What’s in this post: Figuring out what the heck “Hygge” means by getting in touch with both nature and the simpler side of living.
The Look: [sp] Round Neck Maxi Dress from Hygge Living ($32) // [sp] Bull Hoof Necklace from Simply Nature Bio Goods ($209) // Guilty Sunglasses from Public Sunglasses ($79) // Similar boots from Aldo ($180) // Wing Ding Cuff Bracelet from Kutula Kiss ($85) // Coachella Rose Tone Watch from Escape Watches ($195) // Cocktail Ring from 7 Charming Sisters // Styled by + photos: Christina Stein Imberlina // Louis Vuitton Pochette Accessoire cloth handbag – borrowed from Christina because she loves me ($495)
I’m normally in New York City at least twice a year, and I have my spots that I go to every time. Every trip I stop at 2 Bros Pizza, where you can get the best New York style slice of pie that’s as big as your head, and also Carlo’s Bakery to eat a little white chocolate mouse cake all by myself (I figure all the walking works it off, right?).
Central Park isn’t on my must-go list, but I think it needs to be. It amazes me that there’s this delightful slice of nature in the middle of the concrete jungle. I loved taking a break from the hustle of New York Fashion Week to enjoy the greenery! It’s quite a gem and showed me the meaning of “Hygge” in the midst of a crazzzzzy week. To be honest, I had no idea what Hygge meant or how to say it before connecting with Julee from Hygge Living (more on this distinctive, new online boutique later in the post). But, in getting to know the brand, I’ve learned it’s pronounced Hoo-ga, and means finding and enjoying your version of happiness, joy, and simplicity. It’s a term that leaves room for interpretation for everyone.
For me, there’s something about nature that’s so grounding, which is why I have a remarkable level of respect for conscious and green businesses. Simply Nature Bio Goods is a jewelry company that sustainably merges the beauty of nature with the glamour of fashion. I think it’s quite interesting how every piece is made with selected plants and trees that are either medicinal, nutritional, spiritual, or even delicious to humans. It’s an alluring reminder of the link between living a fulfilling life and caring for our ecosystems. And get this! Each piece is also made from it’s own individual leaf (which then goes through an innovative and ethical 18k gold dipped process). No two leaves are ever the same, so your Simply Nature Bio Goods piece will be completely unique to any other one out there. In this look, I’m wearing the “Bull Hoof” necklace ($209), which is a Brazilian tree known for being a natural remedy against diabetes. I’m always looking for pieces that will start conversations, and this one totally did during New York Fashion Week – the details are captivating and unlike anything else out there!
The brand was created by Priscila Barbedo & Fernando Guevara, who are partners in both life and in business. Despite having to leave a troubled home at the age of 13, the dream to be a part of the fashion world kept nagging at Priscila (read more of the story here). Fernando grew up with a love of nature from a career in sports (he’s an active Professional Beach Tennis Player!) and an appreciation of country life at his family farm in Colombia. As you can see, the entire brand is a representation of how worlds, industries, and contrasts can collide to yield impact, creativity, and stunning jewelry.
This coral maxi dress ($32) from a brand new online boutique that I’m loving, Hygge Living, was the perfect canvas for showing off such a one-of-a-kind necklace. From the moment I saw this dress on the website, I fell in love with the color. This dress is simple, which makes it versatile for every season. I adore that the color reminds me of the vibrance of summer but that it looks great with a pair of fall boots. This look turned out to be a perfect summer to fall transition outfit, but I could’ve belted this and layered it with a long cardigan (like this one!) for colder weather or with sandals for a day at the beach (this is also me refusing to let summer go).
Julee Dole has been dreaming of owning a boutique for the last 15 years (and even spent 12 of those working in the corporate world). Having grown up in rural Iowa but traveling a lot for her career, Julee has an eye for curating a collection of warm, feel good styles alongside modern designs. It’s created a dynamic for the boutique that is unlike anything I’ve seen before – so refreshing (plus, this boss babe is on her game when it comes to customer service). Did I also mention 10% off first orders and free shipping on orders of $75 or more? Happy shopping, Gem. 😉
Why Hygge? Julee heard the Danish word 3 years ago and it stuck with her ever since. While she says it describes her personality, I say it also perfectly expresses the energy of the boutique as well – cozy, trendy, and unique. She wants to promote the concept to bring simplicity and happiness to more people’s lives. For Julee, “happiness is early mornings with a cup of coffee or in the winter being under blankets on the couch watching a cheesy Christmas movie.” For me, it’s enjoying ice cream while sitting down with a new or old friend and hearing their story, or even taking a moment during a non-stop trip to ground myself in nature.
So, however you’re finding your happiness in simplicity, I hope you use this 1) as inspiration for your end of summer (because I’d rather not say “beginning of fall”) look and 2) as a reminder to do a little more living every day.
