Obsession No. 1

For as long as I can remember, I’ve fixated on certain pieces; clothing, accessories, shoes, you name it, as long as it’s related to fashion. But there’s one specific memory I have that changed my entire way of thinking when it comes to spending my hard earned money on said fashion items.

I was 14 years old, a summers worth of lifeguarding money itching to be spent at the Dolphin Mall in Sweetwater, Miami, when I came across a white, cotton voile babydoll tunic with black piping from the holy land that was known as Forever21. Cue my instant obsession. I immediately knew this top would make me feel my best on my first day of freshman year. But, the whole outfit had to be perfect, right? Which meant wearing it, just once, to test the waters: was it best paired with skinny jeans? Cutoff shorts? So I did just that, wore it, once, and (gasp!) washed it. What came out of the dryer looked like a crumpled up doily from the World War II era. Completely unrecognizable.

Which leads me to my whole impetus for writing this Substack. I never want anyone to feel the same way I did when my favorite article of clothing wasn’t durable enough to withstand the spin cycle. I’ll be deep diving on my favorite pieces (obsessions, if you will) and how I incorporate them in my everyday.

So let’s get right into it, shall we?

Starting with ‘Obsession No. 1’ - the Loeffler Randall Mira Tote. A fashion Substack favorite, retailing for $175 and currently available in 6 colors. Upon first inspection, the bag feels robust, substantial and seemingly made to last. Just recently, I put it to the ultimate test - a 12 day trip through England with my toddler and baby in tow. The stakes were high, formula would be spilled, puffs would be poured, and crayons would bleed! Let’s see how she fared…

Day 1: High hopes and higher expectations

Day 3: Proving her worth

Day 4: Survived a smooshed scone

Day 6: Run over by the stroller, oops…

Day 9: Still going strong! Also, sneak peek of a future newsletter.

Last day! And the conclusion is…..

This bag is a travel must have! I perused the reviews on the website, and some customers noted the sleeve does not fit on their suitcase, however, FWIW the bag fit perfectly with my Away Bigger Carry on.

Thanks for reading. Stay tuned for more in depth reviews of my obsessions.

Emily