She Said | She Said: Transitioning To Fall

We can officially say it - it’s fall! Arguably the best time of year in Alexandria, Stylebook is here for it! With so much inspiration at our fingertips, we turned to two longtime contributors who epitomize style and wellness in the community. We wanted to know how these two incredibly chic Alexandria women transition their lives to this glorious time of year…

Everyone loves decorating their homes for the fall! How are you adding a bit of fall festivity to yours?

Adrien: This is so simple! In late spring, I asked the team at Helen Olivia to create entryway beauty for our front door. We are so pleased. I reached out today to change it up and focus on a fall look.

Amy: If by fall you mean Halloween, then that’s easy. Hanging on our front door, you’ll find the coolest skeleton head that lights up and makes noise when people get close and pumpkins awaiting their ghastly demise on our porch. Inside I’ll ready my favorite candy dish for service on Halloween night and replace the cotton throws with wool ones. Oh, and Kate and I are already registered for Helen Olivia’s Spooky Flowers virtual workshop.

How do you stay motivated and prioritize wellness now that life is busier and the days are shorter?

Adrien: My wellness is everything to me. I practice an array of tiny habits that combined help me through this very busy time for work and for my family. My sleep is tops. Most nights, I am in bed by 9:30pm, and I’m ready to jump right into my full schedule as early as 4:30am and 5:00am at the latest. That early morning time is ME time, and I covet it as much as I do almost anything in my life. When I don’t get 7+ hours of sleep, it is rare, and I will skip exercise for more sleep any day.

Amy: I work out with a friend and a trainer once a week. This is my time, and I protect it by scheduling around it. I’ve gotten good at this, and I have learned that I really don’t have to be at the beck and call of anyone anymore. It’s my choice, and it’s been quite liberating. Also, sleep is always a priority (and never a problem), and I’ll make time to go hiking with my family.

It’s sweater weather! What fall trend are you most excited about?

Adrien: I love sweaters. I’d say my A Piece Apart Cable Mock from The Hive is my favorite right now. It’s comfortable, goes with everything, and keeps me warm.

Amy: It’s not a new trend, but I have yet to give up on a good, oversized sweatshirt. Last year I added the cocoon sweatshirt in black from Tibi to my closet, and I love it. This year I opted for the more fitted Milly sweatshirt from Isabel Marant. Both are so cozy and so chic that I don’t care I’ve become addicted.

Your must-do fall activity in Alexandria?

Adrien: With both Cotton teens in high school, I can imagine football games at both schools will be in my near future. Honestly, just getting outside with loved ones is a top priority. Of course, this weather keeps my daily walks on the calendar too.

Amy: That’s easy. Art on the Avenue is such a delight. If I’m not working on November 12th, you’ll find me there.

You’re going to a Halloween party. Go all out, or keep your costume simple?

Adrien: When our children were in early elementary school, another mom encouraged me to surprise the children for their Halloween parade at school. I really struggled with it because I’m not much of a dress-up or costume adult. Yet, the look on their faces was priceless, and I will forever treasure getting out of my comfort zone for some fun kid thrill. That being said, I’m a simple gal who much prefers to throw on a hat to “dress up” for Halloween.

Amy: This should surprise no one, but I’m a keep-your-costume-simple kind of a gal. My anxiety and introversion won’t let me stand out in a crowd, so I shrink into something safe. I have a whole collection of adornments for my head, but my favorite is a top hat with bunny ears.