“The B side of a record is where the deep cuts live—the complex, idiosyncratic songs that true connoisseurs appreciate most.  In that same spirit, B Sides celebrates the beauty of imperfection: Jeans that, like the sleeper song on a classic rock album, have an interesting story to tell.”

These first two sentences on the ‘about’ page of B SIDES resonate deeply with me.  I live for the deep cuts - of albums and of jeans.  I want the interesting sounds, styles, and stories.  I live in vintage/thrifted denim.  I’m not a fan of stretchy/thin denim, and I like my jeans old and worn.  To put it frankly, I think new denim generally sucks.  I make an exception for B SIDES, though because they are the exception to new denim today.  The founders, Claire Lampert and Stacy Daily, began collecting antique denim for their previous project, the vintage boutique Where I Was From.  You can read more about their story here.  I had the pleasure of visiting their Chinatown showroom when I was in New York this past winter, where I learned about their upcoming collections.  They source their materials from family-owned mills that provide textiles to farm supply stores and have been since the 19th century. Every piece is unique.  As you can see, the two patchwork jeans shown above and photographed together are slightly different from one another.  Also to note - their jeans don’t feel like ‘new’ denim.  You can move in them, yet they are structured and tailored enough to remain true to the feel of red-tagged vintage Levis.  Explore their shop for these styles and more.  

Today is summer solstice (in the northern hemisphere) - the longest day of the year.  It's officially summer.  Kapha season is over, and we may be ready for beaches, barbecues, and fun in the sun.  Well, maybe not.  I have been feeling incredibly inward lately.  Perhaps because I miss the ocean while living landlocked in the desert, which is a new experience for me.  Or perhaps it’s because we are entering Cancer season, and I'm feeling like I need a crab shell right now.  Regardless, it has been a whirlwind of a time with many shifts and a bit of chaos.  Finding comfort is a year-round task, not reserved just for cold months.  Yet in the summer, we generally want to transform comfort into ease.  Fluidity.  Movement.  Effortlessness.  Life does not always give this to us; however, we can use our objects and surroundings intentionally, in order to pause and practice presence (with ease).  Here are some objects to practice with, as well as a playlist for fluidity and perhaps some fun.  I've included a suggested practice in the first featured item of this round-up, and you can browse the Holiday Self-Care Guide for more rituals ideas here.

Brittany Bogan is a Los Angeles based artist.  I recently came across her work and felt immediately captivated by her use of color, texture, and shape.  You can find more of her work here.

Observe a work of art.  Whether it’s a piece you own hanging in your home, or a work pictured in a book, sit with it for 20 minutes.  Set the timer.  Allow yourself to be in an awareness state, which means that you will be observing what comes up without judgement.  This is a neutral practice.  Journal after the experience.  I suggest doing this once a week with the same work for one month, so that you can track the evolution of your experience.  

I first tried on Nu Swim four years ago at one of my staple Los Angeles stores, Passenger.  It was my favorite and most-worn suit until it unfortunately went missing in Palm Springs on my way to NM in the fall.  After originating in California, Nu Swim is now based in New York and manufactured sustainably in the USA.  Their pieces are made with regenerated synthetics, mixed with natural materials "that can be worn as an uncomplicated second skin."  Their fabrics are incredibly comfortable, durable, and truly feel like second skin.  I’ve been loving the new color-ways, and this specific suit gives that pop of liveliness I’ve been feeling I need right now. Wear it to the beach/pool/river, or under your favorite pair of slouchy denim.

Winden is a jewelry and accessories company by my dear friend, Becca.  I own the barrette shown above (that’s actually me pictured in it), and I wear it on the regular.  It's the perfect small accessory for summer to keep hair off of the face when dealing with the heat.  Winden is based here in Santa Fe, and every piece of jewelry is made my hand using recycled materials.  The barrettes are made in France using plant-based plastic.  Becca is a true artist and not only designs the pieces herself, but also works with her hands using metal and stone to create the original designs.  I often find her working in her studio when I go to visit her at home.  She is meticulous as they come, and I respect and honor her process.  Browse more items here.

I came across Lady White Co. while shopping in County Ltd. in Silver Lake.  I got to know one of the founders, Taylor, a bit because I frequented the store.  I love to support businesses owned by people who are not only passionate about what they do, but who also live by the lifestyle they are prescribing.  The brand started off as a t-shirt company, and has since expanded into sportswear.  I own one of their tees and hope to acquire some more pieces.  The sweatpants shown above are made of 100% cotton fleece and perfect for chilly summer nights here in Santa Fe.  The thermal is also 100% cotton and milled in Los Angeles.  It's rare to find basics made in interesting silhouettes, and this is something I value, as my wardrobe is made of transitional basics.  All of their pieces can easily be unisex.

Klur is a female, black-owned “botanically based collection of high-performance skincare and multi-purpose self-care products.” The founder, Lesley, who also happens to be a dear friend of mine, formulated the line based on her clients.  She's been a working esthetician for 10 years and has a wealth of knowledge on every ingredient in her line.   Klur is not only an ethical and sustainable company, but also an inclusive one.  All products are unisex and made for all people of all ages.  Here is an excerpt from their site:  "we believe that sustainability not only means addressing the long-term impact on our ecosystem but that we must also make products that meet the demands of everyday life."  I love this.  There is no point in accumulating and accumulating products that aren’t meant for everyday use.  Klur is a highly active, yet simple approach to clean beauty.  I use the Gentle Matter cleanser and Symmetry Fluid every single day.  The Skin Soil pictured above is the perfect addition to a summer skin routine, in order to remove excess residue from sweat.  I hope to incorporate this gentle exfoliator as well as the Brilliant Light serum into my routine soon.

I love a good summer knit.  There may be no better feeling than drying off after a dip in the ocean or a pool as the sun is setting and pulling a knit over your swimsuit.  Ply Knits “is a series of gentle, essential knitwear made by Carolyn Yim at her family's third-generation factory.”  Carolyn uses mostly recycled or deadstock yarn to make Ply’s beautiful pieces.  The simplicity and attention to detail in each piece is enviable.  The Eastern T-Shirt, shown above, comes in a few different color combinations.  Browse more here.

Shaina Mote is one of my absolute favorite fashion brands.  This female-owned and designed company creates the most effortlessly elegant pieces that feel current yet timeless.  I gasped when I saw this sheer top on my Instagram feed, as the introduction to the Air Collection, made of deadstock silk organza and satins.  Shaina Mote is a sustainable brand and all pieces are designed and made in Los Angeles.  They “are dedicated to fair, American made production," and “have centered [their] ethos and practices around supporting the local economy and nurturing the trades and skills found within domestic garment manufacturing."  Enough said (or rather, written).

I love the name of the ceramics studio, Salad Days, because it shares the name of an album title with one of my favorite artists, Mac Demarco.  Salad Days Ceramics are handmade by Lucy Coote in Berhampore, Wellington.  She makes wheel thrown and hand built pieces in her home studio, with a focus on function and tactility, in order to create pieces for everyday use and enjoyment.  All pieces are made from stoneware and earthenware clays.  These jugs are simple and stunning and perfect for cold summer drinks.

F. Miller Skincare is owned by my dear friend, Fran Miller.  Yes, I have a lot of dear friends, and three of them are featured here today.  My friends make cool shit.  This past fall, Fran sent me one of her tie dye tees made from 100% organic Egyptian cotton.  I basically live in it. She uses natural materials to dye them with, such as sandalwood and avocado skins.  Each tee is one of a kind, and I featured the Marfa above.  Also browse her amazing line of skin/beauty care.  

Don’t forget to listen to the playlist here.

I had the pleasure of being interviewed by one of my favorite brands OZMA of California - a female-owned, sustainable and ethical clothing company based here in Los Angeles.  Scroll down to read the interview.  I'm wearing the Matador Romper in Natural - shop here.

You live in Topanga Canyon! Tell us how living there has affected you creatively?

I have access to nature - it's all around. I've been jumping into the ocean nearly every day, and for me, freedom is what inspires me to create. I don't think there's anywhere I feel more free than in the ocean. It's such a cleansing, purifying act, and I feel completely at home in the water. I once was told that in a past life I was a mermaid, and that in this life I finally got my legs. I think it was probably symbolic, but I often feel like that - as if I'm somehow missing something that everyone is clued into. But I also feel like that's part of being creative - feeling a bit "out of it" in the world, yet so, so at home while creating. So jumping in the ocean has allowed me to be more free in the type of work I'm making because it opens up the space for me to tap into that "true essence" part of myself.

You've mentioned that your place is pretty tiny. What's your best advice for those us with less square footage in our lives?

The most obvious answer is to own less. I think more importantly - to create spaciousness within. I sometimes feel like I'm going mad in my current space. I've lived in small spaces for the past 6 years, and my current space is absolutely the smallest, at just over 300 sq. ft. When I feel like the walls are caving in and I want more room to move around in, I go inward and ask myself what my insides need. Sometimes it's as simple as "I'm here and I love you", but sometimes I need to really talk to my inner self and see what's going on underneath it all.

How would you describe your fashion sensibility?

Easy, simple, laid back, androgynous. I like mixing masculine and feminine, and sometimes I feel the sexiest in a button down and pants.

What inspires you?

Nature, chairs, old coffee table/art books, people who are free to be exactly as they are.

Were you always interested in interior design?

Yes. I was always interested in my surroundings and how space affected me. I got really into interiors during my senior year of college. It became almost an obsession. In my spare time I would drive around and go to consignment shops to find old pieces. I love furniture so much.

How does sustainability play into your life?

Sustainability has played into my life since I was 15.  When I found out about global warming, I started an environmental club is my high school.  Once I went off to college, I felt so powerless over everything and sort of gave up trying.  Now I know that we do make a difference as individuals, and in order for the collective to be influenced, we have to make big strides independently.  I gave up fast fashion a few years ago, and I pretty much only shop independently/vintage.  This is very important to me.  And with my philosophy on bringing objects/items into my life/space, I am extremely discerning about what I acquire.  I call this mindful collecting.  We mindlessly consume, and our culture/media trains us to do so.  We have to change the narrative.  The work that I do is really about grounding within ourselves so that we can let go of our attachments to the physical world (emphasis on attachments, as we can't let go of the physical world).  This doesn't mean you have to move into a tent in the woods.  It’s truly about being mindful of the space and objects we surround ourselves with.  We can change the stories we tell ourselves about what we need.  We don’t need anything physical other than food/shelter (meaning, we wouldn’t die without clothing or our beloved objects).  However, we can accept the society we live in and approach how we operate differently.  Yes, by shopping mindfully, but also by strengthening our inner selves so that we can shift our relationship with objects from symbols to tools.   If a piece of art moves you, that piece of art becomes a tool for connection.  Otherwise, you just have art on your wall because “it goes there” or because it's worth something (and is therefore a symbol of money or stature).  You can read more about this concept here.  This method is so much less overwhelming than overhauling your entire life and becoming a radical minimalist.  I'm not suggesting to NOT radically change, but I think it's important to be realistic.  I’ve found that people aren't going to be open to making any strides if they feel overwhelmed.  I still use paper towels.  There are absolutely areas where I need to do better.  I'm working on it.  But I'm transparent about it.  Not because I think being honest gets us off the hook, but because it's better to be honest then to paint a false picture.  Sustainability is trending right now.  I've been reading interviews where people say that they care about where garments come from/how they're made, and then I see these people tagging Zara in their photos.  This is what's problematic and why I feel we really need to change the narrative.  People care about the environment, but not to the extent that they are willing to inconvenience their lives.  Hence my relationship with paper towels.  But answering this question is getting me fired up and ready to end my relationship with them for good.  The more open we are, the more we can inspire change in ourselves and others.

Got any good advice for us on best plants to brighten up a home?

Rubber plants are my favorite because they are the most low maintenance, and they're pet friendly. Some plants ( like aloe) are toxic to pets. I also love bringing in flowers from outside. When at a floral shop, I always pick up baby's breath and eucalyptus.

Thrifted decor or new?

Thrifted.

Favorite all time song?

This question is too hard! First thing that comes to mind right now is: Both Sides Now by Joni Mitchell. The second/jazzy version. It's like she has this new ( sadder, yet deeper) perspective on life, and you can hear it in her voice. Perhaps that she's been let down in ways, but it created the most moving song. If I ever want to cry, I'll get in my car, roll the windows down, and aimlessly drive, and blast this song.

Favorite hole in the wall destination in LA?

Hmm. Stories. Does it count as a hole in the wall? It's a bookstore in Echo Park. I love going there and sitting on the benches and opening random pages of books and reading them. I always fantasize about what books I'll end up reading, but I usually feel satisfied just reading bits and pieces in the store and leaving with a lot of unanswered questions ( and no physical books).

Read more on OZMA's journal

Interview by Jasmine Bouzaglou

Photography by me and inspiration imagery by Robert Mapplethorpe

The blues.  I've had a case of them for a few weeks, and I've taken comfort in seeing these moody hues all around.  Regardless of blue being “in” right now, it’s encouraging to be propelled by a color, especially when the color visually represents how I’m feeling inside.  Yet this representation hasn't been enough to get me out of the funk.  My wonderful friend and Ayurvedic practitioner, Meredith, always has beautiful insight into how I’m feeling regarding my doshas (I’m tri-doshic) and the seasons.  My kapha is abnormally out of balance due to some outside health ailments, but we are also currently in kapha season.  I’ve been feeling all kinds of heavy, slow, sluggish, cloudy, and stuck.  Meredith recommended dancing for 20 minutes a day to get all of this stale energy moving.  The first time I implemented my new “treatment” (the following day), I broke into tears about three songs into my crazy-amazing-solo-dance-party.  Why?  I realized that I hadn’t been experiencing much joy in my life at all…for a while.  I was so struck by how much lighter I felt, that my body naturally was ready to release some of the mucky, stagnant energy.  

Here are some beautiful objects for you to embrace the blues, as well as a playlist to get you moving through them.  We can support times of sadness, depression, and staleness, while we simultaneously acknowledge that it’s okay to be blue, and it’s also okay to move through the blues.  Meredith specifically suggested that I listen to metal and rap, as these are the genres that counter kapha the most, but this playlist is a little more my style (and still helps me counter that kapha).  Whether you're rocking out to Parquet Courts or getting down to Marvin Gaye, there's something for everyone.  I hope you laugh at the Datarock song as much as I do :).  Enjoy!

A Personal Uniform launches garments twice a year with editions of 15-20 items.  All garments are crafted from high quality material and produced in-house in their Bankok studio.  Simple in practice yet incredibly inspiring and interesting in concept, their pieces are quite stunning and captivating while still being wearable.  I’m drooling over their entire collection, including this navy wrap-dress.

You may already know how much I love Rachel Saunders Ceramics from my previous post about her work.  This love only keeps getting stronger with each new piece she releases.  This periwinkle vase has been giving me all kinds of feels.  Shop her pieces here.  

I recently discovered Ajaie Alaie, and I’m in love with the motivation and inspiration behind their clothing.  Here’s a statement from their website:  "Ajaie Alaie is all about mindfulness and reminding women to be mindful with their daily thoughts and actions. Each garment has an amulet on the inside of the garment at a specific energy point (a chakra), represented by a design detail, a knot, twist, dart etc... We believe keeping these energy points balanced is instrumental for our well-being and success. Each garment is reminding us to feel proud of our accomplishments, to love unconditionally, feel secure, grounded, and feel safe...Ajaie Alaie’s woman is aware of her surroundings, of world issues and is in constant strive to be a better version of herself. Ajaie Alaie's woman is in constant motion, flow, and always looking to broaden her perspectives."  This is perhaps the most beautiful description for a clothing line I've ever read.  I am in awe of the attention to detail, thoughtfulness, and spirituality woven into their garments and philosophy.   They are also extremely sustainable, ethical, and conscious - I encourage you to read about their fabrics and process because all brands should strive for this much consideration for the environment.  You can browse these powder blue beauties and the rest of their pieces here.  

I was scrolling through By Far’s collection, deciding which pair I would get once I could pull the trigger, and I immediately felt self-betrayal coming on for my typical gravitation towards neutral colored shoes.  These stopped me in my tracks.  The color on this shape is stunning.  Please buy them so I can google over your feet.  Made out of premium Italian materials, all of their shoes are handmade in a family-owned factory in Bulgaria  They now make a third of their collection from dead-stock leather.  YES to sustainable fashion.  I own a pair of their boots, and they are incredible chic (of course), comfortable, and easily blend into my everyday style.

Paloma Wool is always coming out with items that feel fresh, interesting, and wearable.  This blue backpack is no different.  It will add the perfect pop of color to any outfit, and it’s small enough to easily carry around while still being roomy enough to fit everyday necessities.  This bag is 100% leather and made in Barcelona (the brand’s home).  

I have always loved wearing socks with heels.  A college roommate of mine once told me she just didn't "get" the look, but that didn't stop me from wearing them to preppy parties.  I'm seeing them a lot more (and not just with casual sneakers), and I am particularly loving the delicate style of these sheer Darner ones.  I have a pair in white, and they give any outfit flair (sexy flair in my opinion).  These blue mesh socks remind me of the sky - they're super dreamy.  Browse Darner's instagram here.

I'm a sucker for anything linen.  I wear it.  I sleep in it.  I would bathe in it if I could.  This 100% linen table cloth is made by IN BED, a conscious, Sydney based bedding (and extras) company.  Their linen is grown and harvested in France and then transferred to their family-run factory in Shenzhen China.  As an ethical brand, they also use natural, reusable, or recyclable fabrics to package their products in.  Browse the rest of their beautifully simple products here.

Cienne's instagram tagline is "Deliberately discerning (practically poetic)."  I feel like I can stop writing now, as this is such a beautiful description of their brand and also of how I like to dress and live.  Their collections are designed by Nicole Heim and Chelsea Healy and made in New York.  Their mission is based on three pillars - empowering people, producing responsibly, and elevating & preserving craftsmanship.  They source natural and sustainable fibers from global communities and employ craftspeople in developing countries.  This doesn't stop them from creating high-end, editorial worthy, and gorgeous clothing.  The texture of this blazer is incredible and the fit is impeccable.  Shop their current collection here.  

Don't forget to listen to and DANCE along with the playlist.