A year ago, I changed things up.  Having always worked in marketing & events for fashion magazines and luxury brands where the day-to-day is beyond demanding, I needed to create some new space.  I wanted a place where I could write about what I want, and just let my hair down and be myself.  In the process, I have learned more than a thing or two about the digital and social worlds (before STRENGTH+Sole, I had never put forth a single Tweet!). I have also, I hope, helped old friends, new friends, family and co-workers discover places, ways and reasons to work out–and work their closet.

They’re no longer alive, but, my grandparents were my biggest fans, long before social media. They lived ten minutes away for most of my life. In these photos, you’ll see my grandmother’s wedding ring, which I wear on my left index finger. Every so often, whether I’m at a business meeting or out on a date, searching for the right guy, wherever he may be, I look down and think of her. And, also, of my grandfather–an eternal optimist and entrepreneur, whose life motto was, “The time is now.” This gives me hope.

So, here’s to STRENGTH+Sole. Here’s to you. Thanks for reading, commenting, clicking and supporting the work that I love most. And, to my grandparents. Everything that I do is for–and because of–them, too.

Aqua Dress; Rebecca Taylor Coat; Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes.

Photos by Sean Williams/studioARC; shot at Billy’s Bakery, Chelsea.

During the holidays, it’s easy to gravitate toward the myriad black pieces in my closet.  They’re easy to throw on after work before a cocktail party and a no-brainer to accessorize.  I stumbled upon this little red dress while shopping with friends, originally thinking that I’d wear it to the Creative Time Fall Ball at Output a few weeks ago.  I wound up going more funky that night (a form-fitting, multi-color graphic print), but, I’ve since worn this to a number of fun, festive events around town.  I’ve felt a little more daring (and, P.S. guys notice girls in red!)  So, this season, it’s goodbye (for now) to the LBD.

H&M Dress, Lady Grey Bracelets, Ivanka Trump Pumps, Angela Frascone Purse, essie “Chinchilly” Nailpolish.

Photos by Lindsay M. Koffler Photography.

Top: Forever 21, Denim: LOFT (similar here), Heels: Jimmy Choo (old), Rings: RAGEN (right) and vintage (left), Sunglasses: David Yurman (similar here).

1) Run hard at the 100 on 100, my (quickly upcoming) 100-mile relay race through the heart of Vermont on 8/17.
2) Challenge myself in semi-scary, new ways: starting with the Zip Line at Summer Streets this Saturday, it’s time to go big or go home.
3) Beat the “30-day countdown” birthday blues.  I share my big day with Beyoncé, so, this year, I’m trying to rock it with her same sense of confidence and gratitude.

A last look (for now) at the jewels by RAGEN.

That birthday list just keeps getting longer…

Even though I’ve lived in Manhattan for 10 years, I’m kinda still a Jersey girl at heart.

One of my favorite places to spend a summer afternoon is the mini golf course on Pier 25 in Tribeca.  As a West Chelsea resident, I’m a HUGE fan of Hudson River Park–it’s where I run, walk my dog and mellow out from the sometimes overwhelming hustle and bustle of the city.  This is one of the park’s little-known sporty treasures.

My jewelry is from a new collection called RAGEN.

Founded by a friend and finance girl turned designer, the pieces range from super sparkly and attention-grabbing (her Luscious Lips ring is a favorite) to delicate, ladylike and layer-able.

Necklaces from the Miles collection.

Crescent Moon necklace, from the Celestial collection, and Arrow Ring.

Pin your favorites directly to Pinterest (hover your mouse for my new Pin It! button).

And, stay tuned for more.

Dress: Mossimo for Target.  Heels: Vintage.  Nails: Essie Rose Bowl.

Jewelry images by Shante Carlan.