The Grayson Hero Style Guide

Tissue Cotton Shirt ($25 off with code KATIEKENNEDY) || Jeans || Sneakers || Earrings || Handbag

There is something so liberating about finding the perfect white button-down shirt. And oh, what a feat it can be! In my mind, there are two scenarios that I typically find myself in. Sometimes, my broad shoulders and chest will leave buttons puckering. It’s seriously one of my biggest pet peeves. On the other end of the spectrum, a shirt will be so oversized that no amount of styling can make it feel polished. 

After years of dealing with the tale of two shirts, I’ve finally found a company that simply gets it. Let me introduce you to Grayson. They are a woman-owned company so, they know a thing or two about how a button-down should fit. The Hero Shirt is always machine washable, available in multiple fabrics, and fits like a dream. I’ve had the pleasure of trying on the scope and wanted to give a quick crash course in what they offer and how they can be styled. 

The shirt pictured is the Tissue Cotton shirt. It is made from an extremely lightweight (but definitely not sheer) cotton that is perfect for those warm Florida days. How you style it, really the sky is the limit. If you live somewhere cooler, it will be a great layering piece under a favorite sweater. Personally, I can’t wait for my next beach day so I throw it over a swimsuit.

Surprisingly, the Liquid Lyocell is a completely different button-down experience. The satiny smooth fabric, made from eucalyptus pulp, is beautiful enough to stand all on its own. Don’t worry about using it as a layering piece, this shirt was born to stand out! I’ll style mine tied in a not with a satin midi skirt for an easy date night outfit.

Finally, let’s talk about Tumbled Linen! I live in Florida. Linen is one of the most loved and appreciated fabrics I could ask for. Sometimes, especially with fashion companies, you find linen to be itchy and comfortable. That is not the case here. This linen feels as soft as cashmere but still helps keep you comfortable. Like the Tissue Cotton, I would definitely wear this as a swimsuit cover-up or with a favorite pair of chino shorts. 

Not to be forgotten, Grayson also offers the Hero shirt in a classic Washed Cotton and lounge worth Cozy Cotton. I personally haven’t had the pleasure of wearing them for myself, but I’m sure they are just a splurge worthy as anything they offer.

There you have it folks! White button-down shirts, an essential in any closet, have been demystified and perfected. If you want to try out Grayson for yourself and really feel the difference, use the code KATIEKENNEDY at checkout for a whopping $25 off of your order. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Floridian Grand Millennial

Dress (also) (also) || Similar Sandals || Similar Tote Bag || Earrings

I’ve always identified as an old soul. While what that exactly means has evolved over the years, the current rendition is what has been lovingly called grand millennial. Depending on where you live, being a grand millennial can take many different forms. It only makes sense for the northeast to be very different from the south. Farther south still, living in Florida adds its own unique spin to the equation.

Rattan Everything

Natural materials are having their moment right now, but it’s here to stay for me. A Floridan grand millennial owns an irrational amount of rattan and wicker pieces. Furniture, shoes, handbags, table settings. If it’s made from rattan, chances are I’m going to want to buy it! It adds a touch of tropical to any outfit and goes with just about anything! As we begin redecorating our home, don’t be surprised if it makes even more of an appearance.

Midi Dresses

Even though I’ve been working from home for nearly a year, midi dresses are still my go-to uniform. I’ve never been one to really show skin and that’s getting truer as I get older. A Floridian grand millennial knows this modest style is comfortable and surprisingly flattering. I feel like it gives my shorter frame some length. Even if that theory is unfounded, I stand by these dresses. Dresses them down with flats or sneakers. Dress them up with espadrille wedges or heels. You honestly can’t go wrong.

Floral Prints and Seersucker

Florida’s subtropical climate certainly inspires me on almost a daily basis. Even in the middle of January, the flowers are blooming and I want my wardrobe to match. A Floridian grand millennial will never say no to a fun floral in bright and contrasting colors. My current obsession has become anything in a block print style, particularly from SZ Blockprints, but I’ll never say no to a good, old-fashioned seersucker. This dress from Roller Rabbit was the perfect addition to my wardrobe. I can’t wait to wear and re-wear for whatever occasion comes my way.

Flat Sandals

A Floridian grand millennial loves to take long walks through her neighborhood and admire all of the historic houses. While heels and sneakers are great and all, there’s just something about slipping into a favorite pair of sandals. When they’re broken in and feel just right, they can become the most comfortable pair of shoes in your closet.

Trust me, you don’t have to live in Florida to love the Floridian grand millennial style. If your heart is always on vacation and you want to teleport to the beach, you may just be one! If that sounds like you, then I think you’ve come to the right place!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

How to Be Kind in 2021

Sweater (also) || Tee || Jeans || Wedges || Clutch || Earrings

On this national holiday, there’s so much to think about. No matter the year, this is true, but celebrating Dr. King somehow seems more important in 2021. The previous 365 days have been a lot and tensions have been running incredibly high. Even though self-care should be the utmost priority, you should never dismiss how you treat others. As a gentle reminder, here are some of my favorite acts of kindness to help make the upcoming year a more positive place for all.

Make a Donation to a Local Charity

Is there something that you are extremely passionate about? It can be racial equity, education reform, or mental health awareness, or anything in between. From there, find a charity that aligns and donate what you can. The donation can be as big or small as you want, depending on your own personal finances. For so many, even the smallest amount will ring volumes.

Donate Your Time

Sometimes donating financially is an option and that’s okay. Instead, consider donating your time through volunteerism in your local community. I know right now, this depends on your state’s protocols. If you have to follow more strict guidelines, you can also look to donate time on a remote basis. This article from Good Housekeeping shares 21 organizations that are happy to use your help. 

Clear Up a Nearby Park

St. Pete is very blessed to have ample green space around the city. A day isn’t complete without a walk through North Shore Park. Whenever I see garbage out, I always try to do my part to quickly pick it up. If that sounds like you, make a morning or afternoon of cleaning up a nearby park. The fresh air will do you so much good.

Buy Coffee for the Person Behind You (Plus Tip Well)

This is the oldest act of kindness in the book. If you’re a regular at a coffee shop either a chain or local, offer to buy coffee for the person behind you. In best case scenario, it starts a chain that will last the entire day. Worst case, it will only cost you an extra $5. While you’re getting coffee, be sure to give an extra special tip to the barista, especially if it’s someone you see frequently. It’s an easy way to say thank you for a cup of coffee well made.

Send Something Special to First Responders

First Responders and Essential Workers across the country have been working their butts off. They still deserve our utmost respect and praise. Have a special treat delivered to any local fire station, hospital, or school. Join forces with a friend or two to deliver donuts, pizza, or a local treat.

Call A Loved One

Isn’t it nice to get a phone call from a loved one? In the day of texting and messaging, it can be as treasured as getting a letter. Although, now that I think about it, snail mail is always a good idea. During these cold winter months, when it can be hard to muster the courage to go outside, give your family a call. This is doubly true if you have any grandparents or senior members who may not be seeing as many guests as they would like. What do you talk about? Anything you like!

One Final Note: On Politics

This has been the elephant in the room for the past one, two, almost five years. 2021 doesn’t seem to change that anytime soon. Politics is one of the most divisive things in our country. It’s important to remember that respectful discourse is okay and can help us grow as a person. Just because someone doesn’t have the same political affiliation or voted for a different person than you doesn’t mean they should be treated with less kindness. Express your opinions in a healthy and non-accusatory way.

2020 was hard. Let’s make 2021 better! If you remember to use kindness on a daily basis, the new year is off to an incredible start! In the words of the great Dr. King, “I have decided to stick to love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.”

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.