Skinny jeans are not for everyone. Some women find them to be too constricting or they just don't like that "tight" look.  There's nothing worse than feeling like a stuffed sausage (my friend Ellen's favorite saying!) in jeans that you can't breathe in. So what do you do when you want a slim-cut denim that doesn't cut off your circulation?

Of course there are lots of jean options---there's the boyfriend jean (but sometimes it can look a bit baggy and doesn't work for everyone) and there's the bootcut jean (but the flare doesn't always work with flats or sneakers) --and THEN there's the slim-cut straight leg which fits closely, but with more wiggle room than a skinny jean.

I pulled four slim straight leg jean options--all are in mid or high rise.  You'll notice that the AG pair is actually called a "slouchy skinny", but it's really the opposite-- a skinny boyfriend (confusing I know!).

So if you want to show off your curves without sacrificing comfort, try on a pair of slim straight jeans the next time you're out shopping--oh and I love an ankle length for the warmer months!

Bold stripes are "in" for spring, but when were they ever really out? Stripes are a classic that have been in style for as long as I can remember. Of course stripes can give off a nautical feel, but there is also something crisp and modern about wearing them---a little French and chic too!

If you're hesitant about incorporating stripes into your wardrobe, start slowly. Add a striped scarf to a plain tee and jeans--or accessorize a simple summer dress with a striped tote bag.  I happen to love a statement piece like the trench-coat or dress (shown in gallery below).  Or if you're feeling especially bold, mix stripes with a little animal print! 


Here are some striped pieces I love. Click on each item for shopping details. 



Have fun with your clothes!
XO Susan

Today's post has nothing to do with clothes, but everything to do with life. 
And death.
My dad passed away exactly a year ago yesterday after a courageous fight with male breast cancer. He was a brilliant, funny and very stubborn man. He didn't let anything get in his way of living the way he wanted to...including cancer. Even while on chemo, he dug up his garden, hiked, cut down tree branches, shoveled snow, walked 4 miles every day and drove to Quebec (much to our dismay!). I remember getting aggravated with him because I worried he would get hurt and set himself back....but he never did. He took charge of his life, and in retrospect, I admire him tremendously for his strength and determination to live life to its fullest.

My daughter Alyssa has her own blog "Lyss Takes Flight" about her life, every day happenings, and raw emotions. Yesterday she posted about her "Grampy", my dad.  If you've ever lost someone special in your life, the words will resonate. 

You can follow Alyssa at HERE.  Warning though, she doesn't hold back so if profanity bothers you this blog might not be your cup of tea. 

365 Days Later