER (UNDER $30) // 03. TARGET MESH FLAT // 04. FRANK AND EILEEN LOOK-FOR-LESS SET // 05. MY FAV GRAY BAG // 06. FARM RIO TOP (WE SOLD OUT THE ONE AT NORDSTROM BUT MORE HERE AND HERE) // 07. TRUE BOTANICALS BRONZEWELL DROPS (OBSESSED) // 08. MOTHER WHITE JEANS // 09. MINI RAFFIA BAG // 10. YELLOW MARY JANES (IN MY CLOSET TOO) // 11. GAP CRINKLE SHORTS // 12. GORGEOUS POINTELLE CARDI (ALSO IN MY CLOSET)

+WELCOME INCONVENIENCE #194: I wrote not long ago about “welcome inconveniences” — things that, on the surface, feel like frustrations but turn out to be gifts, or proof of effort, or evidence of love. I just discovered this week that five keys on my keyboard have completely lost their lettering. I happened to be glancing down for the letter “A,” and it was nowhere to be seen. I’d run the letters blank. It felt like an invisible milestone; how many thousands of times have I hit the keys A, S, E, R, and T over the past many years? This keyboard has born witness to each keystroke that has brought me to where I am now.

+EYEING + BUYING: I love this pretty top and the matching shorts — I’m all about the sets right now. Would be such a cute late spring look with leather sandals.

HHH ANNETTE TOP // HHH AUDREY SHORTS // FREDA SALVADOR CLEAR FISHERMEN SANDALS // AMAZON BAG // ALPYN BARRIER REPAIR CREAM // SELF PORTRAIT DRESS // MANGO BLAZER

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

By: Jen Shoop

The Jacket Makes the Look.

One of those days where I felt uninspired, so I just took out all my favorite things to wear, paired them together, and finished with a great jacket. This quilted coat seems to go with and over everything — loose fit accommodates puffy/bulky sleeves, dressy enough to pair with a dress or fancier look but elevates jeans and a tee, warm enough for this in-between weather. And of course the dramatic collar makes it.

LOEFFLER RANDALL BARRETT COAT // MOTHER HALF-PIPE ANKLE JEANS // SOLD OUT NYC BROWN TEE // QUINCE CASHMERE STRUCTURED CARDIGAN // ELLEME BAG // FREDA SALVADOR FLATS

An Easy, Bold Caftan.

I absolutely love the fit and detail on this Julia Amory caftan. The colorway is old but there are new options available now (use code JEN-15); LOVE this brand-new (just launched this week) patterned lilac option. Can be worn belted or unbelted — so comfortable and so chic. I was stopped so many times while wearing this on St. Patrick’s Day!

JULIA AMORY COATUE CAFTAN // QUINCE MULES (SOLD OUT; SIMILAR HERE AND UPGRADE PICK HERE) // DANS LA MAIN TOTE

Another Great Pair of Jeans for Petites.

I’ve been sharing lots of great petite-friendly styles lately; these Mother Ankle-length half-pipes are another fab buy. I’m 5’0 and they required no tailoring. They are a bit more rigid than the Rutis (Rutis are like level 10 comfort – so, so stretchy; let’s call them “airplane jeans”) but I was still able to do an entire day of work in them at my desk, and I feel like they sort of hold you in / suck you in. The sneakers made this whole vibe work; they are from Larroude but very Miu Miu.

You may also notice that in most of the photos in this post, I’m wearing a new long-length charm necklace (26″) from Hart. I had so much fun picking out the charms and kind of want to add a few extras. The exact charms I have are here. It has been such a conversation-starter this week! I’ve been asked about it at least three times!

SOLD OUT NYC TEE // MOTHER HALF PIPE JEANS // LARROUDE SNEAKERS // ALTUZARRA TOTE // HART CHARM NECKLACE (WITH PIG, LETTER, AND “LET IT GO” COIN)

Chic Two-Piece Set for Dinner with My Parents.

We ate at Opal in Chevy Chase and it was a gorgeous, warm spring night. I wore this two-piece set (top, skirt) from Julia Amory, which felt polished but playful. I feel like this would be a brilliant thing to pack for a vacation, because you could pair the top with white shorts or jeans, and the skirt with a simple white tank or a white button-down for a completely different look — three different vibes with one set. You can’t really see the necklace, but it’s SUCH a great statement, from Lizzie Fortunato. When I sat down, my mom said, “Gosh, I wish you would have paired your necklace to your outfit a little better.” (Ha!). They looked MADE for each other. I layered it over this fun heart pendant from Mignonne Gavigan. Maximalism in full force!

JULIA AMORY SKIRT // JULIA AMORY TOP // LIZZIE FORTUNATO NECKLACE // MIGNONNE GAVIGAN HEART PENDANT // J. CREW TOTE // NOT SEEN, BUT WORN: THE BEST PLATFORM SANDALS

Classic White Oxford Dress.

My inner prep couldn’t resist this fab white oxford shirtdress. I was really pleased with the fit. Some of the Untuckit styles are a bit boxy on me, but this one was really beautifully tailored — felt/fit more like a Veronica Beard to me. I think my code JEN20 should still work, making this a GREAT, versatile everyday dress. I swapped out the fabric belt it came with for this Aureum because I was going to a meeting and wanted to feel a bit more polished, but you could definitely style more casually or even without any belt. I ended up wearing a bright Hermes scarf with this but was in a rush so didn’t grab a picture of it!

UNTUCKIT OXFORD DRESS // CELINE SUNGLASSES // CUYANA BAG // AUREUM BELT (20% OFF WITH JENS20) // HART CHARM NECKLACE AND CHARMS // DORSEY HEART ID NECKLACE

What to Wear While Sorting My Children’s Rooms.

I went for comfort — my beloved Alice-Walk sweater (like a hug!) — and it was chilly out while we cleaned out my children’s bedrooms.

ALICE WALK WEEKENDER SWEATER // J. CREW POINTELLE HENLEY // MOTHER JEANS // ROTHY CLOGS

Two Fun Statement Tops for Spring.

Wore these on two separate days, but managed to totally forget to capture the outfits in any greater detail! Both of these are really fun but easy to wear with white jeans, and both of them are reasonably priced. The gingham is $54. Runs small – I took a 0 but wish I’d taken a 2.

FEW MODA GINGHAM TOP

TUCKERNUCK TOP

What to Wear for Car Travel + Spa Day.

My mom and I both showed up for our little one-night getaway wearing Frank and Eileen! Polished, comfortable, elevated athleisure. This is my set, but this $49 look for less from Amazon has gotten the Magpie reader stamp of approval. Many of you have written to rave about it. I was also wearing my new oversized Cuyana tote, which turns out to be a fantastic travel day bag. It fits a TON.

FRANK AND EILEEN SET (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // CUYANA TOTE (WHICH I USED AS MY TRAVEL CARRY-ALL AND FOLDED UP MY GOYARD FOR ACTUALLY GOING TO/FROM SPA) // ADIDAS SAMBAS

Perfect Shirtdress.

I’ve shared this a lot this week, but it really was a 10/10. Will be wearing a lot. I love the fluidity of the skirt — it just glides and moves!

TUCKERNUCK DRESS // FREDA SALVADOR FLATS // VERONICA BEARD CLUTCH

Soon to Arrive Julia Amory Dress.

It was a Julia Amory week, I guess! And I feel bad sharing this one today because it doesn’t launch until tomorrow and I feel like it’s going to sell out quickly. This is her Betty dress silhouette — my second or third pattern in this style. Comes in a great, heavy-weight cotton (like, surprisingly heavy) and I love the dramatic length.

JULIA AMORY BETTY DRESS (MY EXACT PRINT LAUNCHING TOMORROW) // ALTUZARRA TOTE // MADEWELL MARY JANES // MIGNONNE GAVIGAN NECKLACE (OLD) // DANA REBECCA NECKLACE // DORSEY HEART ID NECKLACE

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links in this post, I may receive compensation.

By: Jen Shoop

I finished Pat Barker’s The Silence of the Girls and it made me think a lot – as mythology and its representations are meant to do – about the underlying shapes of things. The archetypes of heroism; the fundamentals of conflict. I also went on two four-mile runs this week, my first time back on the road in ages. Both days, I ran through the morning lightly, fleet of foot — I was so happy to be moving in the spring air — and I noticed dozens of parents walking their children to school, or standing at the curb or sitting on the stoop, waiting for buses to arrive. I overheard many quiet, routine tendernesses: last-minute reminders, final hugs, laughter. The shuffling of bangs out of faces, and wiping of breakfast crumbs off of cheeks. Inchoate promises: “Maybe after school…” It struck me that all over the world, parents are engaged in this exact and unremarkable daily send-off: these same closing ministrations before the fledglings fly out into the world. What I really saw was the familiar daily devotion each of us accomplishes in her own lane, not knowing she is part of an enormous pattern of women expressing their love in unknowing synchrony with one another. What an incredible thing, to be a part of that tapestry of love.

Another underlying shape: the undulating wave of the morning send-off. Which made me think, too, of this one painting by Pablo Picasso called “Femme et Enfant” — and how rich the tradition of motherhood portraiture has been over the ages, from the Madonna-and-Childs of the Medieval period through the cubists, and beyond. Across the decades, you see a lineage there, a continuity in form. You look at the Picasso painting, as abstract as it is, and you just know you’re looking at a mother and her baby, those cosseting arms, and yet it is expressed differently.

What are the underlying shapes of my motherhood, I wonder? The things I feel for, the elements that jump out at me, or that I cozy up against?

Post-Scripts.

+Love waits, doesn’t it?

+The most romantic movie scene.

+A playlist for a lowkey romantic night.

+Make this cocktail this weekend!

+A visual aubade to spring.

Shopping Break.

+What us Magpies are reading right now here. I am just settling into The Berry Pickers but what I really feel like reading is this one, which so many of you are reading ATM!

+Just updated my Shopbop hearts. In the process, I ordered this skirt and the matching top!

+Very popular among Magpie shoppers the past few days: this mini raffia bag! I believe it’s still 25% off! If you’re looking to make a bigger investment in this style of bag, you might consider this Gucci or this Tods.

+This tweed top is SO good, and $59. It reminds me of the shape of that chic Julia Amory top.

+My Ciao Lucia dress just arrived and is so darling. I found a great look for less here!

+I’ve been living in my Varley pieces this spring (see me in two of my favorite Varley pieces here, with all my picks linked below).

ROSELLE FLEECE // SLIM CUFF PANTS // CELESTE SWEATSHIRT CARDIGAN // OLLIE SHORTS

+Goop just restocked its wildly popular hydra-barrier lip gloss. (It was sold out for awhile.) Use code SHOOP15 for 15% off.

+Just got these glossy gold earrings in — I feel like they’ll be my new everyday go-to.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links above, I may receive compensation.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

I’m always in need of an “in between” shoe for spring. You know, not quite a sandal but not quite a structured ballet flat or loafer. I have been loving the mesh flats and jellies microtrend — popular last season and even more widespread this one. What a playful way to welcome spring and have fun with fashion, while indulging in some 90s nostalgia. I’m ordering a pair of these $50 The Row-inspired flats, and will be bringing out my Staud Alba flats from last season — elegant yet sweet and casual at the same time (seen above and below!). These $35 Target Mary Janes (a Magpie reader bestseller) achieve a similar look.

How I’ve Worn the Staud Alba Flat.

Flats and Jellies for Spring: Street Style Inspiration.

Below, inspo to demonstrate the playful chicness of this trend! I love the way a colorful mesh flat looks with a simple color scheme.

ALBA BALLET FLATS CREAM CROCHET // RAFFIA ALBA BALLET FLATS // ALBA BALLET FLATS RED NETTING // MARLOW JELLY FLATS // BRIT BALLET FLAT IVORY CROCHET // JAMIE JELLZ SLIP ON BALLET FLAT // IVORY NOLITA FLATS // LUNA MESH BALLERINA FLATS // LANDON MESH BALLET FLAT // LEATHER TRIMMED FISHNET BALLET // SPIRE WOVEN MARY JANE // BALLA MESH BALLET FLAT // RAFFIA BALLET FLAT // SWAN LAKE MESH FLATS

Styling Inspo: Mesh and Jelly Flats.

KEARNEY TEE WITH CONTRAST PIPING (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // SUPERWIDE-LEG JEANS // ALBA BALLET FLATS // DASH CLUTCH // BABY KNOT EARRINGS

BLUE AND WHITE CORINNE STRIPE DRESS // AESTHER EKME SMALL SUEDE SHOULDER BAG // LANDON MESH BALLET FLATS // THE CASHMERE CREWNECK SWEATER (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // HEART AND SOUL EARRINGS

STAUD ROCKI SHELL SWEATER // RIO SHORT DUSTY CITRON (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // CREAM AND NATURAL LAN BAG // SELENE SASHA SUNGLASSES // MINI FLORENCE EARRINGS // BRIT BALLET FLAT IVORY CROCHET

LOW SLUNG BAGGY JEANS // PIMA COTTON T-SHIRT (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // CASHMERE CARDIGAN // THE ARDEN TOTE // KAI BIO BASED SUNGLASSES // JAMIE JELLZ SLIP ON BALLET FLAT // DEMI FINE PUFFY HOOP EARRINGS

P.S. My favorite spring jackets.

P.P.S. Spring finds for children.

P.P.P.S. A visual aubade to spring.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

A few items I’m really excited to wear in the coming weeks:

+This party-ready Aligne top. It honestly reminded me of that viral poem by Lindsay Rush, “She’s a Bit Much.” Have you read it? (“You mean like a bonus fry in the bottom of the bag?”)

+This Tuckernuck patterned blouse, which I’ve already worn. Makes me feel like I’m on vacation.

+This new Julia Amory husband shirt (15% off with JEN-15) — my favorite thing to wear over a bathing suit in the summer (ultra light and airy), but I also love to wear with white jeans. This is already selling out in select sizes, FYI.

+This pale pink Ciao Lucia number. I couldn’t resist the color and shape.

+This white lace caftan dress. Love the idea of dressing up with heels and a little woven clutch or dressing down with flat leather sandals and a ponytail.

Items that are more in the everyday wear category that also make me very excited below. Whenever I’m in a fashion rut, I go to my closet and pick out all my absolute favorite basics and layer them on top of one another. A few of my most-worn hero pieces, all of which play nicely together, and each of which I reach for, week in and week out, and each of which continues to delight me with details, fit, style:

+Sold Out NYC tees. I have almost all the colors, and two in white. The silkiest hand-feel, opaque, sufficiently thin that you can tuck without bulk, a “fashion-y” silhouette. (15% off with magpie15.)

+This Quince cardigan,* my La Ligne sweaters (especially Mini Marins), and Alice Walk knitwear (although I find these are more casual / comfort-wear for me).

+My Celine tortoise sunglasses.

+Barrel jeans — Madewell’s Darted pair, Mother’s Half-Pipe ankles, and Ruti. All very petite friendly. The Ruti pair have the most stretch.

+This statement jacket from Loeffler Randall.

+My Hart charm necklace. (Exact charms I have here.)

+Doen Sebastiane skirt.

+These Freda Salvador flats. The squared toe feels contemporary, and silver is unexpected?

*Note that Quince is running a very rare one-day sale today only, with 88 items discounted (discount appears in cart). It’s a little confusing but they sent me a list of all the items included and I narrowed it down to (in my opinion) the best picks:

01. These Birk-like suede clogs ($10 off). I have these and the Birk Bostons and honest to God prefer these. They are much more comfortable in the footbed / have more support or cushion or something. They run a bit wider than Birks.

02. These lightweight cashmere crewnecks ($10 off) in great colors. A fantastic wardrobe staple. Tuck into white/ecru denim for an easy transitional look.

03. Distressed denim shirt (20% off). Another great staple. I love this layered over a silky dress or paired with white or brown denim.

04. More of an investment, but this cashmere puffer vest is $50 off, and looks a lot like Loro Piana.

P.S. Our lives become mosaics of the people we love.

P.P.S. Not to be morbid, but what would your last meal be?

P.P.P.S. Permutations of love.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

Easter basket fillers collage

JUMP ROPE // SUGARFINA CANDIES // BASKET // PAJAMAS // CROCS // MELAMINE PLATE // PLASTIC EGGS

As we await the joy of Easter, I’ve pulled together some of my favorite Easter basket fillers for children, including these pajamas I ordered for my children.

01. Fun tokens for an egg hunt. I’ve used these for a few years — be sure to sort through them and pluck out the ones that aren’t feasible / seem a bit too much!

02. Darling pajamas as seen above.

03. Absolutely love this scalloped Easter basket!

04. Spring sticker book.

05. This egg hunt kit with healthier snacks inside.

06. Wish I could buy this floral vest for myself!

07. How fun is this $9 jump rope?!

08. A Maileg rabbit is the perfect basket filler.

09. Springy mess-free painting book.

10. Personalized toile plates.

11. Melamine Easter plates on clearance here and here.

12. Spring Squishmallows!

13. This Lego set would be perfect for my son.

14. Wooden bead kit.

15. Coloring art cards!

16. Printed plastic eggs.

17. An alternative book option.

18. I love the idea of a card game as a basket filler — see our family favorites here.

19. Sugarfina assorted candies.

20. Another basket option! I’m obsessed with the woven ears.

21. Easter puzzle.

22. I love this idea — kid’s gardening tools so they can help Mr. Magpie in the garden.

23. Kid’s floral crocs.

P.S. March is a good month for change.

P.P.S. Favorite spring jackets.

P.P.P.S. More spring finds for children.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

Spring fitness finds collage

BEST GYM SHOES EVER (ON MY SECOND PAIR) // FAVORITE INEXPENSIVE CREW SOCKS // OPEN EARBUDS // SWEATSHIRT // WATER BOTTLE // YELLOW RUNNING SHOES // 5LB WEIGHT

I’ve been in a determined fitness groove this year, and so has Mr. Magpie. At the beginning of the year, my goal was to move my body for at least 20 minutes each day, with three longer, higher intensity sessions per week. Over time, my target has evolved to working out more days than I don’t each month. I do try to exercise every day but sometimes it’s just not feasible — illness, travel, work commitments, schedule changes, fatigue (!), etc. — and so having the modified objective of working out at least 1/2 and usually closer to 2/3 of the days of the month feels right for right now. I track this by using a little square desk calendar to cross off the days I’ve exercised; mine is from Appointed but sadly sold out. You can find something similar here.

What this usually looks like is 20-25 minutes of Heather Robertson (available for free on YouTube) or Physique57 (I pay a monthly subscription for video access) 4-5 mornings each week, and then 2-3 of those days, I add on a 20-30 minute cardio session (usually on the stationery bike, but about to reincorporate street running and trail running into my routine now that it’s getting warmer). I can feel myself getting stronger — better able to hold poses and complete sets, leveling up in weights — which is reassuring, especially during this perimenopause phase where sometimes I feel alien in my own body. Has anyone else been feeling this way? My doctor explained all these changes so I knew to anticipate them, and I am trying to give myself and my body grace, but it can feel bewildering and even frustrating. What’s always worked in terms of keeping my body toned no longer seems to matter! Ah well. Onward…

ABOVE: ALICE WALK SWEATSHIRT // FREE PEOPLE BRA // VUORI ENERGY TANK // LULULEMON BRA // TAKEYA SPORT BOTTLE // TARGET SOCKS

ABOVE: FREE PEOPLE SHORTS // ALICE WALK SWEATSHIRT // VUORI TEE

In addition to the quote “move the dirt,” one of my favorite ways to keep myself motivated: with fresh fitness gear. Below, some of my favorite fitness discoveries for spring exercise:

01. My favorite workout tanks: the Energy Top from Vuori and a good look-for-less here.

02. This Beyond Yoga spacedye bra with matching leggings.

03. FP peachy leggings and matching bra.

04. A classic cropped sweatshirt.

05. Vuori lightweight tee.

06. I see these FP shorts all over social media!

07. Lululemon classic light support bra.

08. Butter yellow running shoes. Obsessed!

09. Old Navy longline sports bra for a great price. Comes in so many colors too!

10. I love the entire Align collection from Lululemon, including these 6″ shorts.

11. This half zip is $25 right now. Limited sizes left!

12. Another running shoe option.

13. Target floral sports bra — perfect for spring!

14. 5lb dumbbells.

15. Amazon weighted vest for $30.

16. I’m a big fan of the Owala water bottles.

17. The perfect workout/running earbuds.

18. I want to wear this sweatshirt over everything! So comfortable yet chic.

19. Running crew socks.

20. Another great FP bra/tank.

P.S. On progress and realizing you’ve changed.

P.P.S. Chic totes for spring.

P.P.P.S. Everyday sweaters.

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

Above: getting an overdue manicure yesterday with my new mini wallet from Marni (50% off). I am a stalwart when it comes to nail colors: either bright red (OPI Big Apple Red) or white-pink (I like Essie’s Fiji and OPI’s Let’s Be Friends and Lisbon Wants Moor). I can’t explain the instant effect this manicure had on me, but it felt sort of like getting a leg up on my week? (An energy multiplier, maybe?) How to explain that feeling to a man?! Nails are my one weekly beauty indulgence; I’m more sporadic on hair, facials, eyebrows, etc, but I almost always get my nails done once a week. I think a big part of it is that I always read while I get my nails done. It feels like the most luxurious hour long retreat — a pause for just me — and I feel so pulled-together when I leave.

Anyhow — this, and a few other items, on my radar this week —

VERONICA BEARD VEST // CORPUS BODY CREAM // STAUD SKIRT // OSSA PHONE WRISTLET // PRESTON LANE COUNTERTOP SPRAY // CHANEL FLATS // STAUD ELLISON DRESS // YSE EXFOLIATING PADS (20% OFF WITH JEN20) // MARNI MINI WALLET (50% OFF)

01. I cannot resist this pink linen vest. I am obsessed with this look paired with white jeans!

02. I love a scented body lotion, and this one — bergamot, pink lemon, orange blossom — is on its way to me. My other favorite (a major splurge) is Byredo’s Blanche. It’s such a great clean base layer scent — plays well with other perfumes.

03. Full maxi skirts are having a moment. You know how much I love my Doen (look for less here and here); this striped Staud turned my head, too.

04. The number one question I field from my Instagram account — where is your phone sling from?! It is from the brand Ossa and highly impractical (glass beads!). It makes Landon angry – ha. But it’s so cute! I take it on and off depending on what the day has in store for me. I’m not, obviously, jogging with it attached. This one is similar (and from the same brand) as mine — so cute for spring.

05. I have now tried two of the Preston Lane all purpose cleaner sprays. They are effective and smell so, so good — the most luxe cleaner. I know this is a bit nutty but I like to use it to clean down the counters just before bed. Feels like such a luxe reset for the next morning. I like both the Mayfair and Doheny Drive scents, but find myself reaching more often for the Mayfair because the lime gives a really fresh smell to the kitchen.

06. I’ve noticed this micro-trend of sneaker/mary-jane hybrids. This is the Chanel take on the trend. Loeffler Randall has a great option, too, for much less, and it has apparently sold out once already!

07. Staud knows how to cut a dress that flatters. I’d feel so sexy and chic in this little number in the perfect green hue! I’d style with other pastels.

08. I just ran out of my beloved Dr. Dennis Gross facial pads (which are currently 25% off — ordered a new set and a back up)! While waiting for the new order to arrive, I’ve been using these YSE ones. They’re really, really good too. I like the textured side of the pad for scrubbing off excess random little bits of makeup and the like. (And, they gave us a code — JEN20 for 20% off.)

09. I just received this gorgeous mini-wallet from Marni. She’s perfect. I usually carry just a card case and the little Goyard pouch for cash / receipts / etc, but this achieves a similar effect (super compact and chic) in one. It’s 50% off!

P.S. What are your grooming rituals? (Comments are fascinating.)

P.P.S. Reteaching a thing its loveliness.

P.P.P.S. A humble thing.

By: Jen Shoop

Things I tell myself all the time as a mother…

Today is not the final draft.

Avoid baby talk. Use the real anatomical terms; tell the truth about death.

They are only this young today.

It’s OK that your home is messy; it’s OK that it looks like little children live here.

Sometimes (often times) the right decision will be unpopular with them, and that’s OK. You are not their best friend; you are their mother.

The most important question: did they feel loved today?

The meat of motherhood is not the epic trip or the over-the-top birthday party — it’s the thousand fibrous daily gestures of love you do almost without thinking: refilling the water cups, soothing minor aches and pains, “wow — you built that?!” (It’s OK to do the small thing.)

Hold them as long as they’ll let you.

What’s right for your friend’s daughter is not necessarily right for your daughter. (In fact, often is not.)

Listen when your children are telling you who they are.

Trust your instincts. No one is more of an expert in your children than you are.

Don’t pepper them with questions just after they get into the car. Give them time to decompress. Drive quietly and their observations will tumble out in good time.

You carry all your children’s ages inside; they are never gone.

It’s OK to go to the doctor with a random symptom. It’s OK to tiptoe into their bedroom to take their temperatures in the middle of the night. Peace of mind is valuable.

If you want to understand their worlds, ask a question and then shut up.

Exercise practicality — are they hungry, are they tired, are they uncomfortable? A lot of things can be resolved with a snack or a nap.

Change is hard on kids! Go easy during the transitions back to school, big life changes, etc. There may be tantrums, bed-wettings, nightmares, etc. Reassure them and know that things will eventually shake out.

Avoid empty threats. Follow through on discipline.

Put a fish in water! (When facing big moods, weird pent-up energy, boredem — drop them in a bath, blow up the backyard pool, let them play in the sink. Water is magic!)

One of the greatest gifts you can give them: the ability to happily spend time alone.

Let them see you fail, or make a mistake. Apologize. Model resilience.

Learn what your kids need when they are upset. Emory needs space and then physical touch and reassurance: “everything’s OK.” Hill needs to be held and talked to.

When you are going toe-to-toe with them over something, ask: “Is this the battlefield I want to die on?”

Structure is good. Routines are good. Expectations are good. Show them pictures, describe what rooms will look like, etc.

A lot of times, simple answers to tough questions are best.

Your children are not projects. Scaffold their movements as they become their own perfect selves.

You’re where you need to be. (The doctor’s appointment, the sick day, the last minute run to school to drop off a lunch — these may feel like inconveniences, but they are all part of motherhood. You’re doing what you need to do, being where you need to be.)

You are their soft landing. Put your hard-edged angst and worry aside and become the softest version of yourself when they need it.

What are some of the things you tell yourself as a mother?

Post-Scripts.

+It’s their day, too. (A quote borrowed from Katie Blackburn.)

+Sometimes motherhood feels like long division.

+Maintaining wonder in motherhood.

+Long days of parenting. (They will happen.)

Shopping Break.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

+Majorly trending among Magpies the last few days: this spring blouse. I’m inclined to copycat and order, too! A lot of you also picked up these Target flats, which are a good look for less for my Staud Albas (I have them in the white netting color).

+LOVE gauze for summer — two favorites are Xirena’s blouses (so chic with jeans!) and Alice Walk’s gauze pants. Just saw Gap has a really cute gauze shorts and top set situation at a great price! Would be such a cute set for summer.

+Another chic set: this top and these matching shorts. Pair with a big straw tote and leather sandals.

+Two lace pieces I’m loving: these shorts, this top.

+Best inexpensive sleeping pillows. We use throughout the house!

+GORGEOUS new arrivals from Mestiza: this dress, this one.

+Perfect striped tee.

+Chic storage solution – love that it comes with a lid. One of my big gripes in NYC was that I couldn’t find attractive storage bins with lids, and having that extra visual “noise” drove me crazy…but these are my favorite attractive storage solution WITHOUT lids.

+Contemplating switching out our wicker outdoor set for this sleek one from S&L.

+You may remember I’m a huge fan of Sarah Creal’s face flex concealer — it is specifically designed for more mature skin and does not settle into fine lines, yet somehow provides excellent coverage. Just reordered after emptying a bottle. I also noticed they have this eye cream…inclined to test because I’m so impressed by the efficacy of their other products!

+Mr. Magpie just signed up for some tennis lessons – I ordered both him and my son these cute white shorts (kids’ size here)!

+Another cute little boy find: these seagull swim trunks (under $20). Also cute in the green/white stripe.

+Just stocked up on some new gift wrap for upcoming birthdays. How adorable is this pattern?

By: Jen Shoop

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

I know a lot of us bought this cornflower blue striped shirtdress (seen above with these flats and this clutch) — it is such a chic, tailored but feminine style for a meeting or a casual dinner out. (I was having dinner with my Mom!) It gives me vintage Ralph Lauren vibes with the contrast white shirting collar. And it’s under $170! (Use code YOUROCK or YOURULE for 20% off, bringing the total under $150.) I also jumped on this Harper Shirtdress by Goop’s house label, G. Label — it has a similar elevated everyday elegance. (Reminder that SHOOP15 gets you 15% off of all Goop’s house labels, including Goop Beauty.)

Elegant Everyday Dresses: Street Style Inspiration.

Below, a little mood board to set the tone I’m after. I’m especially drawn to the mixing of neutrals in these photos — especially the brown leather accents:

HARPER DRESS // CORNFLOWER BLUE STRIPE DRESS // TAHLIA DOT HEPBURN DRESS // THE FAVORITE LINEN DRESS // PETRA PAISLEY DRESS // JOAN MAXI SHIRTDRESS // FLARED MINI DRESS IN CHINO // PLEATED DROP WAIST IN CRINKLE

Styling Everyday Dresses for Spring.

HARPER SHIRTDRESS // REFORMATION SANDALS // LES LUNETTES BAMBINO SUNGLASSES (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // NANTUCKET BIG (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // DOOR KNOCKER GOLD PLATED EARRINGS

Can we have a moment for these $148 sandals?! I’m swooning! They remind me of a style from Manolo! So chic with that white-pink pedicure…!

PETRA PAISLEY DRESS // CASHMERE CLASSIC CREW CARDIGAN // POT DE MIEL // ALEXIA SANDAL // PETIT SWELL HOOPS

TAHLIA DOT HEPBURN DRESS // PERIDOT MIGNON FLAT SANDAL // MEDIUM PARK TOTE BAG (LOOK FOR LESS HERE) // PUFFY DAGGER SILVER PLATED EARRINGS

JOAN MAXI SHIRTDRESS // COMO WOVEN STRAW TOTE // SQUARE TOE MILLIE SANDAL // RUSSEL OVAL SUNGLASSES // RUSSEL OVAL SUNGLASSES

P.S. Chic totes for spring.

P.P.S. What do you eat for lunch?

P.P.P.S. How to plan a great family vacation.

By: Jen Shoop

I went to the bay looking for the great blue heron. In the gray March dawn, I watched for its graceful curve and hollow bones. I didn’t know what it signified, but I stood waiting for it, as though I was due.

The sky was silver and spitting, a perfect March morning, but not what I wanted. I shivered against its perceived inclemence, idly watching two obstreperous ducks chase one another at speed, low to the water, fighting or mating; I did not know. They darted through the pearl sky, their bodies close to one another, calling and flapping.

After some time of stamping my feet, scanning the horizon, tuning out the noise of the mallard, I turned back inside, empty-pocketed. In my room, I hung my coat and sat at the desk by the window and found myself writing about the ducks.

Anatidae — how good to be them, secluded from the language of the day, in search only of the inscrutable things their wild hearts want.

I realized two days later, still vaguely disappointed in the absence of the great blue, my short-sightedness. I’d been hoping for the heron, but I’d written myself onto the wing of the duck nonetheless. And I’d found a new color inside. I had not known how much I desired the ease of their avian intuition.

Ah, expectations — the eternal enemy. Too often in life I go digging for gold-draped divinity only to discover it’s been talking in technicolor all day long, looking suspiciously like a normal day. Herons, ducks, eagles, sparrows — their rarity has no bearing on our meaning-making. As Ingrid Goff-Maidoff put it: “God spoke today in flowers, and I, who was waiting on words, almost missed the conversation.”

Post-Scripts.

+Another stirring birding moment, this time with a heron present.

+Imprints of our (suburban) lifestyle.

+Thinking of Elizabeth.

Shopping Break.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links below, I may receive compensation.

+25% off current season picks at Veronica Beard (!) with code FAVORITES2025. My top picks: these cuffed straight-legs in the chicest brown color, especially with the coordinating belted chore jacket (this color would look SO good with creamy whites and pale pink as we head into spring); my current favorite VB jacket (in my closet); and this gorgeous, versatile eyelet dress. And nearly sold out, but these Carson kick-flares are a forever favorite!

BELTED CHORE JACKET // DYLAN STRAIGHT LEGS // SUMIRA TWEED BLAZER // CARSON KICK FLARE JEANS // EYELET DRESS // SUEDE JACKET

+VB vibes for less with this CHIC tweed blazer in the best spring colors and these Gap kick fits.

+OO this new dress style from Anthro is so good! (Also comes in a mini.)

+In addition to the Westman bronzing drops I mentioned yesterday, I’ve also been using and loving True Botanicals’ bronzewell drops. My neighbor turned me onto this brand last year and I love everything I have of theirs! Anyhow, the bronzewell drops are not a tanner, have no scent, washes off easily, but really gives a great bronze glow. I mix one drop into my moisturizer in the morning; I’ll probably level up to two drops when I’m less pale. I layer this beneath the Westman drops, which I wear more like makeup (the True Botanicals is more skincare).

+Larroude just sent me THE CHICEST sneakers. The bungee-style laces and toe shape remind me of Miu Miu! (Vibe for $100 with these.)

+Kids Vans on sale in great colors. My children have loved these — very comfortable!

LEFT: SPRING VANS ON SALE

RIGHT: HOW I STYLE MY SON: OSO AND ME POLO, CADETS SHORTS, VANS

+My mom was raving about this foundation over the weekend. I’m in a longtime committed relationship with Westman Atelier’s Foundation Stick, but she was very convincing…going to try next!

+OK, this Lilly P dress is gorgeous…! Imagine with a simple leather sandal and a big set of bangles or a statement necklace.

+Always such a fan of Oso and Me. I always love the way my son looks when he’s wearing that brand (he just wore this polo to Mass), and he loves how comfortable they are. They just launched a new “Go Fish” collection and I’m eyeing this sweatshirt and sweatshort set for him.

+This is not my typical go-to dress style (I’m usually drawn to something with a very defined waist / a shirt dress / etc) but I saw someone wearing this dress on Instagram and I immediately ordered. It looked SO chic on! She was wearing red but I ordered in that great palm color.

+Love this longline sports bra in the mint green color. I just got it and love to pair with other bright colored leggings and shorts while cycling indoors.

+Saw an Instagram ad for this barrier repair ghost berry cream from new-to-me brand Alpyn and now I must try it…

+Great Gap find.

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