When I picked up the November 2013 Style Guide from J.Crew, I thought something looked familiar. On closer inspection, I realized that it was photographed around the home of Amanda Brooks. Not only that, her husband, the artist Christopher Brooks and her daughter Coco were among the models, in addition to their horses and dog Ginger. I asked Amanda why she wasn't featured and she told me she was traveling at the time.
You may know Amanda from New York or her book and website I Love Your Style. She and her family moved to England over a year ago and her Instagram account has become my absolute favorite. Probably because her new life is the exact opposite of mine. While I'm hailing cabs and braving the craziness of the city, Amanda and her family are riding horses and playing with pigs. It really makes you want to chuck it all and move to the country. I've interspersed some of Amanda's fabulous Instagram photos in between shots from the J.Crew Style Guide to give you an idea of why I love following Amanda.
Amanda Brooks on her horse Polo.
I've been shopping for my European trip and bought these J.Crew Field Boots in the kindling color. I love them so much I just ordered a pair in black too.
Donkeys named Jack Bauer and Inspector Clouseau.
I just saw this Collection Herringbone Topcoat in the store and the color is really pretty in person.
Also loving this Colorblock Funnelneck Coat.
Fashion photos via J.Crew. Instagram photos via @amandacbrooks.
