Week in Review #43: A Study in Texture, Color & Repetition

Inspired by time away, worn-in favorites, and the beauty of slowing down.

Jun 20, 2025

I’m now a couple of weeks into the longest trip I’ve ever taken (besides studying abroad) and I’m feeling grateful for the influx of inspiration. This extended trip is definitely changing the way I see things. It’s not just the beauty of the architecture and landscape — though that alone would be enough — it’s the spaciousness. The unhurried mornings. The walk to the bakery. The sound of the breeze. The time to really pay attention.

Lately, I’ve been drawn to the details I might’ve missed in a busier season: the patina of a sun-faded wall, the weight and texture of raw silk, the way salt feels on my skin after a quick dip in the ocean. It’s reminding me that the best wardrobe pieces are often the quieter ones. The things you wear over and over and never tire of — the shorts that never let you down, the tank that always feels right, the jewelry you never take off.

This week’s note is a reflection of that slower rhythm. I’m sharing a few outfits I’ve been loving from my summer capsule, some beautifully made pieces that fit right into this way of dressing, and a nod to the kind of inspiration that comes when you give yourself room to notice.

Here’s a little of what I’ve been noticing, loving, and living in.

xx,
Natalie

Thought of the Week

Summer Capsule Highlights

This summer I’m traveling with just my favorite seasonal pieces in a carry-on, and I’m happy to say that it’s been an absolute delight to have this edit of items at my fingertips. I love the simplicity and ease of having less to choose from, and the pieces are all versatile enough that I’m yet to feel tired of anything.

Low Maintenance Summer Essentials

Sold Out NYC x Natalie Borton Favorite Crew | Whether you need a layer for chilly evenings by the coast or to protect yourself from aggressive air conditioning, these 100% cotton knits are your new best friend. Available in Cream & Dune. These are the first two pieces in our 4-piece summer collection — stay tuned for the next two drops in the coming weeks!

10k Steps Approved Flats | I’ve walked many miles in my Freda Salvador flats this year and they’ve proven to be some of my favorites for travel. My top pick? the ELBA loafers. Pair them with the Crescent Loafer Charms for an extra luxe detail. They require some breaking in, but it is well worth it.

14k Fine Jewelry | Elevated, effortless, and made to live in. These pieces are crafted to keep up with long summer days — sweat, salt, and sunscreen included. 14k gold jewelry is the definition of summer ease, requiring little to no maintenance. My 14k Fine Lou Hoops are the true jewelry hero of my summer.

Na Nin Raw Silk Oliver Shorts | My favorite shorts, two years running. They’re lightweight, comfortable, easy to wear and easy to care for (I’ve successfully washed on delicate/cold and line dried). Restocked today!

Summer Movie Nostalgia

I’m a creature of habit when it comes to many things in life, and movies are no exception. I’m known to watch the same movies over and over again, and at very specific times of year. These are always on my summer watch list: