A post all about cozy outfits, taking walks, The Presidio, the importance of Trader Joe’s, and why you need cashmere and cape-scarves in your life immediately. You know, hard-hitting journalism.

When we decided to move to San Francisco, one of my main requirements was that we lived somewhere not like Brick Lane. Sure, I loved our time among the buzz, markets, vibrant nightlife, everything-at-your-fingertips way of life.

But. Sometimes, you just get tired of it. I craved a slower pace, fresh air, green spaces. A different way of life. However, convenience is still important to me (what can I say; I got used to living in Shoreditch. I am lazy. I love pajamas).

We chose the Marina district as it offered us the best of everything: good restaurants just a short walk away (thank you, Chestnut Street); a quiet neighborhood chock-full of imposing Victorians, each one different than the last; and, most importantly, quick access to the Presidio — and all the nature walks it offers.

Admittedly, we’ve really only gone walking through the Presidio once. For this photoshoot. Which was actually a walk to Trader Joe’s, because if I could, I would actually just live in a Trader Joe’s. (No, seriously. If you read my Moving Back to America Observations post, you’ll know that Stag and I would just about leave each other other a pot of TJ’s fresh salsa.)

If I’m honest, I think my quest for a neighbourhood like the Marina stems from a marked change in not just where I want to live, but what I want in life. After years of moving and adventures — I have moved consistently every 9-24 months since I was 17 years old — I’m old(ish) and tired. My soul feels tired. Like it wants a rest, a rest that only a quiet cup of tea and a long-term home can bring.

But, let’s be real, I’m only 30. I’m pretty sure I’d quickly turn into Bilbo Baggins thinkin’ it’s time for another adventure if I actually got what I wanted. Plus, we are literally in the midst of a big adventure, so my quest for quiet cottages and slow days is on the back burner while we soak in the California sun.

However, rather than give up my cozy ambitions, I bring it into my life in small ways. By choosing a career path that essentially has turned me into a Home Hermit. By living in a calmer neighbourhood, as discussed above. And, most importantly, by living in cozy outfits.

For many, a ‘cozy outfit’ is whatever is loose and old, maybe nostalgic, or maybe just whatever is lying around. For me, it’s defined by two elements that help establish both comfort and style: fabric and shape.

Soft fabrics like cashmere, silk, and jersey all create comfort for your skin and move with your body. While some of these high-end fabrics can wind up on the expensive side, there are great finds to be had. Everlane offer beautiful cashmere sweaters for $100; I plan on snapping one up in January (when my credit card recovers from buying all the furniture). I recently got this cashmere cardigan on sale and with an extra 30% off. I’ve been wearing nearly every day ever since. Good jersey leggings will be your yoga and loungewear best friend without sacrificing style. I get mine from Muji and M&S.

Yes, when I say ‘shape is important,’ I do mostly mean ‘loose and baggy.’ But, loose-fitting clothing doesn’t have to mean your old college sweats or your dad’s old tee-shirt (guilty). Waterfall cardigans (again, this cashmere number) and oversized sweaters do the trick while looking put-together.

And, as I have discovered, the Holy Grail of all Wrap-Around Coziness is, indeed, this scarf-wrap from Madewell. It’s a large scarf with armholes, as easily wrapped around your neck as a scarf as it is worn like a cardigan, a poncho or a wrap. Crafted of wool-blend, it feels winter-appropriate against your skin. Versatile, yes, and elevated by Autumnal colours and a check print. Cozy outfits, made.

Speaking of cozy comforts. These Veja sneakers that I nabbed before moving to the US are the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever owned. They’re also one of the most sustainable shoes you can buy. Cozy and good for the environment? Yes, please.