Designer Spotlight: Filson

As we (too) quickly approach fall, I have been daydreaming about weekend trips up north. Daytime hikes near the lake, nighttime sing-a-longs around the campfire - the smell of burning logs lingering in the crisp air. It’s my ideal all-American getaway.

And because there’s nothing better than a weekend vacation, I teamed up with the American made company, Filson to show you guys some of my essentials I pack when I head out of town, starting with this incredible leather weekender bag from their new Weatherproof Collection.

I’m a huge fan of Filson and the products they create. They are made in the USA and they believe so much in the quality of their craftsmanship, that they offer a lifetime guarantee. So while the price point can be a little steep, you are investing in a product for life. And as you all know, I’m a huge believer in quality over quantity.

For the Weatherproof Collection (that also includes a backpack, briefcase, and rolling carry-on bag), Filson worked with a century-old tannery in Pennsylvania to develop a new vegetable-tanned proprietary leather that's both highly durable and lightweight. The leather is made for boots so it can repel rain, snow, and saltwater, meaning it’s built to last even in the worst conditions.

In addition to a great weekender bag, I have a couple key pieces that always come with me, regardless of where I am going. These include reading materials (typically whatever book I’m reading plus a stack of magazines), a notebook (I’m loving my monogrammed Shinola version), a striped long sleeve tee, some beat up jeans, and a couple pieces of jewelry to dress up my look (right now I’ve been living in a statement necklace, large gold cuff, and a menswear-inspired watch). Lastly I throw in a hat to both protect me from the sun and cover up untamed hair.

If you guys are in Detroit, check out the new Filson store that opened this summer (rumor has it, the women’s line is coming this fall), otherwise you can order from their collection online. And I’d love to hear from you - what are the qualities you look for in a weekender bag? And what are some of your packing essentials?

And thanks again to Filson for allowing me to test out the new leather collection!

photography by mar manzaneres

bag: c/o filson

top: ann normandy designs

jeans: old

shoes: banana republic

hat: similar

sunglasses: the peacock room

notebook and watch: shinola

necklace: clyde's rebirth

cuff: nomad collective

Cold Shoulder

I know it’s been a long time. Over two weeks in fact. I didn’t intend to stop blogging during this time, but the combination of life and shoddy internet forced my hand. Instead, I spent the last couple weeks traveling and visiting family on the East Coast. I got wrapped up in the fun of my 5 month old nephew (can you blame me?) and practiced my zen at the Wanderlust Festival in West Virginia.

But now I’m back.

And I’m excited to show you another look from local designer, Ann Normandy (I first showed you her work here).

This cropped cold shoulder top is one of my favorite pieces in her collection and currently on trend for the summer. Off-the-should tops have been everywhere this spring and I don't expect the fad to fade anytime soon. The shape is effortless and cool, and can be worn just as easily with a pair of pants as a great summer skirt. And unlike other off-the-shoulder tops, this version can be worn with a regular bra. Major Perk.

And like all Ann Normandy pieces, if this particular item is out of your price range, you can buy the pattern and have your own version made in a more affordable fabric, allowing you to both be on trend and support a local designer.

top: ann normandy

bottoms: thrifted

heels: target (old)

clutch: fashionABLE

necklace: thrifted