We are too lucky to have the honor of one of Texas’ treasures of a woman move to our town, Nashville, Tennessee.
I’ve heard of Lauren Wilkins for a couple of years now through mutual friends and colleagues. And then last year, back to back, I met Lauren in New York one week, visited with her in Austin the next week, and then spent a magical weekend with her in Marfa right after.
She is a dear woman, and now fast friend to all of us at the shop.
Lauren has the best style of any gal I’ve ever known. And – HANDS DOWN – has the best pair of worn-in Imogene’s on this earth. I tried to buy them back from her… and she said “never, not a chance!”
We are so happy that Lauren and her mate Josh just relocated to Nashville.
Lauren… welcome “home!”
Love,
Carrie
P.S. Lauren has had a very beautifully curated retail shop in Austin, called Bows + Arrows, for the past several years. In preparation for the move to Nashville, though, Lauren “moved shop” to Arrows + Arrows, her online store. Do check it out.
1. The sun beats down on you in the desert – so a hat is super important to keep your face in the shade. Texas Hatters in Lockhart will custom make you a hat that perfectly fits your head and your style. Josh got me this one when we first started dating. I’ve never really been a hat person, but since I was able to design this one myself, I love it. It is one of the sweetest gifts I have ever received. They even inscribe it for you “Made Especially for…” Mine says “biscuit” – yup, he’s sweet. And the hats – they’re special.
2. I’ve had this denim shirt since college. I have no idea where it came from or what brand it is, but it has been the most important part of my wardrobe ever since the day I found it. I’m not sure what I would do without it. I’ve patched and mended it a million times.
3. Vintage African Indigo poncho. I just got a few of these in the online shop. I’m in love with them. All vintage indigo and all handmade in Africa, most likely in the 60s. You can dress them up or down, belt them, wear ‘em loose, or just use them to bundle up when those desert nights get a little chilly!
4. My favorite desert spot – Terlingua, Texas. Stay at La Posada Milagro. Terlingua is right at one of the entrances to Big Bend National Park, near the Mexican border, about one hour south of Marfa, Texas. It’s a tiny little ghost town situated in one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. It is truly magical: the stars are brighter, the air is cleaner, the light is different, and you just get lost in the beauty surrounding you. There’s not much to do, but that’s the key.
5. It’s dry in the desert. so lip balm is a must. Medicine of the People make my favorite, all natural balm using traditional Navajo ingredients handmade in Marana, Arizona. And the packaging is great!
6. Persol Sunglasses. Classic. Enough said.
7. Tequila, Pelegrino Limonata, and Topo Chico. One part each, and you have a quick and tasty version of a margarita – you can’t go to the desert without tequila!
8. RTH beaded bracelet. Rene’s amazing leather and beaded accessories are my absolute favorite. I want one of everything… I think he is a genius.
9. Fort Standard bottle opener – because you need something to open those cervezas with!
10. My i+w Imogene Stretch. The best jeans I have ever owned in my life. I got the Imogene cut and had the leg slimmed down a bit. They have molded to my body and fit like a glove. I recently had the back side patched because I wore them so much, I wore right through the tail!!
11. Turquoise bandana. Turquoise because it looks good with everything. You can wear it any way you like – around your neck, in your back pocket, etc… but you will always have something to dust the desert off with.
12. Mexican blankets. I always like to have a few of these around. They look good and add color, but you don’t have to worry about them. You can throw them down for a picnic, in the back of the car for the dog or bundle up with them by the fire.
13. Kapital makes some of the best socks ever. They’ll keep your toes warm and looking good.
14. Jonathan Wilson’s Gentle Spirit. I have this album basically on repeat right now. It’s magic. Get it. You will be very happy. It feels like a magical journey through the desert just listening to it!
15. I always love a good trip to the desert. It’s so nice to clear your head of everything going on in the crazy worlds we live in, and just take in the magic of a space that is vast yet simple. It’s pretty much a must for me 2-3 times a year. I can relax and recharge energetically and creatively.
16. Poler Duffalufagus – the perfect bag. I had a hard time finding a big enough duffle. If you’re on a road trip, you don’t necessarily want to drag around one of those roller bags. This one is huge enough to fit everything and still lets you over pack! Which I always do. It also has backpack straps to help with the extra weight.
17. Cobra Rock South Highland boots. Colt and Logan of the Cobra Rock Boot Company handcraft these puppies using vintage cowboy boot laces. To me these boots are perfection.
