“Stay at Home” Favorites

Madewell Jeans (I love the “High Rise Skinny” fit) | Target Sweatshirt (Browse more sweatshirts here…) | Ballard Designs “Piedmont” Lanterns (in bronze) | Restoration Hardware “Vintage Toledo” Stools | Jayson Home Topiary

We’re all spending more time at home lately — and doing our best to adjust to the current “normal” way of life, in wake of COVID-19. How are you doing? What has made you feel good this week?

Things here are going alright, relatively speaking. (Though we are missing our friends and family dearly.)

In the spirit of gratitude for what we do have, I’ve been mindful to celebrate little moments and the things bringing joy right now — big and small. Here’s a handful of “stay at home” favorites, from hobbies to new routines and products bringing me a slice of happiness these days.

Loungewear

Let’s be real: Dressing for comfort is my reality most days at home. When I want to be comfortable — but feel a bit more pulled together — I wear a sculpting bodysuit paired with jeans and a linen cardigan. Other styles I wear for comfort around home include these top-rated leggings (available on Amazon for $27), a matching pajama set, and these soft faux fur slippers.

Self-Care

We all deserve a little extra TLC. One of my favorite ways to unwind is by taking a hot bubble bath with a glass of wine, good book or magazine, these pink Himalayan bath salts and my favorite candle. Another addition to the “self-care” category? We added three of these oversized Euro pillows to our bed. They’re so fluffy and comfortable, making crawling into bed at night a treat.

Beauty

I’m not wearing a lot of makeup these days — but, in terms of skincare, I began using these Elemis Resurfacing Pads daily based on a trusted recommendation. I can already tell an honest improvement with my skin. The pads help even out your skin complexion, remove dead skin cells and make your skin glow. (I highly recommend them.)

Mobile Apps

I find myself using three apps in particular lately:

• Audible — I’ve listened to six or seven audiobooks already in the past few months, some for my book club — but mostly light hearted books just for fun. I will say “Open Book” by Jessica Simpson was a good, juicy read!

• The Sculpt Society — The best fitness app I’ve used for at home workouts. Classes range in intensity, duration, and activity — and offer cardio, strength, and even meditation. Give it a try!

• Foxtrot — A local company to Chicago, with market locations throughout the city offering 1-hour delivery of specialty groceries, spirits, home goods, etc. I’ve sent a few care packages as gifts (and maybe one to myself!) You can save $10 off your first order, if interested.

Fitness

While most paths, parks, and gyms in Chicago have been closed, I’ve been finding ways to keep active. I take William on a walk around our neighborhood every day, and aim to mix in 2-3 different fitness classes during the week. (These black and white Nikes are a great “all-purpose” shoe, if you’re looking for a new pair. I also love the brand, Onzie, for simple but stylish activewear to keep motivated.) Getting fresh air and moving your body always feels good, no matter how and when you can sneak that time in the day.

Cooking

One benefit, personally, of staying home during this time has been cooking (and baking treats) in the kitchen more frequently. My husband is working from home, too, so it’s been nice to prepare a little something for the both of us throughout the day. We’ve even developed an afternoon ritual of having iced coffee together as a pick-me-up. (I use dark espresso pods with our Nespresso machine, which we love and is available at Williams-Sonoma).

Stay at Home Favorites

Bodysuit (SKIMS) | Open Book (Jessica Simpson) | Pajamas (Eberjey) | Espresso Machine (Nespresso) | Sneakers (Nike) | Kitchen Towels (Williams-Sonoma) | Coffee Cup and Saucer (Crate & Barrel) | Skin Resurfacing Pads (Elemis) | Euro Sham Cover and Feather Pillow Insert (Pottery Barn) | Espresso Pods (Amazon) | Faux Fur Slippers (Pottery Barn) | Sculpting Leggings (Amazon) | The Sculpt Society | Foxtrot | Baies Candle (Diptyque) | Yoga Mat (Amazon) | Signature Thermo-Clad Cookware (Williams-Sonoma)