#25 Mid-week Quickie: three great jackets, winter PJs and a case for waking up early.
+ new bedding, incense and a hair recommendation!
Hi friends!
Ever since I started reading Fourth Wing and now Iron Flame, I’ve been getting into bed much earlier so I have ample time to read each night. It’s meant I’m going to sleep earlier and subsequently waking up earlier. I love it! When I wake up early I love the extra time I have to either read or get a start on my work day. It’s made me feel less rushed and it’s wonderful.
Two weeks ago, I launched a new interview series called Secondhand Conversations - where I interview cool people I know or admire about their most treasured preloved purchases. Maggie Hewitt of Maggie Marilyn was the first interviewee - you can read it here:
Secondhand Conversations 001: Maggie Hewitt, founder and designer of Maggie Marilyn
Welcome to Secondhand Conversations; an interview series where the coolest people I know or admire share their most treasured secondhand finds.
The next interview will drop soon. If there’s anyone you’d like me to interview - leave me a comment or send me a DM!
My friend Liv Koennecke, founder of Maison Essentiele interviewed me over on her Substack, Creative Direction. I shared lots about my career, self-employment, the industry, how I stay inspired and more. If you’d like to read it - here it is:
Clothes etc
I just got back from a lunch with The Iconic at Olympus Dining in Redfern. This is what I wore!
This barn jacket is really good - and if the website is anything to go by, I believe it’s selling fast.
Sometimes it’s the most unassuming pieces of clothing that come into your life and become the thing you reach for every single day. This specific Uniqlo pufftech jacket has become just that for me. It’s padded and puffer like, but on the thinner side so not bulky. I sized up so I could easily layer underneath. I wear it when I go on walks, to the supermarket, when I first get out of bed and have my morning coffee, with denim, white cotton pants - it goes with everything and suits so many occasions. Best part - it’s $99. Maybe this is the jacket you need for the cooler months, maybe it’ll surprise you the way it’s surprised me!
Another divine jacket option, the Remy Friends with Frank jacket - this one is a little more dressy, despite still being relaxed. I initially got it in white (currently on sale!) and loved it so much, I needed the black option too. I’m always looking for jackets that make an outfit. This jacket has beautiful embroidery all over, elevating it from any other padded jacket. It also keeps me warm!
One of my most online-shopped brands, Deiji Studios has at long last opened a store in Sydney. The new Deiji concept store is on Glenmore Road, Paddington (it took over the space from Maison Essentiele) and I love the timber heavy fit-out. It’s always good to be able to try things on in person before purchasing!
When I realised I only had maybe one or two winter pyjama sets that I actually loved and weren’t about to fall to pieces, I did some PJ research. That search isn’t completely over but I did happen to stumble on some good (and very affordable options) via Target. I got this adorable pointelle floral set! They’re currently on sale for $30 - for the set, I know; wild. I got a different grey marle set for Angus (pants and top here).
On the other end of the spendy spectrum, Maggie Marilyn just dropped their heavenly Cashmere Essentials range. Of course the quality is stunning, the cut is perfect and can you just picture yourself getting on a plane to a fabulous destination in that grey set? Or snuggling up next to a fireplace inside with a book and some hot chocolate? Because that’s all my brain is doing for me. They also made cashmere hot water bottle covers!!
If you’re in need of excellent styling inspo and you haven’t come across Melbourne creator, Marissa Lepps, let me introduce you to her. She is so cool and so stylish. I love her content and her outfits are next level!
Home
Another new store to hit Sydney, Sheet Society has opened up in Bondi Junction. The space is really impressive and I was really blown away with their range of products. They not only sell the usual - sheets, duvets, pillow cases etc but they also have quilts, pillows - all your bedding needs are covered.
They also have so many fabric varieties (a few cotton options, linen, bamboo, jersey) to make sure you pick the right one for your needs. Also - the colour and pattern options are plentiful! I picked out a new bedding set and mixed and matched a beautiful sky blue, biscuit brown and stripe.
Years ago at the end of a hot yoga class, my teacher used this unreal scent in an oil burner while we stretched. I never got to ask what the scent/oil was that she used but I’ve been trying to track it down ever since. I think I found it. I love an incense moment and have been wanting to try Aesop Incense for ages (my sister is a big fan) and bought the Karegou Aromatique scent on a whim. It smells cinnamon-y and cosy but also herbacious. The actual scent notes are: vetiver, igusa, sandalwood. It’s a woody, smoky, earthy vibe.
When I stayed at The Eve Hotel recently, they had lovely mugs and cups from Saarde. They were so chic so I had to share!
Beauty
I go for regular Infrared Saunas at Nimbus in Bondi (it’s an extravagant addiction but it makes me feel so good!) and they recently switched their shower amenities to Sanceuticals. I adore this brand and have loved their body wash and body moisturiser for years but I’d never tried their shampoo and conditioner. I’ve used it on four separate occasions now and it’s so good I ordered some to have at home! So impressed with my hair after using it.
Thank you for reading!
More Smooth Brain Thoughts soon,
Ali xx
Yes to incense and yes to Marissa being the ultimate style icon!!