Adhering to the concept of simplicity, I wanted to streamline the visuals that you, the readers see each day when you stop by and hopefully allow you to focus more on the content you wish to read. With that premise in mind, I have reduced the content from three columns to two. However, the newsletter sign-up now officially has its own page, as does Ask Shannon. And one of the additions I am excited to share with you is Shannon's Style Boutique. Full of all the previous clothing items I have recommended or shared on the blog (Thursday's Style Inspiration, Want & Have Outfit, etc), you can easily visit the boutique to scroll through and find the item you were looking for without having to remember the post that you first discovered it. It is constantly updated and the most recent items will appear at the top. 

Many of you may be wondering where the Why Not . . .? & Inspiration pages have gone. It was with great contemplation that I made this decision, but as the goal of a book slowly progresses, it was a decision suggested by my literary agent. Please understand, and more importantly know, that someday (yes, I am sharing my dream with you today) you will be holding The Simply Luxurious Life book in your hands that will contain all of what you have come to love about the blog without having to revisit it or search profusely online, but instead read at your leisure with or without access to the internet.

The last few changes I want to make you aware of are that the search widget is still available (you'll find it under the first ad on the right-hand side), an Instagram social media icon was added at the top of the page if you wish to follow thesimplyluxuriouslife and last, but certainly not least is the quote you will find at the very bottom of the blog - one of my favorites from Diane Vreeland that captures the essence of what I wish for each of you. 

Whether the changes we make in our lives are large or small, they still can be scary. It is the unknown that rattles our nerves a bit more than normal, but in order for growth to occur, we must trust ourselves to take the risks that pique our interest. While some people around you will understand and some will not, you are the only one who lives your life and enjoys the path you have chosen.  No one else can understand why you have the dreams you have, why you believe so ardently in what you believe as intently as you do, so invest in yourself, know you are worth it, and be brave.

As bravery was the topic at hand in this week's favorite post, I know that there are moments of frustration along the way. But what helps prod me along is knowing that this one life is all that I have, and I am the one that has to be proud of the legacy I leave behind. That in and of itself is the fire that gets me moving when I'm not sure where I will end up. 

Also in this week's newsletter you will find a bit of holiday inspiration for the decor throughout your home as well as shopping items for those on your wishlist. Be sure to have a look at my monthly Houzz ideabook "Simply Luxurious Holiday Decor", as well as " The Simply Luxurious Holiday Gift Guide".    

However, even with all of the shopping ideas that you may want to dive into, here is a post from the archives to help share a few ideas on how to simplify the holidays . . . 

More than anything, I hope the holidays have begun with festivities and cheer, and the mood is hopeful and auspicious. The holidays can often be overwhelming, but if approached with a mindset knowing what is most important to you and your loved ones, I am confident you will have an amazing December. May the first weekend of the month be a lovely start to all that is possible. Until next week, I'll see you on the blog.

• The Marseille Caper - book
• Secrets of the Sommeliers - book
• That's Not My Age - blog
• Tips from a J.Crew Personal Stylist - blog post
• Vivienne Westwood toga draped jersey-stretch dress - shopping
• R. Nichols stationery - shopping
  

Last week, the much anticipated end-of-season sale began on Net-a-Porter (for U.S., Canada, Central & South America). This particular sale occurs twice a year, and with drastic reductions on top designer labels (yep, Oscar de la Renta too!), itâ€^(TM)s a wonderful time to peruse all of the items on sale to see if anything on your wardrobe list has fallen into your price range.

Todayâ€^(TM)s outfit includes pieces from the sale, and one thing to keep in the back of your mind is that while things have been reduced up to 50% so far, in a few more weeks, they will continue to drop the prices, up to 70%. So be sure to keep stopping back by. One thing I especially enjoy about this sale is that it is an ideal time to pick up quality dresses from favorite designers that I wouldnâ€^(TM)t normally be able to afford. However, regardless of what you most need or want to add to your closet, remember too that quality items will last and are worth the investment (cost per wear). For example, the Jimmy Choo sandals in this weekâ€^(TM)s outfit have been on my list for the past three years, and at this price, I just might have to invest. Happy shopping!

~HAVE~

~Vince silk-georgette top (similar)~

~WANT~

~Rag & Bone Eloise cotton-twill pants~

~Jimmy Choo private patent nude sandals~

~Elizabeth and James Christopher python print silk blazer~

 

-- Anwar Sadat