Long Live Creamline

On asking yourself, "why not?", a 70s jumpsuit, and dry shampoo.

As you read this, I’m hosting a closet sale on my close friends (DM me! It’s not too late!) and donating the proceeds to Iowa Abortion Access Fund. The catalyst for the sale came from a proper closet inventory (hint about the product launching in March) and my upcoming birthday. I think I’m finally at that age where I don’t really want anything, expect a few books and a travel white noise machine. I just want people to have access to abortions and to eat two pieces of birthday cake.

Last year’s bday

This year, I’ll be hitting the slopes with CR and my beloved cousin, but this isn’t a winter sports newsletter, is it? I’m so excited to be featuring two brilliant ladies—Taylore and Christine—from a newsletter I’ve been a longtime fan of—Creamline. It’s like overhearing the chic set of friends across from you at lunch who’re drinking martinis with ease and ordering a cheese course for dessert. They have the best taste, are both super talented writers, and though I’ve yet to meet them IRL, seem like the nicest people.

First up, Christine!

How long have you had this piece?

I bought this coat in Greenpoint around 2014. Almost a decade together. Long-loved! 

Where did it come from?

A secondhand shop called Fox & Fawn, which has now closed, but was a 20-minute walk from where I lived in Williamsburg at the time. 

How much did you pay for it?

Probably under $50, because that was all 23-year-old Christine could afford. 

How do you wear it?

I throw it on when I want to feel put together but don’t want to put much effort into actually putting myself together.

What does it represent?

My first thought when I saw the coat in the shop was “wow I love that but could never wear it.” Then I thought, “Why not?” and went for it. Good thing I did, because it’s one of my favorite items of clothing, and perhaps one of my favorite belongings. I suppose it represents how satisfying it can feel to prove myself wrong.

And Taylore’s pick!

How long have you had this piece? 

I’ve only found it in early 2021, but it’s already become a staple in my closet year round. 

Where did it come from?

My good friend and vintage queen Margaux Anbouba turned me on to Hello Banana Vintage, this teeny and perfectly-curated shop in the East Village. They carry some incredible 60s and 70s pieces and their stock is really size-inclusive, which I appreciate as someone who is 5’9 and objectively busty. This jumpsuit is from the 70s, and the denim is so soft and forgiving—I’ve never owned anything like it. 

How much did you pay for it?

It was about $175. I wear it so much that it’s already paid for itself. 

How do you wear it?

So many ways! For warmer weather, I’ll throw on a mule or a sporty sandal, cuff the sleeves, and let the zipper stray dangerously low. (The denim is so lightweight that it’s still wearable all summer.) Over the past few colder months, I’ve layered turtlenecks under it or thrown oversize cardigans over it, and polished off the look with brown leather boots or a simple white sneaker. My favorite accessory for this get-up, though, is makeup. Since this shade of denim is so versatile and it covers almost my whole body, rocking a graphic liner or red lipstick can change the outfit’s entire vibe.

What does it represent?

It makes me feel comfortable and confident regardless of how I’m feeling in my body that day.  I’ve always admired the strong silhouettes women were embracing in the 70s, but I seldom find pieces from that era that fit my frame well.The D-ring belt accommodates (and accentuates!) my curves no matter how they move, grow, or shrink, and that’s rare for me to find in a vintage piece. It’s also my more casual answer to a power suit; it just makes me feel flat-out cool. 

Honorable Mentions

I loved a dry shampoo enough to write about it for The Strategist! Here it is, under $15 and ideal for travel. Thank me later. I’ve been on a quest to kick my second coffee of the day, so this matcha has been huge for me. Started a new journal and kind of loving the freedom of dots versus lines. Nerdy, I know. Just as this isn’t an athletic newsletter, it’s also not a source of medical wisdom, but I do have a new fav for stuffy noses. It’s these under $10 nasal swabs from Zicam. Deeply unsponsored opinion. And trust me, I wish I was homeopathic, too.

The Shimmering State—Dystopian Light novel that follows two characters through their addiction to futuristic drug that allows you to slip into other people’s memories.

The Water Cure—Dystopia but less Light. I read this book in a hurry and loved every minute. Three daughters stranded on an island with cult leaders as parents. One day, three men wash on their shoreline. Ah! So good.

Why Fish Don’t Exist—I think everyone would find a way to trace this book back to their own life. It’s a beautiful exploration of nature and grief and becoming.

Thank you so much for reading. See you next, next Thursday! x