Back-To-School Shopping: Mom Edition
Back-to-school shopping doesn't have to be all about the kids. Yes, it is exciting to fill their new backpacks with shiny new school supplies, but who says you can't treat yourself and consider this a start to a "new year" for you, too? I asked our design team what they recommend for Alexandria moms looking to treat themselves this back-to-school season. Here's what they came up with:
Michaela Sedlak, Interior Designer
The Hive is truly a one-stop shop for Mammas looking for that new back-to-school look. Starting off with the most perfect bag that doesn't have to hold any kid supplies. Nothing says "I'm a cool mom" like the new Paloma bag in Forest green designed by A.L.C. Cute, versatile, and a hot color, this bag can transition you from summer to fall and be the envy of all. To finish this look off, I suggest the Sabine Savage Pelicans and the Sea dress in coral, Golden Goose pure star in white/ beige, and to top it off, the France Luxe claw clip in color Tokyo.
Danielle Steele, Lead Designer
With the kids out of the house, back-to-school is a great time to give a small space in your home, like a bathroom or an office, a quick makeover. Lighting is a great way to make a huge impact on your space without having to redo the whole room. If you are looking for some inspiration, we definitely recommend checking out Alexandria Lighting & Supply. For bathrooms, we love using sconces. They provide a better source of lighting for make-up application and other tasks at the mirror, so we try to opt for this source of lighting when we can. Using brass and warm metals are very appropriate for a primary bath in Old Town Alexandria. The Two Light Wall Mount sconce in Vibrant Gold by Crystorama is really nice in between bathroom sinks. The use of the acrylic/lucite brings a more modern feel but still relates back to traditional style with the finish and shade. The One Light Wall Sconce in Champagne Gold by Kichler or the Two Light Wall Sconce in Natural Brass by Kichler would look amazing in a home office or library application for task lighting. I'm also a big fan of anything reeded.
Megan Bell, Interior Designer
Back to school is a great time to do something for yourself. While I love a good outfit like Michaela, I am a true fan of treating yourself through a fun fitness class. There's nothing better than yoga or pilates from Mind the Mat! If you are looking to really treat yourself with something that requires more style and less sweat, jewelry is always a must! I adore the Tura Sugden Single Line Pave Needle Eye Cuffs from Alx&Co - they can even be customized!
Sooz Wilson, Kitchen and Bath Designer
I'm a huge fan of school supplies and think that just because you aren't going back to school with the kids doesn't mean you can't treat yourself to something nice. I love the notebooks at Penny Post. Appointed's Lined Notebooks are really nice, and you just feel luxurious when you write in them. Since it feels like to-do lists get longer when school starts, I also recommend buying a new notepad. Since I'm a designer, I'm very much drawn to the Grids & Guides List Pad Set. It keeps everything neat and tidy as I'm checking off my "to-dos"!
