Lifestyle
River House at Odette’s Review – New Hope, PA
Picture this: You’re nestled in a cozy and sophisticated boutique hotel along the banks of the Delaware River on your own private balcony. Taking in the warm golden morning light you sip a velvety cappuccino you made from your in-room espresso machine. The sun is just peeking over the water and nearby, herons and cormorants fly over the rolling river. The gentle sounds of the river soothes you.
Our Stay at River House at Odette’s
This dreamy morning routine is just a taste of what’s in store at River House at Odette’s, a new luxury lifestyle riverfront hotel in New Hope, PA – a popular destination known for its arts, eclectic shops, historic homes, and riverfront setting.
Recently voted the #1 Resort Hotel in the Mid-Atlantic by the readers of Travel + Leisure, nothing at this modern and chic property hints it has a history dating back over two centuries. Beginning in 1784, River House served as a tavern, general store and hotel for boatmen working along the Delaware Canal and Delaware River.
More recently the property was owned by the enchanting Odette Myrtil. A French-born American actress, singer and musician starring in over 25 movies, Odette bought the property in 1960 named it Chez Odette’s, and made it the home of her cabaret and restaurant. It was a beloved gathering place for over 2 decades.
After a massive renovation in 2020, River House at Odette’s was transformed into a luxury boutique. Welcoming guests into a world of tranquility and bold modern elegance, Odette’s influence is obvious in the new hotel’s glamorous design.
In addition to 38 luxurious guest rooms and suites, the hotel is also home to its famous signature dining spot, Odette’s Restaurant. Guests can also enjoy live music at the Odette-inspired piano bar and cabaret just off the lobby.
Ride the elevator to the top floor, and you can feel like a celeb at the hotel’s exclusive rooftop bar set high above the river.
It’s not hard to see why this gem of a property captivated voters.
Get Luxuriously Comfy in The Guest Rooms at River House
The guest rooms at River House are a harmonious blend of thoughtful and eclectic furnishings and modern conveniences, accented with happy pops of modern art, rich colors and tasteful patterns.
My river view suite featured a cozy contemporary sitting area with a gas fireplace, a reading chair, flat-screen LED TVs, a kitchenette with Nespresso machine and of course, a private balcony overlooking the shimmering Delaware River and surrounding mountains.
The separate master bedroom with plush king pillowtop bed was draped in crisp Frette sheets, and had us sleeping in serious comfort. The modern and bold tulip wallpaper in the bedroom was a lovely touch. Especially since we were lucky enough to visit while they were in bloom.
The sleek glass spa-inspired shower decked out with Malin & Goetz bath products left us luxuriously refreshed.
All in all, it was the perfect place to relax for a while.
River House Has Unique Amenities That Will Elevate Your Stay
It’s the details that make River House so remarkable. The rainfall showerhead. The in-room lighting that can be adjusted to suit your mood. The complimentary bikes you can hop on and explore historic towpaths make for an exciting riverside adventure. Free books you’re welcome to take home. There’s also an in house digital library with an extensive list of ebooks, audiobooks, mediations and more.
And one of my favorite touches? The “In-room Un-Wine-d” service that allows you to enjoy a bottle of vino and charcuterie plate from the comfort of your private balcony. Genius!
Our charcuterie was delightful, with an array of cured meats, cheeses, fruit and accouterments. A perfect late afternoon pick-me-up before heading to dinner.
Enjoy Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Odette’s Restaurant with the Backdrop of Stunning River Views
Odette’s recently unveiled a fresh, elevated menu under the direction of renowned restaurateur Alex Mastoris. His vision marries the refined elegance of a classic steakhouse with the flair of the onsite cabaret run by 1920s ingénue Odette Myrtil herself.
Offering a delightful culinary journey from morning until evening, the food here is a home run.
Sitting on Odette’s outdoor riverfront patio with a cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast was the perfect way to ease into the day. The rich whipped Greek yogurt with fresh berries, local honey, and toasted coconut granola for crunch is an A+ move if you’re trying to keep things light.
Of course, they’ve got all the staple breakfast options covered too. I opted for the rolled omelet, stuffed with fresh mushrooms, ham and creamy gruyere served with a side of crispy breakfast potatoes. Delicious. It’s worth eating here for river views alone.
Their new dinner menu is a seafood and steak lover’s dream, with fresh options from the raw bar, bold and flavorful starters, and showstopping mains.
For dinner I kicked things off with the Yellowfin Tuna Wonton Tacos – wonton shells cradled fresh tuna, napa cabbage, wakame, cucumber, and an addictive kung pao sauce with a kick of sriracha aioli. A perfect blend of bright, punchy flavors that had me craving another round.
Next up were Odette’s Maple Bourbon Wings glazed in a sweet and smoky sauce which had the right hint of heat. The crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside wings were taken to another level with the addition of candied pecans and fresh chives.
Odette’s spin on baked oysters was lovely too. Plump and fresh, these oysters featured a rich champagne butter sauce and were topped with an Italian cheese blend, artichokes, and fresh herbs.
For dessert, I chose a luxurious twist on a classic favorite: the gold crusted NY style cheesecake. With a shimmering splash of edible gold that caught the light beautifully each spoonful of the rich, creamy filling was pure satisfaction. And the presentation was stellar.
Overall the plates here were gorgeous and the service was impeccable. Odette’s is worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Head to ROOF, The Exclusive Rooftop Bar at River House
Another perk at River House? As a guest in the hotel, you get access to their members only exclusive rooftop lounge – ROOF. This chic open-air space felt like stumbling into a glamorous cocktail party.
Here you’ll also find twinkling lights strung overhead, a blazing outdoor fireplace, and breezy cabana seating. It’s festive yet romantic.
With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect place for lingering over one of their expertly-crafted mixed drinks while taking in sweeping views of the river valley. They offer creative small plates here too.
My ahi tuna nacho dish was a fresh blend of flavors and textures with bright, punchy notes from the wakame, sesame, and creamy spicy mayo cutting the richness.
At sunset, a tall glass of Odette’s Sangria made with Grand Marnier, peach & blackberry Combier liqueur, OJ, and Pinot Grigio is obligatory at a riverside lounge like this.
A refreshing end to a perfect night.
Things to Do Around The River House and in New Hope
Alright, you’ve experienced the serene riverside luxury of River House and the deliciousness of Odette’s Restaurant and the exclusivity of their rooftop lounge.
But tucked along the Delaware River, the hotel’s surroundings offer lots to explore during your getaway.
First on the to-do list: Wander the vibrant, eclectic historic riverside town of New Hope. Over 200 years old and known for its outdoor fairs and festivals, artsy vibe and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, New Hope is one of Bucks County, Pennsylvania’s most well-known historic towns.
And it’s only a short and scenic 5-10 minute stroll from your luxurious home base at River House.
My pro tip? Lace up your walking shoes for a breezy waterfront stroll or grab one of the hotel’s courtesy bikes for a ride into New Hope’s lively downtown. Breathing in that fresh river air along the way is a perfect appetite-builder for the culinary adventures that await there. Uber/Lift is also an option and only cost $7 each way when I checked, but the wait times could be 15 to 20 mins (maybe more?) at busier times or on weekends.
Why not drive? As beautiful as New Hope is, parking in this charming riverside town isn’t too pretty. Between the overpriced lots, confusing street side kiosk systems, and trying to find a spot – it’s not worth the headache.
Luckily, River House is so close to downtown you don’t have to worry about it. Yet another perk as a guest there.
Shopping and Eating Through New Hope
Once you’ve finally arrived, you’ll quickly see why New Hope has cultivated such a reputation as an arts and cultural hub. It’s brimming with art galleries, boutiques, artisan shops, antiques, restaurants and a lively local spirit.
Whether you’re hunting for handcrafted pottery, one-of-a-kind jewelry, funky antiques, vintage clothing or the latest fashions from local makers and European designers, you’ll find something to satisfy your retail therapy cravings.
Places like Heart of the Home (28 S. Main Street) and Savioni Designer Boutique (6 W Bridge St)are local favorites for scoring unique housewares or a new wardrobe staple.
Take some time to appreciate New Hope’s historical charm by sightseeing along the banks of the Delaware River. Highlights include the iconic New Hope-Lambertville Bridge spanning the river into New Jersey, as well as the historic and renowned Bucks County Playhouse (70 S Main St), recently revived as a cultural hub for live theater, music and comedy shows year-round. Take a walk behind the playhouse and stroll along the river or relax in one of the Adirondack chairs as you take in the sweeping views.
When you work up the need for a snack, pop into Ferry Market (32 S Main St ) for an eclectic collection of artisan food vendors. It’s an absolute must-visit in New Hope. Stock up on small-batch provisions from passionate local makers – think made to order sandwiches, fresh salads, gyros, French macarons, Peruvian fare, pizza, chocolate, local wine, fresh roasted coffee, and so much more.
If you’re not up for shopping, take a leisurely riverside stroll or bike ride along the historic towpath trails near the hotel. It makes for an ideal way to experience the area’s natural splendor.
Cross the Bridge into Lambertville – the “Antique Capital of New Jersey”
When you’re done exploring New Hope, venture over the bridge (you can walk) to the opposite side of the river, Lambertville, New Jersey. It’s another easy excursion from the River House. This historic town’s amazingly preserved Victorian architecture will transport you to another era as you wander its streets.
Antiques and vintage clothing lovers will be in heaven here hitting the shops along Union and Bridge streets. Antiques Center at the People’s Store (28 N Union St) is one of the most notable shops on “antique row” where you can shop from over 50 dealers and artists in a building that dates back to 1839. Bookworms will enjoy Panoply Books (48 N Union St) for unusual, rare and out-of-print quality used books.
For local wine tasting, Lambertville has you covered at the Tomasello Winery Tasting Room (1 N Union Street).
For a fun day, consider exploring the surrounding area of Hunterdon County, with its picturesque rolling landscapes, winding backroads, charming historic villages, local wineries, farmers markets and incredible farm to table dining. It’s still and under the radar destination, and one of New Jersey’s best kept secrets.
Discover Nearby Peddlers Village
Peddler’s Village
100 Peddlers Village, Lahaska, PA 18931
https://peddlersvillage.com
Does immersing yourself in a real-life storybook village for a day sound good to you? Then Peddler’s Village should be at the top of your must-visit list. Just a quick 10-minute country road drive from River House transports you to a historic hamlet that’s overflowing with Americana charm and hospitality.
💡 Parking at Peddler’s Village is free, and there’s plenty of it. Definitely plan to spend the day here.
Here you can shop more than sixty boutiques, galleries and eateries peppered along winding brick walkways past flowery gardens, footbridges, and whimsical details.
Duck into places like Greenology to make a terrarium or Pine Wreath & Candle where it’s Christmas every single day. I’d also suggest stopping into Mama Hawk’s for coffee and their famous cinnamon bun.
When it’s time for a shopping break, grab a table on one of Peddler’s Village’s many dining patios to enjoy lunch at spots like Buttonwood Grill or Earl’s New American – one of the area’s top dining destinations. Between the elevated seasonal fare and huge selection of dishes to choose from, you won’t want to leave this foodie destination!
To experience Peddler’s Village to the fullest, bookend your shopping and dining with a stop at Hewn Spirits Distillery where they offer cozy indoor/outdoor tastings of their locally-crafted small-batch whiskeys and liquors. Or at a craft beer flight at Free Will Brewing. For wine, Nissley Vineyards has a tasting room here as well.
Checking Out
River House at Odette’s is more than just a place to rest your head – it’s a luxurious experience of sophisticated comfort and culinary delights. By the end of my stay at River House, I felt thoroughly relaxed and rejuvenated.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a restorative respite from the daily grind, River House delivers on all fronts. The plush accommodations, divine dining, and distinctive ambiance all add up to create a blissful riverside escape that lingers long after you’ve departed.
However you choose to spend your days around New Hope, River House at Odette’s is a perfect home base. With so much to experience within a short radius, it’d be a shame not to book a room here to experience it just once.
This slice of luxury in the heart of charming New Hope is truly one of the Mid-Atlantic’s best kept secrets… for now.
➡ To book, visit riverhousenewhope.com
Lifestyle
18 Avocado Recipes to Enjoy Year-Round
If there’s one thing I’ve gained from adulthood, it’s a love for many of the foods I shied away from as a kid. Exhibit A: Avocados—one of the most mouthwatering foods that nature has bestowed on us. Thanks to their versatility and vibrant color, avocados have gone viral over the past few years—and I’m fully on board. The only problem? I want to include avocados in almost every single meal I make! Thankfully, the Camille Styles team is full of avocado obsessives—and have stopped at nothing to incorporate the fruit into as many dishes as we can dream up.
So grab your ripest avocado from the fruit bowl and see just how many ways you can transform one ingredient. Possibilities: endless.
18 of the Best Avocado Recipes on the Internet
When it comes to avocado recipes, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. This fruit can be paired with anything from bright and tangy citruses to fresh fish. Additionally, avocados pack plenty of goodness like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C, E, K, and B6, as well as magnesium and potassium. Delicious and nutrient-dense? We love.
So, if you have a spare avocado lying around your kitchen waiting to be prepared, let’s get into it!
Avocado Caprese Salad
Why We Love It: If I’m hosting, any caprese salad will find itself on my menu. It’s partially due to the ease of throwing this salad together, but I also love (re: adore) this flavor combination. Add an avocado to the mix, and I’m sold. The creamy bite is the perfect complement to vine-ripened tomatoes and big tears of burrata.
Hero Ingredient: There’s nothing that’s not made better with a small sprinkle of flaky salt. This salad included.
Spicy Tuna Tostadas
Why We Love It: I can’t get enough of these tuna tostadas, inspired by Camille’s visit to Contramar in Mexico City. The avocado in this recipe balances a blend of spicy and savory flavors. From fresh jalapeños to crispy shallots, this recipe has it all.
Hero Ingredient: The chipotle aioli spread on the tortilla brings these tostadas to the next level.
Smoky and Spicy Cauliflower Salad
Why We Love It: When our food editor, Suruchi, first created this recipe, I was immediately hooked by its stunning appearance. After trying it out for myself, I was blown away by the incredible flavor of the spicy cauliflower and roasted chickpeas, complemented perfectly by avocado and creamy feta cheese.
Hero Ingredient: A bit of dill is a flavorful touch to this hearty salad.
Grapefruit Avocado Salad
Why We Love It: Fruit salads are always a go-to recipe during the summer months, and this salad is no exception. Paired with a golden turmeric-honey dressing and garnished with fresh herbs, it’s hard not to love these flavors.
Hero Ingredient: Chickpeas keep this salad hearty and full of protein.
Avocado Toast with Kale Pesto
Why We Love It: This isn’t your ordinary avocado toast. While I love the simplicity of plain avocado toast, it’s hard not to turn to this recipe, topped with a bit of homemade kale pesto (I promise it’s not as intimidating as it sounds!) and everything bagel seasoning.
Hero Ingredient: Either thinly sliced cucumber or radishes will add an extra crunch and color to this toast.
Chickpea Corn and Avocado Salad
Why We Love It: Avocados are frequently used in Mexican-inspired dishes. Enter this chickpea and avocado salad. With roasted poblano peppers and juice from fresh limes, it’s simple and comes together in a few short steps.
Hero Ingredient: Cilantro gives this salad’s sauce a gorgeous and vibrant green hue.
Avocado Slaw
Why We Love It: Maybe it’s my southern side, but once I hear the word slaw, I’m sold. This recipe is a twist on the classic, adding heat from a fresh jalapeño and a balanced and creamy texture brought in by the avocado.
Hero Ingredient: The avocado introduces a nice creamy contrast to the crunchy cabbage.
Pita Tostadas with Butternut Squash with Black Beans and Avocados
Why We Love It: I could eat tacos and tostadas every week, and this recipe is always one of my favorite varieties. Instead of your typical tortilla, the pita makes for a fluffier base that pairs well with the sweet and savory toppings.
Hero Ingredient: Whenever butternut squash is involved, it’s always the hero ingredient.
Lime-y Chicken Tacos with Jicama Avocado Mint
Why We Love It: Like I said, tacos and tostadas are staples in my diet. I’m always looking for new and creative variations, and these tacos with agave-lime chicken are the perfect way to break away from the norm.
Hero Ingredient: As Camille says, “Fresh mint literally makes these tacos, so do not skip it. Unless you hate mint—in which case, go for the cilantro.”
Tomato, Avocado, and Cucumber Salad
Why We Love It: Light and fresh with a bit of heat, this avocado and cucumber salad embodies the warmer months. If you’re a bit skeptical about tomatoes in your salad, Camille suggests picking a super-ripe fruit. It’s the key to optimal satisfaction.
Hero Ingredient: A little fresh mozzarella never hurt anyone.
Mango, Avocado, and Feta Salad
Why We Love It: This salad is perfect for when your body needs a total reset. With a crunchy addition of pistachios and ripe and juicy mangos, it’s the perfect blend of salty and sweet. Plus, the majority—if not all—of the salad toppings are most likely already in your fridge or pantry.
Hero Ingredient: A squeeze of lemon juice lends a little citrusy perfection.
Tuna Nicoise Toast
Why We Love It: This tuna nicoise toast puts your typical avocado toast to shame. Juicy oven-roasted tomatoes are caramelized to perfection and have a mouth-watering effect when paired with high-quality bread. Sourdough or ciabatta are my go-to picks.
Hero Ingredient: While not a must-have ingredient, kale pesto takes this toast to the next level.
Sunday Night Avocado Toast
Why We Love It: I love a quick and easy avocado toast recipe in a pinch, and this toast is just that. With a jammy egg (an ingredient that’s recently become my favorite addition to many dishes), a pinch of everything bagel seasoning, and of course, avocado, this toast is one you can enjoy every morning. Or any time of day. Who’s keeping track?
Hero Ingredient: A squeeze of lime juice. Don’t knock it till you try it!
Avocado Toast Bar
Why We Love It: For those looking to level up their avocado toast, check out this inspo for an avocado toast bar. If you have an upcoming brunch or maybe just love going all-out for Sunday morning breakfast, this is the best way to keep every guest happy.
Hero Ingredient: There are so many options to choose from, but crunchy cucumbers are my favorite.
Smashed Avocado Toast
Why We Love It: This avocado toast will make you feel as if you’re dining at a laid-back cafe enjoying brunch with your closest friends. Inspired by Two Hands NYC, this toast comes together with a drizzle of olive oil and a touch of red chili flakes that enhance the flavor of chunky and smooth mashed avocado.
Hero Ingredient: One of my life hacks for elevated avocado toast is simply adding a poached egg.
Corn and Avocado Salad
Why We Love It: Looking for a side dish to please your guests at every dinner party? There are very few ways to go wrong if you’re preparing this corn and avocado salad. With a crunchy red bell pepper, a bunch of dill, and several ears of fresh corn, you can throw together a delicious appetizer in no time.
Hero Ingredient: A touch of olive oil is key.
Roasted Beet Tostadas with Avocado Cream, Goat Cheese, and Pepitas
Why We Love It: When a flavor-forward recipe meets visual perfection, you know you have a winning dish. This is one of those quick and easy recipes I love to repeat with any leftovers. It features a to-die-for avocado crema, caramelized roasted beets, and my personal favorite, goat cheese.
Hero Ingredient: A light and fluffy flatbread is the ideal foundation for these stunning tostadas.
Roasted Beet, Avocado, and Pistachio Salad
Why We Love It: Last but certainly not least, this gorgeous, warm-weather-approved salad. Pro tip: roast extra beets for the tostadas above and make this salad the next day. It’s a great opportunity to give your leftovers new life. And maybe it’s an unpopular opinion, but you can never have too much of beets’ beautiful, earthy flavor.
Hero Ingredient: A little bit of citrus brightens up your taste buds.
Lifestyle
8 Tips You Haven’t Tried
Summer is on the horizon, but I’m finally just getting into spring cleaning my life. Honestly, it’s equal parts overwhelming and refreshing. Coming off a busy holiday season straight into lots of events and work travel, I finally had a solid break in my schedule to assess what’s working and what’s not. In addition to my never-ending closet clean-out project and general organization, one thing I really needed to overhaul was my finances.
Does anyone else get to that point where you check your bank account or credit card statement and you’re like, wait one second, how did this happen? If not, you’re lucky. Between the holidays and travel, I admittedly neglected many personal routines. And finances were one of them. Now, no major cause for concern—I’m not insinuating that I’m in financial peril here. But taking some time to self-reflect gave me the boost I needed to get back on track with a budget and really examine my spending.
How I’m Approaching My Season of Savings
After reverting back to a plan my financial advisor gave me years ago, I came up with a strategy to ensure I have a good buffer for bills, entertainment, savings, and fun, all while saving extra money where I can. I’m calling this era my season of savings. My mission? To make it fun—not dreadful.
I have three accounts dedicated to monthly goals. So far, with some discipline, it’s been easy. Those accounts are:
- bills/must-pays
- my future/savings
- fun/entertainment/travel
Keep reading for eight tips on how I’m approaching this season of savings. Plus, get insights into how you can apply this strategy to your own life—without feeling restricted.
Update Subscriptions
After reviewing my credit card statement and Apple Pay account, I realized I had a lot of duplicate and dormant subscriptions. I’m talking $5/month for an Instagram filter app I’ve never used once, or a Spotify subscription AND SiriusXM subscription, when I only really use one. This was a pretty easy fix and one that significantly saves me each month.
Make it happen: Set aside an hour to review your subscriptions. You can go to your Apple ID in your iPhone, and tap “Subscriptions” to view all your active subscriptions, how much you’re paying, and when they renew. Alternatively, I’ve had lots of friends recommend Rocket Money, which allows you to view all your subscriptions—across all platforms—in one place.
Give My Nails a Break
This one is tough for me because I love getting my nails done. But after years of gel manicures, my nails are feeling the impact. They’ve gotten tissue-thin and brittle and while there’s a bit of debate on whether you should let your nails breathe, this seems like a good time to pause a $100/month habit.
Make it happen: Consider the naked nails trend. Camille recently posted this glowy nail treatment polish for $16 that strengthens my nails and keeps them looking clean. In between, I’m using this repair keratin serum for $25. Both products cost less than one manicure, so I’m still giving my nails love without the splurge.
Reframe Happy Hour
I’ve taken a break from drinking. (I’m diving deep into that topic in a future story—stay tuned.) This one was an easier move for me than I thought. Anytime a friend asks if I want to grab a drink or go to happy hour, I try one of a few things: first, offer up a coffee meeting instead. This usually works better for my work schedule anyway, as I work for a west coast company and my days tend to run longer. Plus, a $4 cold brew (where I usually have just one) beats a $15 cocktail (where I usually have at 2+).
Second, rather than go for a drink, I see if we can catch up for a walk or a workout. I try to go for a walk almost every single day whether it’s 3-5 miles or simply a 30-minute, low-key coffee walk, so this is always my favorite way to connect with friends. And if all else fails, my go-to order of sparkling water and lime is always a cheaper option than a drink!
Make it happen: Happy hour is often our default way to get together with friends. Instead, reflect on other catch-up options that not only allow you to connect, but that let you pour into other high-value activities. Try pairing it with exercise like me, or suggest something else you’ve been dying to do. (Craft night, anyone?)
Get Creative With Groceries
I didn’t realize how much I was over-buying groceries and sadly wasting a lot of what I purchased. Aside from giving myself a weekly budget, I’ve started to get creative with both what I have on hand already and what I’m buying. In the past, I haven’t been motivated to whip up something creative and instead would splurge on a $20 salad at a local neighborhood spot. Doing that 3-5 times a month adds up quickly, so I’ve made it a fun adventure to use up everything I have to cut costs.
Here’s what that looks like: I’ve taken remaining veggies and sautéed them and topped with an egg and hot sauce for a nourishing bowl. I’ve used leftover ground bison, added a little marinara and a sprinkle of cheese for an Italian-style bake. And all of those packets of tuna that I’ve saved for a rainy, don’t-feel-like-cooking kind of day are the easiest thing to add to a quick seaweed wrap.
The point is: rather than grabbing a quick salad or sandwich, I use what I’ve got on hand first. Chat GPT has saved me a few times when I’ve typed in ingredients I have on hand to come up with something good to make.
Make it happen: This is where meal prep is your friend. Camille shares her go-to meal prep strategy here. Stock up on staples and prep them on Sunday to give yourself mix-and-match options that’ll last you the week. (And that you won’t get bored of by Tuesday.)
Use Gift Cards Up!
Over the years, I’ve gotten a plethora of gift cards from friends and family to restaurants, spas, and stores. And… I almost always forget about using them in the moment and they go unused or worse, expire. Pro tip: Always use restaurant gift cards when you get them. I’ve had two restaurants close over the years and gift cards ultimately went unused.
Make it happen: My strategy might be a little *extra* but it ensures I use up all my gift cards. I create a spreadsheet with every single gift card, the location, and the dollar amount, plus a note next to who gave it to me. That way, anytime I reach to buy something online and book an appointment, I make sure I’m using a gift card and can send a follow up note to that person reminding them how thankful I was to use it.
While you might not have gift cards laying around, I bet you have emails from brands offering discounts for your birthday/birthday month or “first time guest” discounts you can use. Every little bit adds up.
Clothing In/Clothing Out
At this point, I could be admitted into Black Dress Jail for the amount of black dresses that live in my closet. Sure, each one looks a little different than the next, but not that different. So before anything enters my closet, I’m doing a major overhaul and getting rid of a LOT. Like, half of my closet. And before anything can come in, I have to get rid of at least three things. In just one week I loaded up three full ThredUp bags to the post office and went on an eBay posting spree on cycling gear I no longer wear.
Make it happen: There are countless ways to donate or sell your clothing. Visit your local thrift store and see what they’ll take. Or, Madewell has a great program with ThredUp to either sell or recycle your used clothing. The fun/social part of this is opening up my closet to friends to borrow dresses and outfits from one another so we can also curb our spending a bit. It’s such an easy way to feel like you’re wearing something new (to you). This strategy is way cheaper than buying new or utilizing Rent the Runway or a similar service.
Host Friends > Going Out
Maybe it’s my age and less about saving money, but at 42, my friends and I are leaning heavily into simple, quality evenings together. Rather than get dressed up and go out to dinner for a recent birthday, my friend opened her home and everyone was tasked with bringing a side dish for a dinner in. We wore cozies, didn’t buy gifts, and just enjoyed everyone’s company. (Not to mention probably saved $100+ each.)
Don’t get me wrong, I love trying new restaurants and throwing on a fun dress to go out, but when it comes to literally everything in my life right now, I’m trying to simplify and refine. An easy night in, grabbing something healthy from Trader Joe’s, wearing a comfy outfit, with a good playlist in the background is my idea of a good time these days. (Pro tip: Mimic the vibe of your favorite hotel with a curated playlist. I love this one from Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin.)
Make it happen: We compiled all the best hosting ideas and inspiration, right here.
Rethink Entertainment
Every year I say some variation on the same: This will be the year I read more. Inevitably, I end up reading no more than two books. It’s partly because I cram every waking moment with work, creative projects, and friend hangs, so when I actually have time to relax, I want to do nothing but lay down and get caught in a TV show. But I miss getting lost in a good book and the conversations reading inspires.
I was at a cocktail event the other week and two girlfriends talked about a book they both wanted to read, which I happened to have a copy of on my bookshelf. (My very FULL bookshelf of unread books begging for my attention.) It was the perfect opportunity to start the book and set a date to chat about it with my friends. I’ve never been a part of a book club, so I have no clue if I’ll even like it, but this hang costs virtually nothing. What’s more, I also get an evening away from home, time to pour into my friendships, and the chance to have my mind expanded through good conversation.
Make it happen: These are our favorite new reads of the season. Browse what’s available at the library or, spend a little at your local bookstore to support the author. Plan an evening with friends to get together and chat about the book. Trust me: while you’ll love talking about literature, the conversation will drift to every other area of your lives. It’s the perfect way to get caught up.
The Takeaway
Hop on social media, and it can seem like everyone is always either taking a lavish vacation or out to a dinner with friends. It’s easy to assume that others are having more fun or able to spend more without caring how it may impact their finances. With everyone’s lives always available to us with a quick swipe, the temptation to compare can be difficult to avoid.
But I hope these budget-saving strategies serve as a reminder that it’s fun to get creative not only with how we spend our money, but how we prioritize our time. I’m loving trying new things in the kitchen and opting for new ways to catch up with friends. Let these tips inspire you to switch things up—and maybe even make a little more progress on your reading list, too!
Lifestyle
Your 10-Piece Summer Capsule Wardrobe for 2024
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Summer is (finally!) here, and I’ve spent the last couple of weeks transitioning my closet for the new season. What started as a cleanout and reorganization mission evolved into a thoughtful evaluation of everything I own—and what holes needed to be filled. With limited storage space, it became clear that every piece I purchased needed to be multi-wear, functional, and a true ten-out-of-ten. Working in fashion, it can also be tempting to overconsume, so I’ve realigned my priorities to build a summer capsule wardrobe that puts quality over quantity.
After a huge purge, the coats and boots have made their way to the back of the closet, and I’ve built a 10-piece summer capsule wardrobe full of linen, wovens, and sandals that has taken center stage. I think I’ve finally cracked the code to effortlessly chic summer dressing. The secret? Less truly is more.
The Summer Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
Find out exactly what you need for your summer capsule wardrobe below, and allow your closet to work smarter, not harder in summer 2024.
- Simple Sundress
- Lightweight Top
- Breezy Bottom
- Non-Denim Shorts & Skirt
- Layering Tee & Tank
- White Denim
- Everyday Sunglasses
- Summery Sandals
- Seasonal Straw Bag
- Protective Sun Hat
Simple Sundress
For all of the minimalists out there, a solid sundress can be a summer capsule wardrobe in and of itself. A sundress is a one-and-done outfit, is easy to pack on vacation, and keeps you cool while looking effortless. This summer, I’m looking for midi-to-full length sundresses that I can pair with sandals, sneakers, or heels, depending on where I’m headed. I love styling summer sundresses with a statement belt and a thin knit draped over my shoulders to add a bit of depth to the look.
Lightweight Tops
I grew up in Texas, and one of the most difficult things about summer shopping is finding tops that are breathable enough to wear in peak heat. Even though I now live in Los Angeles, I still gravitate toward sleeveless vests, breezy button-downs, and girly blouses that don’t leave me in a puddle of sweat.
Brands like DOEN, Reformation, and The Great have lots of lightweight and flowy tops that I love to style with denim, linen, and silk all summer long. My favorite top in my summer capsule wardrobe is my linen vest from DISSH, as it’s as cool as a tank top, but feels a little more styled and chic.
Breezy Bottoms
Although I still wear jeans all year round, I’ve been looking to expand my selection of pants with linen and silk pairs for summer. I’ve found that these airy alternatives are not only more comfortable and breathable but exude the laid-back energy that I’m trying to channel this year. (Plus, nothing is worse than a tight pair of jeans on a summer sunburn.) Investing in a trusty pair of white linen pants will be the best thing you can do for yourself this summer. This is the definition of working smarter, not harder—these pants will match every top in your closet.
Non-Denim Shorts & Skirts
While there is nothing wrong with denim shorts and skirts, I personally find them uncomfortable. I know that might be a hot take, but I don’t think I’ve worn my denim shorts in over a year. Instead, I gravitate toward flowy shorts and skirts that aren’t too short or too tight. I find that the more a-line shape a pair of shorts or a skirt has, the more flattering they are on the leg. This year, I’m filling this slot in my summer capsule wardrobe with longer, more tailored shorts and full-length linen skirts.
Layering Tees & Tanks
Every good summer capsule wardrobe starts with one-to-two layering bases. My requirements for layering tees and tanks are that they are long enough to tuck in, are not too tight around my arms, and are thick enough not to show my bra underneath. Once you find a good white or black tee/tank, the outfit possibilities are endless. If you’re looking for a foolproof summer outfit formula, pair one of these white tanks or tees with linen pants, a comfy sandal, a sweater draped over your shoulders, and a raffia bag. Sometimes, simpler is simply better.
White Denim
One of my favorite summer style trends is an all-white look. I’m a sucker for white jeans and a white top with a pop-of-color shoe and bag, so finding a reliable pair of white denim jeans is essential for my summer capsule wardrobe. You can’t go wrong with any cut of white denim, as this is a classic trend that will never go out of style. White denim overalls are also a great summer purchase to style over a white tee or a bikini at the beach. Bonus points for rewearing these pieces into fall and winter—we love a winter white!
Summery Sandals
Summer is the season of sandals, so say goodbye to your favorite boots and hello to biweekly pedicures! Whether you lean toward basic dad sandals or sexy strappy numbers, your choice in sandal should be neutral, comfortable, and durable. It’s easy to be woo-ed by trendy shoes, but a true summer capsule wardrobe sandal is timeless and versatile enough to pair with every item on this list. I look for sandals that are easy to slip on and off for beach days and grassy picnics, and lay flat in a suitcase for all of my summer adventures.
Seasonal Straw Bags
Perhaps my favorite part about summer rolling around is dusting off my woven raffia and straw bags to style all season long. Though this material will be forever reminiscent of my mom’s beach bag growing up, I love that designers have been using raffia in more modern, structured designs, giving the look a laid-back but still trendy feel. Plus, straw is a neutral, so it will match and add a seasonal flare to every outfit you create with this summer capsule wardrobe. From the farmer’s market to the beach and out to dinner, these bags can truly do (and hold) it all.
Protective Sun Hats
When I envision summer chicness, every look is topped off with the perfect floppy sun hat. There’s just something so opulent about a big hat and dark sunglasses that takes a basic summer outfit from simple to sexy. It’s also as functional as it is fashionable, protecting your skin during the sunny days ahead. I’m on the hunt for the perfect neutral raffia sun hat to wear at the beach with bikinis, on long walks in activewear, and everywhere in between. If a full-brim hat isn’t your style, a classic baseball hat adds a cool-girl touch to the summer capsule wardrobe while still covering your face, too.
Everyday Sunglasses
I like to think of sunglasses as the cherry on top of a summer capsule wardrobe: not entirely essential, but a small finishing touch that goes a long way. I went through a phase of purchasing multiple trendy, colorful sunglasses, but after having to pack four pairs of glasses for a three-day trip, I finally said enough is enough and found a well-fitting, neutral pair that goes with everything. Sunglasses also have a tendency to get left on the dinner table or swept into the ocean, so don’t feel like you have to spend a pretty penny on this element of your summer capsule wardrobe. A designer pair of sunglasses is always a fun splurge, but more affordable pairs earn just as many compliments minus the price tag.
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