Long Live A Power Fleece

Skincare favs, a fab guest, and some light holiday cheer.

As the holidays approach, what are we wearing? A few readers sent in the age-old question of what to wear that’s celebratory + still cozy enough for an entire day of classic holiday movies. It’s unoriginal, but I love a Nap Dress for this. Layer a chunky sweater and tights for a very festive feel. Otherwise, try dressing up a pair of vintage track pants in green or red. Avoid going too over the top by integrating one on-theme item and keeping the rest of the look simple.

A very Samantha dress plus all black accessories circa 2020.

This week’s guest is the brilliant (+ very chic) Angie Venezia. More on her here. Also, she has the only food newsletter I’ll ever subscribe to. It’s for non-cooks, serious cooks, and anyone looking to settle into a newsletter that feels like a milky cup of tea. And it’s called Home Cooking Diary! I’ve always admired her style from a distance because she does something only a person with a real grasp of their personal style can pull off effectively, which is collect standout pieces that can be paired with ease. Angie doesn’t lean on an all-black crutch, sorry New Yorkers. Her looks are distinctly her own, lived-in, and often in my Instagram saved folder.

How long have you had this piece?

I’ve had this Sandy Liang fleece since 2016, which is I believe the year she debuted her fleece. This was the only fleece and color way in the collection (if I remember correctly). You’ll notice that mine doesn’t have a logo—as the latter iterations of the style do.

Angie and her babe (!!) upstate.

Where did it come from?

I preordered it from Moda Operandi. One of the few pieces I purchased that way. But I was aware of the fleece from Liang’s show that season and had my eye on it. I think I rightly assumed it would sell out immediately. There was a coat from her previous season that I still think about. It was burgundy suede and shearling—a proper winter coat, unlike this one—and truly the most beautiful thing. Sort of oversized, moto-style. She never brought it back, but I might have to find a way to buy it if she ever does. I spotted it on Soon-Yi Previn (in forest green), walking with Woody Allen in Midtown, many years after it was no longer available. I recognized the coat before I recognized them! She looked incredible in it. Say what you will about those two—once I spotted them in person I realized I was officially a true New Yorker. I’ll never forget that moment, or the coat.

Born 2 B Layered

How much did you pay for it?

$350 I think, which is much more affordable than they retail these days.

Fleece on the go

How do you wear it?

Mostly over jeans, and as a layering piece. since it’s oversized I tend to wear it with a straight, slim leg for contrast and balance. It isn’t terribly warm, and works best over sweaters or sweatshirts. And never with a handbag or tote, since the pockets are all you really need for your stuff. I love it with my cornflower blue Entireworld cap (RIP!). Honestly it’s such a bold accent but a neutral at the same time. It would go with anything.

What does it represent?

It felt at the time, and still feels, like a statement piece. No one was wearing that kind of thing—the whole GORP trend had not arrived in force yet. looking back it was a pretty daring piece to wear. It represents comfort and a bit of boyish confidence (so not me, haha), and adds a flair and interest to any outfit. I’ve always loved leopard print, and the hot pink accents really get me. It also has a special place in my heart as an item of clothing I wore all throughout my pregnancy and postpartum. It very much is a perennial piece in my wardrobe. On a more serious note, it also represents a time when I was more plugged in to contemporary fashion and had horrible impulse control when it came to acquiring clothing. In retrospect I realize that I was pretty unhappy at work and filling a void with my obsession with fashion and emerging designers. As much as I love it it also represents a cautionary tale of past recklessness with my finances, and an unhealthy obsession with clothing and objects. I’m all the more fond of it for that, actually.

A great jacket almost always makes for great outfits. Thanks Angie!

Honorable Mentions

Ever wondering what skincare I’m into? Well, wonder no more. I’ve started a shopmy with every product I love + every product I’ve reviewed. Like Bookshop, the affiliate kickback keeps this newsletter running. That’s dramatic, and grossly undervalues the cost of my time, but mostly, it’s a great way to stalk my medicine cabinet.

Gift these buffing bars (review here) for the skincare reluctant in your life. They will worship you. I’d give this to a hypothetical boyfriend of four months.

No reviews, just love for this drugstore staple. I take my cleanser and moisturizer Vanicream, please.

A French answer to cold weather chapped lips.

The best concealer in the game! If you use Nars Creamy Concealer, this is the same thing only cheaper and…better. (review here)

Tower28 SOS Spray is very much Windex in my house, hence the title. Also a fab gift for someone who “hates products.” Can’t relate, but here’s the review.

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