A few good things...
The dress I wear on repeat, life advice from a 12 year old and why Kate Baer doesn't work during nap time.
I’m trying something new this week and sharing some unsolicited recommendations – the things I’ve read or bought, tried, enjoyed and think you would too. No items in this list are gifted but if you’re a brand and want me to try something please email hello@deardilate.com for my consideration. If you like this very casual read then let me know and if you hate it, keep it to yourself ha (kidding, also feel free to let me know!).
READ –
Why I Don’t Write in Nap Time By Kate Baer.
I use to try and squeeze in writing during nap times but it only fed my frustration more. I love Kate’s writing, and even more than that, her honesty, frankness and ability to eloquently capture what I’m thinking/what we’re all thinking. “It is difficult to encapsulate the emotions behind trying to write in the pockets of time between morning sickness, sleep schedules, meal prep, playdates, preschool drop offs, and most importantly, with very little money for childcare. My mental heath suffered. My marriage suffered. My writing limped along, always turning to real life narration of what was right in front of me (motherhood).” A short and good read for anyone who, like me, needs a little push to form a plan to be able to fit in more writing/insert job/side hustle or hobby you are passionate about.
The Cult Of Being A Present Parent By Katherine Ormerod, Every Shade Of Grey
If this holiday break has made me acutely aware of anything it’s that parenting around the clock is, hard. Really hard. And in Katherine’s essay she shares her thoughts on the pressure to be a ‘present parent’ and the idea that perhaps being present during every single moment with your kids isn’t always best… ”because whisper it…sometimes I don’t want to be present in my reality. Sometimes I want to be far, far away. There are times while looking after my kids that I would prefer not to ground myself in what’s front of my face. Instead, I want to wander in my imagination and think of other things which pique my curiosity and excitement, because I happen to not enjoy every single second of soft play or diggers or trudging through the rain with a buggy or dealing with a screaming two-year-old who has just thrown the well-balanced meal I have lovingly prepared for him up the wall.”
LISTEN –
How To Tell If Your Resolution Is Rooted In Diet Culture By Virginia Sole-Smith, Burnt Toast
If like me, your inbox and Instagram are filled to the brim with ads about dieting (the most ridiculous being the Lion diet where you consume only meat, water and salt which left me wondering… how on earth do you poo?), fitness challenges and “being the best version of you”, and if it’s making you feel like you need to lose weight/tone up/change your appearance in order to be happy then this episode is for you. Virginia discusses diet culture specially around the holiday season with Christie Harrison, a nutritionist and author of Anti-Diet. I found it helpful in reframing my guilt around over-indulging over Christmas and really assess my relationship with food and fitness.
EXPLORE –
Jemima Kirke’s Q&A’s On Instagram
You may know Jemima from her role in Girls and one of Lena Dunham’s real life besties and if you don’t then, you’re welcome. Her beauty resembles that of a French woman, undone and effortless while her dry sense of humour and genuine ability to just not-give-a-fuck and own who she is, is what truly makes her formidable. Anyway, I fell down a rabbit hole watching her (and her partner Alex Cameron, joins in from time to time) and I have zero regrets about it.
WEAR –
Matteau Tiered Sundress In Black all summer long.
I’ve been a long-time admirer (first-time-buyer) of Australian brand, Matteau since their inception. I love the understated elegance of their cuts, the luxurious and breathable fabrics, the colours, and their campaigns but the price tag is steep so I held off purchasing until now but woweee this dress is as essential as it is every bit luxurious. I feel polished and put together and out-the-door with minimal effort. Just a simple gold hoop (I have these), hair slicked into a low bun and a pair of leather sandals. I bought the black, well, because I always feel good in black and I can also get a few (read; a week) wears out of it before washing. Conclusion; I’m editing my wardrobe right down to just pieces I I feel good in so for me, the price is worth it.
Also have my eye on the Asymmetric Wave Dress. Great for an event and looks as though it would be bump-friendly too (for those who need it).
Hunza G Domino Swimsuit in Nude
I’ve been ‘umming’ and ‘ahhing’ about what swimsuit to purchase for at least two months but I have finally committed to the Hunza G Domino one-piece from Mode Sportif (a bit of local love and they also give $20 for new customers!). I did a poll on my personal account and although there were some mixed reviews (people seemed to love or hate), Hunza G seemed like the best option for me as I wanted a classic one piece that I wouldn’t get sick of. I will say, my main reason is I loathe trying on swimwear so the OS sizing was a big pro as well as their Instagram showing all types of bodies looking fabulous in this universally flattering style. I’ll be sure to update you once I’ve received this and tried it on.
WIN –
Win over $2400 worth of chic essentials for mum and bub.
In case you missed this on Instagram, I’ve teamed up with a bevy of beautiful brands for the ultimate giveaway. The prize includes a two year paid subscription to Dear Dilate along with, a Venice Cot from Tasman Eco, a PHILE Baby Bag, Linen Play Mat, and Cashmere Blanket, a Towel Set from Fridah, and gift vouchers from Bare Mum, By Billie and Sprout Organic. Keen? Enter here.
ADVICE –
Life advice from my nephew’s year six buddy
Two nuggets of gold from the world’s most wise twelve year old. ”If I had some advice to give you it would be to find the right friends and stick with them to the end. Make sure to always be kind to your peers.” Then, he concludes with “… if you need help always ask for it.” Sound advice for not only a kinder-gardener but for all of us.
What are you reading, wearing and loving? Comment below.
Ooo those first two articles were gooodddddd!