Lani Zervas uses her local lifestyle blog, Mon Petit Chou Chou, as the outlet through which she can revel in her passions: “fashion, travel, art, music, wine, food, design and shoes,” according to her about page. It’s safe to assume, then, that two of those passions – fashion and shoes – are housed in her closet. So, we decided to take a look inside.
Lani’s closet is a magical nook tucked away in Milton, where she lives with her husband and daughter, Daphne, that contains a collection of funky items and collectibles. Get an idea of her personal style, as well as how it changed after the addition of a new baby, below, before marveling at the images of her enviable space in the suburbs.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is constantly evolving. I’ve had the biggest closet shake-ups in the last two years – I became a mother, left my 9 to 5 gig, moved to the ‘burbs – all huge changes that are reflected in how I dress daily. I am still slowly phasing out all my office wear, focusing more on comfort and ease, since there are about two seconds to dress with a baby on the move. This has really allowed me to focus more on pieces I love. Post-baby style has me in a lot more simple items, more black, neutral colors, which I probably needed.
Where do you love to shop?
The internets are my personal shopper these days. I am able to quickly peruse everything from Net-a-Porter, to J. Crew, Covet + Lou (Tina Burgos local style-icon, killing it online!), and Zara without ever leaving the house and packing up baby gear. When I do get out with little D, I make sure to stop by my local favorites: Viola Lovely, Mint Julep, Ore, Forty Winks, Louis Boston, Flock, The Closet, and The Tannery. Elisha Daniels at Neiman Marcus always has her eye out for fabulous finds, and sends a weekly email stocked with great ideas. Skinner Auctioneers and Appraisers is a true Boston gem. They have everything from fine jewelry, to mid-century modern furniture, and couture gowns between the Marlborough and Boston galleries. And of course, TJ Maxx! Every day I’m wearing a mix of high and low fashion, Zara with Isabel Marant. It’s all good.
What are your must-have staple items for a great wardrobe?
Solid jeans are the backbone of my wardrobe. Right now I am loving Frame and Mother, though J Brand is always a go-to brand. Maxi dresses, which I wore all through my pregnancy. They can be dressed up, down, thrown over a swimsuit, or worn to dinner. A structured black blazer is essential. I have two I heavily rely upon, one from H&M and one by Alexander Wang. And purses and shoes are where it’s worth a bit more of a splurge in my opinion. I’ve got a one in/one out policy with them, selling to consignment sites like the Real Real when they need to move on to greener pastures.
What up and coming trend pieces do you currently own or have your eye on?
This fall, I plan on focusing on more neutral pieces. Black and grey hide all manner of stains, and good thing, since my daughter throws food around the kitchen with reckless abandon. I also love the totally mom-friendly line Ace & Jig, which Tina Burgos/Covet + Lou introduced me to.
On the other end of the color spectrum, I’ll definitely still pick up some fun, bright prints. Jennifer Chun, a designer out of NYC (sold locally at Louis) has a solid line packed with gorgeous rose patterns and a fun midi-skirt with a matching jacket that are both at the top of my list. Maybe some leopard oxfords and patent penny loafers (Dieppa Restrepo is a great line they used to carry locally at Looc that I have always wanted to take for a spin), and of course one statement bag. Last but not least, Isabel Marant/Etoile are pretty much my go-to lines and her fall collection is full of all my investment items, grey and black basics, plaid and shearling- which is going to have a moment this season.
All images and comments via Lani Zervas
