sun and scarves.

As much as I love New York, adjusting back to Manhattan's grey winter weather after a week and a half of sunny island life has not been easy.

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Just over a week ago, the most I had to layer on before walking out the door was a substantial amount of sunscreen. My days were spent in lightweight tees, giant dark sunnies, and my favorite pair of slightly oversized, slightly torn jean cut offs. Simple, uncomplicated, and practical styling.

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Never without my favorite accessory, I utilized a new silk scarf for extra sun protection and a pop of color. Wrapped around the head while catching some rays, tied around the waist during a lazy beach stroll, or draped over the shoulders during afternoon cocktails, a colorful print scarf makes for a versatile beach necessity.

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Shot at Anse Chastanet Beach, Saint Lucia. All photos by Nicole Weiler. Wearing {in addition to some serious SPF}:

Hermes silk scarf, Stella McCartney sunnies, American Apparel bikini, yellow gold hoops, diamond pendant necklace {designed by Nicole Weiler}

denim, dogs, and dads.

Nothing is as beautiful and inspiring as a hug from a loving puppy.

I was able to hug the best pup I know on Sunday when I visited my parents in New Jersey. Copper, a four year old golden retriever, is one of the sweetest, gentlest souls I know. He's also just really damn adorable.

A lover of the outdoors, Copper spends most of his time with my father, an extremely talented carpenter who spends much of his time working outside.

I cannot say enough good things about my dad. He taught me to love vintage and antique oddities, to appreciate fine workmanship, to be generous to anyone and everyone, to use my time wisely and efficiently... the list goes on.

One of my dad's staple uniforms (while I was growing up... and still to this day) is pairing faded, paint-splattered jeans with a faded, paint-splattered (often denim) workman's shirt.

One of my staple uniforms (for the past few years) is pairing dark denim, sometimes ripped jeans with a faded, sometimes scuffed-up denim jacket.

Like father, like daughter. {And dog, for good measure.}

Shot in New Jersey in front of my dad's wood pile/work area. Photos by Nicole Weiler and Chris Weiler. Wearing {a feel-good, no-brainer outfit with my constantly present, most favorite accessory: the silk scarf}:

vintage denim jacket, J Brand jeans, keds x Opening Ceremony kicks, vintage Hermes scarf, assorted silver and gold rings

an introduction.

When I began to contemplate how to possibly introduce myself here, I could not help but to introduce my city. New York City has been my home for the past (almost) four years and has been an integral part of my personal and professional development. It has also seriously influenced my sense of style.

New York has always had a certain magnetic draw for me. The energy here is unmatched, the possibilities are truly endless, and beauty abounds on every street corner. Growing up, my dream was always to live in this inspiring city and to pursue my creative career. I am extremely blessed to have made that dream a reality, and I embrace and treasure every opportunity that New York brings my way.

As an artist, fashion-lover, and all-around creative kook, my sartorial decisions are psychological and emotional. I use my clothing to not only express my feelings but also to enhance and alter my mood. New York is a constant inspiration, challenging me to take risks in my sense of style and in my life.

So, cheers. To this new opportunity. To this new risk. To sharing my love for fashion, fine jewelry, art, music, and all of the beautiful things life throws my way.

xo, nicole.

Shot in Williamsburg. Photos by Chris Weiler and Nicole Weiler. Wearing {my feel-good favorites, the go-to choices when I need a boost/just need to feel myself, my Instant Happy outfit}:

cloth & stone chambray shirt, rag & bone army green jeans, rag & bone Newbury boots, no-name sunnies, vintage Hermes scarf, vintage leather bag, z&z 14k yellow gold oval hoops, 14k yellow gold chrysocolla ring bracelet {designed by Nicole Weiler}.