Greetings, friends! And welcome to Caroline Finds It: my weekly newsletter where I reply to submissions from YOU for objects and products you need recommendations for.
I’ve been writing this newsletter for 28 weeks now, and one thing I’ve learned is that my readers care about two things the most: thoughtful interiors, and functional fashion. And as the season is changing, and it seems we’re all pulling out our autumn/winter clothes and reassessing, I’ve been getting a ton of requests for specific clothing and accessories. Next week I’ll share answers to requests regarding everyday items for fall/winter but today’s edition is all about dressing up.
Catherine in Philadelphia: “I need a pair of comfortable heels that are wide enough to work in grass for my wedding! My dress is ivory and I’m open to ivory silver or gold and partial to a chunky platform, but also open to more classic looks.”
Catherine, I’ve been patiently waiting for someone to recommend Nomasei to!! They are a Paris-based, made-in-Italy shoe brand I’ve been following for a while who have a whole collection of unique and wearable bridal shoes. They do have a wild platform you might like (below, $460), and also this style, which would be totally grass-friendly if it’s not a wet day. Almost all of the styles are available in ivory, silver and a nice champagne gold. I love that they don’t look particularly “bridal”, so you’ll enjoy wearing them after your wedding, too.
Another shoe brand I love for heels is Charlotte Stone, who makes really cool heels that are comfortable right out of the box. The Gina Pump Mule ($234) is a great option if you’d prefer something closed-toe.
Hear me out on this one: I came across this pair of very gold pumps from Aerosoles ($125) that I want to show you. They have the support and cushioning your grandma knows and loves, but the shoe itself is a surprisingly contemporary shape.
With outdoor heels, it’s just as important to consider the material that it’s made out of because even if the heel is chunky enough, they’ll still get dirty from walking around in grass. Something sturdy and leather will wipe clean in a jiffy!
Hailey in Boston: “I’m looking for gloves. Gloves that will hold up to lots of wear, are timeless and chic but not dainty, warm, but on the thin side. Not too sporty, but can hold up against the elements. And ideally do not have those horrid finger pads for using a phone.”
A well-made leather glove in the right size is what you’re after! Gloves do have sizes beyond S/M, M/L and finding the right fit makes a world of difference. Look no further than Sermoneta, which is an Italian glove brand with a few shops in Italy and one here in NYC. They make pretty much any style of leather glove, in many colors and sizes. Since they’re a glove specialist and not a designer brand, you’re really getting what you pay for. Their standard styles are all under $200 and are as high quality and long lasting as you can get. Since you live in Boston, I might suggest trying a pair that’s lined. The 1012 model is a mid-length, lined with cashmere and $139.
Kerri in New Jersey: “I'm going to a winter wedding in December and the dress I'd like to wear is sleeveless, so I'm looking for something to wear over it while inside. The dress is black and fairly plain--it has an illusion neckline with some subtle beading and is floor-length with no ruffles or anything complicated. I'd like something a little more interesting than a pashmina, and faux/fur stoles don't feel very me. I'd be interested to see what you'd suggest!”
What a conundrum!! Since this is to be worn inside, I’m going to assume that it’s more for coverage than it is for warmth. In that case, why not wear a little cape? It’s cooler and more dramatic than a pashmina or stole, and it’ll have some sort of closure at the neck in case you want to fasten it. Here are a couple of options I found for you:
Kiki de Montparnasse Classic Cape ($255): Flirty and a little voluminous.
Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Split-Sleeve Velvet Cape ($343): Extremely chic, and with split sleeves so you can actually move your arms.
One of my favorite finds is a UK-based Etsy shop called Alisya Couture with more than a dozen styles of gorgeous capelets in different styles and fabrics, all of which have very good reviews. I especially like this short one in silk velvet ($159) for you. Follow the links — I’m not posting photos here because there is a terrifying mannequin in them.
Marcella Olympia Bolero ($79): Not a cape, and might not work with the neckline of your dress, but I had to share this sassy little sheer bolero because it’s so budget-friendly.
FAVORITE PRODUCT OF THE WEEK
Evening bags are a category of accessory that I particularly hate. Tiny bags that can’t even fit my phone are not for me, and if I’m going full evening wear, chances are, it’s not my bag that I want to make a statement. And besides, who really wants to own more than one “evening bag”? On a quest to find an easy-to-travel-with, all-purpose option a few months ago, I landed on the Pouch by Porto, which is essentially a really luxe leather drawstring dust bag. At first, I felt a little silly for paying $250 for such a thing, but it immediately became a staple. The nappa leather is the softest I’ve ever felt, the construction is impeccable and it fits *just* enough: a phone, a lipstick, keys, a snack, a few cards, a mess of band-aids. But the best part? It’s completely flat and takes up zero space in my carry-on.
Is there a product you’re looking for? Submit your request here. See you next week for fresh recommendations! xo Caroline