Joules Clothing + Love Zahra

The other night I was chatting with some born-and-raised Chicagoans, about the differences between Chicago and Northern California, where I grew up. One thing that stood out to me when I moved here was just how much people talk about the weather. It seemed to be the major topic of the day, every single day. I barely ever paid attention to the weather growing up because, not surprisingly, it was pretty much always nice. Now I watch that Tom Skilling weather report like a hawk because I realize the weather is going to affect almost every aspect of my day, starting with what I should wear. Because the second thing I learned when I moved to Midwest was just how important it is to pick the right pieces to wear when the temperatures dip, or face potential hypothermia.

Do I need to bundle up, layer up, or just bring a light jacket? Are my regular shoes going to cut it, or do I need to bring in the big guns and wear some heavy rain boots?

Today’s look is an example of the perfect cold weather outfit. My feet are kept extra toasty in these Joules rain boots, that are lined with a quilted fabric that basically feels like a down comforter in your shoes. The Joules Raisa Parka is long and has an adjustable waist-tie which keeps you from adding unnecessary bulk. Add some fingerless mittens – because smart phones, obviously – and you are all set!

This navy parka is such a necessary staple for every wardrobe. Because of its length, it will look great worn over anything else you choose to wear, even over your pj’s on a lazy Sunday when you just need to run out for a gallon of milk and don’t feel like changing. No one else needs to know…

Joules_Faux_Wax_Raisa_Rain_BootsJoules_Rain_Boot_Pashli_SatchelJoules_ParkaJoules_Parka_Rain_Boots Joules_Rain_Boots

Outfit details: Parka: Thanks to Joules | Boots: Thanks to Joules | Top: J.Crew (30% off with code: GiveThis) | Bag: Nordstrom 

Joules clothing is one of the hottest British brands known for their high-quality clothing and accessories for families who love to go out and about and live life to the fullest. One of my favorite things about them – they are not shy about using color or prints! They recently moved across the pond and are quickly making a big impact here in the states. Check out more about Joules clothing here.

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Last week we took a quick trip to escape the snow for some sunshine in Key Largo, Florida☀️ We spent every moment possible outside, Tom and Adam got their Scuba Diver PADI certification (yay!) while Sophia and I spent our days either swimming or drawing marine life and landscapes. This was my first trip after my sister passed last November, and even though I look so happy here, there were so many moments I felt the grief and sadness, as if it happened just yesterday. I am still figuring out how I want to show up in this space, as I have changed so much as a person since the loss. I just don’t feel called to post some of the things I shared before. Maybe that will change someday, or maybe it will just naturally evolve into something new. I think I will take this year to just process it all. (Even the idea of taking an entire year to think through something is a huge shift for my usually hyperactive type A personality) My focus at the moment is just living in the moment with my family and friends, spending time doing things that make me happy and healthy. I hope to share some of that journey here with you ~ thanks for following along ❤️
I had planned to shoot this outfit in collaboration with @lenacoutureofficial right before my dear sister passed away. Saba, the designer, was more than understanding if I didn’t want to anymore - but after thinking on it for a while I decided I wanted to - in my sister’s honor 💗 She was always my biggest hype woman. When i would feel like I’m not good enough or that I should quit (which was often) she would tell me I was unique and great and to keep it up. When I think of my sister, beauty and love is all that she embodied in her being. She expressed that on the outside also - as she loved to wear everything glam, bright & colorful, and full of bling. Hair done, nails done, everything did - that was Nusrat. For this shoot I took the time to get glam after a long hiatus - and makeup and hair took so long because I think I forgot how to do it, but afterwards I was surprised how I felt transformed. When I wore this gorgeous outfit that I know was designed with such love and incredible attention to detail by @lenacoutureofficial, I felt all of that beauty - like a walking piece of art, and very much at peace. Thank you so much to @divmophoto for capturing the feeling so well 💕
Ski weekend with my favorites ❄️❄️ So proud of Sophia for skiing on her own for the first time!
There are some trees with seeds that only grow after a fire. Their seeds are completely sealed with a resin that have to be physically melted off by a great fire in order to propagate. So to do we as humans, gain wisdom only after great pain and suffering.*
A month ago (and one day) I lost my sister and best friend to cancer. I am still completely gutted and broken. But, I’m also so so grateful to have had felt the love that now brings me so much heartbreak. ❤️ I am so inspired by her - and I will forever live my life to honor her memory. Miss you sis ❤️
Classic outfit combo: oversized blazer + denim 🖤fendi mules @shoeslutz
Just a mom who loves mums 🌸 🪴
Cozy for a coffee date ☕️
French. Toast. Egg. Bake. Save this recipe for a weekend or holiday brunch - it’s SO good and fool-proof! I’m not even a sweet person and I love it. The pecans are a non-negotiable IMO - I get honey bourbon vanilla pecans for this and it is just heavenly. Enjoy!