Shacket Perfection

H&M Shacket, J. Crew Hoodie, Spanx Leggings, Reebox Sneakers, Chanel Handbag

As my children get older and I get more moments to myself, it gives me time to ponder what is ahead. I started this blog 10 years ago this July, and I had great aspirations. I wanted to offer styling and fit tips, outfit inspiration, round ups of items I would recommend, recipes I had tried and loved, make up tips and hosting experiences. Life has changed so drastically in the past ten years, I know it’s cliche, but ten years ago feels like an entire lifetime ago. Divorce, financial loss, children, moving, loss of support systems, all of it impacted and hit in different waves and times over the past ten years, and I went from pouring my energy into my little space on the internet, to not logging in for months on end. Often times I wondered why I was hanging on to this space, this little corner on the web known as Centre Street Style. I’ve watched as many small blogs I used to tune in to daily have folded or switched solely to Instagram (which is just not my jam). Every year as I click on the payment button to renew my domain, admittedly not always so wholeheartedly, I question why I’m holding on. But there’s been a shift, I don’t know if it’s my children becoming more independent, or feeling settled for the first time in over five years, or that it’s my Emerald Year as a Pisces. For the first time in a long time I have a compelling desire to manifest, to create, to pursue and to act on all of it. And I hope there will be something of value for you, my reader, to keep coming back. Perhaps a recipe to try, motivation to shop your closet, inspiration to try out an ensemble, a tip or trick to put in your arsenal, or an idea for your next hosting experience.

These photos were taken back in the Fall, the most gorgeous we’ve had in a while, and it was an outfit worn on repeat for early morning school drop offs, weekends at the rink, and running errands. I love the ease of throwing on items with more of a comfort factor, but some sense of ‘put-togetherness’. Cost per wear of these faux leather leggings is pennies per wear at this point. They immediately elevate even the most casual of ensembles, shackets and sneakers included. I was late to the shacket game, I have a hard time buying into trends these days, especially if they’re only around a season or two. But this particular one from H&M was surprisingly high in quality for the cost. It gives off Anine Bing Shacket vibes, without the $600 price tag. If that’s not a win, I don’t know what is.

Photos by Kiera Schussler