KATIE KENNEDY - Page 20 of 249 -

Winters in Rowayton

February 21, 2024

Winters in Rowayton
📍 Rowayton, Connecticut

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Rowayton, Connecticut, New England, Winter, Coastal Grandmother

Sweater || Short-Sleeve Tee || Jeans || Boots || Coat || Beret || Similar Handbag || Earrings

If you had told me a year ago that this Floridian would not only be surviving winter but thriving in it. I wouldn’t believe you. After spending the majority of my life not getting the winter hype, I’m starting to come around. Although I’m daydreaming of a warm weather escape to somewhere sunny, this winter has been one for the books. David and I have been exploring our New England home, which, even I have to admit, looks beautiful under a blanket of snow. After this weekend’s serene snowfall, we walked through downtown Rowayton for lunch at one of our favorite local restaurants, making for a perfect winter day!

Walking Down Rowayton Avenue

Charming Rowayton has become one of my favorite things about living in Coastal Connecticut. Year-round, it’s easy to see that this little village epitomizes the best that New England offers. Over the weekend, after the snowfall, we drove into town, and I was so happy to see Rowayton in a new light. Some of the homes I constantly swoon over had a completely different look under a blanket of pristine white. The town was quiet, and it felt like we had the world to ourselves for a few moments. With Rowayton Market and Arden’s uncharacteristically quiet, it seemed everyone was sleeping in. We made the most of it and strolled down the main avenue, where I couldn’t help but make little side stops to capture all the little moments.

Lunch at Rowayton Seafood

Our destination for the afternoon was Rowayton Seafood. This waterfront restaurant is a community mainstay and a spot David and I love to frequent. Sometimes, it can be tricky to snag a reservation. The trick is to arrive right when they open, at 11:30 in the morning, when they are most likely to have a table free. Because of the weather, we had our choice of tables and were led out to the heated and covered outdoor patio. Lunch started from their drink menu. They recently launched an ever-growing mocktail menu, which has made my pregnancy feel even more celebratory. On a snowy winter day, the best thing to order is a cup of New England clam chowder, and Rowayton Seafood has perfected it. I also had a beautiful beet and arugula salad to get extra greens for Baby Girl Kennedy.

With lunch, we had nowhere to go and had to go all day to get there. The winter day in Rowayton was an opportunity to slow down and cherish a great meal together. Like I said, I’ve learned to enjoy the slower New England off-season. It’s helped me create a different mindset that will come in handy as we prepare for our newest addition this Spring.

Love from Rowayton,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.

Bundled Up at the Ocean House

February 19, 2024

Bundled Up at the Ocean House
📍 Watch Hill, Rhode Island

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Ocean House, Watch Hill, Rhode Island, New England, Winter

Sweater || Button-Down || Jeans || Parka || Boots || Similar Bag || Beanie || Gloves

Prepare for a visual feast from our wintery day trip to the stunning Ocean House. Watch Hill, Rhode Island, is just a 90-minute drive from our corner of Coastal Connecticut. So, it was only a matter of time before I would answer the siren call to this historic resort. What can I say about the Ocean House that hasn’t already been said? I have long drooled over images of the signature yellow hotel with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. It truly is a Coastal Grandmother’s paradise. Now that we live so close, I can’t wait for a return trip to summer with a Baby Girl Kennedy in tow. Until then, here’s more about our bundled-up trip to the Ocean House

History and Location

Located high on a bluff of Watch Hill, Rhode Island, the Ocean House Inn has been an institution since it opened its doors in 1868. From the very first day, it redefined luxury travel in New England and marketed to the most distinguished of guests. Over 150 years later, generations of families have been flocking to the Atlantic shores to unwind and relax on the coast. The hotel sits on 13 acres of perfectly manicured grounds overlooking 650 feet of private beach. On a clear day, you can quickly see Montauk and Block Island in the distance. The village of Watch Hill is just a quick stroll away. It is filled with adorable boutiques and perfectly complements your Ocean House visit. Remember that most of these shops are seasonal and will likely be closed during winter.

Brunch at the Bistro

After pulling up to the joyfully yellow exterior of the Ocean House, we made our way to one of their many on-site restaurants, The Bistro. The decor was the classic coastal Americana you would expect to find in a New England landmark. We were led into their sunroom and seated at a window-side table for two. Even though the temperatures were in the teens, it was a cloudless day as the sunshine poured onto us. Breakfast was delicious. As a Relais & Châteux property, you are guaranteed to have an incredible dining experience. It’s what sets this group of hotels apart and is why I always seek them out whenever I travel. After breakfast, we quickly toured the hotel and found the Bemelmans Gallery. It is the largest permanent, private collection of Ludwig Bemelman art on display in North America. If you know about my deep love for Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle Hotel, you can imagine what a treat this was for me.

Ocean House, Watch Hill, Rhode Island, New England, Winter, Taylor Swift

Winter Walk on the Beach

Before we continued our day, we decided to brave the tipping winds and icy temperatures for a quick walk on the beach. Even with my LL Bean parka and several layers, I knew I wouldn’t last long, but it was such a beautiful day. We collected seashells, and David helped me get my bearings and pointed out the natural landmarks. Down the beach from the Ocean House, you get a full view of Taylor Swift’s vacation home, High Watch. Although all was quiet on this winter day, I can imagine the crowds it draws in the summertime, with fans hoping to glimpse their favorite singer.

One of the main draws that brought us to Coastal Connecticut was our ability to explore New England. In about 90 minutes, we were transported to a beautiful paradise where service and aesthetics are paramount. It’s easy to see why the Ocean House has won over hearts for generations. I can’t wait to return with our newest addition this summer to let her experience all that our home has to offer.

Love from Rhode Island,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.

Swan-Inspired Style

February 16, 2024

Swan-Inspired Style
📍 Upper East Side, NYC

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Swan, Truman Capote, Upper East Side, NYC, Lee Radziwell, Babe Paley

Turtleneck Sweater || Wide-Leg Pants || Ballet Flats || Wool Coat || Tote Bag ||
Similar Scarf || Earrings || Lip Color

In the heart of the Upper East Side, with stunning townhomes and limitless shopping potential, it’s easy to daydream about the women who used to rule these pristine avenues, namely Truman Capote’s Swans. FEUD: Capote vs. the Swans, based on the book by Laurence Leamer, has become a new source of inspiration. I want to channel the spirit of 1960s elegance and emulate the grace of C.Z. Guest, Babe Paley, Lee Radziwill, and Slim Keith. The sidewalks that once witnessed their poise can quickly feel like your own personal runway, especially when you dress the part. To dress like your favorite 60s socialite, here are ten must-have pieces to have on rotation in your wardrobe.

Silk Scarves

In the essence of true Swan style, the silk scarf, especially Hermes, is a nod to the sophistication of Babe Paley, Capote’s most beloved swan. Rumor has it she was the first to knot her Hermes onto her handbag on a hot summer day, creating a trend. Draped over a trench coat or protecting your hair from the humidity, it feels appropriate to have this wardrobe essential at the top of the list.

Structured Handbag

The structured handbag will always be a staple for me and is a nod to the quiet luxury that the Swans practically invented. If you can’t splurge on Chanel or Hermes, many brands and styles are much more budget-friendly, like Demellier. After all, it’s not truly about the price tag but about the timeless sense of taste that won’t get old as you stroll down Fifth Avenue.

Monochromatic Outfits

Monochromatic elegance, like countless outfit ideas from J. Crew, pays homage to the Swans’ preference for refined simplicity. Channeling Lee Radziwill’s grace, an all-black or camel ensemble becomes a canvas for sophisticated accessories. It’s a nod to an era of simplicity as the ultimate status symbol.

Timeless Shift Dress

There’s something about the classic shift dress that I will always associate with the 60s and 70s. I think a simple black shift is a staple for anyone’s wardrobe. It can be styled with espadrilles for the summer or paired with tights and tall boots in the winter. It can be dressed up or down and with any accessory. I’m crushing on a few LBDs from Tuckernuck, especially any with impeccable little details.

Brooches and Pins

Now is the time to borrow some accessories from your grandma’s closet. Although they haven’t been that popular recently, brooches are ripe for a comeback. Added to a jacket lapel or scarf, it can instantly elevate an outfit, giving a nod to 1960s fashion. Vintage would be my preferred route, so peruse your local thrift store with abandon to find that diamond in the rough piece.

Classic Pumps

When strolling through the streets of Manhattan, having the proper footwear is a must! Classic silhouettes, like block heels and ballet flats, will last the test of time and work well with almost any outfit. Sarah Flint is one of my favorite brands that perfectly embodies Swan style. If C.Z. Guest and Slim Keith were around today, they would easily give this brand a star of approval.

Oversized Sunglasses

Popularized by Jackie Kennedy, sister of Lee Radziwell, the oversized sunglasses have stood the test of time. Acting as a shield from the rumors the Swans faced, they are one of my favorite accessories. That is especially true during the summertime. My current favorite brand is always Krewe. Grab a styling pair that best fits your facial features and hide from the paparazzi on Madison Avenue.

As I continue to watch FEUD: Capote vs. the Swans, I am taking copious notes on the fashion inspiration. Let the elegance of silk scarves and structured handbags resonate. Walk in the classic pumps that echo the Swans’ footsteps, epitomizing the grace of Upper East Side fashion.

Love from New York,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.