All Posts By

Kristen Taekman

Fashion, Lifestyle

Fall Fashion 2023

Fall is finally here, and you know what that means – it’s time to revamp our wardrobes with the latest trends and cozy up in style. I’m here to spill the beans on this season’s hottest fashion trends that will make you the envy of every pumpkin-spice latte-sipping fashion lover out there. Here are some of my personal favorite looks along with the top ten fashion trends of the season:



  1. Oversized Everything: Oversized sweaters, coats, and blazers are all the rage this fall. They not only keep you warm and snug but also give you that effortlessly chic and laid-back vibe. Pair an oversized sweater with skinny jeans or a mini skirt for that perfect balance.
  2. Midi Skirts: Midi skirts have been a fashion staple for a while now, and they’re not going anywhere this fall. Look for ones in rich fall colors like burgundy, forest green, or mustard yellow. They are versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them a must-have in your wardrobe.
  3. Chunky Boots: Combat boots and chunky lace-up boots are a huge trend this season. They add an edge to any outfit and are perfect for stomping through fallen leaves. Whether you’re pairing them with a floral dress for a juxtaposition or going full-on grunge, these boots are a must.
  4. Leather Everything: Leather is a perennial favorite for the fall, and this year is no different. Leather pants, skirts, and jackets are all the rage. They instantly give you that cool, biker-chic look. Don’t shy away from experimenting with colored leather – deep reds and emerald greens are stunning options.
  5. Plaid Perfection: Plaid is a fall classic, and it’s back in a big way. From plaid blazers to plaid trousers, this timeless pattern adds a touch of sophistication to your look. Mix and match different plaid pieces for a bold, fashion-forward statement.
  6. Cozy Knitwear: Of course, you can’t talk about fall fashion without mentioning cozy knitwear. Chunky knit sweaters, cardigans, and even knit dresses are essential pieces for staying warm and stylish. Look for unique textures and details to stand out.
  7. Statement Accessories: This fall, it’s all about the accessories. Oversized scarves, wide-brimmed hats, and statement belts can elevate even the simplest outfits. Don’t forget to play with bold earrings and layered necklaces to complete your look.
  8. Earth Tones: Fall is the perfect season for embracing earthy and warm tones. Think shades of brown, camel, rust, and olive green. These colors not only complement the changing leaves but also give your outfit a sophisticated and cozy feel.
  9. Mixing Textures: Mixing different textures can take your outfit to the next level. Try pairing a velvet skirt with a chunky knit sweater or a leather jacket with a silk blouse. This contrast adds depth and visual interest to your look.
  10. Sustainability: As a conscious fashion influencer, I can’t stress enough the importance of sustainable fashion. Look for brands that focus on eco-friendly materials and ethical production processes. Thrift shopping and upcycling can also be excellent ways to stay on-trend while reducing your environmental impact.

So there you have it, my fellow fashion lovers – the ultimate guide to fall fashion trends. Embrace these styles, but remember to make them your own by adding your unique twist. Whether you’re sipping on a pumpkin spice latte or taking a scenic autumn stroll, these trends will have you looking fabulous all season long. Stay stylish! 🍂👢🍁

Fashion

Fall Trends!

Fall is here!! Yup, it’s official…I just had my first pumpkin spice latte of the season and no matter where I go, almost every food option has some spice along with everything nice!

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Beauty

My Journey with Clinical Skin

Until this year, I hadn’t really thought about taking care of my post summer skin. Yes, I always use moisturizer but am I using the right products for tired and dehydrated skin? lol All summer long, my skin was exposed to sun and other environmental factors that cause long-term damage. I spent so much time concentrating on my skin so it would look good for the summer months, but I left myself ill prepared for this fall. My post summer skin needed some major help from the right products!

I had been using the same skincare products for as long as I can remember but they just weren’t cutting it anymore…I was going with the “if it’s not broke why fix it” logic but I was very wrong. It was time to upgrade my products to high quality lotions and potions!

My facialist told me that it was time to “get serious” about my beauty routine and asked me if I was using a product with “Polypeptides”? Mmm, no…and what is a Polypeptide?

I started researching products containing Polypeptides and so began my journey with Clinical Skin. I first discovered their Polypeptide Firming Serum which led me to the rest of their product line! I started the serum and then slowly integrated the whole line into my daily routine. I have been using Clinical Skin products for about 8 weeks and I am so excited about the results I am seeing. I use the Polypeptide Firming Serum, the Vitamin C Pro-Collagen Serum and the Multi Lipid Replenishing Moisturizer twice a day as well as the Retinol + Peptide Refining Serum 2.5 once before bed. I can honestly say that I started noticing a difference in my skin within a week!

I have spoken to various beauty experts about aging skin and the consensus seems to be all about preventative measures. The best thing you can do for your skin is to take care of it. Well, what does that mean? In a nutshell, get your skin hydrated and nourished by using products with high quality ingredients.

After using Clinical Skin, my skin feels fresh, nourished, and hydrated. It is just what my body needed after 3 months of fun in the sun. You know a product is working when other people compliment your skin, so I am very excited to keep you posted on my journey using Clinical Skin.

Lifestyle

Summer Time

Summer is finally here! The 3-months we look most forward to each and every year! School is almost out, the weather has warmed up and and all we can think about is sandy feet and salty air! This year, I have tons of fun summer travel planned. I am going home to Connecticut to see family, back to the Big Apple for a few days, exploring European cities and some much needed beach time! I can not wait to dive in head first !! But first … what should one pack for all of these fab adventures!?

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Fashion

Backcountry

For 10 years I lived in a very big city…the concrete jungle of NYC!  As much as I loved and thrived off of the city’s energy and spirit, moving to Los Angeles has given me a new appreciation for the great outdoors. I have officially replaced power walking the streets of Manhattan with outdoor activities in California. 

LA offers amazing weather year-round so my indoor daily routine from NYC naturally shifted to being outdoors! Moving across the country has given me time to reflect and reconnect with nature. I have embraced this awesome new way of life and decided to take advantage of my surroundings, so my family and I decided to take on hiking as an activity. 

My husband, kids and I started exploring different hiking paths near our home and have spent the vast majority of our time being outdoors and of course, exercising (or as my 9-year-old daughter likes to say, “getting our steps in”. 

After our first couple of hikes, we quickly realized we needed to trade in our NYC sneakers for some great hiking shoes and necessary gear. I came across Backcountry when I was searching for hiking gear and decided it was the perfect one-stop-shop for anything and everything needed to explore the great outdoors.  

Although California has great weather, it can get very cold while hiking so staying warm (especially during this time of year) is a must! 

I came across Backcountry when I was searching for stylish, yet practical hiking gear and I discovered this extremely cozy Stoic fleece jogger and hoodie set. Not only is it ideal for hiking, it’s also perfect to wear while staying cozy around the house. I am planning on layering my Stoic set when I go skiing in March! This is such a great versatile set that is also available in black at an amazing price (currently on sale)! If you aren’t in the market for a set, definitely take a look at the Stoic hoodie, it has an adjustable hood with an integrated gaiter and it also cinches at the hem, so it really seals out the cold.

I also discovered these game changing sneakers at Backcountry from On Running. They are lightweight sneakers that are ideal for hiking but also stylish enough to wear with a pair of jeans. I chose the almond color because they are neutral and easy to wear with any dark or light clothing, but they are available in a black, white and many other colors. Backcountry has an incredible selection of sneakers and hiking shoes/boots so if the On Running sneakers I’m wearing aren’t what you are looking for, I guarantee you will find a pair of shoes you love on Backcountry.

When I’m hiking, I have to be hands-free, so I like to wear a fanny pack that holds my necessities (including snacks). This Utility Sherpa fanny pack gets the job done and is the perfect size to carry around your essentials. 

My kids have two weeks off from school over the holidays and I can’t wait to explore a bunch of new hiking trails! Now that I am dressed and prepared to stay warm thanks to Backcountry, I am ready for a new hiking adventure! (Oh, but don’t forget your matching beanie)! Let the adventures begin!

Use code: KRISTEN15 for 15% off your first order! (Exclusions Apply).

Fashion, Lifestyle

Holiday 2021! Let the Shopping Begin!

Happy Holidays! It’s that time of the year again! The weather is changing, sweater weather is turning into puffy coat weather and the pumpkins are soon to be replaced by Christmas trees! This year, I am on top of my holiday shopping and here to share some of my favorite gift ideas with you all!

There are so many incredible sales going on from Black Friday through Cyber Monday and beyond! It is crucial to get your shopping done early this year because shipping is expected to take longer due to supply shortages and cargo issues!

I broke down some of my favorite gifts based on categories so you can find something for everyone on your list!

Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping!

Home

For Her

For Him

For Kids

Stocking Stuffers

Liverpool Denim

Lifestyle

Oprahs Favorite Things 2021!

One of the most magical times of the year is when Oprah announces her “Favorite Things”!!!! Remember when the audience watching the live show would freak out when they would find out they were attending the giveaway show? So exciting!!!

A few years ago, Oprah Magazine started and O Mag Insider influencer group and I was fortunate enough to be a part of it. It was an incredible group of women from around the U.S. that were so creative and influential!

For the past 4 years, I was invited to attend Oprahs Favorite Things at Hearst Tower in NYC. It was MAGICAL! One year, Oprah herself made an appearance! The Oprah Magazine has made it really easy for all of us to find incredible gifts for the holiday season on Amazon!

This year, as always, Oprahs Favorite Things does not disappoint! Be sure to check out the full list HERE on Amazon and check out my favorite items below: