Making February Fun

Photography by Kirsten Beeksma Morse

We are on to a new month and I do love February. I love that it isn't January any longer, but I also adore Valentine's Day, which gave me an idea. Since I need things to look forward to, I have decided that my new motto is "Make February Fun". That means I am going to plan fun activities and do new things, starting with throwing a Hawaiian dinner party this weekend. Planning the food and decor has distracting me from all the politics and worry that is such a part of our world these days. I need to do something positive and spending time with friends is just that.

The Pineapple Co. Tumblers

I am going to serve a signature cocktail, The Pineapple Swizzle, from my The Pineapple Co. Tumblers, not only because it is a Hawaiian themed dinner soirée, but because the pineapple is a symbol of hospitality. I found a vintage metal Hawaiian tray on Etsy, and have my tropical flowers and subtle print napkins to keep things more elegant than kitschy. Coconut shrimp apps, hummingbird cake and the great company will certainly start "February Fun" in just the right way.

Photo by Charlie Morse of Solve for (x) School

During February we still need to keep warm and bundled for the most part, but there is the promise of a season change around the corner. I am not willing to give up my layers quite yet, but giving things a new perspective with an on-trend piece or two is an easy closet refresh. Last week I went poking about in one of my favorite neighborhood spots, Queen Anne Dispatch, and found the perfect pieces to do just that.

O2 Collection Lace Cropped Top and Sheer Tank

Layers needn't be bulky, they can be pretty as well. I love a cropped piece as much as the next girl but being in my 50s means I have to wear them my own way. I took the trends; sheer details, cropped silhouettes, and lace, and made them my own. I layered this gray half sheer O2 Collection Tank over a camisole, then added the cropped lace O2 Collection Cropped Lace Top. Both of these pieces are available at Queen Anne Dispatch.

Photo by Charlie Morse

I wore my look with a pair of 3x1 waxed denim trousers but a pencil skirt would also be fab. Leopard shoes give a pop of attitude, and my Miu Miu mini bag works for a night out. This outfit is a neutral, so I paired it with different coats to change the look up.  The green leather J.Crew Collection Bomber Jacket felt edgy while a blue faux fur from Zara made it ready for a night out.

Photo by Isabella of Solve for (x) School

My photographer is Kirsten Beeksma Morse (Krissi), and her daughter, Charlie, attends a small private middle school, Solve for X School.  Last week I was asked to participate in a cool learning experience with the kids from the middle school. Krissi spent time talking with the class about her photography and teaching them about the fundamentals of her work. I met the class at University Village afterwards where each child had scouted out photo locations and had written ideas about their vision for photos. They all had such a unique take on things and it was really cool to see these young creative minds at work. I couldn't print them all, but have credited the photos of a few of the students shots. Good stuff.

Photo by Aiden of Solve For (x) School

Do what you love and love what you do. Hope your February is full of fashion, friends, food, and fun. xx