🪩 Silent Disco on the Subway
No. 62
Welcome to Style / Substance, a weekly newsletter about personal style and confidence, the business and psychology of fashion, with features on outfit ideas, styling tips, product, and brand recommendations - all to make your life easier and to ensure you present your best self. Subscribe here, follow me on Instagram at @LauraKSawyier, + subscribe to my YouTube channel here. Thank you!
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Two things unfolded during my recent ride on the NYC subway.
I hopped onto the Q train to journey downtown from its starting point at 96th street. The initial station had only a handful of commuters, but more people joined the train at subsequent stops, rushing in and out toward their destinations.
With my AirPods snugly in my ears, I was tuned into the music playing as I swayed with the train's motion, carrying me southwards towards lower Manhattan. Almost all the fellow passengers were absorbed in their auditory world. I had on Celine Dion's greatest hits.
Amidst this silent subway disco, I couldn't resist observing more than just the headsets people adorned – I was drawn to their attire and overall style. This was the first thing.
While my curiosity about what they were listening to lingered, their diverse fashion preferences captivated me even more. The subway became a canvas of aesthetics. So much caught my eye, including these bright, kelly green Adidas Gazelle sneakers the woman directly across from me was rocking. I couldn't get enough of it all. (Clearly, it's been a while since I rode the subway ;))
Our clothing can be a great equalizer and separator. The second event highlights how what we wear can bridge humanity. For context, I was wearing my big, thick-framed tortoise eyeglasses.
It began when I sensed someone staring at me (funny, given my earlier people-watching). You know how that goes.
I glanced up, and a woman diagonally across the subway car was fixed on me. I quickly diverted eye contact, then peeked again to check if she was still looking. She was. She instantly mouthed, "I like your glasses," gesturing towards her pair resting on her head, pushing her hair back. I responded with a smile, and a thank you. She reciprocated the smile. While I can't speak for her, it was evident that this fleeting interaction brought a glimmer of joy to both our days.
As she stood to exit a stop before mine, she walked past me, and we wished each other a great day. More smiles were exchanged.
It was now my stop. I got up and stepped out of the subway, ascending the stairs toward the street. The other woman with the kelly-green sneakers on was about to pass me when I pulled my AirPods out, turned to her, and said, "Cool sneakers." She smiled and said thank you. And so, we went on our separate ways, back to our silent discos and our own lives.
Ultimately, genuine compliments can yield immense positivity for both the giver and the receiver. The key is to only say it if you mean it. And if you think it, then say it.
Next time you admire something a stranger is wearing, don't hesitate to share your appreciation, especially if it's someone you don't know. A simple gesture can make a difference. All it takes is a moment to convey your admiration to them. This act can brighten the day – yours included.
Know someone who would enjoy this newsletter? Fashion is for all. Spread the love and share with them by clicking the link below.
☑️ Checks Multiple Boxes at Once
Finding a mode of relaxation that’s also a service to yourself is a double win. Getting a facial cleanses my face and encourages me to take deep breaths, slow down, and relax for an hour. Check and check. This may not be for everyone, but it’s a part of my regular routine. The Only Facial makes this experience enjoyable and effective all at once, whether for yourself or someone else.
The Only Facial currently operates four locations in Saint Louis: Clayton, University City, Des Peres, and St. Charles.
*This is a partnership post.
🛍️ New Shop Launch
I’ve just launched a “Sawyier Style” shopping page hosted on a new shopping platform called Flagship (you shop for the brands/product directly from them). It’s a growing space where I can curate a selection of styles from brands I like and value and, in turn, share them with you. And occasionally pass along discounts from brands direct to your inbox… including these looks:
This shop launch coincides with various styles from the womenswear brand M.M. LaFleur (photos above + gifted). I’ve already been wearing the matching white shirt/short set as much as possible (wore it two days in a row a few weeks ago). These pieces are shoppable, with 10%-off from this brand now through September 1, 2023. You can respond to this email if you have fit or sizing questions — happy to help.
PS. This shop is still in the early days, so I welcome your requests for brands you’d like to see. I’m working with them to bring more into their assortment to share.
Flagship offers competitive shipping prices comparable to the brands featured. They have a 30-day from shipment return policy.
*Disclosure - I earn a commission on transactions through the Flagship shop site from the brands I choose to feature. These are brands that I believe in and recommend to clients and this community.
3️⃣ More Things
💨 Tried and tested — Harry Josh recently gifted their Pro Dryer 2000. I used it, and I like what it does to my hair… it’s a smooth blow-dry. Plus, it’s a beautiful design (the color is appealing), which is an added feature beyond its function. They’re offering it 15%-off (no code required) through my Flagship store. Promotion is valid for a limited time.
🖲️ Keep track of your luggage — This mother’s story about locating her daughter’s checked luggage further emphasizes taking your luggage's whereabouts into your own hands. Skip the holder and put this inside the bag. Toss one into your carry-on, too, just in case the overheads are all full and you must gate-check your bag. More of this has been happening.
⚡️ Weekend plans?
